Matala is one of the most famous tourist destinations of Crete and absolutely the most famous beach of south Heraklion, located 68km southwest of Heraklion, at the meeting point of mesara and Asterousia Mountains. This unique place became famous for the carved caves appearing in the rocks and because of the hippies of the ‘70s century. Matala is located near to Phaestus, one of the largest palace of the Minoan civilization in Crete.
Matala is offering to it’ s guests a beautiful view to the islands of Paximadia. There is a beautiful small sandy beach, with fine pebble and crystal clear waters. In advance, the ground under the sea is quite rocky in some spots and waves are common, due to west winds. There is, also, a really big cave on the north part of the beach, which is frequently used from divers. The beachside is very well organized including umbrellas, toilets, showers, lifeguard, first aids, beach volley courts, snack bars, water sports, excursion boats, etc. Matala are ideal for entertainment and eating. Furthermore, tamarisk trees cover a big part of the beach, which offer shade to the bathers. In the nights, Matala is a famous destination and you will meet many places on its streets. Don’t miss to visit this place in June, when the internationally renowned Matala Festival takes place.