Marathi
Region of Crete, Greece: Excellent water quality
Marathi is a beach on Crete's coast in Greece. It holds a Blue Flag award, which means the water quality, environmental standards, and safety facilities meet strict criteria set by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Marathi
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Marathi?
Marathi is a beach on Crete's coast in Greece. It holds a Blue Flag award, which means the water quality, environmental standards, and safety facilities meet strict criteria set by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
The best time to visit is April through June, when the weather is warm but crowds are manageable. July and August are peak season, expect more visitors and higher temperatures. Before swimming, check local water safety conditions, as conditions can vary.
The Blue Flag status is renewed annually, so standards remain consistent year to year. The beach works well for families, swimmers, and anyone looking for a well-maintained swimming spot.
It sits alongside certified beaches along Region of Crete, part of a broader network of certified beaches throughout Greece certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Marathi faces east toward Mediterranean Sea. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in April, May, June. Direct sun hours follow that facing.
Planning
When to Go: Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
| Feb | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
| Mar | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
| Apr | 17°C | 14°C | Med |
| May | 20°C | 17°C | Med |
| Jun | 25°C | 22°C | Med |
| Jul | 27°C | 24°C | High |
| Aug | 27°C | 24°C | High |
| Sep | 25°C | 22°C | Med |
| Oct | 21°C | 18°C | Low |
| Nov | 18°C | 15°C | Low |
| Dec | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
The best time to visit Marathi is April, May, June. Air temperatures peak around 26.8°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 23.8°C in July.
How crowded does Marathi get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Greece, Marathi sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Marathi open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (typically July–September). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Marathi
Is Marathi safe to swim?Marathi is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated Excellent. The beach does not have lifeguards stationed on the beach. Swim with appropriate caution.
What is the water temperature at Marathi?Peak water temperature at Marathi reaches around 23.8°C in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 12.8°C.
What is the beach like at Marathi?Marathi on the Region of Crete coast of Greece. The best time to visit is April through June, when the weather is warm but crowds are manageable. July and August are peak season, expect more visitors and higher temperatures. Before swimming, check local water safety conditions, as conditions can vary.
Does Marathi have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Marathi meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Showers are available. Parking is available nearby.
Marathi sits on the Mediterranean Sea: explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Mediterranean.
Planning a trip to Greece? How Greece earns the most Blue Flags , our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
Transport
Getting to Marathi
How do I get to Marathi by car?Marathi is approximately 13.98 km from Chania. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Marathi?The nearest airport is Heraklion International "Nikos Kazantzakis" Airport (HER), approximately 93.1 km away.
Can I get to Marathi by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Chania. The nearest recorded bus stop is 81 m from the beach.
Nearby
Near Marathi
Mapped toilets, bus stops, cafés, parking, and shops within about 500 m of Marathi. Distances are walking-line estimates from the beach pin.
Map loads when you ask. Tiles stay off the first paint.
Map: OpenStreetMap (ODbL)
Bus near Marathi
- Bus stop Bus stop 81 m
Cafés near Marathi
- Restaurant Restaurant 30 m
- Loukoulos Restaurant 67 m
- Rokos Kantina Restaurant 263 m
Parking near Marathi
- Parking Parking 268 m
Source: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Names and positions come from mapped OSM features. Confirm on site.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free: no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✗ |
| Showers | ✓ Available during season |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Official Season | June – September |
| Beach Type | Coastal beach |
| Parking | ✓ Available nearby (surface parking) |
| Nearest supermarket | 4.9 km from the beach |
| Nearest bus stop | 81 m from the beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 35.5048°N, 24.1733°E |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Greece |
Frequently Asked Questions
Marathi FAQ
Is Marathi suitable for children?
Marathi has a child-friendly score of 2/10. Facilities include showers and parking. It is Blue Flag certified in Greece.
Is Marathi free to access?
Access to Marathi is free. There are no entry fees to enter the beach. It is a Blue Flag certified beach in Region of Crete, Greece, recognised for meeting international standards for water quality and environmental management.
When is the best time to visit Marathi?
The best time to visit Marathi is April, May, June. The peak season typically runs High season: July, August, when weather conditions and facilities are at their best. Peak water temperature reaches around 23.8°C in July. Outside peak season, the beach is quieter but some facilities may be reduced.
What is the water quality at Marathi?
Marathi is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict EU Bathing Water Directive standards. Water quality is rated Excellent. Blue Flag certification is awarded and reviewed annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Beaches must pass water quality tests throughout the season to retain their status.
How do I get to Marathi?
Marathi is located in Region of Crete, Greece. It is approximately 13.98 km from Chania. The nearest airport is Heraklion International "Nikos Kazantzakis" Airport (HER), 93.1 km away. By car is the most flexible option. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules to the area.
Is there a bus near Marathi?
Yes. OpenStreetMap maps a public-transport stop 81 m from Marathi (Bus stop). Check current timetables before you travel. © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Are there cafés near Marathi?
Yes. OpenStreetMap lists 3 cafés or restaurants near Marathi, including 30 m away, Loukoulos (67 m), and Rokos Kantina (263 m). Hours and seasonal opening are not verified here. Check on the day. © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Is there parking near Marathi?
Yes. OpenStreetMap maps parking 268 m from Marathi. Charges and time limits are not recorded here. © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Explore More
Nearby Blue Flag Beaches
Editorial
From the Zeach Blog
Everything you need to know about what makes a beach qualify for Blue Flag status, from water quality to environmental education.
Read moreOur editorial team's pick of the standout Blue Flag beaches in Greece, rated for family friendliness, scenery, and facilities.
Explore GreeceWhat the flag actually means, how certification works, and why a Blue Flag is a genuinely reliable signal, not just a marketing tool.
Read moreSources
- Foundation for Environmental Education: Blue Flag programme
- FEE site listing for Marathi
- Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (EEPF)
- European Environment Agency: bathing water quality
Last verified September 2026. National operator pages and FEE listings are the primary certification sources.