Marathi Beach - I remember the chilly winds blowing on that early morning, such a beautiful experience. After that was, boat ride and watching dolphins family enjoying in sea.
1 / 10

Marathi Beach

4.4
·3k reviews·Marathi, Greece

A charming Cretan beach with clear, calm, shallow waters, perfect for swimming and families, featuring seaside tavernas.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
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Marathi Beach - I remember the chilly winds blowing on that early morning, such a beautiful experience. After that was, boat ride and watching dolphins family enjoying in sea.

Marathi Beach

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming Cretan beach with clear, calm, shallow waters, perfect for swimming and families, featuring seaside tavernas.

4.4
(3k reviews)

"The water is incredibly clean and beautiful, perfect for swimming or families."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Go Early for Space

Arrive before 10 AM on weekdays to guarantee a good spot and sunbed. Sundays are extremely busy!

🚗 Parking Fee

Expect to pay around 5€ for parking near Marathi Beach.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal Clear Waters

Crystal Clear Waters

Marathi Beach

Enjoy the incredibly clean, calm, and shallow turquoise waters perfect for swimming and relaxation.

Seaside Tavernas

Seaside Tavernas

Marathi Beachfront

Savor fresh local food and drinks with your toes practically in the sand at charming beachfront eateries.

Family-Friendly Shallow Bay

Family-Friendly Shallow Bay

Marathi Beach

The gentle, shallow waters make this a safe and enjoyable spot for children to play and swim.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds at Marathi Beach

Marathi Beach can get packed, especially on Sundays and mid-August. For a more relaxed experience, aim for weekdays or consider visiting during the shoulder seasons. Arriving early is key to snagging a good spot and sunbed.

Marathi Beach: What to Expect

This charming beach offers clear, calm, and shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming and families. While well-organized with tavernas and sunbeds, it's a narrow stretch. Be aware that boat anchoring can sometimes affect water clarity.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more space
Crowd
Low
When
Early Mornings
Why
Secure the best spots
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Marathi Beach in Chania #crete #itinerary #greekislands #travel
@creteunlocked
5K likes • 92.5K views

🎯 Go Early for Space

Arrive before 10 AM on weekdays to guarantee a good spot and sunbed. Sundays are extremely busy! Reddit

🚗 Parking Fee

Expect to pay around 5€ for parking near Marathi Beach. Reddit

reddit.com

First time to Crete - Rate my itinerary

reddit.com

The beach you never knew existed! Marathi, Crete

💰 Sunbed Rental

Sunbeds for two typically cost around 8€, offering a comfortable way to relax. Reddit

🌊 Calm Waters

Ideal for swimming, especially on windy days when other beaches might be rough. TikTok

reddit.com

Are you happy with what Crete is becoming?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Go Early for Space

Arrive before 10 AM on weekdays to guarantee a good spot and sunbed. Sundays are extremely busy! Reddit

🚗 Parking Fee

Expect to pay around 5€ for parking near Marathi Beach. Reddit

💰 Sunbed Rental

Sunbeds for two typically cost around 8€, offering a comfortable way to relax. Reddit

🌊 Calm Waters

Ideal for swimming, especially on windy days when other beaches might be rough. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Marathi Beach is praised for its beautiful, clear, and calm waters, making it ideal for swimming and families. Visitors appreciate the convenience of beachfront tavernas and the organized amenities. However, the beach's narrowness leads to significant crowding on Sundays and during peak season, making it difficult to find space.

"I love this beach because the water is incredibly clean and beautiful. It's a small place, so Sundays get extremely crowded, it’s hard to even find a spot on the beach and don’t even think about finding a sunbed. Weekdays were much better. The beach, the bar, and the water are truly beautiful. The sunbed for two people is 8e."

Tamara Pavlovic

"Marathi Beach offers a few small beaches close to each other, which makes it a great spot for sunbathing and swimming—especially on windy days when other places might be too rough. However, the water is not the cleanest, especially because of the many boats anchored nearby. Still, it’s a nice and relaxed place to spend a few hours…"

Teodora Ivanova

"Marathi Beach is beautiful and super relaxing. The water is clear, calm, and shallow, perfect for swimming or families. The sand is soft, and there are tavernas right by the sea for fresh food and drinks. It’s well organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, but still feels peaceful. Go early if you want a good spot. Simple, easy, and very Cretan."

Sam Fasuyi

What People Like

Beautiful clear water
Calm and shallow sea
Beachfront tavernas

What People Dislike

Extreme crowding
Narrow beach space

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Marathi Beach is located near the airport, about a 20-30 minute drive from Chania town. Renting a car is the most convenient option for exploring Crete and reaching Marathi Beach. Public transport options are limited, so a car is highly recommended for flexibility. TikTok

Yes, Marathi Beach is conveniently located very close to Chania International Airport (CHQ), making it an accessible destination for arrivals or departures. Reddit

Marathi Beach is not within walking distance of Chania town. You will need to drive, take a taxi, or arrange for transportation to reach it. TikTok

There is parking available near Marathi Beach, but it can fill up quickly during peak times. A parking fee of approximately 5€ is usually charged. Reddit

The beach is relatively flat and has tavernas right by the sea, which can be accessible. However, the narrowness of the beach and potential crowds might pose challenges. It's best to assess conditions upon arrival. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee to access Marathi Beach itself. You only pay for parking and optional sunbed rentals. Reddit

Marathi Beach is a public beach and is accessible throughout the day and evening. The tavernas and beach bars have their own operating hours, typically from morning until late evening. TikTok

