Damnoni Beach is one of the most beautiful and enjoyable beaches on the southern coast of Crete in Greece. It sits around 35 kilometres south of Rethymnon and just a few minutes east of Plakias village. This long bay with crystal clear turquoise water and soft whitish sand is perfect for a full beach day, family outing, or water activities.
Unlike the busy northern beaches of Crete, Damnoni feels relaxed and natural, with mountains behind it and a wide seaside space that rarely feels crowded, even on busy summer days.
Where Exactly Is Damnoni Beach?
Damnoni Beach is on the south coast of Crete, facing the Libyan Sea, the southern part of the Mediterranean. The beach lies close to the small village of Damnoni and is easiest to reach from Plakias, a small resort town with shops, cafes, and accommodation.
Most visitors come by car, scooter, or taxi from Plakias or Rethymnon. There’s parking right by the beach, though it can fill up during weekends in peak season.
Entry Fees & Timings
Location: Plakias South Crete (35km Rethymnon, Libyan Sea)
Entry Fee Table (€):
| Access Type | Adult | Child | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Sand | Free | Free | 600m golden bay + calm waters |
| Sunbed Set | 15/day | 10/day | Western beach loungers + service |
| Water Sports | 25/hr | 20/hr | Kayak + paddleboard rental |
Open 24/7 May-Oct. Peak: Jun/Sept golden hour.
Best Time: May-Jun mornings (empty beach/Libyan Sea calm).
What the Beach Is Like
Damnoni spreads along a gentle curve of sand about 600 metres long with crystal-clear water that gets deeper quickly. The sand is mostly light and coarse, mixed with small pebbles in places. The bay is wide, giving plenty of room to spread out towels or rent sunbeds under umbrellas.
The western part of the beach is the most organised area. Here you’ll find umbrellas, loungers, showers, changing rooms, and options for food and drinks. The eastern end is quieter, with fewer people, and connects to smaller coves and nearby beaches via a short dirt path.
Things to Do
Swim & Relax
The water here is usually calm and clean, perfect for swimming or just floating and cooling off on a hot summer day.
Water Sports
Damnoni is not just about sunbathing. You’ll find options for kayaking, paddleboarding, and even occasional windsurfing or kite adventures on windy days. There’s also a local water sports centre if you want equipment rentals or lessons.
Snorkelling
The clear water makes snorkelling enjoyable, especially near rocky areas where fish are more visible. The depth increases relatively quickly, so snorkelers should be comfortable swimming out a bit.
Walks & Small Coves
If you want some peace and quiet, walk towards the east end where the beach is less organised and find small sandy coves. These spots are excellent for a more private beach experience.
Food, Drinks & Facilities
Right behind the beach, you’ll find cafés, snack bars, and a few traditional Greek tavernas where you can enjoy fresh seafood, local salads, or a drink with a sea view. Many travellers recommend stopping for grilled fish or a Greek salad with feta after a swim.
There are showers and changing rooms on the more organised part of the beach, and plenty of shaded spots under umbrellas for those who prefer to stay out of the midday sun.
Nearby Places Worth Visiting
Damnoni’s location makes it easy to explore a few other beautiful spots nearby:
- Plakias Beach: A larger, well-known beach town with shops, taverns, and facilities. It’s only a few minutes west of Damnoni.
- Ammoudi & Ammoudaki: Smaller sandy beaches with calm water and natural surroundings.
- Preveli Beach: About 20–30 minutes away by car (or boat), Preveli is famous for its river, palm forest, and scenic atmosphere.
These beaches offer nice day trip options and add variety to your beach itinerary on Crete.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Damnoni Beach is from late May to early October when temperatures are warm and the sea is inviting for swimming. July and August are peak season months and can be busier, but the beach’s size means it rarely feels too crowded.
In spring (April–May) and early autumn (September–October), the weather is pleasant, and the sea is still warm with fewer visitors, making these ideal times for a quieter experience.
Practical Tips
- Parking: Arrive early during peak summer weekends for the best parking spots.
- Sunbeds: You can rent umbrellas and sunbeds for the day, usually paid directly on the beach. Many travellers suggest going early to secure a good shaded spot.
- Safety: Lifeguards are sometimes present on the organised western part, but always supervise children and weaker swimmers.
- Facilities: Showers, toilets, and changing areas are available near the organised section.
- Water Gear: Bring snorkelling gear if you have it, or rent locally on the beach for a few hours of underwater fun.
FAQs – Quick Answers
Is Damnoni Beach good for swimming?
Yes. The water is clear and usually calm, making it great for swimming and relaxing in the sea.
Are there facilities like showers and toilets?
Yes. On the organised side of the beach you’ll find showers, toilets, and changing rooms.
Can I rent umbrellas and loungers?
Yes. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, especially on the western end of the beach.
Is it kids-friendly?
Yes. The water is shallow near the shore and there are safe spots for families, plus lifeguard coverage in busy times.
Are there food options nearby?
Yes. There are several cafés and tavernas just behind the beach where you can eat or drink with a sea view.
Can you do water sports at Damnoni?
Yes. Kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and other water activities are available, and there’s a watersports centre on the beach.
Final Thoughts
Damnoni Beach is a must-visit if you’re exploring Crete’s southern coast. It strikes a great balance between natural beauty and beach services, giving you both comfort and scenic surroundings. Whether you’re looking to relax in the sun, swim in clear waters, or try a bit of water sport, Damnoni delivers a full beach experience with a relaxed Greek atmosphere.
