Matala Beach

Matala Beach, on the south coast of Crete, 75 kms from Iraklion is a beautiful popular beach. It is a picturesque cove, with unusual rock formations and interesting caves, located well inside the Bay of Messara, so protected and calm.

With a sand and pebble beach, clear clean waters and great tavernas, Matala deserves its popularity.

Many people make this village their base for Cretan holidays, as it is so central on the south coast, and away from the over-development of the north coast.

Today Matala beach is ringed by shops and tavernas, yet still has a camping ground and tamarisk trees right at the beach edge, which gives it a relaxed feel.

There are plenty of small hotels, rooms and domatia, but no large resorts in Matala.

I last visited Matala beach in October and the water was still a perfect temperature for swimming. It is really worth taking your snorkelling gear as the waters of Messara Bay are very, very clear. There are ancient ruins to see under the water.

The caves and the history here can take some time to learn, as with other destinations of Crete, there have been many pages of history here. The caves are now protected and managed as an archaeological site. There are other ruins at the eastern end of the village.

Matala is still balanced, even after its popularity and the hippies of the 60’s, it is not ruined. Still it is a very small development, with rustic elements, and even though it is really busy in summer, it maintains its character and charm.

Fresh seafood is great here, shopping is good for organic wines, herbs and olive oil.

We like Matala for its cove and its relaxed groove. There is nothing like sitting back on one of the balconies overlooking the beach, watching the sunset over the Libyan Sea, gazing metaphorically over Africa.

Deciding where to stay in Matala? We have selected some wonderful beachside accommodation in Matala.

See our page about Matala Village

Getting to Crete; flights, ferries and more...

How to get to this beach; getting around in Crete

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