Marathi Beach
A charming Cretan beach with clear, calm, shallow waters, perfect for swimming and families, featuring seaside tavernas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Marathi Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming Cretan beach with clear, calm, shallow waters, perfect for swimming and families, featuring seaside tavernas.
"The water is incredibly clean and beautiful, perfect for swimming or families."
🎯 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.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.4 · 3,496 reviews
Type
Beach
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal Clear Waters
Marathi Beach
Enjoy the incredibly clean, calm, and shallow turquoise waters perfect for swimming and relaxation.
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
Marathi Beach
The gentle, shallow waters make this a safe and enjoyable spot for children to play and swim.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Marathi Beach
Marathi Beach: What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
💰 Sunbed Rental
Sunbeds for two typically cost around 8€, offering a comfortable way to relax.
🌊 Calm Waters
Ideal for swimming, especially on windy days when other beaches might be rough.
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!
🚗 Parking Fee
Expect to pay around 5€ for parking near Marathi Beach.
💰 Sunbed Rental
Sunbeds for two typically cost around 8€, offering a comfortable way to relax.
🌊 Calm Waters
Ideal for swimming, especially on windy days when other beaches might be rough.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, Marathi Beach is conveniently located very close to Chania International Airport (CHQ), making it an accessible destination for arrivals or departures.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to access Marathi Beach itself. You only pay for parking and optional sunbed rentals.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Marathi Beach features soft sand along the shore, making it comfortable for sunbathing and walking.
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.
You'll find well-organized amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, and several tavernas right by the sea offering food and drinks.
Marathi Beach can get extremely crowded, especially on Sundays and during the peak summer months (mid-August). Weekdays are significantly less busy.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Marathi Beach has several tavernas located directly on the beachfront, offering fresh food and drinks with a view of the sea.
You can expect traditional Cretan and Greek cuisine, often featuring fresh seafood and local specialties.
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.
Yes, the beachfront tavernas serve a variety of drinks and snacks, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the clear turquoise waters, the charming beachfront tavernas, and the gentle coastline. Early morning or late afternoon light offers beautiful photographic opportunities.
Yes, Marathi Beach is quite photogenic with its clear waters, sandy shores, and relaxed atmosphere. It's especially lovely during the golden hours.
The early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for serene shots. Late afternoon provides warm, golden light for picturesque scenes.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and be mindful of other beachgoers before flying a drone.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit