Stavros Beach

I remember the first time I set foot on Stavros Beach, a charming seaside village just 17km northeast of Chania, on the tip of Cape Akrotiri.

The sight of the steep, camel-shaped mountain Vardies, which became famous for the “Zorba the Greek” movie, is something that stays with you.

The mountain got famous because scenes from the movie “Zorba the Greek” were shot there in 1964. This is where Anthony Quinn did the cool Sirtaki Dance. Back then, Stavros was just a tiny fishing place.

Nowadays, it’s a bustling tourist resort with plenty of hotels and amenities.

Two stunning beaches here have played a big role in the area’s growth.

Stavros Beach Key Information

Download Guide

Please check your email for our Chania guide!

 

Download Free Chania Guide

 

Get ready to explore the best of Chania!

Our insider's guide to the top 10 locations is just a click away!

Beach Profile

The main beach, next to the harbor, is a beautiful lagoon-like bay with white sand and shallow, turquoise waters, nestled at the foot of the mountain and beside a quaint harbor. It’s protected from the winds, making it a peaceful spot for a swim.

The second beach, around 200m far from the main beach, is a bit rockier and less organized but offers a quieter experience.

Amenities

Stavros Beach is well-equipped with facilities like umbrellas, beds, and showers. You’ll also find sports activities and the prestigious Blue Flag waving, indicating high environmental and quality standards.

Accommodations

Numerous accommodation options are nearby, ranging from budget-friendly rooms to luxury hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler.

History and Significance

The camel-shaped mountain Vardies is a historical landmark, known for the iconic Sirtaki Dance scene from “Zorba the Greek”.

Between the beaches you can see the extracted limestone. This limestone was used to build something amazing – the Walls of Chania.

These walls weren’t built yesterday or even a hundred years ago. They were constructed during a time called the Venetian Era, which lasted from the 13th to the 17th century.

That means these walls and the quarry have been around for a very long time, carrying stories of the past with them.

Now, why should you, as a traveler, come to see this place? Let me tell you, it’s not just for anyone. It’s for the curious minds, the history buffs who love to dive deep into the stories of ancient times.

It’s for families who want their children to see and touch the pieces of history, not just read about them in books.

Activities

You can enjoy various water sports, take a leisurely swim in the calm waters, or explore the historical sites around the peninsula.

Dining

There’s no shortage of dining options, with plenty of restaurants serving delicious local cuisine and fresh seafood.

Best For Travelers

1. Movie Fans: If you love movies, this is a must-see. You can stand where a famous movie was shot!
2. Dance Lovers: Anyone who enjoys dancing, especially the Sirtaki, will find this spot super special.
3. History Buffs: If you like learning about the past and how places have changed, you’ll find Stavros’s transformation from a small village interesting.
4. Families: It’s great for kids and grown-ups who enjoy exploring new places together.
5. Beach Lovers: Of course, if you just love beaches, this one is beautiful and has a cool story.

Getting There

Car: Driving from Chania, or taking the highway from Heraklion to Rethymno, then on to Chania and Kissamos, is straightforward. Simply head towards the airport. Once you’re on the Arkotiri peninsula, make a left turn after a few kilometers. Look out for a sign that says ‘Stavros 10 km’.

Bus: During the summer season, there are approximately 5 daily bus services from the central bus station in Chania to Stavros.

• Chania to Stavros Beach
  • Distance: Approximately 15 kilometers (9.3 miles)
  • Driving Time: About 27 minutes
• Rethymno to Stavros Beach
  • Distance: Approximately 68 kilometers (42 miles)
  • Driving Time: About 1 hour and 18 minutes
• Heraklion to Stavros Beach
  • Distance: Approximately 149 kilometers (93 miles)
  • Driving Time: About 2 hours and 10 minutes
• Hersonissos to Stavros Beach
  • Distance: Approximately 164 kilometers (102 miles)
  • Driving Time: About 2 hours and 25 minutes
• Agios Nikolaos to Stavros Beach
  • Distance: Approximately 210 kilometers (130 miles)
  • Driving Time: About 3 hours and 10 minutes
• Ierapetra to Stavros Beach
  • Distance: Approximately 244 kilometers (152 miles)
  • Driving Time: About 3 hours and 40 minutes
• Malia to Stavros Beach
  • Distance: Approximately 177 kilometers (110 miles)
  • Driving Time: About 2 hours and 50 minutes

Tips

Visit during the off-peak season for a more serene experience, and don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect against the Mediterranean sun.

Weather

Discoveries Around Stavros Beach