Marathi Beach is a breathtaking beach located on the island of Crete in Greece. The natives in the area refer to it as “Marathi” or “Old Souda”. The purpose of Marathi beach is to provide visitors with a place to relax, swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the natural surroundings. It is known for its breathtaking views and scenic beauty. The climate in Crete is Mediterranean, with warm summers and mild winters. Crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and rocky cliffs characterise the geography of Marathi beach. Marathi beach is prominent for the economy as it is a popular tourist destination. And many local businesses, such as restaurants, cafes, and shops, depend on tourism for their livelihoods. The beach stretches on the coast of Crete island; within the confines of the inhabited area, it is easy to reach the location in question. It is easily accessible and therefore popular among travellers. During the peak tourist season, it is an annoyance because of the many visitors there. In case the stay is close to the beach, walking is the way to reach it. It eliminates the need for finding parking or adhering to the public transport schedule.
The total number of passengers who arrived on the island by aeroplane in 2021 was approximately 2.8 million, which was an increase from the 1.1 million who got there in the first year of the health crisis but was still lower than the levels that existed before the pandemic.
What is Marathi Beach?
Marathi Beach is known for its crystal clear waters, beautiful scenery, and proximity to the small traditional village of Marathi. It is situated in the Chania region, on the island’s north-western coast. Marathi beach is a long, comprehensive, sandy beach surrounded by cliffs that form natural protection. The sea is usually calm and crystal clear and is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is known for its water sports and other recreational activities. The beach has good infrastructure, with many sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and toilets. There are a few traditional taverns, cafes and mini-markets. The name Marathi is of unknown origin and history. The beach is situated near the small traditional village of Marathi, which has been named after the beach, or vice versa. The town of Marathi is located on a hillside overlooking the beach. It is a peaceful and charming place with a few permanent residents, traditional taverns, and a small church. Marathi beach is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty and proximity to the village of Marathi. Crete’s economy, and Greece’s economy as a whole, is significantly boosted by the country’s robust tourism sector. The revenue generated by tourism in Crete and the surrounding region helps to support local businesses, create jobs, and drive economic growth.
Where is Marathi Beach located?
Marathi Beach is about 45 km west of the city of Chania and about 14 km east of the town of Kissamos. It is ranked 66th out of 477 beaches in the region. It is only 0.1 kilometres away from the heart of the Marathi settlement. The beach was found in an urban area that offers some stunningly beautiful vistas. From Chania, travel west on E75 in the direction of Kissamos; after approximately 30 kilometres, take the exit towards Marathi, and then follow the signs to reach the village of Marathi and the beach there. After approximately 14 kilometres on the E75 in the direction of Chania. Take the exit towards Marathi and continue to follow the signs until reaching the village and beach of Marathi. The coordinates of Marathi Beach are 35.4339° N and 23.7381° E.
How does the Marathi Beach Map look?
Marathi Beach is located approximately 500 metres west of Marathi. There is a small pine wood on the island. And the scuba divers love the island’s steep western coast where divers dive. Along the road that leads to the north, eventually come across (on the road that leads to the beach) the ruins of the Roman town called Minoa. Which most likely served as a port city for Aptera. The archaeological site, referred to as the Small Palace of Minos (despite not being dated to the Minoan Times). Contains the remnants of buildings and baths most likely related to an old harbour, military facilities, and a mansion. Indeed, there is still a circular wall on the beach where people walk around. The Map of Marathi Beach shows that it is surrounded by several establishments such as “Kantina Nektarios Marathi”, “Veranda Coffee” and “Metaxy Mas Beach Bar”. The Map was created by Imagery@2023 CNES / Airbus, Maxar Technologies, and Map data @2023.
What are the activities in Marathi Beach?
There are a variety of activities on Marathi Beach, including swimming, snorkelling, and hiking. It features crystal clear waters, making it ideal for swimming. The water is relatively shallow, making it perfect for children. The beach is protected from strong winds and waves, making it a safe swimming spot. It is surrounded by a rich underwater ecosystem, making it an ideal place for snorkelling. The shallow waters and clear visibility make it easy to spot marine life, including fish, octopuses, and sea urchins. The area around Marathi beach offers several hiking trails, which take visitors through the nearby hills and mountains. These trails offer stunning views of the coast and the surrounding countryside. Provide an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the island of Crete. Several camping sites near Marathi Beach where visitors pitch a tent and enjoy the natural surroundings. Some camping sites offer basic amenities like toilets and showers, while others are more rustic, providing a more authentic outdoor experience.
