Ammoudi beach, Sfakia
The beach Amoudi is located about 1.5km east of Chora Sfakion and 75km south of Chania, in an area with several adjacent pebbly beaches and very close to the nudists’ hotel Vritomartis. It is one of the many unknown beaches around Chora Sfakion, and one of the nicest. The area, due to conglomerate rocks, is full of small pebbly beaches, such as Agios Charalambos, Filaki and Plakakia.
A rough dirt road, which in the last section becomes quite bad, leads to the beach. Despite its name (ammoudi means sandy beach), Amoudi beach is not sandy but pebbly with crystal clear waters, the cleanest of all the beaches of the area. The seabed is quite remarkable with beautiful formations. Left and right of the beach, the rocks rise forming caves in conglomerate grounds, decorated with caper plants. Caves offer shade on hot summer days.
On the west side above the beach, there is a shrine which overlooks the sea from where the view at Amoudi bay is unique. The most impressive of all, however, is the geological formation called Fokia (Seal). It is a cave on the west edge of the beach, which at its deepest point creates a small beach and has a second outlet to the sea. Because of the two outputs and the easy possibility of escape this cave was used as a nest for sea seals that are still in the area.
On the east side of the beach, there is a path through the rocks leading after five minutes to the cavernous church of Saint Charalambos honoured highly by Sfakians. Next to the chapel, there is the slightly organized beach of Agios Charalambos, not organised. Saint Charalambos was the saint who protected people from the plague, so they used to build chapels dedicated to the Saint at the entrances of villages. But in Sfakia, where the dominant communication with the outside world was based on the sea, they built the temple on the shores. The coves and the nearby beach of Filaki are mainly occupied by nudists, actually being the only “official” nudism-friendly beaches on Crete (due to the nudists’ hotel).
Beach details
- Pebbles
- Rocks in places
- Deep blue
- Deep
- Usually calm
- Tranquil
- Dirt track
- Ideal for snorkeling
- Rock shade
Location
Ammoudi beach, Sfakia is located at Ammoudi beach, Sfakia, in the Chania region of Crete. The map below shows the exact spot; Google Maps and Waze give turn-by-turn directions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Ammoudi beach?
The best time to visit Ammoudi beach is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny.
Is Ammoudi beach suitable for families with children?
Yes, Ammoudi beach is suitable for families with children as the water is shallow and calm, and there are no strong currents or waves.
Are there any water sports activities available at Ammoudi beach?
No, there are no water sports activities available at Ammoudi beach, but you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Is there any restaurant or cafe near Ammoudi beach?
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Ammoudi beach where you can enjoy local cuisine and drinks.
Can I camp at Ammoudi beach?
No, camping is not allowed at Ammoudi beach, but there are several campsites nearby where you can stay.
Is there any parking available at Ammoudi beach?
Yes, there is a parking area near Ammoudi beach where you can park your car for free.
What is the water colour of the Ammoudi beach, Sfakia?
The water colour of the Ammoudi beach, Sfakia is deep blue.
What type of sand can be found on the Ammoudi beach, Sfakia?
The Ammoudi beach, Sfakia has pebbles and rocks in places.
How deep is the water at the Ammoudi beach, Sfakia?
The water at the Ammoudi beach, Sfakia is deep.
What is the surface of the sea like at the Ammoudi beach, Sfakia?
The surface of the sea at the Ammoudi beach, Sfakia is usually calm.
What is the crowd like at the Ammoudi beach, Sfakia?
The Ammoudi beach, Sfakia is usually quiet.
What facilities are available at the Ammoudi beach, Sfakia?
There are no facilities available at the Ammoudi beach, Sfakia.
What is the access to the Ammoudi beach, Sfakia like?
The Ammoudi beach, Sfakia can be accessed via a dirt track.
What other information is available about the Ammoudi beach, Sfakia?
The Ammoudi beach, Sfakia is ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing, and there are rock shades available.
