Ammoudara beach - Lassithi

Situated 6km southeast of Agios Nikolaos, along the old route that links Agios Nikolaos to Sitia and Ierapetra, is Ammoudara Beach. This developed area boasts a variety of hotels, rental properties, taverns, and restaurants. There’s a beautiful sandy beach fronting the tourist settlement, with crystal-clear, light-blue waters. Thanks to its eastward orientation, the beach typically enjoys calm seas as the prevalent winds in Crete blow from the west. Beachgoers can enjoy amenities such as umbrellas, sunbeds, and water sports facilities.

Ammoudara provides an ideal setting for family vacations, but the beach’s small size can lead to it feeling somewhat crowded. For those seeking a less populated spot, heading west to the expansive Almiros beach might be a good alternative.

Ammoudara beach - Lassithi Map

Get directions to Ammoudara beach – Lassithi 

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Beach details

  • Sand
  • Accommodation
  • Blue Flag
  • Food and water
  • Lifeguard
  • Showers
  • Umbrellas and beds
  • Water Sports
  • Blue
  • Bus services
  • Handicap friendly
  • Paved road
  • Family friendly

Most frequent asked questions

Where is Ammoudara beach located?

Ammoudara beach is situated 6km southeast of Agios Nikolaos.

What is the water colour of the Ammoudara beach?

The water colour of the Ammoudara beach is blue.

What type of sand is found on the Ammoudara beach?

The Ammoudara beach has sand.

How deep is the water at the Ammoudara beach?

The water at the Ammoudara beach is shallow.

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

The sea surface at the Ammoudara beach is usually calm.

Is the Ammoudara beach usually crowded?

Yes, the Ammoudara beach is a crowded place.

What facilities are available at the Ammoudara beach?

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

What are the access options to the Ammoudara beach?

The Ammoudara beach – Lassithi can be accessed through bus services, paved road, and is handicap friendly.

Things to do near Ammoudara beach - Lassithi

Find below list of things to do near Ammoudara beach – Lassithi:

  • Agios Nikolaos

Visit Santorini on this full day-trip from the island of Crete. After pick-up from your hotel, head to the harbor and begin your sightseeing boat tour on the Cretan Sea.

Upon arrival, see the white houses of Fira that lie high above the edge of the crater, and decide whether you would like to spend more time on this volcanic island. Wander the small town of Fira or visit the picturesque town of Oia.
Enjoy the leisurely Greek lifestyle and visit a taverna or two. Relax on the beach, enjoy the day by the sea, and simply leave your cares behind.

  • Agios Nikolaos

The ideal way to discover the island of Crete is with a private tour. Share a car and enjoy a full day with your group. Embark on an incredible island adventure with your friends or family, after planning the tour together with your professional guide. Beginning with pickup at your accommodation in Elounda, Agios Niklaos, Ierapetra, Malia, Crete, Hersonissos, or Ammoudara, the world is your oyster. 

Settle into a comfy and luxurious Land Rover Discovery equipped with 6 seats and air conditioning. Discover local sites, hit the beach, or simply drive around taking in panoramic views. Perfect for a wedding trip or a birthday, relish in total privacy and the utmost luxury. Included in the tour is a fresh, high-quality dinner at a local taverna.

  • Agios Nikolaos

In this interactive Walking tour & Cretan food tasting, we will walk the coastline of Agios Nikolaos passing through Taurus Zeus with Europe and the horn of Amalthea telling the Greek myths, beaches and sightseeing continuing inside the town showing you local spots, telling information about area(shared also via email & maps) and we will enjoy a meal with 4 different meze(like tapas) talking about everyday living, general facts about Crete’s culture and traditions, sightseeing’s and myths.

Walking is about 40 minutes easy walking, about 2klm.
After we will visit the most famous restaurant in lake of Agios Nikolaos having a meal with 4 different meze(each person) that you can choose between fish or meat menu.

Water & one drink is included, wine, raki, beer or a soft drink.
Vegetarian or vegan menu can be arranged.
Changes in menu can be adjusted upon request.

Feel free to contact me for more information.

