Matala Beach: Things to Do, Travel Guide, Beaches and Car Rental

Matala Beach is famous for its splendid beauty and exciting caves. Matala is a vibrant village located 75 km (46,6 miles) southwest of Heraklion, Crete, Greece. Matala boasts a village full of a hippie vibe from its colourful murals, street art, and famous Matala Beach. Matala Beach is one of the most lovely beaches on the island of Crete. According to Greek Mythology, it is on Matala Beach where Zeus swam ashore in disguise as a bull while carrying Europa on its back. Matala Beach is a sandy and pebble beach with crystal clear water.  Several water sports are available at the beach, where numerous establishments offer the opportunity to practise some water sports. These water sports include riding jet skis, pedal boats, and snorkelling, to name a few. Inside the village of Matala There are various little shops, studios, taverns, small hotels, small pensions, and a campsite inside the village of Matala.  Matala Beach is 250 M long and 45 M wide. It is famous for the carved caves in the rocks and hippies of the ‘70s. During the Roman and Christian period, it was believed that caves were used as burial tombs. Matala was once used as the port of Festos during the Minoan civilization and as the port of Gortyna during Roman rule. The collection of Caves at Matala Beach is carved into the soft white limestone at the north end of the beach. Most of the caves have separate rooms, windows, and stairways, displaying that they were used as living quarters.

Matala Beach was made known to the world because of the hippies of the ‘60s and the ‘70s. Even famous artists visited the area. Currently, every month of June, a three-day festival is held in Matala Beach, known as the Matala Music Festival. Matala is now a thriving tourist destination, with the locals mainly relying on tourism. The village of Matala has several great places for families, solo travellers, couples, and people from all walks of life. However, there are still no big fancy resorts in the area. Matala is ideal for people who love quiet and peace. The best time to visit Matala is in the months of March to December, when the weather is warm. People who want to avoid bigger crowds must visit in the November to March low season. Tourism is very prominent on the island of Crete, and Matala is swiftly becoming a popular destination. In 2021, overall, inbound air arrivals on Crete totalled roughly 2.8 million.

Find below a table with the main features of Matala Beach

What is Matala?

Matala is a laid-back village full of colourful shops and alleys. Matala is 75 km (46,6 miles) south-west of Heraklion, Crete, Greece. Matala village is full of murals, street art and vibrant buildings. The village of Matala features a fascinating history and a gorgeous beach. Matala Beach is a mixture of sand and a pebbled beach. Matala Beach is 250 M long and 45 M wide. According to Greek Mythology, it is on Matala Beach where Zeus swam ashore in disguise as a bull while carrying Europa on its back. One of the unique characterizations of Matala Beach is its famous caves. Long before the arrival of the “Hippies’ in the area, the caves hosted the civilizations of prehistory. It was believed that caves were used as burial tombs during the Roman and Christian period. Matala was once used as the port of Festos during the Minoan civilization and as the port of Gortyna during Roman rule. In most recent history, Matala Beach was made known to the world because of the hippies of the ‘60s and the ‘70s. Even famous artists visited the area. Currently, every month of June, a three-day festival is held in Matala Beach, known as the Matala Music Festival.

Where is Matala located?

Matala is a village 75 km (46,6 miles) southwest of Heraklion, Crete, Greece. Matala is within the community of Pitsidia in the municipal unit of Tympaki, Faustos municipality, Heraklion regional unit. The latitude of Matala is 35° 00′ 0.00” N, and its longitude is 24° 44′ 59.99” E. Matala is just a one-hour drive from Heraklion. It is 1 hour and a half from Malia, two hours from Elounda, and 2 and a half hours away from Chania.

How does the Matala Map look?

Below is an image of the Matala map.

What are the best things to do in Matala?

Listed below are the best things to do in Matala.

