The Most Exciting Things to Do in Matala, Crete’s Last Hippie Beach!

beach, sea, caves, Matala, Crete

Sharing is caring!

Matala is a popular destination on the rather solitary southern coast of Crete, in the region of Heraklion. The place shelters a unique hippie atmosphere, and even just one day spent in Matala is enough to feel its vibe and connect with the bohemian side of Crete.

So, let’s discover how to get to Matala, what to do in the village, the surrounding area, and everything there is to know about Malata Beach, let me show you the best things to do in Matala during your holidays in Crete.


Disclaimer: Posts include affiliate links to products or services. I might earn a commission if you make a purchase.


Matala Beach Crete
The Ideal Hippie Scene on Crete Island

Matala Beach

ARE YOU PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO CRETE LAST MINUTE?

Be sure to book accommodation and tours in Crete ahead of time to ensure availability!

📍 These are some of the tours I recommend on the island:
Full-day Samaria Gorge trek (#1 tour in Crete!)
Boat cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa (top-selling tour!)
Ticket to Knossos Archaeological Site (top tour in Heraklion)
Day trip to Elafonisi (a must in Chania!)

🛌 These are three convenient hotels in Crete:
Lyttos Beach (beachfront in Hersonissos, near Heraklion)
SanSal Boutique Hotel (near Chania Old Town with a pool!)
Grecotel Lux Me White Palace (beachfront in Rethymnon)

Remember that the best way to get around Crete is by car. Check rental car rates for Crete here.

Located about one hour south of Heraklion, the capital of Crete, Matala is a famous hippie destination as well as a super popular seaside resort on the southern coast, facing the Libyan Sea.

matala beach
Sitting by the legendary carved tree at the entrance of Matala.

Matala is a laid-back village with colorful shops and alleys, the beach of Malata is a wide sandy bay with a deep crystal clear sea.

The most fascinating trait that you will see on the beach is a series of man-made caves, carved on the rock on a low hill standing on the western side of the shore.

Why You Should Include Matala in Your Crete Road Trip

GREECE - CRETE - MATALA AFTERNOON

It’s certainly a great idea to rent a car and visit Crete on the road, road trips offer great opportunities to explore lesser-known areas and hidden spots.

It also lets you just pack and leave if you find that the place where you are doesn’t have what you are looking for.

In my opinion, car travel in Crete is the best way to go about discovering the most authentic side of the island.

matala beach
The shore and the hippie caves of Matala.

Still, road trips need some planning, which can sometimes come with doubt. If you are uncertain whether to make Matala one of your stops, first consider what you expect to see and do once in the village.

If you are going to Matala hoping to find spectacular, solitary beaches, soft sand, and shallow waters, then forget it. Set your GPS to another destination and go somewhere else.

Matala is not the best beach in Crete, but it is one of the most popular ones. And there’s a lot to see, even if it’s just for a day.

So let’s see now what things to expect when visiting Matala!

Pro tip: If you are in Heraklion, a visit to the hippie village of Matala is among the top things to do in the region. This full-day tour to Matala with transport from Heraklion is a good alternative if you don’t want to drive!

Matala Map & Distances From the Rest of Crete

matala beach

If you’re wondering how much you need to drive before reaching Matala, these are the distances you’ll have to cover to get there from some other popular areas in Crete:

  • Sitia – Matala: 190 km, about 3 hours
  • Agios Nikolaos – Matala: 124 km, a little less than 2 hours
  • Ierapetra – Matala: 123 km, 2 hours and 20 minutes
  • Heraklion – Matala: 65 km, just 1 hour and minutes
  • Rethymnon – Matala: 80 km, 1 hour and 45 minutes
  • Chania – Matala: 134 km, about 2 and a half hours.

You might also want to learn how to get from Heraklion to Matala.

matala beach

STAY IN MATALA: This article includes the best places to stay in Matala and the nearby villages.

Getting to Matala from North Crete: How to Reach Matala from Heraklion

Map Heraklion - Matala, Crete.
Heraklion – Matala map 2023.

It is not difficult to reach Matala if you’re traveling from Heraklion. The road from the capital, on the northern coast, takes you to the opposite side of the island in a little more than one hour (the shortest road is about 66 km).

