Stavros, located at the northern edge of the Akrotiri peninsula boasts the famous beach where the dance of Alexis Zorbas was filmed. The location is stunning with golden sand stretching along a turquoise bay at the foot of a steep hill.
There is a second longer (and quieter) beach to the West. It's also sandy but there are quite a few rocks that make going into the water a bit tricky in places.
Type of beach: fine sand
Size of beach: two beaches, a small bay 300 m and a longer north facing beach 700 m
Crowds: the bay can get very busy especially at weekends. The longer beach is always very quiet.
Winds: the bay is very sheltered, the long beach can get windy and have waves if north wind blows.
Sunbeds and umbrellas - yes, unfortunately far more expensive than anywhere else in western Crete (in 2019)
Changing room - yes
Shower - yes
Safe for children - the bay is ideal for children. The western beach is open to the North and can have waves.
Life guard - yes, in the bay
Car parking - along the beach
By car around 30 minutes from Chania. A few public buses.
Several tavernas in Stavros as well as a good beach café / taverna on the long beach
Best places to stay near Stavros beach