• Matala Caves: Matala Caves are a series of caves carved into the cliff face overlooking the beach of Matala. They are located in the southern part of Crete, Greece, 65.7 kilometers (40.8 miles) southwest of Heraklion, the capital city of Crete. The caves were used as homes by hippies in the 1960s and 1970s and have since become a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the caves for free, but there is a small fee of €2 ($2.18, £1.74) to enter the main cave complex. The caves are located directly above the town of Matala, making them easily accessible on foot.
• Minoan Palace of Phaistos: The Minoan Palace of Phaistos is an ancient palace complex dating back to the Bronze Age. It is located in Άγιος Ιωάννης, Kamilari 702 00, Greece, 58.4 kilometers (36.27 miles) southwest of Heraklion and 11 kilometers (6.87 miles) east of Matala. The palace is known for its well-preserved ruins and significance in Minoan history. Visitors can explore the palace grounds for a fee of €8 ($8.72, £6.96), with reduced prices for children and seniors.
• Kommos Beach: Kommos Beach is located in southern Crete, Greece, 64.5 kilometers (40.1 miles) southwest of Heraklion and 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) north of Matala. The beach is known for its long stretch of sand and clear waters, making it a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can access the beach for free, but there is a fee for parking, which ranges from €3 ($3.27, £2.61) to €5 ($5.45, £4.35) per day, depending on the season. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent at a cost of around €8 ($8.72, £6.96) to €12 ($13.08, £10.44) per set.
• Archaeological sites of Gortyna: The archaeological sites of Gortyna are the remains of an ancient Greek city located in the Messara Plain of southern Crete. The city was one of the most important in Crete during the Roman period. The sites are 48.9 kilometers (30.38 miles) southwest of Heraklion and 30 kilometers (18.64 miles) northeast of Matala. Visitors can explore the ruins, including the Odeon, the Acropolis, and the Law Code of Gortyn, for a fee of €6 ($6.54, £5.22). The nearest town is Agioi Deka, which is 3.9 kilometers (2.42 miles) away.
• Minoan site of Agia Triada: The Minoan site of Agia Triada is an archaeological site dating back to the Bronze Age, located in the Messara Plain of southern Crete. The site is known for its well-preserved Minoan villa and its association with the nearby Minoan palace of Phaistos. It is 59.5 kilometers (37 miles) southwest of Heraklion and 10 kilometers (6.21 miles) east of Matala. Visitors can explore the site for a fee of €4 ($4.36, £3.48), with reduced prices for children and seniors.
• Matala Beach Festival: The Matala Beach Festival is an annual music and arts festival held on the beach of Matala. The festival usually takes place in June and features a variety of musical performances, art exhibitions, and workshops. It is located on the beach of Matala, 75 kilometers (46.60 miles) southwest of Heraklion. The cost of attending the festival varies depending on the year and the specific events, but tickets typically range from €20 ($21.80, £17.40) to €50 ($54.50, £43.50) per day. The festival occurs directly in Matala, making it easily accessible on foot.

What are the caves of Matala?

The caves of Matala are a series of ancient, artificial caves carved into the soft rock cliffs surrounding the beach of Matala, a coastal village in South Crete. Firstly, the “Garage of Zeus” is one of the most well-known caves, named after its large, rectangular entrance that resembles a garage. This cave is 50 meters (164 feet) above sea level and offers views of the Matala beach and the Libyan Sea. Secondly, the “Roman Tombs” are a group of caves believed to have been used as burial chambers during the Roman era. These caves are located on the northern end of the cliff face and feature several chambers connected by narrow passageways. Thirdly, the “Hippie Caves” are a cluster of caves that gained international fame in the 1960s and 1970s when they became a popular destination for hippies seeking an alternative lifestyle. These caves are scattered along the southern end of the cliff face and vary in size and shape. Fourthly, the “Cave of the Bulls” is a large, dome-shaped cave with an entrance resembling a bull’s horns. This cave is located near the center of the cliff face and is believed to have been used for religious or ceremonial purposes in ancient times. Lastly, the “Neolithic Caves” are a group of smaller caves that date back to the Neolithic period, making them some of the oldest caves in Matala. These caves are located on the southern end of the cliff face and are characterized by their low, narrow entrances and smooth, rounded walls. Visitors can explore the caves daily from 9:00 am to sunset, with an entrance fee of €2 ($2.2, £1.7) per person.

