Autoway Cretan Guide (714) Matala & Red Beach
- Walk through Roman-era cave tombs carved into the cliffs of Matala.
- Hike to Red Beach (Kokkini Ammos) for rare volcanic sand and clear swimming conditions.
- Add historical and cultural sites nearby, including Kommos, Phaistos, and Odigitria Monastery.
Matala is a layered destination, ancient history meets 20th-century counterculture.
The main attraction is the beach itself, flanked by limestone cliffs with Roman tombs carved directly into the rock. These were later used as makeshift homes by hippies in the 1960s, giving the village a distinct historical and cultural identity. The beach is fully organized and walkable, with local tavernas, shops, and small museums. Swimming conditions are generally safe, and the setting is visually striking.
If you’re looking for an amazing experience with authentic simplistic food and Raki, you can try this out!
Red Beach offers a quieter experience, but requires effort to reach.
Accessed via a 20-minute trail from Matala’s southern edge, Kokkini Ammos is known for its iron-rich red sand and sheltered cove. The beach is unorganized, no shade, food, or services, so you’ll need to bring your own supplies. Water clarity here is excellent, making it suitable for snorkeling, though winds can occasionally affect conditions.
Nearby sites offer cultural and archaeological value.
If you’re exploring by car, consider visiting:
- Kommos Archaeological Site – once a Minoan harbor town, now adjacent to a long sandy beach with partial ruins accessible to visitors.
- Phaistos Palace – a major Minoan site, second only to Knossos, with panoramic views over the Mesara Plain.
- Odigitria Monastery – a centuries-old fortress-like monastery with a small museum, located in the Asterousia mountains en route to Agiofarago Gorge.
These sites are all within a 30–45 minute drive of Matala, making them easy to include in a full-day itinerary.
👉 Looking to explore more nearby? Use this South Crete Guide with map links.
Wondering what to do the next day? Read this quickly! 🙂
👉 Day 12: Voulolimni & Kedrodasos – Secluded Coastal Landscapes
These routes honestly are not possible (without achieving a headache) without a car. You can book yours now, but make sure to check out our reviews first!