Crete Locals logo

Almyrida beach

About Almyrida beach

Almyrida beach is located 23km east of Chania city, on the south shores of Souda Bay and close to Cape Drapanos. It is a very quiet resort with all basic amenities and a superb sea. The unspoiled countryside and the lush oil groves around Almyrida are ideal for hiking and exploration. Just 1km to the east there is the picturesque village of Plaka, which is the largest village in the region. Plaka is famous for its healthy climate and the hospitality of the locals. The numerous sea caves of the east shores till Drapanos Cape constitute an imposing natural phenomenon. Plaka is famous for its traditional narrow streets and the old well-maintained houses. Every July, locals organize a traditional Cretan feast, Plakiana, in honour of the famous lyre player Michael Papadakis or Plakianos. However, if something is unforgettable in this place is definitely the sunset.

Almyrida, which was declared in 1977 as a region of infinite beauty, has two nice sandy beaches, with shallow water, safe for children in waveless days. The two beaches are separated by a small rocky pierpeninsula with a small white chapel. It is very well organized and popular for water sports and windsurfing. Taverns on the beach are famous for fresh fish and delicious traditional Cretan food. There are regular bus services and taxis (for both Plaka and Almirida) to/from the city of Chania. Opposite the beach is the islet of Karga, which is ideal for excursions and fishing. The island is a natural habitat for many birds. Moreover, on the island, there are still signs of the ancient walls of the Phoenicians and the cavernous shelters that were built during the Second World War by the Germans (the wider area of Cape Drapanos is full of German artilleries and shelters from the WW2).

Almyrida is believed to have been a colony of the Phoenicians, after whom location Finikia is named. On Finikia, there are ruins and ancient tombs. At the entrance of the village, there have been excavated the ruins of a triple-aisle Christian basilica dated back to the 6th AD century, which has well-preserved mosaics. Lastly, the last battle against the Turks in Crete took place in Almirida in 1896.

Sightseeing in the region
Four kilometres east of Almirida, there is Kokkino Chorio (i.e. Red Village), a small village where one can still see the interesting fortifications built by the Germans during the occupation (1941-1945) to protect the military port of Souda. Moreover, here was filmed a part of the famous movie “Zorba the Greek”, with Anthony Quinn and Alan Bates. Today, a small factory of handmade glass, which uses the traditional technique of blowing glass, still operates here.

Photos

Ads

FAQ

What activities can I do at Almyrida beach?

There are various activities you can do at Almyrida beach such as swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

Is Almyrida beach suitable for families with children?

Yes, Almyrida beach is suitable for families with children as the water is shallow and calm, and there are lifeguards on duty during the day.

Are there any restaurants or cafes near Almyrida beach?

Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Almyrida beach where you can enjoy local cuisine and drinks.

Can I rent beach equipment at Almyrida beach?

Yes, you can rent beach equipment such as sun loungers, umbrellas, and paddleboards at Almyrida beach.

Is there a parking area near Almyrida beach?

Yes, there is a parking area near Almyrida beach where you can park your car for a fee.

Are there any water sports activities available at Almyrida beach?

Yes, there are several water sports activities available at Almyrida beach such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling.

Is Almyrida beach accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, Almyrida beach is accessible for people with disabilities as there are ramps and special facilities available for them.

What is the best time to visit Almyrida beach?

The best time to visit Almyrida beach is during the summer months from June to September when the weather is warm and sunny.

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.

How deep is the water at the beach?

The water at the beach is shallow.

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 normal crowds.

What facilities are available at the beach?

The beach has accommodation options, food/water nearby, umbrellas/beds, sports, lifeguard, showers, and a Blue Flag.

What are the access options for the beach?

The beach can be accessed by bus services, paved road, and is handicap friendly.

What other information is available about the beach?

The beach has tree shade and rock shade.

Beach facilities

  • Accommodation options
  • Food / water nearby
  • Umbrellas / beds
  • Sports
  • Lifeguard
  • Showers
  • Blue Flag

Crowds

  • Normal

Water depths

  • Shallow

Beach sand type

  • Sand

Sea surface

  • Usually calm

Water colour

  • Blue

Accessibility

  • Bus services

Other information

  • Tree Shade
  • Rock shade

Review stats

/5
Almyrida beach has received 0 reviews with an average rating of  out of 5

Excellent

0%

Very good

0%

Good

0%

Fair

0%

Poor

0%

Reviews

Gorge Location

Get Your Guide

Crete Locals © All rights reserved.