Elafonissi Beach and Lagoon

Elafonissi Beach and Lagoon is a coastal lagoon ecosystem in southwestern Crete known for its shallow waters, sand dunes, and protected wetland areas. These habitats support a variety of wildlife, especially migratory birds such as waders, gulls, and herons that use the lagoon for feeding and resting during seasonal movements. The surrounding dunes and salt-tolerant vegetation also provide shelter for small reptiles and insects adapted to coastal conditions. Because parts of the area are environmentally protected, it remains an important site for observing Mediterranean coastal biodiversity.