Ammoudara Beach (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Ammoudara Beach?
Kids enjoy shallow guarded waters, vast sand for games, pedalos, banana rides and Bravo Water Park nearby, but afternoon Meltemi winds and fast jet skis demand close parental watch.
Positives:
- Lifeguard service: Trained guards monitor popular sections daily from May to October.
- Beach bars with kids’ menus: Local taverns offer pasta, nuggets and ice cream to keep children happy.
Challenges:
- Limited natural shade: Umbrellas fill fast in peak summer—bring your own or order early.
- Crowds in high season: Space near the water can get tight in July and August.
What is Ammoudara Beach?
- A 7-kilometer stretch of fine golden sand along Crete’s northern coast, adjoining the suburb of Ammoudara just west of Heraklion
- An organized public beach featuring lifeguard stations, showers, toilets, sun lounger and umbrella rentals, and a line of beach bars
- A continuous seaside promenade runs behind the shore, while prevailing northerly winds shape its gently sloping seabed
What is so special about Ammoudara Beach for with kids?
- Gentle slope and shallow water for safe kids’ swimming
- Soft sand perfect for sandcastle play
- Easy family paddling with pedalo and canoe rentals
- Fun inflatables and water tubing for older children
- Beach bars with kid-friendly menus and lifeguards on duty
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This time lets a family swim, build sandcastles and try one watersport without tiring out young kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Ammoudara Beach
Safe shallow swimming:
Kids can wade and splash near shore where water stays shallow for meters.
Tip: Use lifeguarded zones in summer for extra safety.
Sandcastle building:
Soft, fine sand is perfect for digging and sculpting.
Tip: Bring buckets and molds; mornings have smoother sand before crowds arrive.
Pedalo rental:
Rent a four-seat pedalo for a family spin on calm water.
Tip: Life jackets included; book at H₂O Water Sports early to get a boat.
Canoe rental:
Paddle together in a two-person canoe close to shore.
Tip: Split adults and kids in pairs so everyone helps steer.
Water tubing:
Try a banana slide or crazy sofa for kids aged 8+.
Tip: Reserve in advance; check weight and age limits before booking.
When is the best time to visit Ammoudara Beach (Heraklion, Greece)?
July–August brings the biggest crowds; arrive by 9:00 AM for shade. May–June and September offer calmer waters and lighter beach traffic.
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Reviews of Ammoudara Beach (Heraklion)
Simona Gligor
Very nice beach with fine sand; the main entrance is a bit rocky, but otherwise the sand is very fine. The water is not deep and it’s wonderfully warm. We only had one windy day, but otherwise it was great for swimming. Two sunbeds with umbrella, 12 euros per day.
Julia
9€ for two sunbeds and an umbrella including two free drinks. You can either choose coffee or beer. There are quite a few sunbeds so there are always ones free.
Magda
Very good bus connection with the city center. Restaurants, shops (especially market at the corner very well equipped) in 2 minutes walking distance. Life guards. One restaurant is renting sunbeds (2) with beach umbrellas for 12euro per day (they also serve food and drinks to the umbrella table). Clean and warm water. Great place to spend whole day
Dragana
Very unpleasant experience, one of the worst beach I was. Terible windy, I would not recommend to familiy with children. Big waves, uncomfortable for swimming.
Stas G.
A long, well-equipped beach with all the necessary facilities. For just a few euros (around 8–10, depending on the location), ⛱️ you can rent an umbrella with two sunbeds, enjoy a lemonade, and get free access to the toilets. The landscape is quite beautiful, and the bus 🚌 stop is just a few minutes away on foot. Note: There are no trees or natural shade, 🌊 so make sure to bring sunscreen. It c...
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Pedalo rental (1 hr) | EUR 20 |
| Canoe rental (1 hr) | EUR 20 |
| Ice creams (4) | EUR 12 |
| Snacks & drinks | EUR 20 |
| Sunscreen & water | EUR 8 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 80 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Maximize Your Visit to Ammoudara Beach
- Early arrival: Get a spot under beach umbrellas and set up before 10:00 AM.
- Pack light gear: Bring small buckets and a foldable umbrella for quick setup.
- Book rentals ahead: Reserve pedalos or canoes by phone in peak season to avoid waiting.
Map of Ammoudara Beach
Address: Ammoudara Beach, Vagias 10, Gazi 714 14, Greece
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About Ammoudara Beach
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Phone Number
+30 281 025 7640See available options
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