What is the history of hippies in Matala?

The hippie community in Matala grew significantly during the 1960s and 1970s,, so did the beach and sense of freedom attracted the community. Hippies lived in the caves of Matala, embraced a simple life, and engaged in artistic pursuits such as music and painting. The hippies’ presence in Matala became so well-known that even celebrities like Joni Mitchell and Cat Stevens visited and stayed in the caves. In the mid-1970s, the Greek government evicted the hippies from the caves under pressure from the local community and concerned about the counterculture. Despite this, the legacy of the hippie era in Matala lives on, with the village now hosting an annual music festival in June to commemorate this unique period in its history.

What festival is celebrated in Matala?

One of the most celebrated festivals in Matala is the Matala Beach Festival. The Matala Beach Festival, is among the major free music festivals in Europe, on the renowned Matala Beach. The Matala Beach festival was organised to keep the myth of Matala alive. It is an eccentric festival on the sandy beach near the caves made famous during the hippie era of the ’60s and the ‘70s. Matala gained attention in the early ‘70s when Joni Mitchell released an album called “Blue,” which narrates the artist’s escapades and daily life in the caves with some young travellers. The Matala Beach Festival is a three-day event featuring well-known Greek and international artists. For three days, the crowd will be treated to endless singing and dancing at the beach. The festival’s history starts in the mid-’60s in a seaside village in Southern Crete. Young people came to Matala Beach searching for peace, equality, and freedom. People from all over the world began to arrive. Matala and its caves were flooded with young people, and they converted the caves into their homes. Matala was filled with dancing and singing, and these elements were the usual daily life of the “hippies”. Five decades later, the group of the Cultural Association Pitsidia-Matala, together with Faistos Municipality, created an instruction to revive the life of the “flower children”.

The Matala Beach Festival 2024 is taking place on July 5, 6, & 7 for 2024. The theme is all about celebrating the festival’s anniversary, and you can bet it’s gonna be a mind-blowing experience filled with loads of cool and entertaining activities. So, mark your calendars for July 5th, 6th, and 7th, 2024!

When is the best time of year to visit Matala?

The best time to visit Matala is from May to October. May and October are ideal for those who prefer mild temperatures, ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 24°C (75°F). The sea temperature is around 20°C (68°F) in May and 23°C (73°F) in October, which may be cool for some swimmers. June to September is the peak tourist season, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F) and the beach becoming more crowded. July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F) and occasionally reaching 35°C (95°F). The sea temperature during these months is a pleasant 25°C (77°F), perfect for swimming and water activities. Visitors should also remember that August is the busiest month, with many Europeans taking their summer holidays.

What are the best beaches in Matala?

Listed below are the best beaches in Matala.

