The beach of Matala is situated 68km southwest of Heraklion, where the Messara plain and Asteroussia Mountains intersect. It is one of the most frequented tourist spots in Crete and the most well-known beach in the southern region of the Heraklion prefecture. Matala is notable for its rock-carved caves and its association with the hippie culture of the 1970s. It lies in close proximity to Phaestus, the second largest palace of the Minoan civilization, having once served as its port. During the era of the Romans, Matala transformed into a port for Gortyn.
Nestled at the end of a small valley, Matala overlooks an enclosed bay with a picturesque view of the Paximadia islands. The beach spans 300m and features beautiful sandy shores, fine gravel, and crystal-clear deep waters. However, parts of the seabed, particularly the central area, are quite rocky and waves are common due to frequent westerly winds. A large cave can be found on the northern part of the beach, from which some thrill-seekers dive.
Matala beach is well-equipped with amenities such as umbrellas, restrooms, showers, lifeguards, first aid facilities, beach volleyball courts, snack bars, water sports, excursion boats, and a camping site. The surrounding area of Matala offers a range of accommodation, dining, and entertainment options. The beach is largely shaded by tamarisk trees, providing a respite from the sun. Come evening, the beach bars are brimming with people, both locals and tourists. The internationally acclaimed Matala Festival draws large crowds every June.
Matala beach has a rich history dating back to the Neolithic period. It was a popular spot for hippies in the 1960s and 1970s, who lived in the caves that line the cliffs above the Matala beach.
Yes, there are several cultural attractions near Matala beach, including the ancient city of Phaistos and the Minoan palace of Knossos.
Matala beach has a vibrant nightlife scene, with several bars and clubs that stay open late into the night.
Yes, Matala beach is suitable for families with children. The water is shallow and calm, and there are several activities for children to enjoy, such as building sandcastles and playing in the water.
The best time of year to visit Matala beach is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny.
The water colour of the Matala beach is blue and green.
The Matala beach has sand and fine pebbles.
The water at the Matala beach is deep.
The sea surface at the Matala beach is usually wavy.
Yes, the Matala beach is a crowded place.
The Matala beach has accommodation options, food/water nearby, umbrellas/beds, sports, lifeguard, and showers.
The Matala beach can be accessed through bus services, paved road, and is handicap friendly.
Yes, there is tree shade available at the Matala beach.
Find below list of things to do near Matala beach:
Early in the morning we will pick you up from your hotel or the nearest suitable pick up point with one of our air conditioned and comfortable buses so that we lead you at first to Matala, famous for the artificial caves in the cliff of the bay that were created in the Neolithic history, used later through the years as tombs or more likely as living spaces. In recent history, during the 70’s, the caves were occupied by hippies, a history that is nowadays celebrated every June during the 3 day Matala Beach Festival. In Matala you can enjoy swimming at the sandy beach, have a drink or a snack in one of the small picturesque cafe, or explore the village and the surrounding area. Three hours later, leaving from Matala we will go to Agia Galini, a famous tourist resort also in the South coast of Rethymno region, where you can relax, swim or enjoy your lunch in one of the many restaurants located at the small port and the alleys of the village. Final destination in our trip will be Spili, a small, traditional and very beautiful village, located at the Southwest side of mountain Vorizi, 30 klms away from the city of Rethymno. You can enjoy a walk, a soft drink at the central square with the famous 25 lionhead marble taps with water always running from the mountain.
One hour later we will take our way back to Rethymno where our day trip will come to an end.
We reach the famous beach of Matala. This is the place where Zeus, having taken the form a bull, swam ashore with Europa on his back before dragging her off to Gortys. Both the Minoans and the Romans used the place as their harbor. Nevertheless, for most people, Matala means only one thing: hippies. Back in the late 1960s – 1970s, this little town was a colony of the “flower children”, who lived in the caves that used to be former Roman tombs. Here we will enjoy the crystal waters, the warm sun and lunch by the sea, while later we can explore the prehistoric caves, carved on thesteep rocks of the area.
