I am going to visit Crete in late May 2026, mainly for Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the Knossos Palace. As for the Elafonissi Beach, I am not sure if that's worth of spending an extra 7-hour driving + 1-night stay in Chania.
I know the Elafonissi Beach is famours for its pink beach and tuiquoise sea. I searched some pictures. It seems the nice view can only be caught through a bird's-eye view but there is no high point providing that view. If just on the beach, the view and the color I can get look like similar with most of other beaches around the Mediterranean. Yes, I can see some pink sand from the pictures, but not very much.
I am wondering if it would be a good idea to extend the trip in Crete only for the Elafonissi Beach as my next stop after leaving the Crete is Zakynthos. I appreciate your suggestions.