Matala the hippie beach - Crete
Crete, Greece
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Matala – Creta
Parking (Free)
Free
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7.75/10. Busy
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7/10
Matala is a town widely known for its hippie vibes. In the 1960s, a hippie culture was established in the town, and many backpackers came from all over the world. Currently, the streets painted with colorful drawings, as well as the restaurants, create a different atmosphere in Crete.
How to get there
It’s located in the south of Crete, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Rethymno and 1 hour and 10 minutes from Heraklion by car. The roads are quite good, so you can even do it with a Fiat Punto.
There are several places where you can park the car; however, during the central hours of the day and in July and August, it may be more challenging to find a spot. You can try along this street (free, here) or in these parking lots (3€, here or here).
Matala village - Beach - Archeological site
The village is quite beautiful. The streets are narrow with small shops. You will see hippie expressions everywhere: drawings on the ground, positive messages on walls, cars with hippie stickers, or the famous Matala tree.
The beach is sandy with small stones. It has a free public restroom and natural shade in one area thanks to a series of trees. You also have the option to rent two sunbeds and an umbrella for €8. Additionally, there is a section where you can do cliff-diving (up to 7 meters).
During the day, the beach is quite crowded, and it gives the impression that they have used the excuse of the hippie vibe to attract tourists. When night falls, a more authentic and relaxed atmosphere sets in. However, you can go to Red Beach (here). It is only a 10-minute walk from Matala and is not as busy.
On the right side of the beach, there is an archaeological site. These are caves dating back to the Neolithic period built on a cliff. It is believed that they were used as tombs during the Roman occupation, but some caves show evidence of being inhabited by humans (thought to be hippie communities). The entrance fee is €4, and if you are under 25, it will cost you €2. You won't find any explanations about the caves throughout the archaeological site.
On the left side of the beach there are several bars and restaurants. However, we recommend one in the village, Mad Irie. It is a vegetarian restaurant with live music , and on Sundays, they offer a buffet for €10. Additionally, it has a terrace upstairs. Besides, if you have a sweet tooth, try Mama’s bakery Matala (here). Lastly, there is also a Carrefour next to the beach.
In mid-June the Matala Street Painting takes place. Essentially, anyone can reserve in advance a plot of ground and paint it for free. Your design will remain throughout the year. You don't have to bring paint; all you need is a brush and your imagination (that's what the slogan says).
If you are going to Matala to spend the day and plan to return at night by car, be careful and refuel beforehand, as there are not many gas stations nearby, and most of them close early.
It's a unique place, worth visiting. Additionally, you can see a beautiful sunset from the beach.
Comment if you have any question!