  • Lake Voulismeni

Spinalonga, the last leper colony in Europe, is located in Elounda from where we take the boat for Spinalonga island. Originally, Venetians fortified the islet in 1579, by building a fortress with 40 cannons and they are actually the best preserved walls in Europe.
It used to be a leper colony from 1903 until 1957, where epers could have a better life, medical help and economical support. The ruins of the market street with the shops, the hospital and many small houses in which lepers lived isolated, can be explored individually.
Leaving Spinalonga Island, we have free time to explore the unique Elounda village or go for swimming in the crystal clear waters of Elounda Bay your pita gyros take away.
Before we take the road back to Heraklion, we will visit Ag. Nikolaos, a town with 14.000 inhabitants which is built on the side of the Gulf Mirabello. In the center of Agios Nikolaos is the lake Voulismeni, probably created by an earthquake. Where, we can have a coffee break or a walk around the lake, which gives you a great view from above, over the center and the harbor of Agios Nikolaos. Next to the lovely harbor are shady thee-lined streets filled with shops give you the opportunity to do some “serious shopping”.
Our last stop is at the olive factory in Malia and taste the famous Cretan olive oil.

  • Lake Voulismeni

This full-day tour combines a visit to one of the most beautiful parts of Crete, the bay of Merabelo and the attractive town of Agios Nikolaos, and one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, the island of Spina Longa.
At the same time you will get to know the customs and traditions of Crete through your visit to an authentic olive oil production factory and you will enjoy a delicious and traditional Cretan meal

Our journey into Cretan culture begins with our introduction to “liquid gold” in the traditional, four-generation, olive oil production factory.
You will learn about the history of the olive, the way of harvesting from ancient times until today and you will also have the opportunity to taste excellent quality olive oil, an experience that will elevate your senses!
Next spot is Agios Nikolaos,an international cosmopolitan resort ,built on three hills, it will enchant you with its character and its small, winding streets. The lake Voulismeni is the most beautiful jewel of the city, with thousands of legends to make it even more impressive. Later we will be greeted by the emblematic bay of Merabelo with the clear blue waters.
We will visit the traditional fishing villages of Elounda and Plaka where one of the most unique authentic corners of Cretan beauty is revealed in an area that hides within it all the beauty and essence of the Cretan landscape.
From the port of Plaka we will board a boat that will take us to the historical island of Spinalonga where we will admire the fortress and the former settlement of lepers.
Αlternatively you can browse the picturesque alleys of Plaka, enjoying the view of the Cretan sea or swim in the deep blue waters of Merabelos bay.

We end up in the traditional village of Fourni where under the plane tree we will enjoy a meal of pure products of the blessed Cretan land.(Optional)

On this excursion you will see and experience Crete through the eyes of a local

Discover the beauty of the island of Santorini on a bus and catamaran tour from Heraklion or Agios Nikolaos. Capture pictures of the classic blue and white houses in Oia and have some free time to explore Fira in the shadow of the Santorini volcano. 
Enjoy the convenience of being picked up directly from your accommodation. Sit back and relax on the air-conditioned bus transfer to the high-speed catamaran in Heraklion harbor.
Sail across the Mediterranean to the island of Santorini. Hop off the boat to take a tour of the beautiful island in a comfortable and climate-controlled bus. Listen to live commentary about the history of one of the most romantic destinations in Greece.
Travel to the village of Oia at the northernmost tip for magnificent views of the typical blue and white houses across the hillside and stunning views of rolling hills meeting the sea.

Continue to the capital at Fira and have some free time to browse the shops or enjoy a drink at a bar with views of the volcano and the returning boat in the evening. Cruise back to Heraklion and transfer back to your hotel.

Stays near Ammoudara beach - Lassithi

Find below the list of hotels near Ammoudara beach – Lassithi:

  • 9 / 10
  • Amoudara

The family-run Poppy Villas offers a swimming pool, and self-catering accommodation with private balcony overlooking Mirabello Gulf. It is located on Amoudara Beach, just 3 km from Agios Nikolaos.

The air-conditioned Poppy Villas are traditionally decorated and include a fridge, coffee maker and kettle, as well as a dining table and a seating room with satellite TV.

Guests enjoy a large swimming pool, while children can splash in their own pool. The nearby mini market will provide you with everything necessary for the preparation of your meals.