11:00 Arrival at Matala – free time
15:00 Departure from Matala
16:15 Arrival in Heraklion
Route: 90 km
Duration: app. 8 hours
Extras: Entrance Caves Matala (optional): 2,00 €
Pick up
Malia: 08:30
Stalis: 08:35
Hersonisos: 08:45
Anissaras: 08:55
Analipsi: 09:10
Gouves: 09:20
Gournes: 09:30
Kokkini Hani: 09:30
Karteros: 09:35
Heraklion: 09:45
Ammoudara: 09:55
Join us on a unique adventure as we travel along the island’s beautiful southern coast, stopping to enjoy the stunning scenery, cute towns, and stunning views of the water.
Get ready to be blown away by Matala’s stunning natural beauty when we get to this cute town. Grab a delicious lunch by the water and get ready to enjoy the beauty of the clear water, the warm sun, and the weather. Get ready for an interesting trip through ancient caves that have been carefully cut into the steep rocks of this amazing place.
Matala is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and towering hills that make the village’s setting truly gorgeous. It is located in a calm bay. The town has an interesting past. In the 1960s and 1970s, hippies came there because of its free-spirited vibe, natural beauty, and easygoing way of life. This is the spot where Zeus, dressed as a bull, brought Europa to Gortys while riding on his back. Both the Minoans and the Romans used this spot as a harbour. Matala, on the other hand, is usually associated with hippies by most people. The “flower children” lived in this cute town in the late 1960s and early 1970s. They were a group of free-spirited people. The caves, which used to be Roman tombs, were where they lived.
Our next stop is the famous beach of Matala, where you can swim, lay out in the sun on the fine sand, and explore the interesting caves that used to be home to the hippie community. Along the beach, there are also ruins of Roman buildings, such as the remains of an arena and a Roman bath.
Matala beach is beautiful, but after you’re done there, take a stroll through the village’s pretty streets. You will be charmed by the village’s traditional buildings, brightly coloured homes, and lively atmosphere. Enjoy the village’s charm by looking around the one-of-a-kind shops, eating delicious local food, or just relaxing in the friendly atmosphere.
As the day comes to a close, we’ll head back to Heraklion, remembering all the wonderful things that happened. On our trip to Matala, you will see the stunning natural beauty and interesting past of Crete. Make memories that will last a lifetime and amaze you.
Set off on a memorable day trip to southern Crete, a journey that weaves together the island’s historical richness with the stunning beauty of the Mediterranean.
Visit to Gortys Site:
Start with a 1.5-hour exploration of the ancient Gortys Site, delving into 5000 years of history. Wander among ruins that narrate the island’s past, from Minoan civilization to Roman dominion, revealing ancient laws, temples, and the essence of life in antiquity.
Matala’s Scenic Charm:
Then, take a scenic bus ride to the captivating town of Matala, once a haven for 60s and 70s hippies and still a magnet for those drawn to its relaxed atmosphere and scenic beauty. Spend over 4 hours enjoying Matala’s clear waters, exploring its iconic cliffside caves, and savoring a seaside lunch that offers a taste of Crete’s culinary delights.
Peaceful Return
Conclude your day with a peaceful bus ride back, reflecting on the day’s adventures and the everlasting beauty of Crete’s landscapes.
This day trip promises a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, ensuring lasting memories.
Intro:
Located approximately 68 km southwest of Heraklion, Matala is one of the most popular destinations and one of the most beautiful beaches of our island. Mostly famous for the caves carved in the rocks next to the beach and the hippies of the 60’s.
Gortyna,also known as Gortys, was a city of ancient Crete mentioned by numerous ancient writers for its importance and splendor that is by no means inferior to that of Knossos.
Full description:
Once you are greeted by our friendly driver and guide, your day trip is about to begin.
