Pachia Ammos Beach: A small sandy beach near Ierapetra Crete!

Pachia Ammos Beach, a sandy stretch on Crete’s southern coast, lies near Mirthios village, 10 kilometers (6.21 miles) east of Ierapetra, 95 kilometers (59 miles) from Heraklion, and 17 kilometers (10.6 miles) east of Agios Nikolaos. This secluded beach, bordered by steep cliffs and the Libyan Sea, features soft beige sand that blends into calm blue waters. The name “Pachia Ammos” aptly refers to the beach’s dense sands.

Pachia Ammos Beach offers a quiet, isolated atmosphere and sees fewer tourists. Public access and parking are free. A few small taverns provide lounge chairs and umbrellas, but the area remains uncommercialized beyond these establishments. A dirt path connects the parking area to the shore.

Locals have cherished Pachia Ammos Beach for years, but it has recently gained attention from travelers. The beach’s hidden location has preserved its quietude, making it a haven for those seeking an authentic, crowd-free Cretan beach experience. Surrounded by mountains, the beach offers a tranquil Mediterranean escape, ideal for relaxation and enjoying the sun and sea breeze.

Find below a table with the main features of Pachia Ammos Beach.

What is Pachia Ammos Beach?

Pachia Ammos Beach is a coastal stretch on Crete’s southeast, near the town of Ierapetra. Characterised by a mix of dense sand and pebbles, it measures approximately one kilometre in length. Historically a pivotal port, Pachia Ammos Beach was integral for trade between Europe and North Africa, circumventing the eastern seas. The “Pachia Ammos” reflects the beach’s notably dense, sandy landscape, now a key allure for tourists. A breakwater shields its western section, resulting in tranquil, transparent waters for beachgoers.

The area boasts a rich history, including discoveries like an ancient Minoan graveyard and an ancient city. In 1913, a violent storm uncovered Early Minoan clay vessels near Pachia Ammos, revealing an important archaeological site. Close to the beach’s western entrance lies the ancient city of Gournia, complete with cisterns, an aqueduct and Greek/Roman structures.

Pachia Ammos Beach is not only a natural wonder but also a quiet witness to the passage of ancient civilizations, thanks to its unique blend of natural components and historical relevance.

Where is Pachia Ammos Beach located?

Pachia Ammos beach is located 10 km (6.21 miles) east of Ierapetra, 17 kilometers (10.6 miles) east of Agios Nikolaos, 95 kilometres (59 miles) from Heraklion, in southeast Crete. It is situated close to the small village of Pachia Ammos, just off the main coastal road.

Visitors who want to visit Pachia Ammos Beach by car from Ierapetra should head east on the E75 highway and turn south when they see the signs for Pachia Ammos. There is a small parking area at the beach’s western end that people can access via a short footpath.

Pachia Ammos Beach sits at 34° 59 ’25” N latitude and 26° 6′ 21″ E longitude, positioning it on Crete’s southeastern coast, near Ierapetra.

How does the Pachia Ammos Map look?

Find below an image map of Pachia ammos beach.

What are the activities at Pachia Ammos Beach?

Pachia Ammos Beach offers swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and hiking. Soft sands and inviting waters make it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Calm, clear waters create a safe swimming experience, and fine sand offers a comfortable sunbathing spot. Visitors enjoy the Mediterranean sun and refreshing swims in the clear sea. Pachia Ammos Beach also offers snorkeling, with rocky coves revealing an underwater world to explore. Snorkelers see diverse fish and marine life in this unspoiled habitat. For hikers, trails over sandstone cliffs reveal secluded coves and coastal views. In summer, Pachia Ammos Beach offers thrill-seekers water sports like paragliding, jet skiing, and wakeboarding near the beach’s center.

When is the best time to visit Pachia Ammos Beach?

The best time to visit Pachia Ammos Beach is during the summer months, specifically from June to August. This period marks the peak season, characterised by sunny, warm weather ideal for relaxing on the sandy beach and swimming in the calm, clear waters. Average daily temperatures during these months hover around 30°C (86°F), accompanied by abundant sunshine. Sea temperatures during these months also become comfortable, reaching 22-24°C (72-75°F), which is ideal for various water activities.

The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are excellent alternatives for those seeking a quieter experience with fewer crowds and lower prices. May, September and October still promise sunny days with temperatures in the 20s°C (70s°F) and the sea remains pleasantly warm at around 20°C (68°F).

Winter at Pachia Ammos Beach has its own charm, despite the sea being cooler at 16°C (61°F), which might not be suitable for swimming for most visitors. The mild winter weather, featuring sunny days with temperatures ranging from 15-18°C (59-64°F), appeals to those who prefer cooler conditions.

