CalmBeach Greece
Ammolofi Agiou Pavlou Beach, Rethymno
See practical info for Ammolofi Agiou Pavlou in Rethymno, including location, beach type, wind exposure, map and tips to help you decide when to visit.
The great sand dunes of Cape Melissa
The Ammolofoi (Sandhills) of Agios Pavlos stretch along the south coast of Rethymno, Crete, on the western side of Cape Melissa, between the small settlement of Agios Pavlos and Triopetra. They take their name from neighbouring Agios Pavlos, while locals are also said to call the beach Alatsogremna, after the salt-beaten cliffs of the area. What sets it apart are the enormous sand dunes rolling down to the sea, a landscape rare in Greece.
The setting is wild and imposing: the sandy shore runs for roughly a kilometre, with dunes reported to reach 25 metres in height, while rocky hollows in the middle of the beach offer natural shade. According to tradition, the settlement owes its name to the Apostle Paul, who is said to have taken refuge here on his journey towards Rome. At neighbouring Agios Pavlos, the famous geological rock folds stand out, one of the most photographed spots of southern Crete.
The beach is unorganized, with only a few sunbeds and umbrellas, while tavernas and a beach bar are reported nearby in the settlement of Agios Pavlos. The sand shifts from fine to coarser. Access is by vehicle along a passable dirt road up to a plateau used for parking, followed by a steep descent down the dune, a route that is not straightforward for everyone.
- Region
- Rethymno, Greece
- Beach type
- Sandy
- Access
- Passable dirt road
- Coordinates
- 35.1048572, 24.5595119
- Organized beach
- Beach bar
- Sunbeds
- Parking
- Food nearby
About this beach
The bay at Ammolofi Agiou Pavlou opens to the south-west, so it usually has natural cover from northerly, north-easterly and north-westerly winds. Orientation only reflects which way the coast faces, not confirmed shelter, so check wind and waves in the app before you go.
Ammolofi Agiou Pavlou has sand underfoot.
For amenities, Ammolofi Agiou Pavlou has an organised beach, a beach bar, sunbeds, natural shade, parking nearby and food nearby.
Open the app for live recommendation score, wind exposure, waves, best time of day and nearby alternatives.
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