Location
Greece
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Sand
Best season
May to October
About Orthi Ammos Beach
Orthi Ammos ('upright sand') is the dune beach immediately east of the Venetian fortress of Frangokastello on the south coast of Crete, about 80 km south of Chania. It is known for its tall, wind-shaped sand hills that slope down to shallow, clear, usually calm water, making it one of the most distinctive beaches in the Sfakia area. The east end of the beach has traditionally been used by nudists, although Cretan Beaches notes that their numbers have been falling in recent years. It is quieter than the main Frangokastello beach. Shade is scarce, the sand gets extremely hot, and south winds can raise some waves. Local legend links the beach to the Drosoulites, ghostly warriors said to appear near the fortress, whose bodies were reportedly covered by sand blown from Orthi Ammos.
Getting there
Frangokastello is on the paved south-coast road between Chora Sfakion and Plakias and has seasonal bus service. Either walk about 10 minutes east from Frangokastello and the castle, or drive to the parking above the dunes and walk down over the sand; the descent is soft and the sand very hot in summer, so wear footwear. Few amenities; food and rooms are in Frangokastello. Not wheelchair accessible.
What visitors say
Guides describe a quiet, striking dune beach with shallow, clear water, much less busy than Frangokastello. Nude bathing is concentrated at the east end and is reported to be less common than in past years. Common tips are to bring shade and footwear because the sand gets very hot, and to visit the castle nearby.
Summarised in our own words from public reviews and guides listed under Sources.
Amenities
Legal context
Greece has no formal system of designated nude beaches; nudity is tolerated by custom at secluded beaches and sections. Cretan Beaches notes that nudism is not officially permitted in Greece but generally not challenged if discreet. No local ordinance or enforcement at Orthi Ammos found (2026).
Naturism at Orthi Ammos Beach sits under Greece's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: Greece public nudity guide.
Researched 24 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 35.1834, 24.2466
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in Greece
Frequently asked questions
Where is the nude section?
At the eastern part of the beach, away from Frangokastello castle.
Is it still used by nudists?
Yes, but Cretan Beaches says numbers have declined in recent years.
Where do I park?
Above the dunes, or walk 10 minutes from Frangokastello.
Are there facilities?
Very few; food and accommodation are in Frangokastello.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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