• Matala Main Beach: Matala Main Beach is in the town center of Matala, Crete, Greece. It is in front of the town, making it easily accessible by foot. The beach is 300 meters (984 feet) long and 40 meters (131 feet) wide. It is a sandy beach with clear waters that is popular among tourists and locals. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, starting from €5 ($5.45, £4.35) per day. Several restaurants, cafes, and bars along the beach also offer various food and drink options. The beach is free to visit and is open to the public year-round. It can get crowded during peak season, from June to September. The beach is also known for its famous caves, which are located on the north end of the beach. Hippies once used these caves as homes in the 1960s and 1970s.
• Red Sand Beach: Red SandBeach is located 1.5 kilometers (0.93 miles) south of Matala town center. It is a secluded beach that can only be accessed by foot or boat. The beach is named after its distinctive red sand and cliffs that surround it. The journey to the beach takes 20-25 minutes on foot from the town center along a rocky path. The beach is 250 meters (820 feet) long and 20 meters (66 feet) wide. No facilities are available on the beach, so visitors must bring their food, water, and shade. The beach is free to visit and is open to the public year-round. Due to its secluded location, it is less crowded than Matala’s main beach. The water at Red Sand Beach is crystal clear and is perfect for snorkeling and diving,
• Kalamaki Beach: Kalamaki Beach is a sandy beach located 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) north of Matala, Crete, Greece. The beach is near the village of Pitsidia and is 64.5 kilometers (40 miles) from Heraklion. Kalamaki Beach is known for its clear waters and is popular among tourists and locals. The beach is organized, offering sunbeds and umbrellas for rent at €8 ($8.72, £6.96) per set. There are also tavernas and cafes nearby, providing refreshments and meals. Visitors can reach Kalamaki Beach by car, parking near the beach, or by foot from Matala, which takes 20-25 minutes. The beach is easily accessible and suitable for families with children due to its shallow waters and sandy shore.
• Kommos Beach: Kommos Beach is located in the southern region of Crete, Greece. It is 4.3 kilometers (2.6 miles) from Matala, 64.5 kilometers (40.1 miles) southwest of Heraklion, the largest city in Crete. The beach is known for its long stretch of sand and clear waters, making it a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can access the beach by car or public transportation, with a parking area nearby. The cost of parking ranges from €3 ($3.27, £2.61) to €5 ($5.45, £4.35) per day, depending on the season. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent for €8 ($8.72, £6.96) to €12 ($13.08, £10.44) per set. Kommos Beach is a popular spot for water sports activities such as windsurfing and kitesurfing due to the strong winds that often blow in the area. The beach is also known for its archaeological significance, with the remains of a Minoan settlement and a nearby Roman villa.
• Kokkinos Pyrgos Beach: Kokkinos Pyrgos Beach is in southern Crete, Greece. It is 65 kilometers (40.39 miles) southwest of Heraklion, the capital city of Crete, and 18.5 kilometers (11.49 miles) west of Matala town center. The beach is known for its reddish sand and clear waters. Visitors can access the beach by car or public transportation. There is a parking area near the beach, and the cost of parking varies depending on the season, with an average of €5 ($5.45, £4.35) per day. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent for €10 ($10.90, £8.70) per set. There are also several tavernas and cafes near the beach where visitors can enjoy traditional Greek cuisine and refreshments. The beach is not as crowded as some of the more popular beaches in Crete, making it a good choice for those seeking a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere.
• Vathi Beach: Vathi Beach is located in the southern region of Crete, Greece. It is located 261.9 kilometers (162 miles) southwest of Heraklion, the largest city in Crete, and 22.1 kilometers (13 miles) west of Matala town center. The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and rocky formations that create small coves and inlets. Visitors can reach the beach by car or boat from Matala or nearby villages. There is a parking area near the beach, and the cost of parking ranges from €3 to €5 ($3.27 to $5.45, £2.61 to £4.35) depending on the season. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent at a cost of around €8 to €12 ($8.72 to $13.08, £6.96 to £10.44) per set. There are also a few tavernas and cafes where visitors can enjoy meals and drinks. The beach is also suitable for families with children, although the rocky terrain may require extra caution.
• Agiofaraggo Beach: Agiofaraggo Beach is located in southern Crete, Greece. It is 74.2 kilometers (46.1 miles) southwest of Heraklion, the capital city of Crete, and 20.8 kilometers (12 miles) southeast of Matala town center. Agiofaraggo Beach is in a secluded location and natural beauty, with towering cliffs and a small river that flows into the sea. Visitors can access the beach by hiking from the nearby village of Agio Farago or by taking a boat from Matala. The hike takes 30 to 45 minutes and can be challenging due to the rocky terrain. There is no parking area near the beach, so visitors must park their cars in the village and walk. There are no sunbeds or umbrellas for rent at the beach, and visitors must bring their supplies. There are also no tavernas or cafes in the immediate vicinity, so visitors should pack their food and water.

Are there any family-friendly beaches near Matala?

Yes, most beaches in Matala are family-friendly. The beaches near Matala are generally considered family-friendly, offering a range of amenities and activities suitable for visitors of all ages. The main beach in Matala itself is a wide, sandy beach that gradually deepens into the sea, making it a safe option for children to play and swim under supervision. The beach is well-organized, with sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent, providing comfort and shade for families. Lifeguards are typically present during the peak summer months, ensuring an added level of safety. In addition to the main beach, several other nearby beaches cater to families.

