Stavros Beach: An Amazing Beach at Akrotiri peninsula in Chania

Stavros Beach, a 1.5-kilometer golden sandy stretch on Crete’s coast, offers swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Named after the adjacent village, it gained fame from the 1964 film “Zorba the Greek.” Located 15 kilometres from Chania, Stavros is easily accessible by car or bus, with ample activities like snorkelling and hiking. Peak visiting months are June to September, with hot weather favouring beach activities. Preservation efforts keep it pristine, part of the Natura 2000 network. Nearby attractions include churches and quieter beaches within a few kilometres. Car rentals in Crete range from €30 to €40 daily, considering factors like insurance and car size. Stavros Beach has no entry fee, with affordable amenities and dining. Accommodation options vary, with beach proximity affecting rates. Safety measures are in place, with no booking required for beach access. Children are welcome, benefiting from the safe swimming conditions.

What is Stavros Beach?

Stavros Beach is a golden sandy beach that stretches for over 1.5 kilometres (1 mile) along the Cretan coastline. It sits below towering rocky cliffs covered in lush greenery. Stavros Beach has amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and tavernas, and is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Stavros Beach got its name from the nearby village of Stavros and became famous for being a filming location of the 1964 movie Zorba the Greek starring Anthony Quinn. One of the attractions in Stavros Beach is the small beach shack from the movie.

Where is Stavros Beach located?

Stavros Beach is located on the northwestern coast of Crete, an island in Greece. It sits 15 kilometres (9 miles) northwest of Chania in western Crete. It is located next to the small village of Stavros in the Akrotiri peninsula. Stavros Beach coordinates are 35° 35′ 28″ North, 24° 5′ 44″ East. To reach the beach from Chania, head northwest on the national road for 10 kilometres (6 miles) and then take the turn off towards Stavros village. Stavros Beach stretches westwards from the parking area.

How does the Stavros beach map look?

Find below on the image a map of Stavros Beach.

What are the activities at Stavros Beach?

Stavros Beach offers a variety of activities. These are swimming, snorkelling, beach sports and hiking. Firstly, swimming is a common activity in the calm, shallow waters along Stavros Beach, as the sea provides ideal conditions for swimming and paddling. Secondly, snorkelling around the rocky formations and clear waters allows people to observe marine life and equipment rentals are available at the beach. Thirdly, beach volleyball, football and other beach sports are often played in the wide, sandy beach area, where families can enjoy these sports together. Lastly, hiking up the cliffs and hills nearby offers scenic views of Stavros Beach and the Mediterranean Sea.

When is the best time to visit Stavros Beach Chania?

The best time to visit Stavros Beach Chania is from June to September, when the weather in Crete is ideal for beach activities. The summer months have hot and sunny weather perfect for swimming, sunbathing and water sports. The temperatures range from 22°C (72°F) to over 30°C (86°F) with very little rainfall. The sea is calm and ideal for swimming, with temperatures 23°C (73°F). The facilities and amenities at Stavros Beach operate at full capacity from June to September.

Stavros Beach enjoys a more frequent bus service during the summer, making public transportation, such as buses, readily available. All the beachside restaurants, bars, umbrella and sunbed rentals, and activity providers are open for tourists from April to October.

How was the preservation of Stavros Beach?

Stavros Beach has been well preserved over the years due to laws protecting the natural environment in Greece. It is part of the European Natura 2000 network of protected areas. The construction of buildings and commercial activities are restricted under this designation to conserve the coastline. National laws in Greece prohibit the privatisation of beaches up to 50 metres from the waterline, which keeps the Stavros Beach shore publicly accessible. These laws are strictly enforced to keep the beach clean. The local municipality also regularly grooms the beach by raking the sand and pruning vegetation. Wastewater discharge into the sea is regulated to maintain Stavros’s Beach water quality.

What are the nearby attractions at Stavros Beach?

Listed below are the best attractions near Stavros Beach.

