If you’re journeying from Agios Nikolaos, you’ll find the quaint Ormos beach just beyond the Ammoudi beach. This tucked-away cove, nestled between the majestic Minos Palace Hotel and Cape Nissi, is a hidden treasure. Its shoreline, speckled with pebbles and sand, primarily serves as a dock for boats, which makes it less popular for swimming. However, it offers a well-equipped playground that the little ones will love.
At the nearby Cape Nissi, there’s the historic Saint Nicholas Byzantine church, which lends its name to the town of Agios Nikolaos. A scenic coastal road starts from Katholiko and takes you all the way to Cape Nissi’s rocky end, home to World War II pillboxes. And from here, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the nearby islands of Agii Pantes (All Saints) and Mikronissi.
Inside the Minos Palace Hotel premises, there’s a beautiful sandy beach. Well-maintained by the hotel and open to everyone, this beach is a sun-seeker paradise. But remember, it might be a little hard to spot from the main road!
Get directions to Ormos beach (Katholiko)
Katholiko Bay (Ormos) is located just beyond Ammoudi beach, if you’re traveling from Agios Nikolaos. It’s nestled between the Minos Palace Hotel and Cape Nissi.
While swimming is allowed at Katholiko Bay, it’s primarily used as a boat dock and is less popular for swimming.
Katholiko Bay has a well-equipped playground for children.
Cape Nissi, home to the historic Saint Nicholas Byzantine church and World War II pillboxes, is located near Katholiko Bay. From Cape Nissi, you can also view the nearby islands of Agii Pantes and Mikronissi.
No, Katholiko beach is not crowded due to its secluded location.
Katholiko beach is a pebble beach with crystal clear waters.
No, there are no facilities at Katholiko beach. Visitors need to bring their own food, water, and other necessities.
The water colour of the Katholiko beach (Ormos) is blue.
The Katholiko beach (Ormos) has fine pebbles as sand.
The Katholiko beach (Ormos) has a normal water depth.
The sea surface at the Katholiko beach (Ormos) is usually calm.
The Katholiko beach (Ormos) is usually quiet with fewer crowds.
The Katholiko beach (Ormos) has accommodation options and food/water nearby.
The Katholiko beach (Ormos) can be accessed through bus services and a paved road.
Yes, there is tree shade available at the Katholiko beach (Ormos).
Find below list of things to do near Ormos beach (Katholiko):
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
Find below the list of hotels near Ormos beach (Katholiko):
St. Nicolas Bay Resort lies on a private beachfront, 1.5 km from Agios Nikolaos. It features 2 outdoor, not heated, swimming pools (not heated) and a luxurious spa and wellness centre. Its stylish accommodation offers spectacular views of the charming Μirabello Bay.
The spacious units are fitted with terraces or balconies with unlimited sea views. They come with free Wi-Fi, LCD satellite TV, DVD /CD player and elegant marble bathrooms. Some suites offer spa bath and private pool.
A rich breakfast including hot and cold dishes and Cretan specialties is served daily. Indulge in an array of cuisines such as, Asian, Mediterranean and Cretan, at the 5 on-site restaurants. A cocktail bar, pool bar and beach bar are also featured.
Relax at the spa that among others includes a thalassotherapy pool, treatment rooms, hot tub and steam bath. The facilities also feature a fully equipped gym, games room and movies showings twice a day.
St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas is 35 km from the 18-hole Crete Golf Course. Heraklion Airport is 69 km away. An airport shuttle service is available upon request at an extra charge.
from
€466
/night
Situated in Agios Nikolaos and only 1.3 km from Ammoudi Beach, Villa Aiolos: above the sea, within Agios Nikolaos features accommodation with sea views, free WiFi and free private parking. With mountain views, this accommodation provides a terrace and a swimming pool.
This villa has 4 bedrooms, a kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, a flat-screen TV, a seating area and 3 bathrooms fitted with a hot tub. Towels and bed linen are offered in the villa.
Guests can also relax in the garden.
Havania Beach is 1.5 km from the villa, while Ammos Beach is 2.9 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 57 km from Villa Aiolos: above the sea, within Agios Nikolaos.
from
€63
/night
With magnificent sea views from a rocky headland above Aghios Nikolaos Bay, this adults-only resort blends together all the ingredients for a relaxing holiday.
Just 2 km from the town centre, this hotel with a beach-side location offers you a pleasant site from which to enjoy the north-east coast of Crete and the capital of the Lasithi province.
Take time out to relax by the swimming pool or rest by the lapping waves of the hotel’s private beach, where you can try various water-sports.
For ultimate relaxation, indulge in a beauty treatment at the spa or unwind with a gentle stroll through landscaped gardens before dinner and drinks in the evening.
from
€236
/night
Wyndham Grand Crete Mirabello Bay enjoys a tranquil beachfront location in Agios Nikolaos. This 5-star hotel features private pools, full-service spa and 9 restaurants. Free WiFi is available throughout.
A rich breakfast is available every morning at the property in sunny verandas. Guests may enjoy Greek, Mediterranean and Italian cuisine at the on-site open-air restaurants.
For the more energetic ones, the property features a well-equipped fitness centre,a tennis court, a volleyball court and a wide range of water sport activities.
Speaking German, Greek, English and French at the 24-hour front desk, staff are willing to help at any time of the day. Meeting and banquet facilities are also available.
Heraklion International Airport is 65 km from the property.
from
€238
/night
Boasting a stunning location beside the water’s edge, Minos Beach Art Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels features an art gallery and an excellent health and beauty centre, along with complimentary breakfast and parking.