How was the preservation of Matala?

Matala Beach falls under Natura 2000 protection, a European Union network of nature protection areas created to ensure the long-term survival of some of Europe’s most valuable species and habitats. Matala is among the 400 beaches in Greece awarded a Blue Flag. A Blue Flag is an exclusive eco-label for beaches that are clean, and safe, and practise strict rules when it comes to dealing with water standards, environmental care, and safety. The caves at Matala beach are now a protected area and are currently not inhabited, and caving is forbidden. A fence secures access to the caves, and the archaeological services take care of the area. Visitors are still allowed to visit, but an admission fee must be paid.

How do you get to Matala?

Matala is just a one-hour drive from Heraklion. It is 1 hour and a half from Malia, two hours from Elounda, and 2 and a half hours away from Chania. Most visitors to Crete prefer to travel using a rented car for convenience. Several rental car companies are located in Matala. Near the beach area, there are many parking spaces. If a visitor decides to get to Matala Beach by bus, the fee is €7.80 each way for 2 hours from Heraklion.

What are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete?

Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete.

• Insurance: Car rental insurance is essential, as it protects a passenger against the cost of damage when renting a car. Crete car rental includes insurance for collision damage waiver, and a driver’s credit card is required as a guarantee.
• Driver’s age: The legal age requirement when driving in Crete is 18 years old. The driver must have a valid driving licence and essential documents like an ID or passport.
• Driver’s gender: Women and men are permitted to drive in Crete. As long as the driver is of the legal age of 18, driving is permitted in Crete, regardless of gender.
• Car type: Travelling with groups or family members requires a much bigger car. Car rental companies in Crete offer a variety of cars to choose from. Selecting a smaller car is best when driving in Crete. The reason for that is that some Greek roads are narrow. Travellers must learn how to choose the right car to rent in Crete to have a comfortable driving experience.
• Documents needed for renting a car: One important document needed for renting a vehicle is a valid driving licence. However, a credit or debit card may be presented as well, including a passport or an ID card.

How much does a car rental in Crete cost?

The island of Crete is best travelled using a rented vehicle. Visitors get faster to Crete’s top destinations using a rented car. Crete car rental costs vary depending on the number of persons, itinerary, car type, destination, and duration. The average cost of renting a car in Crete is around €30 to €40 per day. A car rented for a whole week will cost an average of €250. Renting a vehicle for the weekend will cost around €78. Crete car rental rates differ depending on the car type. Car rental companies offer a variety of cars depending on customers’ liking. Most car rental shops in Crete offer an online booking system, whenever customers want to book a car. Simply follow the process and instantly book a vehicle on their website. Before availing of a rental car service in Crete, check and secure all the requirements.

How much does it cost to get to Matala?

Matala Beach is the finest place to speed a day and explore its famous caves. The enticing view attracts many tourists, and the caves are worth visiting. There is no entrance fee at Matala beach. However, visitors must pay a small amount of €4 to access the caves. Entry fees for EU citizens under 25 are free, and senior citizens have discounts. Caves are open from 10 am to 7 pm. Overnight is not allowed in caves. The parking fee is €3 a day, and there is no hourly fee. EU citizens under 25 are free of charge.

Where to stay near Matala?

Matala offers a range of hotel options, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for visitors exploring Matala and the southern coast of Crete.

Listed below are the best hotels in Matala:

• Matala Bay Hotel & Apartments: Matala Bay Hotel & Apartments is a three-star beach-front hotel that is known for it’s affordable accommodations with furnished balconies and garden views. The hotel is located 250 m from Matala Beach and 1 kilometres from the town center.
• Dimitris Resort Hotel: Dimitris is a family-run hotel is known for the relaxing and comfortable stay in Matala. The hotel has a two-star rating and a price range of €37 to €74 per night and is know a family friendly hotel. Guests can choose from different rooms, such as mountain views, family rooms, and smoking and non-smoking rooms. All rooms have air conditioning, a refrigerator, TV, a desk and a private bathroom with a shower and hairdryer.
• Xenios Dias: Xenios Dias is a budget hotel that offers a peaceful and friendly stay in Matala. Guests can choose from different types of apartments, some with a kitchen and a washing machine. All apartments have air conditioning, free wifi, a private bathroom with shower, a balcony and a mountain view.
• Melissa Hotel: Melissa Hotel is a four-star beach-front hotel that offers a comfortable and relaxing stay in Matala. The hotel has a price range of €74 to €111 per night. Guests can choose from different rooms, such as standard, superior and family rooms.

