Ammoudara Beach is a very long, wide, sandy beach located just a 10-minute drive west of Heraklion in Crete. With its easy access from the city, affordable sunbeds and umbrellas, calm waters, and scenic views, it’s a great beach option for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
What to Do
- Swim and sunbathe – The beach has shallow, calm waters perfect for swimming and paddling. There are sunbeds and umbrellas available to rent.
- Beach bars & restaurants – There are several beach bars and seaside tavernas along the promenade where you can grab a bite and a drink.
- Walking/Jogging – The length of the beach is perfect for scenic walks and jogs.
Nearby Attractions
- Koules Fortress – This scenic fortress at the Heraklion port is just a 15-minute drive away.
- Heraklion Archaeological Museum – One of Greece’s most important museums, housing Minoan artifacts, is 16 minutes by car.
- Palace of Knossos – The ruins of the legendary Palace and center of Minoan civilization is only 20 minutes away.
Where to Eat
Thigaterra – The Art of Slow Food
Specializing in gourmet Cretan and Greek cuisine, Thigaterra offers a fine dining experience with dishes that match the quality of its top-notch service and elegant ambience. The friendly staff aims to provide guests a unique culinary journey.
Akti Restaurant
Located right on Ammoudara Beach, Akti Restaurant serves tasty Greek food accompanied by beautiful sea views. They have a large outdoor seating area and very friendly service.
Where to Stay
Civitel Creta Beach Hotel
This upscale resort located directly on Ammoudara Beach offers spacious, modern rooms with sea or palm tree garden views. It has its own private beach with water sports, along with multiple pools, restaurants, and bars.
Akti Corali Hotel
Just 50 meters from the beach, this recently renovated hotel provides clean, comfortable rooms at affordable rates. Its excellent location near shops, restaurants, and the bus stop makes it a convenient choice.
Parking
Parking is free along the beach promenade. There are also large parking lots at both ends of the beach that are free of charge.
Brief Info
- 🏙️ City: Heraklion
- ✨ Island: Crete
- 🇬🇷 Country: Greece
- ✈️ Fly to: Heraklion Airport – 15 mins by car (10 km)
- 🏖️ Ideal for: Families, couples, friends getaway
Average Temperatures
| Month | Air Temperature | Water Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| January | 16°C | 16°C |
| February | 14°C | 16°C |
| March | 16°C | 16°C |
| April | 20°C | 18°C |
| May | 25°C | 21°C |
| June | 28°C | 26°C |
| July | 28°C | 26°C |
| August | 32°C | 27°C |
| September | 27°C | 25°C |
| October | 21°C | 23°C |
| November | 17°C | 21°C |
| December | 16°C | 19°C |