From the center of Heraklion, you must head to the north up to Gazi, and once there, take the national road Heraklio-Festos (also written as Faistos and as Phaistos on the road signs).

The journey is pretty straight for the first 20 minutes or so until the village of Agia Varvara. Once there, keep going for about 15 minutes until you reach the village of Moires.

Here you can decide to stop and pay a visit to the Archaeological Site of Phaistos, in that case, you have to stay on the road and follow the signs to the archaeological site.

Instead, if you want to go straight to Matala, once in Moires, turn left and take the Miron – Pompias / Koraka road.

After no more than 5 minutes of driving the Gortinas – Matalon road, turn right and follow the signs. The road goes straight to Matala Beach. 

When planning a road trip to Matala, car rental is one of the first things to consider. Go ahead and use a powerful search engine that can compare different companies and get you the best price.

Getting to Matala from South Crete: The Road to Matala from Ierapetra (East Crete)

Map Ierapetra-Matala Crete island
Ierapetra – Matala map 2023.

If you are coming from the southeast of Crete, it will take you some more time to get there.

The trip from Ierapetra to Matala lasts about 3 hours and it can get tedious at times, but you can devote half a day to the whole trip and make frequent stops to discover places that otherwise you would miss. This will make the trip more enjoyable:

The first time I took this road trip, my first stop was Myrtos, about 15 km from Ierapetra. The village is small and very picturesque, it has a beautiful beach and it’s worth a short visit.

The beach in Myrtos is sandy and with grey tones but good for kids because it’s protected from the winds.

If you are not interested in going out at night or are looking for a relaxing holiday, this is a top destination for a peaceful vacation in South Crete.

GREECE - CRETE - LASITHI - MYRTOS
Myrtos.

In Myrtos, it’s possible to visit the Minoan settlement of Pirgo (also Pyrgo), reachable on foot and with a nice view of the sea.

After this first stop, you can keep going to Matala, after about a one-hour drive, you will come across a very traditional Cretan settlement, Ano Viannos, about 560 meters a.s.l.

matala beach
Ano Viannos.

Ano Viannos (Upper Vianos) has always been one of my favorite villages in the Heraklion region.

The mountain landscape is dotted with colorful honey bee boxes, abundant and fragrant thyme bushes, and lots of olive trees.

Ano Viannos is a small village cut in half by a narrow main road with traditional cafés and tavernas on both sides.

Locals are proud of their extra virgin olive oil and their honey, which you can taste in one of the few local shops on the main road of the village.

Stop here for a driving break. Have a glass of homemade orange juice or a cup of strong Greek coffee, stretch your legs, and get back in the car, there’s still a long way to Matala.

Best Things to Do in Matala Beach, Crete 

matala beach
Checking the local hippie art is another of the great things to do in Matala, Crete. The carved tree is at the entrance of Matala.

So, once you’ve made it to Matala, there’s a lot you can explore, start with the beach, and then visit the village.

Check the surrounding area, the nearby archaeological sites, and other beaches too.
Let’s see which are the best things that Matala has to offer.

Arriving at Matala Beach

matala beach

Parking in Matala

Once you’ve made it to the seaside village, the first thing you’ll find is a parking nightmare, especially in August, but not only.

As soon as you find a parking spot, make it yours.

There is one big parking lot at the entrance of the village. Here it is easier to find where to park, but you will need to walk a few hundred meters to get to the shore.

matala beach
Bigger parking lot.

There’s also a parking spot right by the beach, it is smaller, and often full (they will let you know at the entrance whether you can go down and park, or if you need to maneuver in the chaotic lot, and go back to the main road to park somewhere else.

matala beach
Access to the smaller parking lot close to the beach.

The fee to park here is about €3 for the day, there is no hourly fee.

You can get drinks and snacks for your beach day at the mini-market and grocery stores near the parking lot.

matala beach
If you’re lucky enough to find parking next to the beach, €3 will settle you for the whole day.

The Beach of Matala

The beach is fairly long and wide but tends to get very crowded in July and August.