When is the best time to visit Marathi Beach?
The best time to visit Marathi Beach is subjective and depends on the desired experience. The months of June, July, and August see the greatest influx of tourists to Marathi beaches. It is because the weather is warm and sunny during these months, and the water temperature is at its highest point during this time. It is the perfect time for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing. However, it is the busiest time of the year, and the beach gets crowded. For a quieter and more peaceful experience, preference is given to the shoulder seasons of Spring (April-May), and Fall (September-October) is the best time to visit Marathi Beach. The weather is still pleasant, and the beach is less crowded. It is the best time for hiking, as the temperatures are cooler and more comfortable. It’s worth noting that the weather in Crete is generally mild throughout the year; as a result, it’s still worth going to, even in the colder months, for a more peaceful experience. Crowds were avoided, particularly if it is the desired outcome. Things to do on Marathi Beach aside from swimming, snorkelling, hiking, and camping, the other activities are Beach Volleyball, Beach Soccer, Scuba Diving, Windsurfing, Kitesurfing and Boat trips.
How was the preservation of Marathi Beach?
Marathi beach is protected by laws and regulations aimed at preserving its natural beauty and protecting the environment. It is through a combination of efforts aimed at preserving its natural beauty and ecological health. Regular beach clean-ups are organised to keep the area free of litter and pollutants that harm the ecosystem. In addition, local organisations, schools, and community groups are involved in environmental education, teaching the public about the importance of preserving the beach and its surrounding environment. There are strict building regulations in place to ensure that any new construction in the area does not harm the natural environment, and restrictions on development are in place to maintain the beach in its natural state. Laws are in place to protect the beach from overuse and damage, regulating the number of visitors, activities such as camping, and the use of boats and other watercraft. Finally, local authorities have implemented a plan for managing tourism in the area, ensuring that the beach is not overused or exploited. These combined efforts ensure that Marathi Beach remains a beautiful and thriving natural ecosystem for generations to come.
How do you get to Marathi Beach?
Marathi Beach is on the location on Crete’s northern coast, Greece. Getting there by car is the fastest and most convenient way. From Heraklion: take the National Road E75 north, towards Rethymnon. After about 38 km, take the exit for “Marathi” and follow the signs for “Marathi Beach”. From Rethymnon: take the National Road E75 south, about Heraklion. After about 24 km, take the exit for “Marathi” and follow the signs for “Marathi Beach”. Alternatively, reach Marathi Beach by taking a bus from Heraklion or Rethymnon. There are several car rental agencies in Heraklion and Rethymnon that rent a car to drive to Marathi Beach. It’s worth noting that public transportation options are limited in Marathi. So having a car is the most convenient way to reach the beach and explore the surrounding area.
What are nearby attractions in Marathi Beach?
Nearby attractions to Marathi Beach include The Monastery of Arkadi, Preveli Beach, The Rethymnon Old Town, The Spili village, The Eleftherna archaeological site, and Elafonissi Beach. Some of these include the list below:
- Arkadi Monastery: The Arkadi Monastery is a historic monastery about 10 km from Marathi Beach. It is known for its role in the Cretan resistance against the Ottoman Empire. And is considered one of the most important monasteries on the island.
- Preveli Beach: it is a beautiful palm-lined beach about 15 km from Marathi Beach. It is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing and offers excellent views of the Libyan Sea.
- The Rethymnon Old Town: is the historic centre of the city of Rethymnon, about 25 km from Marathi Beach. It is known for its Venetian architecture, charming narrow streets, and picturesque Venetian harbour.
- Spili village: The Spili village is a traditional mountain village about 25 km from Marathi Beach. It is known for its charming stone houses, water fountains, and it’s the beautiful Byzantine church.
- Eleftherna archaeological site: The Eleftherna archaeological site is an important archaeological site about 30 km from Marathi Beach. It is known for its well-pristine Roman and ancient Greek remains, including a Roman theatre and an old cemetery.
