Elafonissi is in west Crete, about 45 kilometres southwest of Kastelli. The Elafonissi area includes the beach, the islet 200 metres offshore and the shallow lagoon between the two.

Elafonissi is a tiny island with white sand, separated from the shore by a lagoon no more than a metre deep. Elafonissi means “deer island”, but you won’t see any deer on the island or in the surrounding area.

On the way, you will see Chrissoskalitissa Monastery, visible from afar as it is dazzling white and built high on a great rock. Climb up to pay your respects at this historic monastery and look for the golden step which, according to legend, only the truly devout can see.

Elafonissi is 5 kilometres from Chrissoskalitissa. On arriving you will see a large bare expanse used as a car park, a few dusty juniper trees and the wonderful colours of the lagoon. The island is less than 200 metres from the beach and you can easily walk there through the warm, shallow water of the lagoon. On reaching the island you will discover lots of tiny beaches on its south coast.