The beach, together with the entire resort of Matala, is situated on the shores of the smaller Messara Bay, on the more touristy south coast of Crete. Matala Beach is a beautiful sand and shingle beach, about 250 metres long and bordered on both sides by large cliffs that stretch from the shoreline far out to sea. The cliff at the northern end of the beach is what attracts tourists from further afield, as it is full of large or small caves.

The caves are thought to have been dug into the rock as far back as the Neolithic period and later, in Roman and early Christian times, were used as tombs. One of the caves is called "Brutospeliana" because according to legend, the Roman general Brutus himself was supposed to have visited it. The rock caves were revived in the 1960s and 1970s when they were occupied by the so-called Hippies. Not long after, they were expelled.

The surface of the beach is made up of coarse sand to pebbles, which are coloured dark and create a nice contrast with the surrounding light coloured cliffs and crystal clear water. Because of its dark colour, the sand can get very hot in summer. However, the coastline drops into the sea more quickly and the place is also popular with divers and snorkelers. The surrounding reefs in particular are alive with rich underwater life, and in the depths of the sea, the remains of an old settlement from the time of Roman rule, when the town of Matala acted as a port for the then capital of Gortys, are still clearly visible today.

For the comfort of visitors, sun loungers and umbrellas are placed on the beach, there is also a beach shower and several bars. More tavernas are then located towards the centre of the resort. Small tamarisk trees add to the pleasant ambience of the beach, and a lifeguard at Matale ensures the safety of swimmers, as the sea can be very rough.

For its cleanliness and facilities, Matala Beach has earned the EU Blue Flag award. Matala Beach, together with the neighbouring beaches of Red Beach and Kommos, also falls under the protection of the Natura 2000 programme, which was established by the European Union to protect and preserve the rarest species of animals and plants in the long term.

More touristic destinations of Crete

Close beaches: Kalamaki Beach (Matala), Kommos Beach, Vathi Beach

Most favourite beaches of Crete: Amoudara Beach (Heraklion), Balos Beach, Elafonisi Beach, Falassarna Beach, Glyka Nera Beach (Sweet Water), Matala Beach, Platanias Beach, Preveli Beach, Stalis Beach, Stavros Beach, Vai Beach, Voulisma Beach, Xerokampos Beach

Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Crete.