The Greek Islands have been one of our favourite areas of the world since the first time we visited, and Crete is the biggest island of them all, meaning even more top beaches, great hiking trails and awesome tavernas.
One of the top highlights of the early days of our Crete visit was the relatively famous east coast beach town of Elounda, Crete (often referred to as Schisma by locals, for reasons that remain unclear, to me anyway). Elounda village is also the main jumping off point for visits to the former leper colony of Spinalonga Island, made famous by the Victoria Hislop bestseller “The Island”, which has since been made into a Greek TV series (the standard by which all books are judged these days).
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Elounda Bay is known for its luxurious resorts frequented by the rich and famous (unfortunately we just missed that cut) but there is plenty to see and do for the average joe as well. Nice beaches, fabulous views, hiking, history and, obviously, a long list of popular seafood restaurants. Also, somehow, the cheapest sun bed / umbrella rentals we’ve seen in Crete so far (I suppose the rich people have their own infinity pools and such).
Elounda Greece: The Facts
Considered one of Crete’s more upmarket resort towns because of its luxury hotels and all the famous visitors it has seen over the years, Elounda Crete is located on the Gulf of Mirabello in the northeastern section of Crete. And within the Gulf of Mirabello, it is more specifically found on Korfos Bay, the calm, clear bay sitting between Elounda Beach, Spinalonga Island and Spinalonga Peninsula (sometimes referred to as Kolykitha Peninsula).
However, in general, the Russian billionaires, Hollywood actors and Greek politicians that frequent Elounda keep to their extravagant hotels in the hills, although there is always a chance you might spot a famous face wandering around the charming old town area.
We did not, unfortunately, although I really only could have recognized the actors since I don’t know any Greek politicians (Socrates is dead, right?) and although I kept a close watch for silk shirts unbuttoned a little too far, displaying a generous mat of chest hair topped by collection of heavy gold chains, no luck on the Russian oligarch thing either.
Meanwhile, Elounda is built on the site of the ancient city of Olous, which sets you up with another weird, useless fact that will almost never come in handy in your life. You’re welcome. Now, for the good stuff:
Where to Stay: Elounda Hotels
You are spoiled for choice of great hotels in Elounda Crete. Check out this list with the best options in every price range.
Elounda Casa Elia has deluxe apartments at budget prices with fantastic facilities and modern accommodation very close to the centre of town.
Megaro is another affordable option with sea view apartments just steps from the beach.
If you’re looking to something a bit quieter, Island Sea View Apartments are a terrific choice in Plaka. The balconies look directly onto the bay and Spinalonga Island.
Meanwhile, the Domes of Elounda provides exactly that extravagant luxury we’ve been talking about around Elounda. If you’re looking for the ultimate pleasure holiday, look no further than this 5-star hotel with amazing views of Spinalonga Island, 4 restaurants and a seawater pool, all at a far more reasonable price than we were imagining.
Another fantastic 5-star option that won’t break the bank is the Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas. All the usual amenities, luxurious comforts and fabulous views, plus 5 tennis courts! Alas, only one basketball and one volleyball court.
Finally, if you aren’t interested in great values like that one and simply want the very best – at any price – look no further than Villa Panorama. This gorgeous 5-bedroom villa has a private pool, amazing balcony… well, let’s just say it has everything. Including an €8,500/night price tag. And that’s if you get a 10% “genius discount” through Booking like we do. So, technically, we could save 5 times as much money as we’ve ever actually spent on a hotel. Which almost seems too good to pass up – that’s how math works, right?
Or browse a complete list of hotels in Elounda
10 Reasons to Visit Elounda Crete
1. Elounda Harbour
Scenic and sheltered, the calm, beautiful harbour of Elounda Crete is wonderfully photogenic from any angle you choose. From the hills in the north that look down on Plaka, Elounda and Spinalonga, the vibrant angles from behind the docks and fishing boats or from across the bridge on the peninsula.
For a closer look at this magnificent area, you might want to join one of the very popular Mirabello Bay snorkelling trips that take you to see all the highlights (getting wet is strictly optional).
2. Elounda Beach
Also known as Paralia Schisma, Elounda Beach is Blue Flag rated (for quality and environmental practices), right in the centre of town, has great views of the bay and Spinalonga Island and, wait for it, real sand!
That may not sound so exciting for, you know, a beach, but let me assure you, Crete has many, many rocky “beaches” without a grain of sand anywhere in sight. You can rent loungers and umbrellas for $5/day for the set, one of the cheaper rates we’ve seen so far.