- Elafonissi Beach: Elafonissi Beach is a stunning beach about 50 km from Marathi Beach, known for its crystal clear turquoise waters and pink sand.
What are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete?
Crete is a beautiful Greek island with a rich culture and a long history that everyone sees at least once. There are many ways to see the beautiful island, but renting a car is one of the best. Learning how to choose the best rental car in Crete maximises one’s time spent enjoying the island’s wonderful tourist attractions.
Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete.
- Insurance. Collision Damage Waiver insurance is included in car rentals in Crete, and a driver’s credit card is needed as a guarantee. When someone rents a car, rental car insurance protects them against the cost of damage.
- Driver’s age. On Crete, the minimum driving age is between 18 years old. A driver’s licence is required.
- Driver’s gender. In Crete, both sexes have equal access to driving privileges. As long as they are at least 18 years old, drivers of any gender are allowed on the roads of Crete.
- Car type. The number of passengers determines the type of vehicle needed for transportation on Crete. Taking the whole family on the road trip, needs a vehicle with more room. While driving on the island of Crete, it is recommended to use a more compact vehicle. The primary cause of this is the limited width of Greek roadways. These days, spot a lot of noticeably smaller cars driving about.
- Documents needed for renting a car. Driver’s licence is the sole paperwork required to rent a vehicle. A credit or debit card in the driver’s name must be shown, though. It is one of the prerequisites for renting a car in Crete.
How much does a car rental in Crete cost?
Many stunning tourist destinations on the island of Crete are accessible by rented automobile. The cost of car rental in Crete varies with the number of passengers, travel plans, kind of vehicle, location, and time frame. In Crete, hiring a car typically costs between €30 and €40 per day. A week’s worth of car rental often costs €250, whereas a weekend rental typically costs €78. Depending on the vehicle, Crete offers a range of affordable car rentals. In vehicles with up to seven seats, only four passengers, including the driver, are permitted. A car with eight or nine seats holds up to six people in total, the driver included.
How much does it cost to get to Marathi Beach?
The estimated entrance fee for Marathi Beach is free for children up to 12 years old, and €15 per person for those over 13 years old. To reach the beach, tickets for public transportation cost between €1 to €3 and take around 25 minutes. A taxi ride to the beach costs between €20 to €30, depending on the company and time of day. There is a nearby car park that costs €3, and daily parking fees at the beach and boat ramp pay stations are $5 and $6 with a trailer, or $2 without.
Where to stay near Marathi Beach?
Several hotels near Marathi Beach offer comfortable accommodations for visitors. Here are three options:
- Marathi Apartments: Marathi Apartments is a practical and convenient establishment, provides air-conditioned rooms in Marathi. This beachfront property offers direct access to a balcony, free private parking, and complimentary Wifi. It features a picnic area, a barbecue spot, and breathtaking views of the mountain and garden. Each apartment is equipped with a terrace, sea views, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, a fully-fitted kitchen, and a private bathroom. Moreover, every unit at the apartment complex has bed linen and towels. There’s also an on-site coffee shop. Activities like cycling can be enjoyed around Marathi. The Holy Monastery of Agia Triada is 8 km away, while Chania International Airport is a short 4 km drive from Marathi Apartments.
- Marathi Panorama Rooms: Marathi Panorama Rooms, nestled in the Marathi Village of Crete, offer a tranquil garden and apartments that provide captivating Cretan Sea views. It’s situated just 300 m from the beach and a similar distance from local restaurants and cafes. Each apartment features marble floors, a kitchenette, and a TV, complemented by a bathroom equipped with a shower. The bustling Chania Town is 9.3 miles away from Panorama. Chania International Airport is conveniently located 2.5 miles away. The location has been particularly praised by families, with a high rating of 9.5 for family stays.
- Psamathi Living & Taste: Psamathi Living & Taste is a charming accommodation option in Marathi, offers a peaceful garden. This beachfront property provides access to a terrace, free private parking, and complimentary Wifi. The apartments boast a balcony, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom. Each unit is fitted with bed linen and towels. An à la carte or a continental breakfast can be enjoyed at Psamathi Living & Taste, which also features an on-site restaurant, coffee shop, and bar for guests’ convenience.
