Okay, beach lovers, I’m about to blow your minds with a Cretan coastal secret that’ll make you feel like a true explorer.
Picture this: a stretch of sand so long and pristine, you’ll think you’ve stumbled onto your own private island.
Willkommen bei Psili Ammos, the hidden treasure of South Crete.
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Located just east of the village Platia Peramata, Psili Ammos is the kind of beach that makes you want to pinch yourself to make sure you’re not dreaming.
As I stood there, taking in the view, I couldn’t help but feel I’d discovered a little slice of paradise.
Psili Ammos isn’t just pretty it’s the longest beach in the area, stretching out before you like nature’s own welcome mat.
The name “Psili Ammos” means “fine sand” in Greek, and boy, does it live up to its name.
The sand here is so soft, it’s like walking on powdered sugar.
Now, I’ll be honest this isn’t a beach for those who like their comforts.
There’s not much shade here, so it’s not ideal for camping.
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But if you’re lucky enough to snag a spot by the large white rocks at the east end, called Asproharaki, you’ve hit the jackpot.
These natural umbrellas offer some much needed relief from the Cretan sun.
Psili Ammos has a bit of an exciting history too.
Back in the winter of 2010, a huge Russian oil tanker got beached here during a storm.
Don’t worry, though nobody was hurt, and there wasn’t any pollution.
It just added a bit of drama to this peaceful stretch of coast.
Now, if you’re coming from Tsigounas, you’re in for a treat.
Before you hit Psili Ammos, you’ll pass by several small beaches, each one a little gem in its own right.
Keep an eye out for Paliomandra beach, the easternmost cove.
It’s a bit out of the way, accessed by a dirt road, but trust me, it’s worth the effort.
Paliomandra’s coarse sand and rocky seabed make it a paradise for fishing and snorkeling enthusiasts.
Weitere fantastische Strände in dieser Gegend finden Sie in unserem Führer zu Strände von Heraklion.
Und für alles, was Kreta betrifft, Kretorama hat für Sie gesorgt.


Psili Ammos Beach Key Information
Standort | Heraklion Prefecture, Central Crete, South Crete |
Strand Komposition | Fine sand, some fine pebbles |
Wasser | Blue, usually calm, normal depth |
Strand-Merkmale | Long, isolated, Asproharaki rocks |
Annehmlichkeiten | Limited umbrellas/beds, food/water nearby |
Berühmt für | Length, fine sand, 2010 tanker incident |
Aktivitäten | Swimming, sunbathing, fishing, snorkeling |
Historische Rolle | Part of ancient Messara region |
Umliegende Region | Platia Peramata, Messara plain |
Atmosphäre | Quiet, natural, expansive |
Essen | Limited nearby options |
Erreichbarkeit | Dirt track, car recommended |
Zeitraum für den Besuch | Spätes Frühjahr bis Frühherbst |
Demografische Daten | Nature lovers, beach enthusiasts, privacy seekers |

Psili Ammos Beach Profile
Psili Ammos is a beach lover’s dream come true.
The sand here is fine and golden, living up to its name which means “fine sand” in Greek.
Das Wasser ist das klassische mediterrane Blau, das fast zu schön ist, um echt zu sein.
Thanks to its location, the sea is usually calm perfect for a peaceful swim.
The beach is impressively long, giving you plenty of room to spread out and claim your spot.
At the eastern end, you’ll find the Asproharaki rocks, large white formations that offer natural shade.


Annehmlichkeiten
Let’s be real Psili Ammos is all about natural beauty, not fancy facilities.
There are some umbrellas and sunbeds available, but they’re limited.
You can find food and water nearby, but it’s a good idea to bring your own supplies.
The lack of natural shade (except for the Asproharaki rocks) means you should come prepared with umbrellas and sunscreen.
Die aktuellsten Informationen über die Einrichtungen in der Region finden Sie auf der Website Website der Stadtverwaltung Heraklion.


Unterkünfte
Psili Ammos isn’t a resort style beach, so don’t expect hotels on the sand.
The closest accommodations would be in nearby villages like Platia Peramata.
Camping isn’t ideal here due to the lack of shade, but if you’re determined, make sure to check local regulations first.


Geschichte und Bedeutung
While Psili Ammos doesn’t have a long recorded history, it did have its moment of fame in 2010.
A large Russian oil tanker was beached here during a winter storm, creating quite a spectacle.
Fortunately, there was no danger to people or pollution caused.
The beach is part of the wider Messara area, which has been important since ancient times.
Nearby, you can find sites like the ancient city of Lassea, showcasing the area’s rich past.