Check out our complete list of The Best Beaches on Crete
3. Akti Virtomartis
The street along the waterfront of Elounda Crete is lined with shops and restaurants and has a nice walking path running alongside. There is a great selection of friendly, scenic restaurants, most of which focus on seafood, although most offer a surprisingly large and varied menu.
4. Elounda Square
Located right on the water behind the Vritomartes restaurant, it is a pleasant green space that is also functional, featuring the main bus stop, several taxi spots and even a weird statue of a bird. It’s got it all.
5. Plaz Chiona
This tiny, quiet beach where Elounda connects to the Spinalonga Peninsula is the perfect place to get away from the crowds in summer or on busy weekends. It also has great views back to the town and Elounda Beach.
There is a stone windmill just before the narrow rock bridge, two more next to a parking area, some salt pans, the Christian Basilica Poros Elounda and the Church of Ascension (plus the popular Kanali restaurant). So, yeah, it’s definitely worth the 10-minute walk (or 2-minute drive) to check things out.
6. The Sunken City of Olous
Oh, did I not mention that not only is Elounda Crete built on the remains of ancient Olous, but that some of Olous is still hanging around under the water right next door? Awkward, yes, but only for them. For us, it is pretty fascinating. Located in the little lagoon just across the road from Plaz Chiona (wow, this area just keeps getting better).
Unfortunately, you can’t see much from above (maybe some shadows in the right light) but if you have the time (and you should, if you’re in Elounda), the gear (you can rent it in town) and the will power to get into the somewhat cold water (which would make you tougher than me, admittedly not a high bar) you can snorkel around the ruins.
7. The Little Blue Train
If you love trains, hop-on/hop-off buses and looking somewhat foolish to passing strangers, well, we’ve got just the thing for you! The Little Blue Train, as it is known for very literal reasons, can take you on an informative and scenic 4-hour trip that includes the coast along Elounda, Plaka and inland to the hill villages of Vrouchas and Seles.
Even if you’re not willing to commit 4 hours to something that seems like it might have been a key component in a 1980’s Greek children’s TV show, you can opt for the shorter 70-minute tour (a weirdly specific amount of time) that sticks to just Elounda and Plaka.
8. Plaka, Crete
So, what is this Plaka I keep going on about? It’s the small village just north of Elounda (in reality, they are practically connected at this point). It is cute, quiet (in relative terms) and is the most convenient place to board boats to Spinalonga Island.
It has a nice beach, the standard string of great seafood restaurants featuring wonderful bay views and walls covered in cartoon fish, plus a surprisingly new and impressive church. It is also worth walking out to the end of the pier for great photos back toward town.
We would also recommend either arriving or departing on the small road behind Plaka that winds through the steep hills, passing through several fascinating little villages with a lot of superb views in between.
9. Spinalonga Island
So, as I mentioned earlier, Spinalonga Island is directly across the bay from Plaka and Elounda. It was used as a leper colony until 1957, was abandoned for decades and has now burst back into prominence thanks to “The Island”, both the book and the TV show. Apparently, many locals got parts as extras in the show, which has changed the main occupation in the area from “seasonal restaurant server” to “actor supporting themselves through seasonal restaurant serving”.
Besides all that, Spinalonga Island is a really cool place to visit. Crossing the bay in a small shuttle boat, the high walls and remaining ramparts provide a dramatic arrival and once you pay your entrance fee you are free to roam the small island to your heart’s content.
You can (and should) check out the colourful marketplace of former shops, read up on a lot of the fascinating leprosy-themed history and check out the former lodgings of the lepers themselves (don’t forget your hand sanitizer).
Then you can climb to the top of the island, walk the ramparts, enjoy panoramic views of Korfos Bay and explore a whole series of interesting ruins. Altogether you will probably need at least an hour to see most of the island, up to 2 if you are a lingerer (or not good with hills in mid-day heat).
The boats leave from 2 different docks in Plaka and the scenic 10-minute trip costs €10 for a return ticket. Boats also leave from Elounda Beach – it costs slightly more and takes a bit longer but you get a more extensive tour of the bay. Then there is an €8 entrance fee on the island itself, but this incudes access to a W.C. so it probably evens out.
If you prefer to join a guided tour to learn more about the history and stories behind this fascinating place, this Spinalonga cruise also includes swimming and a BBQ at Kolokytha Beach.
10. Spinalonga Peninsula
Often called Kolokitha Peninsula (mistakenly, I believe), it is a great place to mix up your stay. If yoiu want to break up your days of lying on Elounda Beach and gorging on seafood in bayfront restaurants, head over to Spinalonga Peninsula (also often referred to as the Elounda Peninsula by tourists) for more great scenery, good hiking and some secluded beaches.
