Ever heard of a beach where tomatoes might outnumber sunbathers?
Welcome to Ammoudares, Crete’s agricultural wonderland by the sea!
Ammoudares sits 8km west of Ierapetra and 45km south of Agios Nikolaos.
It’s part of a stretch that includes Nea Anatoli and Stomio, all sharing the same beachfront. Walking along this coast, I was struck by the endless line of gray sandy beaches.
Each one seemed to blend into the next, creating a sense of vastness.
What makes Ammoudares unique is its surroundings.
The area is filled with greenhouses, a testament to Crete’s agricultural prowess.
These structures create an interesting contrast with the natural beach landscape.
It’s like two worlds colliding modern farming meets ancient coastline.
About 1km east of the first Ammoudares beach, I stumbled upon Kalamaki beach.
This sandy spot is a hidden treasure, tucked away from the main road.
Locals also call it “Kapelas,” named after a legendary pizzeria that once operated here.
High cliffs surround Kalamaki, giving it a sense of seclusion and tranquility.
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While exploring these beaches, I couldn’t help but feel like I’d discovered a secret.
They’re not crowded or well-known, which adds to their charm.
However, it’s worth noting that some locals avoid swimming here due to concerns about pesticides from the nearby farms.
For those interested in exploring more beaches in the area, check out our guide to Playas de Lassithi.
Ammoudares Beach Information
| Ubicación | Lassithi Prefecture, East Crete, South Crete, Ierapetra area |
| Composición de la playa | Coarse gray sand |
| Agua | Blue, normal depth, usually calm |
| Características de la playa | Long stretches, sequential beaches |
| Servicios | None (unorganized) |
| Famoso por | Agricultural surroundings, quiet atmosphere |
| Actividades | Swimming, walking, photography |
| Papel histórico | Agricultural heritage |
| Región circundante | Greenhouses, agricultural land |
| Atmósfera | Quiet, undeveloped |
| Comedor | None on-site, nearest in Ierapetra |
| Accesibilidad | Carretera asfaltada |
| Período de visita | Late spring to early fall |
| Demografía | Nature lovers, solitude seekers, photographers |
Ammoudares Beach Profile
Ammoudares beaches are characterized by their coarse gray sand.
The shoreline stretches far, creating a series of long, connected beaches.
During my visit, I found the water to be calm and inviting, with a beautiful blue hue.
The beach has a gradual slope into the sea, making it suitable for various swimming abilities.
Servicios
If you’re looking for a beach with all the bells and whistles, Ammoudares might not be your spot. These beaches are largely unorganized, meaning no sunbeds or umbrellas.
I found this lack of development refreshing it’s just you and nature here.
Remember to bring everything you need for the day, including water and snacks.
Alojamientos
Ammoudares itself doesn’t offer much in terms of accommodations.
For places to stay, your best bet is to look in nearby Ierapetra.
During my trip, I stayed in a small guesthouse in Ierapetra and made day trips to Ammoudares. This setup worked well, allowing me to enjoy the quiet beaches by day and the amenities of a larger town by night.
Historia e importancia
While Ammoudares may not have ancient ruins or historical sites, its significance lies in its agricultural heritage.
The area around these beaches has been a key agricultural region for generations.
The greenhouses you see today are a modern continuation of this farming tradition.
It’s fascinating to see how agriculture and tourism coexist in this part of Crete.
Actividades
Ammoudares is all about simple beach pleasures.
Swimming in the calm waters was a highlight of my visit.
For those who enjoy long walks, the extensive shoreline is perfect.
I spent hours strolling along the beach, taking in the unique landscape of sea and greenhouses.
If you’re into photography, the contrast between agricultural and natural elements provides interesting subjects.
Comedor
Don’t expect beachfront tavernas at Ammoudares.
The area is pretty bare when it comes to dining options.
I’d recommend packing a picnic to enjoy on the beach.
For proper meals, head back to Ierapetra where you’ll find a range of restaurants serving traditional Cretan cuisine.
Lo mejor para los viajeros
Ammoudares is ideal for:
* Those seeking quiet, undeveloped beaches
* Visitors interested in seeing Crete’s agricultural side
* Photographers looking for unique landscapes
* People who enjoy long walks on the beach
* Travelers who prefer to avoid crowded tourist spots
Ammoudares Beach Map – Getting There
To reach Ammoudares, take the main road heading west from Ierapetra.
The drive is straightforward and takes about 15 minutes.
I found having a rental car invaluable for exploring this area.
Public transportation options are limited, so having your own wheels gives you the freedom to come and go as you please.
Distances from Major Cretan Cities
- Chania: 150 km (93 miles), about 2 hours 30 minutes drive
- Rethymnon: 115 km (71 miles), about 2 hours drive
- Heraklion: 105 km (65 miles), about 1 hour 45 minutes drive
- Hersonissos: 120 km (75 miles), about 2 hours drive
- Malia: 110 km (68 miles), about 1 hour 50 minutes drive
- Agios Nikolaos: 45 km (28 miles), about 50 minutes drive
- Ierapetra: 8 km (5 miles), about 15 minutes drive
Public buses run regularly between major towns and Ierapetra.
From Ierapetra, you’ll need to arrange private transportation or rent a car to reach Ammoudares. The roads are generally good, making it an easy drive from most locations.
If you’re coming from the north coast (Heraklion, Hersonissos, Malia), the route takes you through scenic mountain landscapes.
Consejos
1. Bring your own supplies there are no shops or facilities on these beaches.
2. Consider water shoes as the sand can be coarse.
3. If you’re concerned about pesticides, maybe choose another beach for swimming.
4. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photos.
5. Respect the local environment and agricultural areas don’t trespass on farmland.
6. Pack a hat and sunscreen there’s little natural shade on the beach.
7. Check the weather forecast winds can pick up in the afternoon.
For the latest travel requirements and tourist information, check out the Greek National Tourism Organization.
En Lassithi Municipality website offers valuable local insights.
For a broader look at Crete, visit the Region of Crete official website.
For more amazing Cretan adventures, explore Cretorama.
And don’t forget to follow their Instagram for daily doses of Cretan beauty!
Discoveries Around Ammoudares Beach
| Atracciones cercanas | Descripción | Distancia |
|---|---|---|
| Panagia Pantanassa Monastery at Vagionia | Historic monastery with views | 2.6 km (1.6 miles) |
| Fournou Korfi settlement | Ancient Minoan archaeological site | 3.6 km (2.2 miles) |
| Holy Apostles church at Kato Karkassa | Traditional Greek Orthodox church | 4 km (2.5 miles) |
| Gra Ligia beach | Another nearby sandy beach | 4 km (2.5 miles) |
| Sarikambos beach | Quiet beach with clear waters | 4.1 km (2.5 miles) |
| Christ Savior church at Pano Karkasa | Picturesque local church | 4.2 km (2.6 miles) |
| Walk with Donkeys | Unique animal experience activity | 4.9 km (3 miles) |
| Panagia Church at Kamara | Beautiful church with frescoes | 5.1 km (3.2 miles) |
| Pirgos site at Myrtos | Ancient ruins near coast | 5.4 km (3.4 miles) |
| Sarakina Gorge | Impressive canyon for hiking | 5.6 km (3.5 miles) |