Heraklion International Airport is 60 km away. Guests enjoy free parking facilities and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

from

€77

/night

    • 70 m
    • 8.7 / 10
    • Παλαία Εθνική Οδός Αγίου Νικολάου - Σητείας

    Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a pool with a view, mountain view and a balcony, Muse by the beach is situated in Amoudara Lasithiou. This property offers access to a patio and free private parking.

    The apartment has 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.

    Guests at the apartment can enjoy a continental breakfast.

    Guests can also relax in the garden.

    Popular points of interest near Muse by the beach include Ammoudara Beach, Cave Thief Beach and Almiros Beach. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from the accommodation.

      • 70 m
      • 9 / 10
      • Ethniki Odos Agiou Nikolaou Sitias

      Set in Amoudara Lasithiou, a few steps from Ammoudara Beach and less than 1 km from Cave Thief Beach, Beachfront luxury Villa in Ammoudara, Crete offers air conditioning. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.

      The holiday home is fitted with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.

      Almiros Beach is 2.1 km from the holiday home, while Lake Voulismeni is 4.4 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from Beachfront luxury Villa in Ammoudara, Crete.

      from

      €149

      /night

        • 100 m
        • 9.1 / 10
        • Αμμουδάρα

        Set 200 metres from Ammoudara Beach, Lazar Lux Suites – Ammoudara offers an outdoor swimming pool, a garden and air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi.

        The aparthotel provides guests with a terrace, mountain views, a seating area, satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchenette with a microwave and a toaster, and a private bathroom with walk-in shower and bathrobes. A fridge, a stovetop and kitchenware are also offered, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.

        A buffet, continental or vegetarian breakfast is available every morning at the property.

        At Lazar Lux Suites – Ammoudara guests are welcome to take advantage of beauty services. The accommodation provides a housekeeping service, as well as business facilities like fax and photocopying.

        Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at Lazar Lux Suites – Ammoudara, while cycling can be enjoyed nearby.

        Cave Thief Beach is 1.2 km from the aparthotel, while Almiros Beach is 1.8 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 60 km from Lazar Lux Suites – Ammoudara, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

        from

        €79

        /night

          • 130 m
          • 8.9 / 10
          • Amoudara

          Blue Senses Villas features pool views, free WiFi and free private parking, located in Agios Nikolaos, 400 metres from Ammoudara Beach.

          The villa provides guests with a terrace, sea views, a seating area, satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and a private bathroom with walk-in shower and bathrobes. A microwave, a toaster and fridge are also provided, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.

          Blue Senses Villas offers a year-round outdoor pool.

          A car rental service is available at the accommodation, while cycling can be enjoyed nearby.

          Cave Thief Beach is 500 metres from Blue Senses Villas, while Almiros Beach is 2.5 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public, 60 km from the villa, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

          from

          €588

          /night

            • 450 m
            • 9.8 / 10
            • Agios Nikolaos, 72100, Greece

            Situated in Agios Nikolaos and only 500 metres from Ammoudara Beach, Allas, Guest Art features accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. This apartment provides air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony.

            The apartment with a terrace and sea views has 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are offered in the apartment.

            A a baby safety gate is also available at the apartment, while guests can also relax in the garden.

            Almiros Beach is 1.5 km from Allas, Guest Art, while Cave Thief Beach is 1.7 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from the accommodation.

            from

            €81

            /night

              • 550 m

              Beaches near Ammoudara beach - Lassithi

              Find below list of beaches near Ammoudara beach – Lassithi:

              • 910 m
              Listi Spilios beach is located 0.9 km away.

              The picturesque Listi Spilios, situated 7km south of Agios Nikolaos along the old road to Sitia and Ierapetra, has become a bustling tourist spot over the years with a variety of accommodations, ranging from large hotels to smaller lodges. The beach is characterized by its rocky terrain and sandy patches, with a charming smaller beach nestled to the north of the main area. Unfortunately, recent extensive alterations by a major hotel in the vicinity have significantly changed the original rocky nature of the coastline, including the construction of a pier to retain sand. Visitors can enjoy amenities like umbrellas, a snack bar, water sports and a beach volleyball court. The quieter western side of the beach, boasting lush vegetation due to nearby freshwater springs, provides a serene escape.