You can either drive (10 minutes on a very rough, narrow road to the informal parking area at the top) or walk (roughly 4 km from Elounda Beach to Kolokitha Beach).Tiny Dianiskari Beach is even closer, just at the very start of the peninsula, and can be a good choice if you want some solitude among the rocks (or have a shy bladder that needs complete silence to release in the water). There is no sand, though, so artistic castles are definitely out.
Next to the parking area at the top of the hill you’ll find the adorable little Church of Agios Loukas. You are allowed to go inside (under the suspiciously squinting eyes of a surly caretaker), but no photos, and definitely no small talk. The views out to the sea are amazing, as well.
The “road” actually continues for the last 500 metres down to Kolokitha Beach, although it really only qualifies as such if you are driving an ATV, serious dirt bike or an obstinate but loyal burro. Needless to say, most people just walk. At the beach you’ll find some sand and water and, hopefully, sun.
If Kolokitha Beach is too busy you can continue down the coast a few minutes to even smaller and quieter Vayu Beach. Other options are to hike up the east side of the peninsula to a small old church or drive up the west side until the road ends, then hike the faint trail to the north end of the peninsula for fantastic views of Spinalonga Island.
Where to Eat: Elounda Restaurants
For all its glitz, glamour and touristy appeal, Elounda Crete is still a working fishing village, something that is very obvious when you start checking out all the superb seafood restaurants along the bay. However, if seafood isn’t your thing (or you’ve finally hit your limit touring coastal Crete), there is a wide variety of international options as well.
Taverna Spinalonga in Plaka has, you guessed it, clear views of Spinalonga Island to go with a large, varied menu, friendly service and delicious meals.
Thalassa is another outstanding choice in Plaka with the obligatory waterfront location and extraordinary seafood.
Ostria Taverna is a third good Plaka choice with tremendous food to go with amazing views.
Moving on to Elounda, Vritomartes features a perfect location jutting directly out into the harbour, offering waterfront views from three sides, very close to Elounda Beach.
Ergospasio is another lovely waterfront option well-known for its lamb. Yep, that’s right, something other than seafood.
Finally, there is Kanali, located right across the bridge at the start of the Spinalonga Peninsula, a perfect spot on your way to or from Kolokitha Beach.
Map of Elounda Bay
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How to Get to Elounda Greece
Public transportation on Crete can be tedious so we highly recommend renting a car so you don’t miss out on any of the best spots. Plus, it is nice to be able to set your schedule. We have rented using Discover Cars all over the world and usually find they have the best prices. We certainly got an outstanding deal on our Crete rental.
Located in the northeastern part of Crete in the Lasithi district, Elounda village is roughly 20 minutes by car north of the major town in the area, Agios Nikolaos (St. Nicholas). There are spectacular views of Korfos Bay and Spinalonga Island as you come over the last hill.
And even if you don’t have a car, buses between Elounda and Agios Nikolaos are frequent (9-10/day), cheap (€2) and only take 20-30 minutes.
To get from Heraklion (where most flights and ferries arrive and depart), you’re looking at a comfortable hour’s drive along the E75 to Agio Nikolaos, then up into Elounda. There are also buses that run roughly hourly between Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos for approximately €10 (1.5-2 hours), where you can then change to an Agios Nikalaos-Elounda bus.
If you do have a car (and most visitors to Crete end up renting one at some point), we would recommend either arriving or leaving via the small rural road west out of Plaka. It passes through some phenomenal scenery and a bunch of wonderful little villages before joining the E75 at Neapolis.
Elounda Crete: Weather and When to Go
Like most of Crete, Elounda enjoys a very mild climate year-round thanks to the surrounding Mediterranean Sea. Summers are warm and there is almost no rain. Most precipitation comes in the winter months, although that is still pretty minimal compared with many coastal cities.
Crete is one of the most southerly islands in Europe and compared to most of the continent the weather remains bearable all year, with the daily average temperature in Elounda Bay only dropping as far as 9 / 16 (low/high) in January. Which is why Crete is one of the best places to visit in Europe in winter.
Not surprisingly, summers get very busy, especially in beach towns like Elounda Crete. For warm weather, minimal rain and fewer people taking up the sun beds, we would recommend visiting in the shoulder seasons. June and September are practically perfect, with May and October appealing more to those who prioritize peace and quiet over hot beach weather.
Things to See Near Elounda Bay
Lasithi Plateau
On your way to or from Elounda, Greece it is worth setting aside a few hours to take a circuit of the Lasithi Plateau. This photogenic little bowl set high up in the mountains has some great viewpoints, several atmospherically quiet villages, a few historic sites of interest and even some fun spots for families.