Each season at Pachia Ammos Beach presents a unique opportunity to experience the picturesque sandy beach along Crete’s southern coast. While summer offers the warmest weather, least rain and best swimming conditions, the shoulder and winter seasons provide opportunities to appreciate the beach’s beauty with fewer people and more tranquillity.

What are nearby attractions in Pachia Ammos Beach?

Find below the top attractions  to visit near Pachia Ammos Beach:

• Voulisma Beach. Voulisma Beach is a popular destination situated on the northeastern coast of Crete, near the village of Istro or Istron. It’s known for its beauty and is the most frequented among the several beaches in the three small bays of Istro, which are part of the larger gulf of Mirabello. The beach features white fine sand, a few pebbles, and usually clear and shallow water. It’s backed by greenery and the lush small valley of Kalo Chorio, filled with orchards, vineyards, and olive groves. Voulisma beach is 7.8 km (4.84 miles) west of Pachia Ammos
• Richtis Gorge. Richtis Gorge, located in the Lasithi region of Crete, is a protected park near Exo Mouliana, Sitia in eastern Crete. This gorge is recognized for its lush greenery, cool shade, and a striking waterfall that stands at 20 meters in height. The hike through the gorge spans approximately three kilometers and descends about 30 meters. Along the journey, visitors have the opportunity to explore the ruins of old water mills and cottages that were once situated on the banks of the stream running through the gorge. Richtis Gorge provides a refreshing and picturesque hiking experience for nature enthusiasts and those seeking to discover the beauty of Crete. The scenic Richtis Gorge is located 32.7 km (20.31 miles) west of Pachia Ammos.
• Gournia Archaeological Site. Gournia Archaeological Site, located in Gournia, is a well-preserved archaeological site that offers a unique glimpse into daily life during the period between 1700 and 1450 BC. It is located 2.8 kilometers (1.73 miles) from Pachia Ammos beach.
• Ierapetra. Ierapetra had become one of Crete’s primary ports, leveraging its strategic location to trade with kingdoms across the East and South Mediterranean. Despite its resistance, the city fell to Roman rule in 66 BC. The Romans, recognizing its strategic importance, rebuilt the city, allowing it to thrive once again. Ierapetra is now a lively coastal town 14.5 km (9 miles) south of Pachia Ammos.
• Agios Nikolaos. Agios Nikolaos is a coastal town situated on the Greek island of Crete. Agios Nikolaos is a blend of ancient and modern culture, attracting visitors with its unique charm. The town is a convenient hour’s drive from Heraklion, the island’s capital. Agios Nikolaos is 20.5 km (12.7 miles) northwest of Pachia Ammos, with a picturesque harbor and shops/cafe.

How do you get to Pachia Ammos Beach?

The best way to reach Pachia Ammos is by renting a car, which allows you to easily explore Crete’s beaches and attractions. There is a regular public bus service from Ierapetra to Pachia Ammos as well. Taxis are available if you don’t have your own transport.

When renting a car, be sure to check factors like insurance coverage, driver’s age, licence requirements and more. Rental prices can vary depending on the type of vehicle, rental period and extras like GPS or child seats. Expect to pay around 200-300 € ($220-330, £170-250) for a basic car rental for a full week.

What are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete?

Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete.

• Insurance: Car rental insurance is essential, as it protects a passenger against the cost of damage when renting a car. Crete car rental includes insurance for collision damage waiver and a driver’s credit card is required as a guarantee.
• Driver’s age: The legal age requirement when driving in Crete is 18. The driver must have a valid driving licence and essential documents like an ID or passport.
• Driver’s gender: Women and men are permitted to drive in Crete. As long as the driver is of the legal age of 18, driving is allowed in Crete, regardless of gender.
• Car type: Travelling with groups or family members requires a much bigger car. Car rental companies in Crete offer a variety of vehicles to choose from. Selecting a smaller car is best when driving in Crete. The reason for that is that some Greek roads are narrow. Travellers must learn how to choose the right car to rent in Crete to have a comfortable driving experience.
• Documents needed for renting a car: One important document required for renting a vehicle is a valid driving licence. However, a credit or debit card may be presented as well, including a passport or an ID card.

How much does a car rental in Crete cost?