Church of Saint George Apidiotis: The Church of Saint George Apidiotis is a small whitewashed church built into the hillside cliffs overlooking Stavros Beach. It offers views of the sea and was used as a location in the movie Zorba the Greek. Church of Saint George Apidiotis is just a 2.2 kilometre (1.4 miles) drive inland from Stavros Beach.
Maherida Beach: Maherida is a quiet pebble beach along the Akrotiri Peninsula, located 2.6 kilometres (1.6 miles) east of Stavros. It has pristine waters perfect for snorkelling and is surrounded by a scenic landscape of hills dotted with olive groves. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful beach outing away from crowds.
Kalathas Beach: Kalathas Beach is a more organised beach 4.3 kilometres (2.7 miles) from Stavros to the east. It has a long stretch of sandy shoreline mixed with shingles and pebbles. There are sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, and water sports rental facilities available. The shallow waters make it family-friendly.
Tersanas Beach: Tersanas Beach is an untouched and secluded beach just 2.9 kilometres (1.8 miles) west of Stavros. It has rock pools formed along the shoreline, which are perfect for snorkelling and exploring marine life. Its peaceful setting surrounded by hills appeals to those seeking solitude.

How do you get to Stavros Beach?

There are a few ways to get to Stavros Beach. The most common way is to drive by rental car from Chania, which is located 15 kilometres (9 miles) to the southeast. From Chania, take the national road heading northwest towards Kissamos and follow it for 10 kilometres (6 miles). Then take the exit towards Stavros village and drive north on this road for 5 more kilometres (3 miles) until reaching the parking area and beach entrance. Another option is to take a public bus from Chania bus station. There are regular buses that go directly to Stavros village and stop near Stavros Beach. The bus journey takes 30 minutes. Taxis can also be hired from Chania to reach Stavros Beach in 20 minutes. Organised tours and private excursions may provide transportation to Stavros Beach from the main resorts in western Crete. This is a convenient choice if Crete driving is not an option.

What are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete?

Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete.

Insurance: Car rental insurance is important, as it protects a passenger against the cost of damage when renting a car. Crete car rental includes insurance for collision damage waiver, and a driver’s credit or debit card is required as a guarantee.
Driver’s age: The legal age requirement when driving in Crete is 18. The driver must have a valid driving licence and essential documents like an ID or passport.
Driver’s gender: Both women and men can drive in Crete. As long as the driver is of the legal age of 18, driving is permitted in Crete, regardless of gender.
Car type: Travelling with groups or family members requires a much bigger car. Car rental companies in Crete offer a variety of vehicles to choose from. Selecting a smaller car is best when driving in Crete. The reason for that is that some Greek roads are narrow. The car type is one important factor in how to choose the right car to rent in Crete.
Documents needed for renting a car: One important document required for renting a vehicle is a valid driving licence. However, a credit or debit card may also be presented, including a passport or an ID card.

How much does a car rental in Crete cost?

Crete is best travelled using a rented vehicle. Tourists may quickly get to Crete’s top destinations using a rented car. Crete car rental costs vary depending on the number of persons, itinerary, car type, destination, and duration. Crete’s car rental price is €30 to €40 per day. A car rented for a whole week will cost €250. A vehicle rented for the weekend will cost €78. Rental Center Crete rates differ depending on the car type. Car rental companies offer a variety of cars depending on customers’ liking. Most car rental shops in Crete provide an online booking system whenever customers want to book a car. Simply follow the process and instantly book a vehicle on their website. Before availing of a rental car service in Crete, check and secure all the requirements.

How much does it cost to get to Stavros Beach?

There is no admission fee to access Stavros Beach. Stavros Beach is open and free to the public. Sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented for 5-10€ ($5-11, £4-9) per day, while food and drinks at the nearby beach tavernas and bars are fairly affordable. A light meal of Greek salad and moussaka averages 15-20€ ($17-22, £14-18). Drinks like beer and wine are 3-5€ ($3-5, £3-4), and water sports equipment rentals like pedal boats cost 10-15€ ($11-17, £9-14) per hour. The main parking lot, near Stavros beach, is free of charge. For visitors who are taking a taxi from Chania, the 25 kilometres journey costs 35-40€ ($39-44, £32-36), and the bus from Chania to Stavros is just 5€ ($6, £5).