Matala is, indeed, one of the most popular destinations on the island. Keep that in mind to avoid any unexpected frustration.

matala beach

There are dozens of restaurants, bars, and taverns by the sea, and all of them used to be super convenient. In the last years, though, the village has become very popular, and more tourists visit each year.

matala beach
Afternoon at Matala Beach.

This has made prices go up quite a lot to eat and sleep in Matala…

Worry not, some places still remain where you can eat and have a drink at affordable (more Cretan-like) prices.

matala beach

The beach is a mix of pebbles and sand.

The sea is wavy and it gets deep quite close to the shore, so if you’re traveling with kids you will need to be extremely careful at all times.

matala beach
View of Matala from the caves.

On the positive side, being a rather deep bay, and being embraced by hills (the famous caves we will discuss next), Matala is well protected from the strong winds.

However, there are frequent sea currents as well, so be careful.

matala beach
When the sun goes down at Matala…


In a nutshell, the sea in Matala it’s not calm and shallow, and it is not the perfect beach for small kids. On the other hand, though, it is a great spot for divers and submarine experiences.

matala beach
Sunset, Matala Beach.

Matala is also a great place to spot the sunset.

It is the most popular time on the beach as well as the best moment to visit the caves so as not to climb under the heat of the afternoon sun.

matala beach
Chill by the sea at sunset.

Most people gather on the beach to witness the sunset and have a drink at one of the few beach bars on the sand. Chill, listen to music, and let the sun go slowly down behind the sea.

Explore the Matala Caves

matala beach
A view of the beach from inside the caves.

Different sources agree that Matala’s caves are works of men who carved them out of the cliffs on the north side of the beach, and they are thousands of years old.

In Ancient times, Matala was the port of Phaistos during the Minoan period (although some sources claim that Kommos was the port of the ancient Minoan Palace.

Then, back in 220 BC, Gortyn took over, and, subsequently, during the Roman period, Matala became the port of Gortyn (also known as Gortys and Gortyna).

matala beach
Roman cemetery, Matala Caves.

It has been suggested that the caves were once used as tombs from Roman times, and in fact, you will see signs indicating the place as a Roman cemetery.

matala beach

However, for a more extended period of time, they were mostly used as living spaces.

The caves in Matala are thought to belong to the Early Christian period but there is no fact proving any speculation.

matala beach

Most of the caves show spaces with areas devoted to sleeping or storing food. They are not just simply caves, they have windows, porches, and even carved seats and beds.

The caves of Matala were used as real homes thousands of years ago.

It’s possible to visit the caves, but it’s not allowed to settle for the night.

A protective fence surrounds the cave (to avoid entering but not actually to protect you from falling as you visit) and a small entrance fee (€4 in 2022).

matala beach

The caves are open from 10 am to 7 pm (from 6 to 7 is the best time to visit).

If you are an EU citizen under 25 and show proof of ID, access is free. Reduced fees apply to senior citizens, journalists, and other categories.

matala beach
Prices, opening hours, and warning signs at the ticket booth, Matala Caves.

It’s essential to be careful during the visit. Yes, you will see people climbing the different levels of the caves, but I wonder if that is simply a consequence of the caves being right by the beach.

I suggest you pack a pair of tennis shoes to visit.

matala beach

They are not dangerous but pay attention if you’re not super skilled to climb (especially when going down).

At the entrance booth, you will even find a sign that says: Enter at your own risk. if you’re visiting with kids, pay close attention to them at all times.

matala beach

During the early 60s, when Matala was nothing but an unknown fishing village, the area became popular, and little by little, they were occupied by hippies until the next decade when the hippies were sent away by the Greek military Junta (1970s).

matala beach

Matala’s hippie atmosphere is pretty much alive all year round, however, it fully comes to life every year in June when locals celebrate the Matala Beach festival, with bands coming from the mainland, music, and dances for three days in a row.

You might also want to read about the hike from Matala to Red Beach.

Enjoy the Laid-Back Hippie Village

matala beach

The town still lives on the fame gained during the sixties.

Back then, alternative rock singers such as Cat Stevens and Joni Mitchell lived in the caves for long periods, composing and enjoying this remote island still pretty much unknown to mass tourism. 

