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Matala Beach

Relaxed Groove

Matala Beach, Crete Greece (image by Mark Latter)

Matala Beach, Μάταλα on the south coast of Crete, 75 km from Heraklion 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. Explore the surrounding Heraklion region.

The western end of Matala Beach with the caves and tamarisk trees

Matala Beach

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 the beach at Matala 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.

Matala has a sand and pebble beach with caves in the sandstone headland

I 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.

Matala bay and caves with fishing boat (image by Mark Latter)

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.

Matala History - its fascinating history, the hippies in the sixties, the modern beach music festival and the beautiful Matala moon.

Matala Music Festival - a summer of music and wide open spaces.

How to get to Matala by bus and all about the Sea Turtle conservation projects...

Stay inland at Kamilari Village - experience countryside village life in Crete and still be close to the beach - just 8 km inland.

Visit Vori Village which is a historic protected village to see and feel an authentic historic yet modern and vibrant Cretan village - just 15 km inland

Accommodation Matala Beach

Ageliki - a small, stylish studio perfectly positioned in the centre of the village, this is a beautifully modern comfortable pad. Central to Matala village, cafes and restaurants. Look out over the peninsular with its curves and caves from the balcony.

20 metres from the beach.

"Fantastic little gem in the centre! Apartment located very central with a wide range of resturants and beach round the corner. Fantastic host who was great with parking and a mini tour. Apartment it self good size for a couple with all the necessities and good size balcony with seats and lounger."

Check Rates & Availability at Ageliki

The family-run Nikos Hotel is leafy and shady, close to the beach and all tavernas and restaurants, kept spotless and the staff are helpful and friendly. A good affordable option in Matala, with private parking available. Just a few minutes walk to the famous caves.

100 metres from the beach.

"Right place, right price. A good location just off the main centre so quiet but close to everything. nice rooms, very clean with friendly staff. Free parking close by. Very pleased with this choice in Matala."

Check Rates & Availability at Nikos Hotel

Cretan Houses - in the small village of Pitsidia you will live like a local in the narrow village lane ways. Beautifully restored homes with stone traditional Cretan construction, and a wonderful quiet location. Enjoy life on your own patio or terrace or stroll to the village cafes. Receive true Cretan hospitality here. Self-cater with your own well equipped kitchen.

Situated 4 km from Matala and only 8 km from the ancient site of Phaistos.

“Excellent, well-built, traditional accommodation with very beautiful Cretan traditional decorations. Very good spot. Beautiful private courtyard with vines and bougainvilleas and outdoor shower. Very well equipped kitchen and bathroom.”

Check Rates & Availability at Cretan Houses

This small and affordable village house in the centre of Vori village will give you an experience of living like a local. Vintage House Vori is just a typical village house. Available are a double room and a three-person room, with shared bathrooms.

15 km from Matala Beach.

Exploring Around

Agiofarago Beach can be reached by walking through the gorge of the same name

Red Sand Beach, Komos Beach and Kokkinos Pirgos Beach are nearby.

Red Beach

There are many beaches in the south of Heraklion region to explore.

Within walking distance to Matala are Red Beach and Komos Beach. With a vehicle you can explore Kokkinos Pirgos and Agia Galini, as well as the more remote beaches of:

Vathi
Poros
Martsalo
Agiofarago
Kali Limenes

Clear waters diving off Matala

On the Map

See the location of Matala in the centre of the south coast of Crete on the map below:

Sunset video

A video of the beach - a meditative sunset - a calm, relaxing homage to this special place - with just the sound of the waves to lull you into a peaceful state...