Stavros Beach takes 40 minutes by taxi from Chania, covering 35 kilometres (22 miles), and costs €45 ($50, £40).

Where to stay near Stavros Beach?

Listed below are the best hotels to stay near Stavros Beach:

Felia Villa: Felia Villa is equipped with a pool that is only 500 metres (0.3 miles) from Stavros Beach. It offers spacious, air-conditioned apartments with kitchenettes and living areas ideal for families. The nightly rates average is 120€ ($132, £108).
Little Bay – Superior Studio with Sea View: Little Bay – Superior Studio with Sea View is located 1 kilometre (0.7 mile) from Stavros Beach. It provides modern studios with furnished balconies overlooking the sea. There is an outdoor pool and poolside bar. The rates for studios start at 90€ ($99, £81) per night.
Niso Home by Plakoures Home: Niso Home by Plakoures Home features a shared outdoor pool surrounded by greenery 2 kilometres (1.2 miles) inland from Stavros Beach. It is equipped with living rooms and kitchens, while some have balconies. A night’s stay cost 100€ ($110, £90).
Cathrin Beach Apartments: Cathrin Beach Apartments are just 50 metres (0.03 miles) from Stavros Beach, providing maximum convenience. Each unit opens right onto the beach and has a furnished balcony overlooking the sea. The average rate is 70€ ($77, £63) per night.

Where to eat near Stavros Beach?

Listed below are the best restaurants in and near Stavros Beach:

Sea View Beach Bar Restaurant: Sea View Beach Bar Restaurant, located right on Stavros Beach, offers a scenic setting. It serves Greek cuisine like moussaka for 15€ ($17, £14) and fresh grilled fish for 20€ ($22, £18). Its outdoor tables overlook the sea.
Mama’s Place: Mama’s Place, situated only 200 metres (0.1 miles) from Stavros Beach, has an inviting atmosphere. It serves homemade Greek dishes like souvlaki for 10€ ($11, £9). It has an outdoor garden seating under olive trees.
Almyriki Restaurant: Almyriki Restaurant, located 150 metres (0.09 miles) inland from Stavros Beach, has a romantic setting with candle lit tables. It specialises in Greek seafood like octopus for 18€ ($20, £16). Its extensive wine list is also available.
Zorbas Taverna: Zorbas Taverna, located right next to the Stavros Beach entrance, is known for its friendly service. It offers Greek meze appetisers starting from 5€ ($6, £5). Its casual setting attracts those looking for good food at value prices.

Is Stavros Beach worth visiting?

Yes, Stavros Beach is definately worth visiting. It stretches over 1.5 kilometres (1 mile) with plenty of space for relaxation. The landscape is scenic, with rocky formations and cliffs. The clear, calm waters are ideal for swimming and snorkelling. There are amenities like sunbeds, restaurants and bars nearby. With convenient access from Chania and free entrance, Stavros Beach offers an enjoyable and affordable beach day trip on Crete Island that couples, families and sightseers can appreciate.

Is Stavros Beach safe?

Yes, Stavros Beach is safe. It has lifeguards on duty and gentle waves, making it a good option for families. There are no known safety issues or dangers beyond typical beach hazards like rip currents, heat, and sun exposure.

Do you need to book in advance to visit Stavros Beach?

No, you do not need to book in advance to visit Stavros Beach in Crete. It is free and open to the public, just like all of the best beaches in Crete. There are no reservations or tickets required. Visitors can simply arrive and enjoy Stavros Beach. As a popular beach destination, it may get busy during peak seasons. However, there are no capacity limits. People can freely come and go from Stavros Beach without needing any prior booking or arrangements.

Are children permitted at Stavros Beach?

Yes, children are permitted at Stavros Beach in Crete. As a popular family beach destination, kids and teens of all ages are welcome to visit and enjoy the shoreline. There are no age restrictions or bans prohibiting minors from accessing the beach. The soft sands and gentle waves create a safe swimming environment suitable for children. The lifeguards also provide an extra level of protection. Parents can feel at ease bringing their little ones to swim, build sandcastles, or play beach games together.

Published on December 18, 2023