Elafonisi Island: Day Trips and Tours from Rethymno

The enchanting Elafonisi Island lies in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea, only a short distance away from the Cretan coastal town of Rethymno.

The island is a place where myth and reality converge, with its pink-tinged sands, lush greenery and crystalline waters.

Carefully tailored day tours to Elafonisi Island from Rethymno offer an unforgettable experience that weaves historical discovery, natural splendor and serendipitous encounters.

Allow yourself to be swept away by the allure of this bewitching island and return home with a trove of unforgettable memories.

Here's all you need to know about Elafonisi Island, one of the most exciting day trips from Rethymno.

How to get to Elafonisi Island from Rethymno?

Elafonisi Island is located off the southwestern coast of Crete. From Rethymno, there are several ways to reach the island.

From Rethymno to Elafonisi Island by car

Renting a car gives you flexibility when planning your trip. The journey is approximately 120 kilometers and takes about 2.5 hours along the scenic E75 and E65 coastal roads.

Keep in mind that you will need to park your car and walk to Elefonisi Beach which connects to the island during low tide.

From Rethymno to Elafonisi Island by car and ferry

For the chance to experience a scenic drive and a water approach to Elafonisi Island, you can travel from Rethymno to Paleochora by car – a journey of around 2 hours. From there, take the one-hour ferry ride to Elafonisi Island. The ferry leaves at 10 AM daily and returns to the mainland at 4 PM.

Guided tours to Elafonisi Island from Rethymno

Several companies offer guided tours from Rethymno to Elafonisi Island. Transportation, a tour guide and sometimes lunch are included. Focus on the scenery and learn more about the area’s history and culture when you sit back and enjoy an organized excursion.

What is the typical itinerary?

Start your day with an early departure from Rethymno. You will be collected from your hotel or a central meeting point. On your journey, your tour may include a stop at a traditional village like Elos or Topolia or a scenic viewpoint like Agia Sofia Cave.

After arriving at Elafonisi Beach in the late morning, you can explore and cross the sandbank that connects the beach to the island at low tide. Swim, sunbathe, relax and enjoy lunch at a nearby taverna or picnic on the beach.

There is time to take a leisurely walk around the nature reserve before your return journey to Rethymno in the late afternoon.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Elafonisi Island?

Tours between Rethymno and Elafonisi Island are full-day experiences. You can choose a tour to suit your budget and even choose a tour that includes other stops along the way.

Small group full-day tours to Elafonisi Island from Rethymno

On this guided tour, you can join your group and travel a scenic coastal route that passes through traditional villages and rugged landscapes.

At Elafonisi Beach you will have a few hours of free time to unwind on the soft sand at the edge of the turquoise waters. You can reach Elafonisi Island at low tide and wander around the protected wildlife area.

Small group full-day tours to Elafonisi Island and Balos Lagoon from Rethymno

This small group guided excursion that includes a jeep tour to explore Vouxa Mountain is also an option.

After relaxing on the beach and exploring the island, you can get a birds-eye view of Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa, two of Crete’s most famous beaches from a vantage point on Vouxa Mountain.

Private tours to Elafonisi Island from Rethymno

You and up to 9 other people can join a once-in-a-lifetime private tour to the paradise of Elafonisi. The excursion includes a stop at the cave of Agia Sofia to see the small chapel and natural monument with its captivating stalagmite and stalactite formations.

Once at Elafonisi, you can rent a sunbed if you want to unwind on the pink-hued sands or take your time strolling around the island and other natural areas. After a full day out, the tour stops at the village of Elos where you have the option of dinner in a local Cretan tavern.

How much does a day trip to Elafonisi Island from Rethymno cost?

Prices of tours vary depending on the group size, itinerary and inclusions.

A small group guided tour from Rethymno to Elafonisi Island costs from €30 per adult and €20 per child aged 4 to 11, with under 4’s free of charge.

A small group guided tour from Rethymno to Elafonisi Island including a Balos Lagoon viewing starts at €50 per adult and €40 per child aged 4 to 11. Under 4’s do not pay if they are traveling with full-paying adults.

Private guided tours to Elafonisi Island from Rethymno cost around €400 for groups of up to 10 people. Snacks are included, but other meals need to be settled directly.

What will you see and do?

Your excursion from Rethymno to Elafonisi Island offers stunning views of Crete’s diverse landscape, including mountains, gorges and traditional villages.

On the route, you may stop to experience authentic Cretan hospitality at villages such as Elos or Topolia. The Agia Sofia Cave and Topolia Gorge are two popular natural attractions offering great photographic opportunities.

At Elafonisi Beach you will marvel at the beach with its pink and white sands and crystal clear waters. At low tide, you can cross to Elafonisi Island. Both the beach and the island form part of a protected nature reserve and you can spot some of the local fauna and flora on a stroll of the area.

Local beach tavernas are on site for a light meal of traditional Cretan cuisine or a refreshing drink. Optional activities like snorkeling and jeep drives are also offered on some tours.

When is the best time to visit Elafonisi Island?

During the peak tourist season, it can get very busy at Elafonisi Beach and Island. To see the beach at its best, consider visiting in early May or October when you will experience quiet beaches and warm water. While sunrise is considered the best time of day to visit, sunset is also quite beautiful.

What other day trips can you do from Rethymno?

• Samaria Gorge day trips from Rethymno
• Chania day trips from Rethymno
• Heraklion day trips from Rethymno
• Preveli day trips from Rethymno
• Knossos day trips from Rethymno

Travel tips

• Removing sand or sea shells from Elafonisi is prohibited by Greek law.
• Remember to remove all garbage when you leave to protect this natural haven.
• Take care of the landscape and do not trample on any plants or disturb the birds.
• Bring swimwear, a towel sunscreen with you.
• Comfortable shoes are recommended on this tour for traversing the beach.