The island of Crete is best travelled using a rented vehicle. Visitors get faster to Crete’s top destinations using a rented car. Crete car rental costs vary depending on the number of persons, itinerary, car type, destination and duration. The average cost of renting a car in Crete is 30 € ($33 , £27) to 40 € ($44 , £36) per day. A car rented for a whole week costs an an average of 250 € ($275 , £225). Renting a vehicle for the weekend costs around 78 € ($86 , £70). Crete car rental rates differ depending on the car type. Car rental companies offer a variety of cars depending on customers’ liking. Most car rental depots in Crete provide an online booking system, whenever customers want to book a car. Simply follow the process and instantly book a vehicle on their website. Before availing of a rental car service in Crete, check and secure all the requirements.

How much does it cost to get to Pachia Ammos Beach?

Pachia Ammos Beach is accessible without an admission fee, offering a budget-friendly option for beachgoers. The cost of food and parking fees at or near the beach is not explicitly detailed in the sources accessed. Generally, beachside eateries and public parking can vary in price and it’s advisable to have some cash at hand for these expenses. For a comprehensive understanding, one might consider contacting local businesses or tourism information centres near Pachia Ammos for the most current details on food and parking costs.

Pachia Ammos Beach offers free public access. Parking is free at the beach. The beach is 95 kilometers (59 miles) from Heraklion International Airport, with a drive time of just over an hour. Rental cars at the airport start at 15 € ($16, £13) per day in low season or 30 € ($32, £26) in high summer. Taxis from the airport to Pachia Ammos cost about 120 € ($128, £105) one-way. Public buses connect Heraklion to Tymbaki for 8 € ($8.50, £7) one-way, with a taxi needed for the remaining 9 kilometers (6 miles) to Pachia Ammos. The bus and taxi together cost around 25 € ($27, £22) one-way from Heraklion. Driving your own vehicle or renting a car offers the cheapest, most direct access at around 60 € ($64, £52) round trip, including petrol and rental in high season. For budget travelers, the bus and taxi combo or ride-sharing costs under 60 € ($64, £52) round trip per person. Taxis offer door-to-door convenience, while rental cars or buses provide flexibility and the lowest costs.

Where to stay near Pachia Ammos Beach?

Pachia Ammos Beach offers a few accommodation choices right nearby. Simple rooms for rent are available at spots like Villa Maria and Villa Chrissi which are located directly behind the beach. These family-run rooms have basic amenities like air conditioning, wifi, kitchenettes and furnished balconies overlooking the sea. Prices average around 40-60 € ($42-64, £34-52) nightly.

Where to eat near Pachia Ammos Beach?

Right on Pachia Ammos Beach there are a few excellent tavernas to enjoy fresh Greek cuisine.

• Taverna Akrogiali. It is located directly behind the beach and is known for delicious classic dishes like moussaka, grilled octopus, lamb kebabs and more. They also serve up local wines to perfectly pair with the oceanfront setting.
• George’s Taverna. It is another prime spot for beachfront dining with views of the sea. They offer tasty meze, fresh fish and seafood along with Greek specialties. Inland in the nearby village of Ierapetra, there are many excellent tavernas to choose from along the waterfront promenade.
• Oasis. It serves Mediterranean cuisine and fresh seafood with harbour views, while Sarris Restaurant is renowned for Cretan dishes made from family recipes as well as handmade ravioli.
• Thalassa Taverna. It provides a chic outdoor setting to dine on creative Greek fusion plates.

Is Pachia Ammos Beach worth visiting?

Yes, Pachia Ammos Beach holds value for visitors. The surrounding area offers local tavernas where visitors can enjoy Cretan cuisine, enhancing the beach going experience. Accessibility is another factor; Pachia Ammos Beach is easily reachable, making it a practical choice for travellers. The combination of convenience, local flavour and natural beauty contributes to its worth as a destination.

Is Pachia Ammos Beach safe?

Yes, Pachia Ammos Beach is a safe and peaceful destination. Like any other place, it’s essential to be mindful of your belongings and follow basic safety precautions.

Do you need to book in advance to visit Pachia Ammos Beach?

No, there is typically no need to book in advance to visit Pachia Ammos Beach. You can plan your trip and make spontaneous visits to enjoy this tranquil spot.

Are children permitted at Pachia Ammos Beach?

Yes, children are permitted to enter Pachia Ammos Beach. It’s an excellent Cretan beach for families, but, of course, supervision is essential, especially if they are swimming or exploring the area.

How was the preservation of Pachia Ammos Beach?

Stringent regulations ensure Pachia Ammos Beach’s preservation. Smoking and camping are forbidden, and trash bins line the shoreline to maintain cleanliness. Local authorities and conservation groups work together to protect the beach and its surroundings. Pachia Ammos Beach holds the Blue Flag certification, confirming its adherence to top cleanliness, safety, and eco-friendly standards.