Chrissi Akti beach
Chrissi Akti is a beautiful beach on the north coast of Crete, located between the two holiday resorts Agii Apostoli and Chania.
Chrissi Akti lies at the western end of a bay with a two-kilometre stretch of coastline, where Chania’s most visited beach, Neo Chora, is found further to the east. Both are lovely beaches, but Chrissi Akti is the more quieter and relaxed of the two.
The beach in general
In Greek, Chrissi Akti means “Golden Beach”, which is a very fitting name. The beach stretches for about 500 metres and is covered in fine golden sand, with clear and inviting water.
Facilities are good, with sunbeds, umbrellas, showers and toilets available. During the high season, lifeguards are on duty. The water is usually calm, as the beach is well sheltered by the bay. Despite being popular with both locals and tourists, the atmosphere remains relaxed. Those who prefer even more privacy can visit the neighbouring Aptera beach.
Just offshore, you can see the small island of Lazareta. Several hundred years ago, it was used as a quarantine station for the sick, but today it is uninhabited. Boat trips to the island are popular, where you’ll find a small beach and good snorkelling opportunities.
Family friendliness
With its soft sand and shallow, generally calm water, Chrissi Akti is very family-friendly. There is usually plenty of space to play, making it an excellent choice for families with children.
Water sports
Chrissi Akti is a peaceful beach without noisy water sports. However, you can rent windsurfing equipment and try the popular paddleboards. The calm water also makes it ideal for a relaxing swim.
Beach restaurants
Along the beach, you’ll find three small cafés and restaurants. Here you can enjoy a light lunch or pick up food to take back to your sunbed. We recommend the Piranhas café, which also has sun loungers available for hire.
Nearby holiday resorts
Chrissi Akti is located between Chania and Agii Apostoli, two very different holiday resorts.
Chania is the second-largest city on Crete and one of its most charming. It is especially known for its beautiful Venetian harbour, with its iconic lighthouse and the Turkish mosque. From the harbour, you can wander into the old town, with its narrow streets, colourful buildings and small local shops. Both around the harbour and in the old town, you’ll find plenty of inviting cafés and restaurants. If you are planning an adults-only holiday in Chania, the 4-star Elia Sea Suites is an excellent choice.
Just west of Chrissi Akti lies the smaller resort of Agii Apostoli. It has a very relaxed atmosphere and, with several child-friendly beaches, it is especially popular with families. There is a good selection of hotels, restaurants and shops, and most places are within walking distance.
Chrissi Akti on the map
Right in the centre of the map, you’ll see the golden sandy beach, Chrissi Akti. To the left is one of the other beaches in Agii Apostoli, and if you move the map slightly to the right, you’ll find Chania.