It's generally not possible to book sunbeds in advance. Due to high demand, especially on weekends and during peak season, it's advisable to arrive early to secure one. Reddit

While generally open to all, some parts of the beach might have umbrellas designated for military personnel and their families. Otherwise, it's a public space. Reddit

Absolutely! You are welcome to bring your own beach gear if you prefer not to rent sunbeds and umbrellas. This can be a cost-effective option. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Marathi Beach features soft sand along the shore, making it comfortable for sunbathing and walking. Reddit

Yes, Marathi Beach is excellent for swimming due to its clear, calm, and shallow waters. It's particularly good for families and those who prefer gentle waves. Reddit

You'll find well-organized amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, and several tavernas right by the sea offering food and drinks. Reddit

Marathi Beach can get extremely crowded, especially on Sundays and during the peak summer months (mid-August). Weekdays are significantly less busy. Reddit

While not a primary hub for water sports, the calm waters are great for swimming and paddleboarding. Some boats are anchored nearby, which might limit space for certain activities. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Marathi Beach has several tavernas located directly on the beachfront, offering fresh food and drinks with a view of the sea. Reddit

You can expect traditional Cretan and Greek cuisine, often featuring fresh seafood and local specialties. Reddit

Prices are generally reasonable for a beachfront location, with sunbeds for two costing around 8€. Dining at the tavernas offers a good value for the experience. Reddit

Yes, the beachfront tavernas serve a variety of drinks and snacks, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. Reddit

While there are tavernas, you are welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks. However, enjoying a meal at one of the seaside tavernas is a popular experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the clear turquoise waters, the charming beachfront tavernas, and the gentle coastline. Early morning or late afternoon light offers beautiful photographic opportunities. TikTok

Yes, Marathi Beach is quite photogenic with its clear waters, sandy shores, and relaxed atmosphere. It's especially lovely during the golden hours. Instagram

The early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for serene shots. Late afternoon provides warm, golden light for picturesque scenes. TikTok

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and be mindful of other beachgoers before flying a drone. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the beach and sea. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Marathi Beach is a fantastic choice for families. The calm, shallow, and clear waters are perfect for little ones to splash and play safely. The soft sand provides a comfortable area for building sandcastles. Reddit The proximity of tavernas means easy access to snacks and meals without having to venture far. Arriving early is key to securing a good spot where you can keep an eye on the children. Reddit

Consider bringing your own beach toys and towels, as the beach can get busy and sunbeds might be limited. While there are some areas with umbrellas designated for military families, the majority are available for public use, though they fill up fast. The overall relaxed vibe makes it a stress-free outing for parents. Reddit

🚗 Day-Trippers from Chania

Marathi Beach is an excellent option for a day trip from Chania. It's a relatively short drive (about 20-30 minutes) and offers a beautiful escape with its clear waters and seaside dining. TikTok Renting a car is the most practical way to get there, allowing you to maximize your time. Aim to go on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds and ensure you can find parking and a good spot on the beach. Reddit

Pack your essentials for a comfortable day: sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and a leisurely lunch at one of the beachfront tavernas. If you're short on time, Marathi Beach provides a concentrated dose of Cretan coastal charm without requiring a long journey. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Marathi Beach can be enjoyed on a budget by focusing on free access and bringing your own provisions. While sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent (around 8€), you can save money by bringing your own towels and beach umbrella. Reddit Parking also has a fee (around 5€), so factor that in. To save on food, consider packing a picnic lunch and snacks to enjoy by the sea. Reddit

Visiting on a weekday will also help avoid the peak season prices that might be associated with busier times. The main draw – the beautiful beach and clear water – is free to enjoy. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Marathi Beach: A Local Gem

Marathi Beach, located near Chania in Crete, is a popular destination known for its clear, calm, and shallow waters. It's a series of small coves, offering a sheltered environment perfect for swimming and sunbathing, especially on days when the northern coast might be windy. The beach is well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent, and several traditional tavernas are situated right on the sand, providing a convenient spot for meals and refreshments. TikTok

The appeal of Marathi lies in its relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly conditions. The gentle slope into the sea makes it safe for children, and the overall ambiance is peaceful. However, its popularity means it can get very crowded, particularly on Sundays and during the peak summer months. Visitors often recommend arriving early to secure a good spot, as the beach itself is quite narrow. Reddit

While the water is generally praised for its clarity, some reviews mention that the presence of anchored boats can occasionally affect water quality. Despite this, Marathi Beach remains a beloved spot for both locals and tourists seeking a beautiful and accessible seaside experience in Crete. Reddit

Navigating Marathi Beach: Tips from Travelers

When planning a visit to Marathi Beach, understanding the crowd dynamics is crucial. Redditors and reviewers consistently highlight that Sundays and mid-August are peak times, leading to extreme crowding where finding space can be a challenge. Reddit The advice is clear: aim for weekdays or arrive very early in the morning to enjoy the beach with more comfort. The cost for sunbeds is typically around 8€ for a set of two, which is a reasonable price for the convenience. Reddit

Parking is available but usually comes with a fee of about 5€. Reddit For those considering a longer stay or exploring the wider Chania region, renting a car is highly recommended. This offers the flexibility to visit Marathi Beach and other nearby attractions at your own pace. While the beach itself is free to access, the associated costs for parking and sunbeds are important to factor into your budget. TikTok

Despite the potential for crowds, the beauty of the water and the convenience of the beachfront tavernas make Marathi Beach a worthwhile destination. The shallow, calm sea is a significant draw for families and casual swimmers alike. Reddit

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