Psychro Cave, also known as the Cave of Zeus, is normally the big attraction, although it was closed when we visited because of recent earthquakes in the area. If you’re feeling energetic, there are still some excellent views from the top of the 20-minute climb.
The stone windmills of Lasithi are a classic Cretan sight, right up there with Greek salads and cars passing into oncoming traffic. There are a few varieties scattered around the plateau but the best ones are at Ambelou Pass coming in from the north.
Finally, mix in some old monasteries, classic churches and some campy family fun at the Homo Sapien museum and Greek Mythology theme park and you have the makings for a pretty enjoyable afternoon.
If you’d like someone else to do the organizing, plus share a lot of the history and context of this wonderful area, we would recommend joining one of the all-day Zeus Cave and Lasithi Plateau tours.
Getting to Crete
By Plane
Crete has airports in Chania and Heraklion that both have regular flights to and from Athens, as well as many international destinations for most of the year. For checking out flights we usually find that SkyScanner is the fastest and most accurate site.
There is also an airport in Sitia but it only handles domestic traffic from Athens and Karpathos and flights are only scheduled in high season.
By Ferry
Most people travel to Crete by ferry from Athens (Piraeus) or one of the other islands. Heraklion is by far the best connected port in Crete, although there are also ferry terminals in Chania and Sitia.
Athens and Milos offer ferry connections to all three of these Crete cities in different frequencies throughout the year. Sitia, meanwhile, is also connected to the following islands:
Anafi
Chalki
Diafani
Karpathos
Kasos
Rhodes
Santorini
Heraklion is connected to all of the above, plus the following islands:
Andros
Ios
Mykonos
Naxos
Paros
Rafina
Siros
Tinos
Schedules and fares vary considerably throughout the year. In summer, the most popular routes often sell out well in advance so it is a good idea to reserve your spots as soon as you have finalized your dates.
FerryScanner has one of the best ferry networks in the world and is the most user-friendly site we’ve come across. It is the site we use to book all our own ferry trips.
Trip Planning Resources
Here is a list of the most important resources we use when planning our travels, all in one convenient spot. Full disclosure, when you use any of these links to reserve or sign up for something, we receive a small commission which is greatly appreciated. However, your price does not change and we have only included products and websites that we can honestly recommend.
- We book the majority of our hotels on Booking.com. With frequent stay discounts, thousands of reviews and free cancellation, it is very rare for us to have a bad hotel experience these days.
- Wise is by far the best international multicurrency bank account we’ve found. We can now send and receive money in half a dozen different currencies, convert to dozens more with no exchange premium and pay or withdraw local currencies. Highly recommended.
- When travelling we always get SIM cards with data for our phones. Local SIM cards are sometimes a bit cheaper but if you have a relatively new smartphone (iPhone XR or newer, Samsung S20 or newer) you can just buy an eSIM online, get a QR code by email and you’re good to go. After extensive research we have found that Airalo sim cards have the best coverage and prices for most of our trips.
- If you’re interested in local guided tours, including everything from city tours to cooking lessons to adventure activities, check out the huge range of options at Get Your Guide.
Elounda Crete Summary
After hearing so much about how Elounda village is a really expensive, exclusive destination, we were pleasantly surprised to learn that the reality is actually much different. Most of the luxury stuff is hidden away from the prying eyes of us commoners, leaving the wonderful beach, various historic attractions and fascinating Spinalonga Island to be enjoyed at our leisure.
Korfos Bay is gorgeous and the area where Elounda connects to Spinalonga Peninsula is full of cool stuff. Throw in a wide range of affordable, tasty restaurants and Elounda should definitely be on your Crete bucket list.
Other Posts You Might Like:
The Best of Crete: All Our Favourite Things
A Guide to Gorgeous Voulisma Beach
Sitia: Guide to a Traditional Cretan Beach Town
Loutro: A Guide to Crete’s Most Isolated and Stunning White Village
Elafonisi Beach: Guide to Visiting Crete’s Pink Sand Beach
The Ultimate 2022 Guide to Balos Beach
Seitan Limania: Guide to Crete’s Most Unique Beach
Kissamos: Gateway to Crete’s Most Famous Beaches
Preveli Beach: How to See Crete’s Spectacular Palm Forest
Vai Beach: Stunning Palm Forest and Ancient Ruins
Matala Beach: Crete’s Original Hippie Village
Falasarna Beach: Guide to Crete’s Best Sunset Beach