1. Matala Bay Hotel & Apartments

Matala Bay Hotel & Apartments is is known for its location being very close to the beach. The hotel offers comfortable and affordable accommodations in Matala, a coastal village in Crete. The hotel has a three-star rating and a price range of €87 per night for a one-night stay. Guests can choose from different types of rooms, such as mountain view, city view, pool view, suites and family rooms. All rooms have air conditioning, a refrigerator, a TV, a desk and a private bathroom with shower and hairdryer. Matala Bay Hotel & Apartments is located 250 m from the beach in a green area. It is 75 kilometres from Heraklion and 14.7 kilometres from Mires. The hotel is also close to the famous Matala Caves carved into the cliffs. Guests can explore the history and nature of this area by walking or renting a car. They can also enjoy activities such as horse riding, diving and darts.

The hotel has a swimming pool, a restaurant and a snack bar for guests to enjoy. The restaurant serves dishes made with fresh Cretan produce, while the snack bar offers drinks and snacks with a view of the pool. Matala Bay also provides free breakfast, parking, and wifi in communal areas. Guests can also access the games room and the playground for entertainment. The hotel has a 24-hour front desk and a concierge service to assist guests with their needs.

2. Dimitris Resort Hotel

Dimitris Resort Hotel is a family-run hotel that offers a relaxing and comfortable stay in Matala. The hotel has a two-star rating and a price range of €37 to €74 per night. Guests can choose from different rooms, such as mountain views, family rooms, and smoking and non-smoking rooms. All rooms have air conditioning, a TV, a fridge, safe and private bathroom. Guests can also request in-room breakfast. The hotel has a tavern that serves breakfast and traditional Cretan lunch near the pool and the flowers. Dimitris Resort hotel is known for the relaxing and comfortable stay in Matala. The pool also has a kid’s pool for the younger guests. Dimitris Resort Hotel provides free parking, free wifi and free breakfast. Guests can also book excursions, hiking or horseback riding through the hotel staff.

Dimitris Resort Hotel is 12.1 kilometres from the ancient city of Phaistos and 8 minutes from Matala Beach. It is surrounded by trees and has a view of the Messara bay. It is also a 6-minute walk from the town of Matala, where guests can find restaurants and shops. The hotel is 54.7 kilometres from Heraklion Airport and offers airport shuttle service upon request.

3. Xenios Dias

Xenios Dias is a budget hotel that offers a peaceful and friendly stay in Matala. Xenios Dias is named after the god of hospitality and aims to offer this to its guests. It is a place where guests can experience Cretan hospitality and culture in a quiet and beautiful environment. The hotel has a price range of €27 to €55 per night. The prices are quite low and the hotel is known for their affordable accommodation options. Guests can choose from different types of rooms, such as standard, triple and apartments. All rooms have a fridge, a bathroom, a balcony and air conditioning (extra charge). The apartments also have a kitchen and more space.

The hotel has free parking, free wifi and breakfast available for guests to enjoy. The breakfast is continental and colourful. The hotel also has a sun terrace and a garden with palm trees. The hotel provides children’s activities and baggage storage. The hotel staff can speak English, French, Dutch, German and Greek. Xenios Dias is located 69 kilometres southeast of Heraklion and 50 metres from Matala Beach. It is also close to the path that leads to Red Beach, another attraction in the area.

4. Melissa Hotel

Melissa Hotel Matala is a small, family-run hotel in the beautiful bay of Matala, Crete. The hotel is just a short walk from the beach and the famous Matala Caves, and it offers a variety of amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.