Aktivitäten
Schwimmen steht hier natürlich ganz oben auf der Liste. Das ruhige, klare Wasser ist perfekt für ein erfrischendes Bad.
Sunbathing is fantastic on the fine sand, just remember to bring sun protection.
Fishing und Schnorcheln are popular, especially at nearby Paliomandra beach with its rocky seabed.
Beach walking is a must on this long stretch of coast.
Fotografie enthusiasts will love capturing the expansive beach and clear waters.


Essen
Psili Ammos keeps things simple in the food department.
There’s food and water available nearby, but don’t expect gourmet restaurants on the sand.
Am besten packen Sie ein Picknick ein und genießen es zusammen mit einer atemberaubenden Aussicht.
For more dining options, head to the nearby village of Platia Peramata.


Das Beste für Reisende
Psili Ammos is perfect for:
– Beach lovers who appreciate long stretches of fine sand
– Swimmers looking for calm, clear waters
– Nature enthusiasts who enjoy unspoiled coastlines
– Snorkelers and fishers (especially at nearby Paliomandra)
– Fotografen seeking expansive coastal views
It’s less suitable for those seeking lots of amenities or natural shade.


Psili Ammos Beach Map – Getting There
To reach Psili Ammos:
Head to the village of Platia Peramata.
From there, follow the road east towards the coast.
You’ll reach Psili Ammos after a short drive.
For Paliomandra beach, continue east on the dirt road past Psili Ammos.
There’s limited public transport to this area, so a rental car is recommended.
Distances and driving times from major Cretan cities to Psili Ammos :
- Chania: Approximately 190 km (118 miles), 2 hours 45 minutes drive
- Rethymnon: About 130 km (81 miles), 2 hours drive
- Heraklion: Around 70 km (43 miles), 1 hour 15 minutes drive
- Hersonissos: Roughly 85 km (53 miles), 1 hour 30 minutes drive
- Malia: About 95 km (59 miles), 1 hour 45 minutes drive
- Agios Nikolaos: Approximately 125 km (78 miles), 2 hours 15 minutes drive
- Ierapetra: Around 105 km (65 miles), 2 hours drive
Hinweis: Dies sind ungefähre Fahrzeiten.
The last part of the journey involves a dirt track, which may increase travel time.
There’s limited public transport to the immediate area, so renting a car is recommended.
For the most current road conditions, you can check the Website der Griechischen Nationalen Tourismusorganisation.
For the most up to date information on road conditions in Crete, check the offizielle Website der Region Kreta.


Tipps
1. Bring sun protection: There’s limited natural shade, so pack umbrellas, hats, and sunscreen.
2. Pack water and snacks: While there’s food nearby, it’s good to have your own supplies.
3. Arrive early: To snag a spot near the shady Asproharaki rocks.
4. Bring good shoes: If you plan to explore the nearby coves or Paliomandra.
5. Respektieren Sie die Umwelt: Take all trash with you when you leave.
6. Check wind conditions: The beach can get windy, which might affect swimming conditions.
Für weitere schöne Fotos von kretischen Stränden, folgen Sie uns auf Instagram und Pinterest.
Weitere Informationen über Reisen in Griechenland, einschließlich Einreisebestimmungen und Touristenrechte, finden Sie auf der Website der Griechischen Nationalen Tourismusorganisation.


Discoveries Around Psili Ammos Beach
Attraktion in der Nähe | Beschreibung | Entfernung |
---|---|---|
Platia Peramata beach | Another nearby beach option | 0.5 km (0.31 miles) |
Agios Onoufrios beach (Tsigounas) | Beach with religious significance | 1,2 km (0,75 Meilen) |
Krigi beach | Small, quiet coastal spot | 1.4 km (0.87 miles) |
Maha beach | Another secluded beach option | 2,3 km (1,43 Meilen) |
Tsigounas beach | Popular local beach | 3,1 km (1,93 Meilen) |
Lassea beach (Chrysostomos) | Beach near ancient site | 3.2 km (1.99 miles) |
Ancient Lassea | Archäologische Stätte | 3.3 km (2.05 miles) |
Gerokambos Roman Villa | Historical Roman ruins | 3,5 km (2,17 Meilen) |
Panagia Gorgoipikoos church at Pigaidakia | Traditional Greek Orthodox church | 3,6 km (2,24 Meilen) |
Gerokambos Domed Tomb | Ancient burial site | 3,7 km (2,3 Meilen) |

Psili Ammos was such a dreamy escape last summer! 😍 The crystal-clear waters were absolutely mesmerizing and perfect for taking Insta-worthy pics, but oh no, the sand got everywhere—seriously, even my SPF mist had grains in it! 😩 Did anyone else struggle with that or was it just me? 🌊✨