              The beach’s intriguing name, Listi Spilios, translates to ‘Robber’s Cave’ in Greek. This stems from a tale from the Middle Ages when the primary road used by locals to commute to island cities ran through this area. On the beach’s west end, there’s a petite peninsula home to several small caves, which, as the legend tells, were used as hideouts by robbers who targeted travellers on the road.

              • Listi Spilios beach
              • Fine Pebbles, Pebbles, Rocks in places
              • Normal
              • Blue
              • 1.1 km
              Almyros beach is located 1.1 km away.

              Almyros beach (Almiros) is located 2.5km south of Agios Nikolaos and 12 km from Elounda. It is shaped near the exit of Almiros River, which empties on the south part of the beach. Next to the beach, the protected wetland of Almiros hosts several rare birds, towering eucalyptus trees, reed and some palm trees.

              The beach is quite long – 300 m – and very well-organized. It is sandy and the water is shallow and usually calm, making it ideal especially for young children. There are a lot of trees behind the beach, and to the east, you can see the pretty Thrypti Mount. The entrance to the water is very smooth. This beach is suitable for different categories of people, lonely travellers, relaxation getaway lovers, families with children, seniors etc. It is partially crowded during the high season. The area has a few canteens, while there are also many options for water sports. The sea water is very cold in some places due to the river that flows all year round. On the south side of the beach, there are small hotels and apartments.

              To reach the beach from Agios Nikolaos city centre, if you do not have a car, you should walk the pedestrian street (5 ‘) which runs along the rocky coasts north of the beach. The pathway starts from Gargadoros beach, which is located 5 minutes south of the town’s marina.

              • Almyros beach
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 1.4 km
              Beti Beach is located 1.4 km away.

              Beti beach is nestled just a kilometre away from the bustling city of Agios Nikolaos, and a mere five-minute stroll from Almyros beach. This small slice of paradise often remains undiscovered by the typical crowd, providing an idyllic retreat for those in search of tranquillity.

              This diminutive yet delightful beach, embraced by the natural landscape, boasts soft, sun-kissed sand that warmly greets your feet. Thanks to its sheltered location, Beti beach is often protected from the region’s wind and waves, making it a calm oasis amidst the vibrant surroundings. A visit to Beti beach gives you an opportunity to savour the serene ambience, far removed from the usual throngs of beachgoers, adding an element of seclusion to your Cretan beach adventure.

              • Beti Beach
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 1.7 km
              Gargadoros Beach, Agios Nikolaos: A Local Guide to Two Quiet Swims is located 1.7 km away. Gargadoros is a small, laid-back beach on the edge of Agios Nikolaos, just 1km south of the town’s famous lake. It is really two swims in one spot: a well-kept pebble beach next to a tavern, and a hidden sandy cove reached by a wooden ladder. The water is shallow, calm, and turquoise, there is parking and food close by, and buses run to the area, so it works as an easy half-day escape for anyone staying in the town.

              What Gargadoros beach is like

              Gargadoros beach sits in a picturesque suburb of Agios Nikolaos that is well worth a visit. Gargadoros gathers two local favourite beaches in one small bay, both popular for their serene waters and for the nearby restaurants and bars.The main beach is the first one you meet as you arrive, right next to a tavern. This beach is pebbly, well-maintained, and an easy getaway for residents of Agios Nikolaos who want a break from the usual. The stretch stays quiet enough for a relaxed swim, with normal crowds rather than the crush of a big resort beach.The second beach is a hidden sandy spot on the far side of the small pier. Head north from the main beach towards that pier, and the cove opens up behind it. Because the only way down is a wooden ladder, this sheltered corner suits anyone chasing a more tranquil retreat away from the tavern side. Between the two, you get both surfaces in a short walk, which you can read more about on the guides to Crete’s fine-pebble beaches and its sandy beaches.

              Where Gargadoros beach is and how to get there

              Gargadoros beach lies 1km south of the famous Agios Nikolaos lake, in the Lassithi region of eastern Crete. The beach is a suburb of the town, so it is one of the closest swims to the centre.Getting there is straightforward by road. A paved road leads to the beach, and there is a parking facility on site. Bus services also reach the area, which helps if you are staying in town without a car.Having your own wheels makes the two beaches, the lake, and the wider Lassithi coast much easier to string together in a day. If you plan to explore beyond the town, it is worth sorting out car rental in Crete before you set off.

