Matala Caves & the South Coast — day trip in Crete
Hippie caves, red cliffs and the Libyan Sea
Availability is checked personally before anything is confirmed
Matala's sandstone cliff is honeycombed with Roman tombs that a generation of 1970s travellers turned into apartments - Joni Mitchell wrote a song about it, and the village has been quietly proud ever since.
The beach faces the Libyan Sea, the water is deep blue, and the drive crosses the Messara plain through olive groves that have been worked for three thousand years.
Many south-coast days pair Matala with the quiet sands of Komos, the Odigitria monastery or the Phaistos palace, so tell us whether you want beach time or ruins and we will shape the route around it.
What's included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Local guide
- Free time at the beach and caves
- Cave site entrance
- Traditional taverna lunch
Not included
- Meals and drinks unless stated above
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Optional entrance tickets
- Gratuities for your guide and driver
Perfect for
- Beach days
- Couples
- Photography
- Travellers wanting the traditional Crete
Pickup information
Pickup from Heraklion, Hersonissos and Agia Pelagia hotels.
What to bring
- Swimwear, towel and a change of clothes
- High-factor sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandals
- Refillable water bottle - Cretan tap water is safe in most towns
- Some cash in euros for small tavernas and kiosks
On the map
Getting around
The road south is scenic and easy - a great self-drive day if you would rather have your own car.
See the fleetFrequently asked questions
Can you go inside the caves?
Yes - the site has a small entrance fee, included here, and you can walk among the tombs.
Is the beach sandy?
Sand and fine pebble, with sunbeds. The water gets deep quickly.
What is Red Beach?
A naturist-friendly cove over the headland, reached by a rocky 20-minute path. Wear proper shoes.
Is Matala touristy?
In August, yes at midday. Early morning and after 17:00 it is lovely.
Ask Manolis
Your local AI guide who knows every beach, village and mountain road in Crete.
Interested in this experience?
Send your preferred date and hotel. We'll personally check availability and send you the details.
- Personally checked availability
- Clear final price
- Pickup details confirmed with you
- Local support in Crete
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