Damnoni beach

Damnoni beach: a practical beach day near Plakias

Damnoni, about 5 km east of Plakias: a long bay of whitish sand and calm turquoise water, fully organised, with a quieter east end and Ammoudi next door.

By TripToCrete · Updated 20 October 2026 · 2 min read

Quick answer: Damnoni is a long bay of coarse whitish sand about 5 km east of Plakias by road and 35 km south of Rethymno. The turquoise water is shallow and usually calm, and the beach is fully organised with sunbeds, water sports and a diving centre.
Region
Plakias area, south Rethymno
Distance
35 km from Rethymno
Beach
Coarse whitish sand, calm water
Facilities
Sunbeds, water sports, diving centre
Damnoni beach

The bay

The western end, where a small stream reaches the beach, is the most developed, with hotels and the most sunbeds. The eastern end is quieter. Small coves lie to the west near the little harbour.

The bay is better protected than Plakias, so it is often the calmer choice when the wind blows.

Activities

Sunbeds, showers, water sports, a diving centre and horse riding are all available in season. Snorkelling along the rocky edges is easy.

Walk to Ammoudi

From the east end a short dirt road leads to the Ammoudi coves, with their bright green water. Ammoudaki, reached by walking east from Damnoni, is used by naturists.

Questions before you go

Is Damnoni calmer than Plakias?

Usually, yes, because the bay is better protected.

Is Damnoni organised?

Yes, with sunbeds, showers, water sports and a diving centre.

How far is Ammoudi from Damnoni?

A few hundred metres east, a short walk or drive.

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