Does the line under a starry dome…beneath the Matala Moon ring the bell? It’s Carey, the song in which Joni Mitchell talked about the free life of flower children.

Life Magazine Cover Matala Crete

>> Do you want to read an authentic source from the 70s? Check this link to open a Life Magazine issue where there’s an article describing the nomads from those years and their life In Matala!

matala beach
Matala main square.

Hippies all over the World overtook Matala in the ’60s and ’70s, a place and time when they could live a simple and natural life, made of love, peace… and probably other ingredients too!

matala beach

Today, the village is small and easy to visit, full of small bars, pubs, taverns, and tons of souvenir shops.

There are colors and music everywhere, street artists, and a fun, entertaining atmosphere at all hours. 

Most cafeterias surround a small central square with trees and flowers.

matala beach

The best places to hang out are on the eastern side of the beach, where a long promenade extends all the way until the end of the bay.

Here you will find lots of bars playing cool music until almost the morning after.

Other interesting places to visit in Matala are the bookstores, most of which sell curious books about the island as well as about Matala’s glorious past and famous residents. Some also sell old records and classic CDs.

matala beach

If you – just like me – enjoy curious bookshops, music from the 70s, elephant pants, colorful sarongs, hippie outfits, handmade leather sandals, crochet bags, and handmade ceramics, this will be heaven!

matala beach
Emerald green water, Matala.

Finally, and for families with kids – but also the child still living in you – the colorful roads painted by visitors who especially gather for the occasion are amusing.

Every year, street artists from around the world come to Matala to paint and leave their messages on the streets.

Shopping for Souvenirs in the Village and Market of Matala

matala beach
Gorgeous souvenir shops on the streets of Matala.

The village’s streets seem to be a considerable souvenir market with dozens of colorful stalls and shops selling handcrafted souvenirs.

However, an actual traditional market (Paradosiako Agora Matalon) was established in 1973.

matala beach
The market, Matala.
matala beach
The street market.

Stalls mainly sell hippie memorabilia and flower-power garments, including leather sandals, t-shirts, hippie bags (like the one I bought for myself, see the picture above inside the cave!), beachwear, sarongs, and elephant pants.

matala beach
matala beach
matala beach
matala beach
matala beach

The shops that are not inside the market sell ceramics, home decor, cups, paintings, music, books, and much more.

Prices can sometimes look a bit high. If you’re on a budget and still want to buy your Matala set of souvenirs, I suggest you buy your beach sarong at the nearby village of Kalamaki to save a few euros.

Matala Street Art

Matala Village Crete
A table in a local café.

Matala is the place to visit in Crete if you enjoy street art and graffiti.

Everything is lively and colorful everywhere you look.

At the entrance of the village, you will be greeted by a legendary black Beetle painted in Matala style that has made its way to all photos of Matala during the last decades.

It belongs to a shop that sells the same stickers which you can also get for your own house as a Matala souvenir (we got our sticker flower for our car too!).

matala beach

Here are some photos of Matala’s best colors…

matala beach
matala beach
matala beach
matala beach
matala beach
matala beach
matala beach

Where to Eat in Matala Beach

The beachside tavernas are colorful, picturesque, and many of them very convenient. In general, not all of them are heavily priced (nor truly memorable) but the food quality is good.

matala beach
There are tons of places where to eat in Matala.

If you’re on a budget, avoid eating by the sea or choosing fish as a main course. Instead, head to the center of the village, the main square, or the clothes market.

Here, there are a few small grills serving regular gyro wraps, you will eat great food and your pocket will be happy.

matala beach

There are also a few pubs in the central square, they are great for an afternoon drink, an ice cream, or a sweet, but a whole meal at a Matala pub can be expensive.

We often ate at the market at midday when we wanted something quick and light. We also had a fairly informal lunch by the sea once (grilled octopus and dolmades – grape leaves, stuffed with a rice mix, shaped into little rolls, and boiled-) at Taverna Eleni, right on the beach.

The food was pretty good and the kids eat without making any fuss… and that’s saying something. For dessert, the usual shot of tsikoudia came with delicious warm loukoumades with tons of local honey.