              Facilities at Gargadoros beach

              Gargadoros beach keeps things simple, with the essentials close at hand rather than a full resort setup. The bay is backed by restaurants and bars, and there is accommodation nearby.The practical facilities on and around the beach are:
              • Food and drink: a tavern sits right beside the main beach, with more restaurants and bars nearby
              • Parking: a parking facility serves the beach
              • Public transport: bus services reach the area
              • Road access: a paved road runs down to the beach
              • Accommodation: several places to stay sit near the beach
              Two things are worth knowing before you go. There are no water sports at Gargadoros, and the beach is not set up for wheelchair users or visitors with reduced mobility, partly because the sandy cove is reachable only by a wooden ladder. If you would rather base yourself right by the water, browse the places to stay around Agios Nikolaos.

              Swimming and the water

              Gargadoros beach is suitable for swimming, with shallow, calm, turquoise water. The sea here is typically clear and gentle, which is exactly what the name points to.The water colour reads as turquoise and blue, and the surface is usually calm. Because the water stays shallow near the shore, entry is gentle and steady rather than a sudden drop. These conditions make the bay comfortable for a relaxed swim and easy for less confident swimmers to enjoy.

              Who Gargadoros beach suits

              Gargadoros beach rewards visitors who want a quiet, quick swim over big-beach buzz. The setting fits a specific set of visitors best:
              1. People staying in Agios Nikolaos, because it is a short trip from town for a break from the usual
              2. Families, thanks to the shallow, calm, family-friendly water and the food right on the beach
              3. Couples and solitude-seekers, who can slip down the ladder to the hidden sandy cove
              4. Beach-hoppers, who get both pebbles and sand in one small bay
              It suits you less if you are after water sports, step-free access, or a lively organised beach, none of which Gargadoros offers.

              The name Gargadoros and its meaning

              The name “Gargadoros” has two possible explanations, and both tell you something about the bay. The widely accepted version derives from the Greek words “gargaro idor,” meaning clear water, which likely refers to a small, now-dried-up river in the area.The second interpretation is less likely but more intriguing. It traces the name to “gorga dora,” or “quick gifts,” a nod to the fish once caught so easily in the small harbour that they were a swift gift for local fishermen. Either way, the story ties the beach to clear water and an old fishing life, which still shapes the quiet feel of the place today.

              Tips for visiting Gargadoros beach

              A few simple pointers make the visit smoother:
              • Bring water shoes if you prefer them, since the main beach is fine pebbles rather than soft sand
              • Use the ladder carefully to reach the hidden sandy cove north of the pier, and skip it if steps are difficult for you
              • Arrive earlier in the day for the calmest water and the easiest parking
              • Pair the swim with the town, as the Agios Nikolaos lake is only 1km north
              If you want to turn a beach day into a fuller outing, there are guided tours and food walks based in the town. You can line these up alongside the swim through the local things to do in and around Agios Nikolaos.

              Frequently asked questions

              Where is Gargadoros beach? Gargadoros beach is located just 1km south of the famous Agios Nikolaos lake, in the Lassithi region of Crete. It is a suburb of Agios Nikolaos town.Is Gargadoros beach good for swimming? Yes, Gargadoros beach is suitable for swimming. The water is shallow, usually calm, and turquoise to blue in colour.What type of beach is Gargadoros? Gargadoros has two beaches: a main beach of fine pebbles next to a tavern, and a hidden sandy cove reached by a wooden ladder north of the small pier.Is there parking at Gargadoros beach? Yes, there is a parking facility at Gargadoros beach, and a paved road leads down to it.Can you reach Gargadoros beach by bus? Yes, bus services reach the area, so the beach is accessible without a car as well as by paved road.Are there water sports at Gargadoros beach? No, there are no water sports activities available at Gargadoros beach.Is Gargadoros beach accessible for people with disabilities? No, Gargadoros beach is not accessible for people with disabilities. The hidden sandy cove in particular is reachable only by a wooden ladder.Is there accommodation near Gargadoros beach? Yes, there are several accommodation options near Gargadoros beach, along with restaurants and bars. You can compare more swims nearby on the wider Crete beaches guide.
              • Gargadoros beach
              • Fine Pebbles, Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue, Turquoise

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