Where to eat near Marathi Beach?
Several great restaurants in and around Marathi Beach offer delicious food and a great atmosphere. Here are three options:
- Patrelantonis Fish Taverna: Patrelantonis Fish Taverna, a family-run restaurant nestled in the small village of Marathi on the north coast of Crete, has been serving patrons for over 40 years. Known for its fresh seafood and traditional Cretan cuisine, this rustic eatery boasts a charming garden overlooking the sea. The ambiance is relaxed, informal, and inviting, while the menu features a wide range of fresh seafood dishes, such as grilled fish, seafood pasta, and risotto. Traditional Cretan dishes, like dakos salad, gamopilafo, and kalitsounia, are also on offer. With excellent food, friendly service, and a relaxed atmosphere, Patrelantonis Fish Taverna comes highly recommended for anyone visiting Crete.
- Veranda Coffee & Food by the Beach: Veranda Coffee & Food by the Beach, a casual eatery in the seaside village of Marathi, offers a diverse menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Set on a large terrace with stunning views of the Aegean Sea, this restaurant provides a bright and airy dining experience. The friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere complement the varied menu featuring breakfast items like pancakes and eggs Benedict, lunch offerings such as salads and sandwiches, and dinner dishes including fish, pasta, and steak. A wide selection of beverages is also available. Veranda Coffee & Food by the Beach is an excellent choice for a delicious meal in a relaxing seaside setting.
- Loukoulos: Loukoulos, a traditional Cretan taverna in Marathi, has been delighting diners with fresh seafood and Cretan cuisine for over 30 years. Set in a beautiful garden with sea views, the restaurant’s interior is simple and rustic, featuring wooden furniture and a large fireplace. The menu offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes and traditional Cretan fare, such as dakos salad, gamopilafo, and kalitsounia. Known for its excellent food, friendly service, and relaxed atmosphere, Loukoulos is another highly recommended option for anyone visiting Marathi.
Is Marathi Beach worth visiting?
Yes, Marathi Beach is worth visiting. The spotless waters and perfect scenery at Marathi Beach, on the northern coast of Crete, have earned it a reputation as one of the best beaches in Crete. Because the Beach is encircled by verdant vegetation and provides a peaceful atmosphere, it is an excellent location for unwinding and taking in Crete’s natural beauty. The Beach is available for guests to use, sunbathe, and explore the nearby hiking trails and traditional villages. The Beach is home to several different watermarks, including kayaking and snorkelling. In addition, there are many fantastic restaurants and hotels in the area, providing guests with a diverse selection of options.
Is Marathi Beach safe?
Yes, Marathi Beach is generally considered safe. It is a popular tourist destination and it is well-maintained and patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months. The water is clean and clear and is considered safe for swimming. The beach facilities are well-maintained, providing visitors with clean toilets and showers. Additionally, the surrounding area is relatively safe and visitors feel comfortable exploring the nearby hiking trails and traditional villages. However, as with any beach or outdoor area, it’s always a good idea to be aware of the surroundings, keep an eye on the belongings and be aware of any potential hazards such as strong currents or underwater obstacles, and follow the safety instructions of the lifeguards on duty.
Do you need to book in advance to visit Marathi Beach?
No, it is not necessary to book in advance to visit Marathi Beach. It is a public beach and does not require any reservations to visit. Visitors simply show up and enjoy the beach. However, it’s always best to check the weather forecast before the visit and be aware of the peak season, as, during that time, the beach gets quite crowded. In case there are plans to stay overnight in one of the hotels or restaurants near the beach, it is recommended to book in advance, to fill up quickly during peak season. But overall, Marathi Beach is an open beach and available for visiting at any time.
Are children permitted at the Marathi Beach?
Yes, children are permitted at Marathi Beach. It is a public beach and is open to visitors of all ages. It is a family-friendly beach, and children are welcome to swim and play in the water, as well as enjoy various beach activities such as snorkelling and kayaking. The beach provides facilities such as toilets and showers, which are accessible to families with children. Additionally, there are several hotels and restaurants near the beach that are suitable for families with children. However, it’s always a good idea for parents to supervise their children while at the beach and to be aware of any potential hazards, such as strong currents or underwater obstacles.
