Elafonissi is a “Natura 2000” protected area. The island is full of dunes with sand lilies and junipers (like-cedar trees). The endangered turtles Caretta-Caretta and several rare animals nest on the island and it is strictly forbidden to remove any plants, animals from the area. Exotic beach with white sand and turquoise waters, reminding of the Caribbean, are formed on either sides of the peninsula. The sand is pinkish in many places, taking its colour from thousands of broken shells. Near the “breaking” point of the peninsula, the water does not exceed 1m, creating a small lagoon, ideal for children. You can easily cross the lagoon in order to reach the “island”, having your belongings with you, because the water is very shallow there. The eastern side of the beach, in front of the lagoon, is well organised and has the most people.
There are umbrellas, showers, lifeguards, snack bars and changing rooms. TripAdvisor website has rated Elafonissi as the 11th Best Beach in the world.