Melissa Hotel is located 50 m from Matala Beach and 1 kilometres from the town center. It is also close to the famous Matala Caves, which are carved into the cliffs. Guests can explore the history and nature of this area by walking or renting a car. The hotel is 70 kilometres from Heraklion Airport. Melissa Hotel has a pool with a children’s section, a bar restaurant, and a sun terrace. The rooms are all air-conditioned and equipped with a TV, fridge, and Wi-Fi. The staff at Melissa Hotel are friendly and helpful, and they are always happy to help you plan your day. The hotel is a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Crete. Melissa Hotel is known for it’s kind and hospitable owners.

5. Fragiskos Hotel

Fragiskos Hotel, a comfortable 3-star establishment, sits conveniently just 30 metres from Matala Beach. This budget-friendly hotel finds favour among guests for its practical amenities and proximity to the beach and city centre, both within a 50-metre radius. Accommodation at Fragiskos Hotel includes 100 designated rooms, each equipped with air conditioning and a private bathroom. Every room features a balcony, allowing guests to enjoy pleasant views of the hotel’s pool. Despite the bathrooms being small, they maintain a cleanliness standard appreciated by guests.

Fragiskos Hotel is known for it’s amenities. Among the amenities provided, guests can access free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel premises and take advantage of the private parking facilities, ensuring convenience for those travelling with vehicles. The hotel also boasts a swimming pool, providing a tranquil oasis away from the nearby tourist bustle. Fragiskos Hotel has a buffet breakfast, included in the room rates, is served at the hotel’s restaurant, presenting an array of dishes to start the day. Furthermore, the on-site bar serves refreshing drinks throughout the day, adding to the dining experience. As for the accommodation options, the hotel offers non-smoking rooms and family rooms catering to various guest preferences. The average price for a stay at Fragiskos Hotel ranges around €70 per night.

6. Hotel Orama-Matala

Hotel Orama-Matala is a unique and sustainable condo hotel that provides an environmentally-friendly accommodation choice in Matala. Lodged amid scenic mountain views, this aparthotel stands out with its commitment to green practices and proximity to the famous Matala Beach. Offering a combination of modern amenities and natural charm, Hotel Orama-Matala presents air-conditioned rooms for a comfortable stay. Most rooms feature a balcony, offering views of the garden or mountains. Specific units also come with a fully-equipped kitchen, providing guests with the flexibility to prepare their meals. Private bathrooms come with a shower and a hairdryer, while bed linen and towels are provided in all units. A key feature of this hotel is the seasonal outdoor swimming pool, complemented by a terrace and a garden. The hotel also maintains a shared lounge, promoting community among its guests. Hotel Orama-Matata is known for for the large terrace and garden.

In terms of activities, the surrounding area offers plenty for guests to explore. Popular outdoor activities include snorkelling, cycling, and hiking. The hotel’s location allows easy access to attractions such as Red Sand Beach and Matala Caves. The price range for a stay at Hotel Orama-Matala averages around €80 per night. Guests praise the hotel’s sustainability initiatives and the range of nearby activities, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious travellers looking for an active holiday in Matala.

7. Paradise Matala Hotel

Paradise Matala Hotel, a three-star hotel, is just a 9-minute stroll away from Matala Beach. This renovated hotel is distanced from the town centre, offering an oasis of tranquillity while keeping the lively Matala town and beach within easy reach. Paradise Matala Hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities like a flat-screen TV, a safe, and a desk. Every room features a private bathroom with a shower and offers a balcony for guests to soak in the pleasant surroundings. The hotel provides bed linen and towels in all rooms.

Guests can start their day with a buffet breakfast included in the room price. Two new bars and a buffet restaurant serve local and international delicacies, adding to the convenience of dining options within the premises. The hotel also boasts a newly constructed expansive pool and pool area, offering a refreshing retreat for guests. A host of children-friendly activities make this hotel an ideal pick for family stays. Moreover, it maintains a pet-friendly policy, accommodating guests travelling with their furry friends. Paradise Matala Hotel is close to popular attractions like Red Sand Beach and Matala Caves, which are less than a kilometre away.