The prices were affordable.

matala beach

Another good place to eat is Gianni’s Family (you must book as it is always full). We had rabbit stifado and delicious grilled meat.

The place is almost at the end of the main road, heading to the sea.

Boho Beach Bar is perfect for pancakes with all kinds of delicious chocolate sauces on top and really affordable at a fantastic location.

matala beach

Sunset Taverna is another simple and traditional tavern by the sea, while you need to visit Scala, also by the sea, for premium seafood.

And for a drink, don’t doubt it and head to Marinero, right next to the sea, the cocktails are good!

GREECE-CRETE-MATALA-BEACH-HUTS

All in all, I always enjoy visiting Matala, the atmosphere, and the beach.

Shops and bars have a bohemian touch, there are bookstores and pubs everywhere. Everything is colorful, cheerful, and stimulating to the senses.

It’s a little fishing village where to spend a day or many, that’s up to you!

Matala in Greek Mythology

matala beach

According to Greek mythology, Matala played a key role in the development of Crete’s history.

The myth reveals that Zeus seduced Princess Europa by taking the form of a white bull and that, later on, he crossed the sea bringing her to the beach of Matala. 

Once there, he changed his shape from a white bull into an eagle and flew her to Gortys where he had sex with her.

Europa and Zeus had three sons, Minos, Rhadamanthus, and Sarpedon.
Later on, she married Asterios turning into the stepmother of his daughter, Crete.

You might also want to read about more things to do in Heraklion, Crete.

Archaeological Sites Near Matala

There’s more to Heraklion than Knossos the region is a great place to explore if you love archaeological sites, near Matala you can visit a few of them, take a look

The Archaeological Site of Phaistos (Φαιστός)

Matala - Festos Map, Crete island
Matala – Festos map. 2023.

One of the best things you can do near Matala is to pay a visit to the Minoan Site of Phaistos (also Faistos and Festos).

The archaeological site of Phaistos is located in the Messara Plain, roughly in the south-central portion of the island, and a little more than 50 kilometers from the capital Heraklion.

It’s also quite close to another spectacular archaeological site, Gortys, and just minutes from Matala too.

Phaistos is one of the most important archaeological sites in Crete, receiving many thousands of visitors annually, so get ready to queue also here (and not just in Knossos).

Phaistos is “Φαιστός” in Greek and you may find it also written as Festos, Phaestos, or Faistos, but you pronounce it Festòs.

matala beach

The Minoan Palace of Phaistos corresponds to a flourishing city that arose in the fertile Messara Plain in prehistoric times, from 6000 BC to the 1st century BC, as archaeological studies have confirmed.

The history of the palace is made of turbulent ingredients and legendary stories. The first Palace of Phaistos dates its construction to about 2000 BC.

King Minos is described as its mythical founder while his brother, Radamanthys, was the first king in the Palace.

matala beach

The palace suffered from the consequences of a strong earthquake in 1700 but it was rebuilt immediately.

The site has been the main religious and cult center of south Crete for ages and a visit to the ruins confirms the magnificence that the place still displays.

A few hundred years later, when the neighboring Gortys took over and dominated the region decadence took place in Phaistos, which started its slow decline. 

Find out more about other remarkable archaeological sites in Crete

Best Things to See in Phaistos

matala beach

The unique architecture of the palace, defined as almost perfect, makes Phaistos the finest and most typical Minoan palace as well as the best-preserved of all.

Maybe the most beautiful characteristic of this Minoan Palace is the impressive monumental entrance also known as the West Propylon.

The palace is contemporary to Knossos but if you have already visited the first one, you might either be stunned at the differences or recognize the similarities between both archaeological sites.

Phaistos did not undergo the same level of restoration that interested Knossos.

On the other hand, there are certain construction traits shared by both sites, and by the other two unearthed Minoan Palaces in Crete (Malia, close to Heraklion, and Zakros in Lasithi).

Both the old (protected by a shed) and the new Palaces of Festos spread on different terraces, and are completely built with blocks of stone (known as ashlar). During your visit, don’t forget to check the storerooms, the workshops, and the royal quarters. 

The court of the new Palace of Phaistos and the Temple dedicated to the Great Mother Rhea are quite stunning as well, although they belong to a more recent period in history.