Our first stop of the day is a visit to the archaeological site of Gortyn which is located 45 km south of Heraklion. Inhabited since 3000 BC, evolved as one of the largest cities during the Minoan era, finally reaching its peak during the Roman Empire, the city of Gortyn is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Walk around the site and have a chance to travel back in time while admiring the ancient ruins.
After a quick ride, we reach our second destination, the village of Matala. As we approach the village, a beautiful sandy beach of around 300 m long will greet you. You will have plenty of time to dive in the crystal clear deep water, swim under the Cretan sun and have lunch in one of the traditional taverns surrounding the beach. Matala is also known for its hand-carved caves that are found in the cliff of its bay. The caves were created in the Neolithic Age and were used throughout history as living spaces. During the 60’s the caves were occupied by the hippies who travelled from all over the world in search of their very own paradise on earth.
Explore the intriguing caves, enjoy a refreshing dive and allow us to take you on an unforgettable experience.
We start driving through the route of the vineyards of crete. The villages we will cross are famous for the grape varieties and their wines and that is why there are many well-known wineries on our way.
Our first stop is at agios thomas a village at an altitude of 760 meters, dating back to 1371 AD. In the village there are byzantine churches, ruins of the byzantine aqueduct as well as roman era tombs.
Going down, we will cross the messara valley and following a route through olive groves, we will reach the monastery of odogitria one of the most famous monasteries of crete, dating back to the 14thcentury. You will be amazed by the beauty of the monastery and you will have the opportunity to visit the museum with objects of the daily life of cretans.
Following a beautiful dirt road we arrive at the entrance of agiofarago and start crossing it on foot. Walking through the gorge (with zero difficulty degree) you will have the opportunity to get close to sheep and goats which are beautiful and absolutely harmless. After 20 minutes walking you will end up on a beach with fine pebble that will really enchant you. It is the paradise of southern crete
After swimming in the crystal clear waters and driving through a beautiful dirt road we reach matala, the famous village of southern crete where the hippies lived in the 70s. You will have free time to admire the beauties of the village and visit the caves of the hippies.
We return to the hotel through a beautiful route. This journey will amaze and fill you with pictures that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Find below the list of hotels near Matala beach:
Set in Matala, a few steps from Matala beach and 1.1 km from Red Sand Beach, Διαμέρισμα Villa Iro offers air conditioning. It has a garden, mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The apartment with a balcony and sea views features 1 bedroom, a living room, a TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a toaster, and 1 bathroom with a hot tub. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment.
A car rental service is available at the apartment.
Phaistos is 12 km from Διαμέρισμα Villa Iro, while Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 15 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 64 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Located in Matala, just a few steps from Matala beach, Teacher’s Apartment provides beachfront accommodation with free WiFi. The air-conditioned accommodation is 1.1 km from Red Sand Beach.
The apartment with a balcony and sea views features 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment.
A car rental service is available at the apartment.
Phaistos is 12 km from Teacher’s Apartment, while Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 15 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 64 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Situated in Matala and only 100 metres from Matala beach, ROOF GARDEN SUITE features accommodation with sea views, free WiFi and free private parking. This apartment provides air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace.
The apartment has 1 bedroom, a flat-screen TV with streaming services and a fully equipped kitchen that provides guests with a dishwasher, an oven, a washing machine, a microwave and a toaster.
Red Sand Beach is 1 km from the apartment, while Phaistos is 12 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 64 km from ROOF GARDEN SUITE.
from
€143
/night
Ageliki Studio is an accommodation located in Matala, a few steps from Matala beach and 700 metres from Red Sand Beach. This property offers access to a balcony and free WiFi.
The air-conditioned apartment consists of 1 bedroom, a kitchenette with dining area, and 1 bathroom with shower. Towels and bed linen are offered.
Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the apartment, while hiking can be enjoyed nearby.
Kommos Beach is 1.8 km from Ageliki Studio. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 71 km from the accommodation.
from
€85
/night
Set in Matala in the Crete region, with Matala beach and Red Sand Beach nearby, Boutique Hotel Die Zwei Brüder offers accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking.