8. Die zwei Brueder von Matala

Hotel Die Zwei Brüder embraces a unique charm, evident in its differently styled rooms that accommodate up to five persons. Hotel Die Zwei Brüder offers an array of room amenities, including air conditioning, a safety deposit box, a wardrobe, a kitchenette with a refrigerator, and a kettle. The hotel is known as the most modern hotel in Matala. Each room has a flat-screen TV and free WiFi access for entertainment. Selected rooms boast private terraces and offer captivating sea views. All units are supplied with bed linen and towels. Emphasising the comfort and well-being of its guests, the hotel goes above and beyond to ensure everyone feels welcomed and enjoys a relaxing stay. The impressive range of dining options is an important part of its appeal. Every morning, guests can enjoy a buffet or continental breakfast featuring local specialities, fresh pastries, and champagne. The hotel also features a coffee shop and bar to satisfy guests’ daily cravings.

Die zwei Brueder von Matala isn’t just about relaxation; it also offers various engaging activities. Guests can take part in in-house yoga classes or opt for sightseeing tours. Those who prefer outdoor adventures can enjoy cycling, fishing, and hiking in the surrounding areas. The hotel also offers a car rental service for those who want to explore further afield. Conveniently located, the hotel lies just 11.6 kilometres from Phaistos and 14.5 kilometres from the Museum of Cretan Ethnology. For guests arriving or departing by air, Heraklion International Airport is a 64.4 kilometres drive away. The hotel offers free parking for those travelling by car.

9. Hotel Neos Matala

Hotel Neos Matala, a family-run establishment, is just 500 metres away from the sandy beach of Matala in South Crete. Being only 500 metres from the centre of Matala, the hotel is conveniently located near various restaurants and bars. It is also a short drive from Komos Beach (1.9 kilometres away) and Agia Galini Village (16 kilometres away). Hotel Neos is known for as one of the oldest one in south Crete. This small hotel offers a unique blend of German efficiency and Greek hospitality. The property features a large swimming pool, a sun terrace, and a lush garden adorned with lawn, palm, and pine trees.

The rooms at Hotel Neos Matala are each air-conditioned and fitted with a private balcony. Keeping guest convenience in mind, each room includes amenities such as a fridge, a safety deposit box, a kettle, and a television with satellite programs. The rooms also boast private bathrooms with showers. All rooms are uniquely furnished with a vibrant combination of blue and orange tones, offering views over the blossomed garden. When it comes to dining, the hotel starts the day with a continental breakfast with fresh local ingredients, served daily at the dining area. The poolside bar provides a relaxing atmosphere for guests to enjoy a fresh juice or light snack during the afternoon or even an exotic cocktail at night.

Is Matala safe?

Yes, Matala is a safe place to visit. Matala and Crete, in general, have a very low crime rate. The Matala Beach itself is equipped with typical infrastructure and is an organised beach. It has sunbeds, umbrellas, toilets, showers, and a lifeguard on duty.

Are children permitted at the Matala?

Yes, children of any age are permitted at Matala. Matala Beach is among the best beaches in Crete that offers comfort, relaxation, and unique beauty. The village of Matala has several great places for families, solo travellers, couples, and people from all walks of life. However, there are still no big fancy resorts in the area. Matala is ideal for people who love quiet and peace. Matala Beach, compared to other famous beaches in Crete, does not have big resorts, so it is not ultimately crowded except during the Matala Music Festival.

What are the best places to eat in Matala?

Among popular restaurants, SCALA Fish bar restaurants offers European and Greek cuisine with beach views, while George’s Yard serves traditional Cretan food. Bistronomy Matala and Hakuna Matala specialize in seafood, the latter known for burgers and live music. For dining with a view, Taverna Sunset Matala and Petra & Votsalo are top picks; the former is built into a cliff and the latter is on the beach. For more information on dining, see the 10 Best Restaurants in Matala and their specialties. Despite its popularity, Matala retains a laid-back charm ideal for both relaxation and adventure