Remember that you can see all the artifacts and findings from Festos in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, including the enigmatic Disc of Festos or the Disc of Phaistos.

Hours, tickets, and special fees

The Archaeological Site of Phaistos has the following timetable:

Summer
On Mondays from 13.00 to 19.30
From Tuesdays to Fridays, from 08.00 to 19.30
Winter
From November 1st to March 31st, from 08:30 to 15:00
Ticket
Full price 8€, Reduced fee 4€. Reduced fees apply to the following categories:
– Greek citizens and citizens of other European countries over 65 years old (ID card or passport needed)
– Escorts on educational visits (primary schools)
– University students (high education institutes or equivalent, student ID card needed)
– For free admission categories, check this site.
– This tour takes you both to Matala Beach and Phaistos Palace on a day trip.

The Archaeological Site of Agia Triada (Αγία Τριάδα)

matala beach
(O. Tausch, Wikimedia Commons).

Agia Triada is another imposing archaeological site located 4 km from Festos. The site is located on a scenic spot, overlooking the Gulf of Messara.

Despite the unique frescoes and vase findings, among the finest examples of Minoan art (and also exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion), the site is thought to have been a royal villa.

Others believe, instead, that the place was the home of some wealthy merchant or even a prince.

Agia Triada might not be as popular as Knossos or Festos, but that’s what’s special about it, there are no crowds or queues to visit, and the views are inspiring. The ticket’s full price is 4€ (2€, reduced), and more there’s information about the site here.

Best Places to Visit Near Matala

When spending some time in South Heraklion, explore more and discover the following areas too… You won’t regret it!

Red Beach (Kokkini Ammos)

matala beach
Soft sand at Kokkini Ammos.

The Red Beach has slowly turned into a legend in Crete both among locals and visitors.

There is no magic to it anymore because… everyone wants to hike to Red Beach!

matala beach
The road to Red Beach.

Famous for being a naturist spot, the only way to reach this secluded bay is through the mountains, you will need to hike up, and then down to get there, but you will be rewarded by the views, both of the sea and the inland.

matala beach

As its name tells you, it has reddish-golden sand and the waters are crystal clear, it’s a good place for snorkeling thanks to the colorful seabed.

The hippie spirit is a bit more authentic than in the more popular Matala. There is just one beach serving – first and foremost – mojito! Gianni’s Mojito bar is a legendary place in Red Beach.

Matala- Red beach map
Matala – Red Beach trail. Map data © 2023 Google.

The price for a mojito was €8 (September 2022), but trust me, it was delicious. And the tavern is a great place to cool down when the beach gets really hot.

There are music and wall decorations in authentic hippie style!

matala beach
The beach from Gianni’s Mojito.
matala beach
The color of the sea is amazing.
matala beach
Mojito Bar, Kokkini Ammos
matala beach

Read about more nudist beaches in Crete here.

If you decide to hike, you need just to follow the white arrows signs, there are plenty in Matala, literally everywhere!

Don’t forget to carry water with you, and a hat, or even better, check what to pack for a remote beach in Crete.

Kommos, the Village, and the Archaeological Ruins

Matala - Kommos map ,  Crete
Matala – Kommos map – Google maps 2023.

Kommos is worth visiting and not just to find convenient accommodation. In the area, you can visit Ancient Kommos.

Unfortunately, the archaeological site of Kommos, which looks pretty big, remains closed to the public, but you can take a very good look at it from the perimeter fence or from above.

Kommos
The archaeological site of Kommos ( O. Tausch Wikipedia Commons)

Experts consider Kommos to have been a Minoan harbor town (probably the main port of Agia Triada or even Phaistos).

There is also a beach, maybe a little windy, but very pretty on days without wind.

There’s no worthy accommodation in town, the closest place to sleep is Kalamaki.

matala beach
Kommos ruins.

If you decide to spend the night here, check out Kritkies Elaia, a traditional Cretan house made of stone, the typical building material on the island.

Studios have always been a cheap and popular option, but you can upgrade to a villa all to yourself for just a few euros.

