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Agios Pavlos beach

  • Agios Pavlos beach

About

The coastal village of Agios Pavlos (St. Paul) is located 58km south of Rethymnon city, west of Agia Galini, and very close to the tip of Cape Melissa. You can access the area by driving from the village of Sachtouria; owners of land in Agios Pavlos come mainly from Sachtouria. It’s a peaceful place, well-hidden in a sheltered bay, which is ideal for quiet family holidays.

The bay has a beautiful beach with green deep waters and magnificent rocky seabed. Near the beach, you can find a few rooms and taverns. Moreover, basic services are provided on the beach, such as umbrellas, sunbeds and pedal boats. Above the beach you can visit the small church of Saint Paul; according to the legend, Saint Paul lived here during his journey to Rome (this legend is also adopted for some other places in Crete, such as Kali Limenes and Selouda).

Although the beach in front of the village is pretty, some visitors prefer Agios Pavlos for accommodation and food but swim on the nearby idyllic beach with the huge sandhills. Akoumiani Gialia or Melissa, as this beach is called, is behind the western edge of Agios Pavlos bay and is considered one of the best beaches in Rethymno prefecture but it’s usually wavy. You can get there through a path that starts from Agios Pavlos.

The geological folds of the rocks at position Apoplystra, between the village of Agios Pavlos and the Sandhills of Melissa, are remarkably colourful and have been proposed to be listed in the Natural Monuments of Greece.

Photos

FAQ

What is the location of Agios Pavlos beach?

Agios Pavlos beach is located on the southern coast of Crete, Greece.

Is Agios Pavlos beach suitable for swimming?

Yes, Agios Pavlos beach is suitable for swimming, but it is recommended to be cautious of the strong currents.

Are there any water sports activities available at Agios Pavlos beach?

No, there are no water sports activities available at Agios Pavlos beach.

Is Agios Pavlos beach a good spot for snorkeling?

Yes, Agios Pavlos beach is a good spot for snorkeling due to its clear waters and rocky formations.

Is there any accommodation available near Agios Pavlos beach?

Yes, there are several accommodations available near Agios Pavlos beach, including hotels, apartments, and villas.

Is Agios Pavlos beach suitable for families with children?

Agios Pavlos beach may not be suitable for families with young children due to its rocky terrain and strong currents.

Is there any parking available near Agios Pavlos beach?

Yes, there is a small parking area available near Agios Pavlos beach. However, it can get crowded during peak season.

What is the water colour of the beach?

The water colour of the beach is blue.

What type of sand is found on the beach?

The beach has sand, with rocks in some places.

What is the water depth of the beach?

The water depth of the beach is normal.

What is the surface of the sea like at the beach?

The surface of the sea at the beach is usually calm.

What is the crowd like at the beach?

The beach has a normal crowd.

What facilities are available at the beach?

The beach has accommodation options, food and water nearby, umbrellas and beds, sports facilities, and showers.

What is the access to the beach like?

The beach is accessible via a paved road.

What other information should I know about the beach?

The beach is ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing.

Beach facilities

  • Accommodation options
  • Food / water nearby
  • Umbrellas / beds
  • Sports
  • Showers

Crowds

  • Normal

Water depths

  • Normal

Beach sand type

  • Sand
  • Rocks in places

Sea surface

  • Usually calm

Water colour

  • Blue

Accessibility

  • Paved road

Other information

  • Ideal for snorkeling / spearfishing

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