Matala beach

The story of the beach

Matala red beach played a significant role in the island’s Crete history for many centuries. In the times of the Minoan period's prosperity, it has become a large and important port, owned by Fest, the center of this civilization. In the days of Dorians, it belonged to the ancient city Gortyna.

The locals have hollowed out multiple caves in the Neolithic Age. They were used for interment after the island's conquest and in the period of early Christianity in Crete. In the 60s, in the period of the hippie movement prosperity, such people from America have found these grottos. Picturesque caves turned out to be liveable. Inside there remained either prehistorical constructions like fireplaces and shelves or texts on the walls and taints of candles' wax. Even celebrities stayed in the Matala's caves. Among them, such people as Bob Dylan and Janis Joplin. Members of the Rolling Stones gave concerts there. 

Due to the fulfilling events that took place in Matala, there are many gossips and mysterious legends about Matala beach. For example, its second name is «the beach of the Zeus». According to one of the legends, on the shores of the Matala Bay the god Zeus found shelter with his beloved, the Phoenician princess Europe.

The beaches’ infrastructure

The Matala shore is located in the natural island’s bay on the southern coast of the island and is surrounded by cliffs from three sides. In the front part of the bay lies a long sandy strip with small pebbles and the purest water of the Libyan Sea. The beach is well arranged, you’ll be able to find sunshades and deck-chairs, composting toilets and bath stations, also there are beach volleyball courts. In addition to it, the biggest part of the beach is covered with trees that give shelter from the bright sun.

In the evening's beach bars are full of various visitors: either Messara’s residents or foreign travelers. Almost all local cafes and taverns are located in such a way that the visitors may not only eat well but also watch the sunset from the best part of the bay. Local taverns serve fresh fish from the Libyan Sea, local wines in addition to traditional Cretan cuisine. Alternatively, you can stroll through Krasnaya Matala village, see art objects left behind by hippies, listen to street musicians, as well as stroll through authentic shops and buy souvenirs.

Matala caves

The most significant peculiarity of this region is the great variety of caves that appeared in the cliffs million years ago. They are believed to be tombs from the Roman and Christian eras in Greece. There are other natural caves along the beach that can be reached by boat. 

Moreover, many archaeological remains and shipwrecks have been found in the vicinity. From the rock shelters, there’s a wonderful view of the Libyan Sea. That's why caves turn out to be a perfect place to see the sunset. Extremal lovers are jumping from these caves right into the sea.