CalmBeach Greece
Orthi Ammos Beach, Chania
See practical info for Orthi Ammos in Chania, including location, beach type, wind exposure, map and tips to help you decide when to visit.
The dunes of the Drosoulites
Orthi Ammos stretches beside Frangokastello in Sfakia, Crete, about eighty kilometres south of Chania. It owes its name, 'upright sand', to the tall dunes that rise almost vertically behind the shore, a rare sight on the island's southern coast.
Above the area stands the Venetian castle of Frangokastello, built in the 14th century and the site of the 1828 battle in which Hatzimichalis Dalianis fell with his men. Tradition holds that at dawn in May their shadows, the famous Drosoulites, appear marching towards the castle, and it is even said that the beach's sand covers fallen fighters of the battle. At the eastern end, known as Kritama, the shore closes in high cliffs.
The beach is sandy with shallow water and organized, with seasonal sunbeds and umbrellas, while food and accommodation are available nearby at Frangokastello. A paved road comes close to the shore, with a descent through the dunes.
- Region
- Chania, Greece
- Beach type
- Sandy
- Access
- Easy road access
- Coordinates
- 35.18329, 24.24639
- Organized beach
- Sunbeds
- Family friendly
About this beach
Orthi Ammos usually stays sheltered when the meltemi blows. That comes from the measured shape of the coastline around it and our curated wind records — a seasonal picture, not a live forecast, so check live wind and waves before you go.
The bay at Orthi Ammos opens to the south, so it usually has natural cover from northerly, north-easterly and north-westerly winds.
Orthi Ammos has sand underfoot with shallow, gently shelving water — handy for families with young children.
For amenities, Orthi Ammos has an organised beach and sunbeds.
Good to know
Does Orthi Ammos beach get windy?
Orthi Ammos usually stays sheltered when the meltemi blows. That is based on the measured shape of its coastline against the meltemi; check live wind and waves before you go.
How do you get to Orthi Ammos beach?
Access is easy road access. See the coordinates and map on CalmBeach.
What is Orthi Ammos beach like?
A sandy beach with shallow water.
What facilities does Orthi Ammos beach have?
It has an organised beach and sunbeds.
Open the app for live recommendation score, wind exposure, waves, best time of day and nearby alternatives.
View this beach in CalmBeach Greece