All units come with a seating area, a flat-screen TV with streaming services and a private bathroom with a hair dryer and walk-in shower. Some units feature a terrace and/or a balcony with sea or mountain views.
Breakfast is available every morning, and includes buffet, continental and vegetarian options.
If you would like to discover the area, cycling, fishing and hiking are possible in the surroundings and the bed and breakfast can arrange a car rental service.
Phaistos is 12 km from Boutique Hotel Die Zwei Brüder, while Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 15 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 64 km from the accommodation.
from
€112
/night
Set within 100 metres of Matala beach and 1.1 km of Red Sand Beach in Matala, Platia Studios offers accommodation with seating area. Free WiFi is featuredthroughout the property.
The air-conditioned units have a fully equipped kitchenette with dining area, a fridge, coffee machine, and a stovetop. Some units feature a terrace and/or a balcony with mountain or garden views.
Hiking can be enjoyed nearby.
Phaistos is 12 km from the apartment, while Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 15 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 64 km from Platia Studios, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€63
/night
Find below list of beaches near Matala beach:
The Kokkini Ammos, or Red Beach, can be found 68km southwest of Heraklion and a short 800m from the popular resort of Matala. You can reach this hidden gem by following a clearly marked trail from Matala, which takes you over Kastri hill. While the trail includes some initial rock climbing and a steep descent at the end, it’s quite feasible. After a 15-25 minute walk from Matala, passing through a shepherd’s gate along the way, the breathtaking Red Beach comes into view. It’s an ideal spot for enjoying panoramic views and beautiful sunsets. Alternatively, you can also reach the beach by boat from Matala Harbour for a small fee of around 5 euros.
The beach is most noted for its red sand, a result of the area’s unique geology, which forms a stunning contrast against the bright blue-green sea. However, it’s important to note that it’s not shielded from the typical western winds in the region. The beach has minimal facilities, with a simple stone-wall coffee shop that opens occasionally offering food and drinks, and some umbrellas. It’s recommended to bring your own mats and umbrellas as the only natural shade is provided by a few tamarisk trees near the canteen.
In the 1960s and 70s, Red Beach was a popular spot among hippies, and its legacy continues with enthusiasts still visiting the beach regularly. Especially the northern part of the beach has gained a reputation as a nudist-friendly area and has gained international recognition for this. The beach and its surrounding area are protected by the Natura 2000 program due to its ecological importance.
The northern end of the beach features a long rocky limestone formation, similar to the limestone found in Matala. These rocks are decorated with carvings of Minoan and Egyptian sea figures, created by Gerard, a Belgian fan of Matala. These carvings have become a key part of the beach’s appeal. Between Matala and the Red Beach, there’s a large rock known as Theosini that offers stunning views of Messara Bay. This rock has been eroded by the sea, creating a marine cave known as Kouroupi, which can only be accessed by boat. The cave is a haven for endangered Mediterranean seals and various species of wild pigeons.
Situated 66km southwest of Heraklion, Kommos (or Komos) lies a mere 2km north of Matala and in close proximity to Pitsidia village. It stands as the southernmost and remotest section of the extensive beachfront of Messara Bay. Once serving as the port of Phaestus, the remnants of the ancient port of Kommos can still be observed on the beach. It can be reached by driving towards Matala and following a sign to Kommos near Pitsidia.
The entire beachfront of Messara is exposed to the prevalent westerly winds. Visitors should exercise caution as the seabed can be rocky in certain areas. The beach also serves as a nesting ground for the protected loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) between the months of May and September.
Potamos or Potamoserma, the northern section of Kommos, is a popular spot among naturists, dating back to when hippies frequented the area. The location is dotted with sparse tamarisk trees and devoid of buildings due to its protected archaeological status, restricting construction. Next to the archaeological site in the south, there is a developed beach equipped with amenities such as umbrellas, sun beds, a toilet, showers, a canteen and a lifeguard. Surrounding sand dunes are home to white sand lilies that mark the end of summer. Nearby Kalamaki or Pitsidia and Matala offer options for accommodation and dining.
