Ammoudara Beach

One of the most popular beaches near Heraklion, that is easily accessible to most visitors and a great option if you don’t want to travel far. Ammoudara is a vast sandy beach that stretches from the western boundaries of the city of Heraklion and extends east to the mouth of the River Almyros. It has shallow waters, and most parts are organized. You can also find quiet stretches of sand if you so prefer.

The beach is located right in front of the tourist resorts and hotels so it offers all the desired facilities for food, coffee, and of courses, places to stay. Here you will find beach bars and the opportunity for water sports like windsurfing and kite-surfing. The beach is ideal for families with children but also those looking for a more cosmopolitan or upbeat vibe, with plenty of beach bars. After the sun sets the area is transformed with upbeat music and beach parties. If you prefer a quiet spot, the west part of the beach will be more suitable. Ammoudara is very popular with locals and families with children.

Travelling west, the next beaches you will reach are Pantanassas and Paleokastro or you can drive to the other side of Heraklion for more wide sandy beaches. The beach of Ammoudara has also been awarded the EU Blue Flag for its clean waters. This is a great area to base yourself in and explore the prefecture of Heraklion and everything else that is on offer. In the Gulf of Heraklion, there is a small uninhabited island called Dia. It is characterized by picturesque bays and a barren and rocky landscape. On a clear day, the island is visible from Heraklion, as it would have been in the time of the Minoan kingdom, from the capital of Knossos. Because of this, it was sometimes identified as the island that Theseus escaped to after killing the Minotaur. There are half and full-day boat trips to the island of Dia for visitors wishing to explore this stunning natural habitat and wash the stress away lounging and relaxing at the beach.