Situated just 800 metres from the centre of Agios Nikolaos, Minos Beach Art Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels offers a variety of accommodation, ranging from suites to exclusive villas. Each one is well-appointed with home comforts, including LCD TV and some feature spa baths.
Relax within the beautiful setting of Minos Beach Hotel’s gardens and pools. Admire the stunning views of the sea and the bay. Swim around the picturesque coastline surrounding the resort and join in with the water sport activities, including canoeing and diving. Enjoy some pampering treatments at Minos Beach Art’s health and wellness centre.
Minos Beach Art Symposium displays the works of contemporary Greek and international artists. Admire the stunning works of art that adorn the hotel’s grounds.
After working up an appetite, savour the delicious haute cuisine and seafood delicacies on offer at the waterfront restaurant. This is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the peaceful and picturesque surrounds. A regular bus service from Minos Beach Art’s entrance takes you directly to Elounda Village and Agios Nikolaos.
from
€361
/night
Located in Agios Nikolaos and only 400 metres from Havania Beach, Villa Hermione provides accommodation with sea views, free WiFi and free private parking. The property was built in 2016 and features air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace.
Featuring a Blu-ray player, the villa has a kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven and a microwave, a living room with a seating area and a dining area, 3 bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower and a hot tub. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels and DVD player, as well as a CD player are provided.
The villa offers a range of wellness facilities including a sauna, a hot tub and a fitness room. Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at Villa Hermione.
Ammoudi Beach is 1.9 km from the accommodation, while Lake Voulismeni is 3.2 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 57 km from Villa Hermione, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€67
/night
Find below list of beaches near Ormos beach (Katholiko):
Just a short 2km journey north of Agios Nikolaos, you’ll find the inviting Hotel Mirabello. Sitting right across from the hotel, you’ll be delighted by the sight of two gorgeous sandy beaches nestled in the Mirabello bays.
The first beach boasts a safe harbour with docks and a quaint little marina, while both are decked out with everything you need for a great day under the sun – umbrellas, comfy sunbeds, refreshing showers and a lively bar.
Between the beaches, there’s a tiny man-made peninsula sprinkled with tamarisk trees. It’s a perfect spot to catch a break from the sun or enjoy a peaceful stroll. No matter where you are in this coastal paradise, you’re bound to have a good time!
Just a stone’s throw away from Agios Nikolaos city centre, nestling in a secure and expansive bay, you’ll discover the charming Ammoudi beach. This idyllic sandy stretch is a favourite among both locals and visitors, offering shallow, clear waters perfect for a refreshing dip.
Tucked between towering tamarisk trees and quaint buildings, Ammoudi offers a plethora of options for food and accommodation, ensuring you’re well-catered to during your beach day. Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous, the family-run Ammoudi Water Sports, established since 1985, adds a dash of thrill to your tranquil beach experience.
Just a short stroll northward from Ammoudi, a pathway leads to an adjoining hotel and then to the iconic St. Nicholas Chapel. Named after the patron saint of Greek sailors, the chapel has left its mark on the city of Agios Nikolaos itself. This ancient edifice, perched on the edge of Cape Nissi near Katholiko beach, dates back to the 7th century, making it one of Crete’s oldest chapels. From here, be prepared to be captivated by the breathtaking view of the city and Mirabello Bay.
Havania Beach, a picturesque bay located near Agios Nikolaos on the route to Elounda, exudes an irresistible charm. With its fully-equipped municipal beach offering ample parking, a food canteen, and lifeguard facilities, it’s an ideal spot for family outings and peaceful vacations. The proximity to the city guarantees easy access to all necessary amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay. Moreover, it’s conveniently reachable from Heraklion, whether you’re arriving by air or sea.
With its pristine, tranquil waters and a mix of sandy and pebbled shoreline, Havania beach stands out as a haven for both locals and tourists. The bay area houses a range of hotel complexes and other lodging options, with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mirabello. Unlike other local beaches blocked by waterfront hotels, Chavania’s accessibility is a major plus. The nearby Mirabello and Candia beaches provide alternative locations to set up base.
The area surrounding Havania Beach is rich in attractions, guaranteeing a delightful variety for all. Just 10 km away lies the village of Plaka, from where you can ferry to the historically significant Spinaloga Island. Recently popularized by Victoria Hislop’s novel, “The Island”, Spinaloga was a leper colony from 1909 to 1957, but its history stretches back to ancient times. A journey inland leads to the villages surrounding Mount Dikti, offering a challenging but rewarding road trip. Discover meat tavernas, fresh air, lush plateaus, and numerous archaeological sites. For those preferring the east, the quiet coastal villages towards Sitia offer secluded beaches and serenity.
Just a short stroll south from Ammoudi beach in Agios Nikolaos, nestled alongside the scenic coastal stretch of Akti Koundourou Street leading to the enchanting Lake Voulismeni, you’ll discover a charming, pebbled artificial beach. Cradled between two sturdy concrete piers, the allure of Akti Koundourou Street beach unfolds.
This well-organized haven offers a spectrum of amenities, from shaded umbrellas to thrilling water sports, ensuring a perfect day at the beach. It also boasts a diving school, inviting all thrill-seekers to explore the underwater world.
But the real magic happens beneath the surface. Snorkelling here reveals a hidden treasure – a sunken car resting under the crystal-clear waters. An unexpected sight that only adds to the beach’s unique charm, it’s a captivating detail that will make your visit unforgettable.
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