The sight of Paximadia islets during sunset is breathtaking. A large rock, known locally as Volakas, stands 300m out at sea, opposite the archaeological site. According to local lore, this rock is the tip of the boulder that the blinded Cyclops Polyphemus hurled at Odysseus’ ship to prevent his escape, following Odysseus and his crew’s escape from Polyphemus’ cave.
Kommos, the ancient port of Phaestus, was established around 200BC. However, it was subsequently destroyed by an earthquake and then rebuilt at the same location. The archaeological site of Komos, not open to the public, houses a Minoan harbour, public buildings, warehouses, oil presses, shipyards and a large courtyard. Archaeologists have uncovered a small temple, constructed on the ruins of an older one.
Gournia, a remote area situated on the outskirts of the Pigaidakia village in the Asterousia Mountains, lies between Vathi beach and the rugged location of Sideropetra. This is along the route that links Matala with Vathi. Reaching Gournia from the mainland demands a high level of fitness due to the strenuous and shadeless journey. However, the raw charm of the landscape makes up for the difficulty.
The region is marked by the soft white limestone that has been eroded by the sea, giving it a resemblance to a lunar landscape. In Gournia, there are five successive, narrow, and rocky bays formed at the outlets of deep streams, reminiscent of tiny fjords. Several small natural ponds, or troughs, which give the place its name, Gournia (meaning troughs), are also present.
In the largest and most dramatic fjord, a small, captivating beach is occasionally formed, depending on the eastward carrying portable materials by the winter rains. This unnoticed beach was photographed by Manolis Dretakis and Nektarios Savvakis in May 2020, providing a delightful surprise as it was previously considered just a rocky bay.
To reach Gournia, one has to endure a walk from Matala, which takes around two and a half hours, or from Vathi, taking one and a half hours, where a dirt road from the Monastery of Panagia Odigitria leads to the area.
Kalamaki, a quaint seaside hamlet, is nestled between Matala and Kokkinos Pirgos, 65km southwest of Heraklion. The beach, a 2.5km stretch of the vast Messara Bay coastline, graces the village’s front. Its sandy shore is kissed by the sea, which conceals a slick, flat rock bed beneath its surface. It features large waves, usually stirred by northwest winds, making beach access challenging at times due to the rocky seabed.
The village-facing part of the beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, eateries, accommodation, a lifeguard, playground, and water sports. For a more isolated experience, head southeast towards Kommos beach, a favorite among nudists.
To the north, you’ll find Afratias and the Pahia Ammos beach, which features patches of rocks. Devoid of amenities, the beach does boast a small park used for hosting cultural events like concerts during summer months.
Further north lies the Timbaki military airport, now serving as a resort for Greek Air Force staff. Although the beachfront is accessible, trespassing beyond the fence is prohibited and could lead to arrest. Sometimes, parachuters and skydivers can be spotted descending from small aircraft, courtesy of a local club based at the airport. In 2008, a small plane crashed into the Kalamaki sea, with the pilot miraculously surviving the ordeal. The Tymbaki airport holds ecological significance for the Mesara plains as it’s intersected by the Geropotamos River, which flows out to the beach. This river, the area’s largest, serves as a sanctuary for hundreds of rare birds across its numerous ponds.
The sandy coast of Messara Bay is a protected breeding ground for the loggerhead sea turtle. To prevent nest destruction and avoid frightening these creatures, it’s best not to roam the beach’s darker areas during summer nights.
Although Kalamaki doesn’t boast a significant history due to its relatively new establishment, it’s a popular seaside resort for Kamilari locals. Some believe it once served as a small harbor for Phaestus or Gortys in ancient times, though no concrete evidence supports this claim.
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