Spend the Night in the Area: Matala and Other Villages

matala beach
Visit the caves before sunset, the weather is less hot and it’s easier to climb around.

It’s pretty difficult to find accommodation in Matala if you show up without a reservation, especially during the high season. For that reason, I’ve written a special guide to the best hotels and rental homes in Matala.

But if you plan to book in advance, some of the best places are the Matala Caves apartments located right opposite the legendary caves of Matala with a great view of the sea and the bay.

Another good option is Elektra, a great apartment with pretty decorations in the Greek style, and superb views.

Where to Sleep in Kalamaki

Kalamaki Beach
Sun setting on the horizon. Beach of Kalamaki.

Not far from Matala, there is a good place where to spend the night if you are doing Crete on the road and want to avoid overpriced accommodation in Matala.

Kalamaki is a small town, we only found a few tourists and even fewer shops. If you plan to stay for more than a night, choose Rodanthi guest house.

The atmosphere is more relaxed and solitary. The sandy beach is great for kids and the great landscape in the distance includes the wonderful mountains of Crete, as well as the village of Agia Galini.

It’s a perfect place for sunset pictures. The place was truly magical, powerful, silent, and memorable. Maybe with a more hippie spirit than Matala.

Where to Sleep in Kamilari

where to stay in south crete

The village is located on a hill and has a rather decent and varied offer of tavernas and accommodation due to the ex-pat community that lives in the place.

It’s a good compromise if you don’t want to stay in Matala but still want a place to have a drink at night with a bit more sophistication than the usual Greek taverna.

Villa Lemoni is a beautiful house that can accommodate smaller and bigger groups.
Click here for more information and to check the latest prices.

Where to Sleep in Pitsidia

matala beach
Pitsidia Village

Many consider Pitsidia to be a great alternative to Matala in terms of accommodation opportunities. The place is only 5 km from the beach and it is, in fact, less crowded.

The village is quite characteristic and preferred by younger travelers, so the options for accommodation as well as for lunch and dinner are quite affordable too.

Kritikies Elaia is a traditional Cretan stone house offering excellent accommodation in Pitsidia.
Click here for more information and to check the latest prices.

🏖️ Please, help us protect the beaches in Crete. Respect the environment and don’t leave any trash behind.

Read more about Crete

More Resources to Enhance Your Crete Adventure

I’ve got some excellent travel resources to make your adventure unforgettable! Start by checking out my ultimate guide to planning your trip to Crete, packed with helpful essential information. Remember to explore the articles on prices in Crete, common mistakes to avoid, and insider secrets for an unforgettable experience.

Once you’re ready to pack, use this comprehensive Crete packing list to ensure you have everything you need for a fantastic vacation.

Still finalizing your itinerary? Explore the best places to visit on Crete Island, discover my tours and activities, be amazed at Crete’s incredible beaches, and check out the best times to experience its beauty.

If you are exploring specific areas like Heraklion or Rethymnon, I’ve got detailed guides to help you make the most of your time. Stay tuned for our upcoming articles featuring the top things to do and detailed itineraries for your Crete getaway!

Suggested Accommodation in Heraklion

No time to read all my accommodation guides? Check out these hotels in the city:

More Useful Travel Resources

  • Check out all the digital travel guides I’ve specifically written about Crete. They are affordable and practical to check from your mobile.
  • Look for cheap flights with CheapOAir or find convenient ferry tickets with Ferryhopper.
  • Welcome Pickups offers a convenient pre-paid airport transfer service, while Discover Cars is my favorite engine for finding a rental car on the island.
  • Need cash? I’ve been using Wise in Crete for ages! It’s one of the best cards for overseas travel.
  • Finally, to book adventures, tours, and cultural experiences, I always recommend Get Your Guide.

Pin it Now! Pin This Guide About All The Things to Do in Matala For Your Crete Travels!

Matala Beach


About my blog:

Gabi Ancarola | The Tiny Book

Gabi Ancarola

I moved to Crete in 2016. During these years, I learned so much about the island! In Crete, I juggle being a solo mom, hosting culinary tours, and writing for several travel media. I’ve written for Greek Reporter, published travel guides about Greece, co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete, and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person could ever handle.

Sharing is caring!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *