Crete: Matala Beach and Hippie Caves, Red Beach

Nestled along Crete’s southern coast, Matala Beach captivates visitors with its striking natural beauty. Towering seaside cliffs and a labyrinth of ancient Roman-era caves, once a haven for 1960s hippies, create a striking backdrop for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. Just a short distance away, the alluring Red Beach enchants with its unique crimson sands and tranquil ambiance. Exploring this remarkable destination offers a chance to uncover Crete’s vibrant past while basking in the island’s serene coastal splendor. There’s more to discover about this captivating corner of Greece.

Key Points

• Matala Beach is renowned for its striking seaside cliffs, ancient Roman-era caves, and crystal-clear waters, offering an unforgettable experience in Crete.
• The Hippie Caves, carved into limestone cliffs, provide insight into Crete’s counterculture past and self-expression, with colorful murals and graffiti.
• The distinctive Red Beach, accessible via a scenic coastal walk, features crimson-hued sands and intriguing rock formations for a unique off-the-beaten-path experience.
• The tour offers 13 convenient pickup locations across Crete, with a bus transfer duration of approximately 1.5 hours to Matala.
• The excursion package includes pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned bus, liability insurance, and entrance fee to the ancient Matala caves.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Matala Beach

Visitors can explore the captivating Matala Beach, renowned for its striking seaside cliffs and ancient Roman-era caves that once served as a hippie colony in the 1960s.

The beach offers a picturesque setting, with crystal-clear waters and golden sands overlooked by the iconic caves. Travelers can spend time swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing and taking in the breathtaking views.

The nearby hippie village adds to the unique charm of the area, inviting visitors to enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and browse local shops and restaurants.

With its rich history and natural beauty, Matala Beach promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking a glimpse into Crete’s vibrant past and present.

Visiting the Hippie Caves

From the picturesque Matala Beach, travelers can venture into the captivating Hippie Caves, a unique historical attraction that once housed a thriving counterculture community during the 1960s.

These ancient Roman burial caves, carved into the limestone cliffs, provided shelter and a canvas for the free-spirited hippies who flocked to Matala.

Today, visitors can explore the labyrinth of caves, admiring the colorful murals and graffiti left behind by the former residents.

The caves offer a glimpse into Crete’s counterculture past, transporting guests back in time to an era of nonconformity and self-expression.

With its rich history and atmospheric charm, the Hippie Caves are a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the shores of Matala.

Discovering the Red Beach

Matala’s Red Beach, with its distinctive crimson-hued sands, beckons visitors to explore its natural splendor beyond the famed Hippie Caves.

Accessible via a scenic coastal walk, this secluded stretch of shoreline offers a tranquil respite from the bustling main beach, inviting travelers to bask in its serene atmosphere and striking geological features.

The vivid red coloration of the sand is caused by iron oxide deposits, creating a visually stunning contrast with the azure waters.

Along the coastline, visitors can discover intriguing rock formations and hidden coves, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun’s warmth.

For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, the Red Beach provides a peaceful escape and a chance to take in Crete’s natural wonders.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

The tour offers a range of pickup locations across Crete, allowing travelers convenient access to the Matala and Hippie Caves excursion. There are 13 pickup options, including Analipsi, Karteros, Malia, Sisi, and Heraklion. This ensures customers can join the tour from various parts of the island.

The bus transfer takes around 1.5 hours to reach Matala, where the main activities take place. After exploring the beaches, caves, and hippie village, the tour concludes with the return trip, dropping passengers off at the same locations where they were picked up.

This flexibility in pickup and drop-off makes the tour accessible for visitors staying in different areas of Crete.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Bus Transfer and Duration

The bus transfer to Matala takes approximately 1.5 hours, providing a comfortable journey for travelers from the various pickup locations across Crete.

With 13 options available, including Analipsi, Karteros, Malia, Sisi, and Heraklion, the tour ensures convenient access for participants.

The air-conditioned modern bus ensures a pleasant ride, allowing visitors to relax and prepare for the day’s activities.

During the journey, travelers can admire the scenic Cretan countryside, setting the stage for the exploration of the renowned Matala Beach and its historic hippie caves.

The transfer time allows for a well-paced itinerary, giving ample time to experience the highlights of this iconic destination.

Included Amenities and Costs

In an article titled ‘Crete: Matala Beach and Hippie Caves, Red Beach’, it’s now time to discuss the CURRENT SUBTOPIC ‘Included Amenities and Costs’.

The excursion package includes pickup and drop-off from main roads and select hotels, ensuring convenient transportation for participants. A modern air-conditioned bus with full climate control is provided, offering a comfortable journey to and from Matala. The liability insurance by Generali is also included, providing travelers with additional peace of mind during the tour.

On top of that, the entrance fee to the ancient Matala caves, priced at €4 per person, is covered within the overall cost of the excursion.

The tour also includes:

1. Local snacks and break time during the trip.

2. Ample opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, shopping, and sightseeing in Matala.

3. Exploration of the famous hippie village and a walk to the nearby Red Beach.

What to Bring and Expect

Travelers should bring a sun hat, towel, camera, and beachwear to make the most of their time at Matala Beach and the surrounding areas. While the excursion caters to a wide range of participants, it is not recommended for individuals with mobility impairments, as the terrain and activities may prove challenging for them.

The tour offers a diverse range of experiences, from swimming and snorkeling to exploring the historic hippie caves and walking to Red Beach. To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip, it’s essential to be prepared for the activities and environmental conditions.

What to Bring	Why	Expectations
Sun hat	Protect from sun exposure	Sunny, Mediterranean climate
Towel	Dry off after swimming	Opportunities for swimming and water activities
Camera	Capture the stunning scenery	Photogenic beaches, caves, and coastal views
Beachwear	Comfortable attire for beach activities	Active exploration, walking, and leisure time

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Customers have provided an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 23 reviews, highlighting both positive and constructive feedback for the Matala Beach and Hippie Caves excursion.

While the transportation received a solid 4.1/5 rating, the value for money was slightly lower at 4/5. Reviewers noted that the tour felt less like a guided experience and more like independent exploration, but they still enjoyed the charming town of Matala.

However, some commented on the crowded bus conditions.

To ensure a smooth trip, the tour operator advises customers to check their email the day before for pickup details, as they may end up in the Spam or Junk folder.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Wheelchair Users or People With Mobility Issues?

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility issues. The description states the tour is "Not suitable for: People with mobility impairments." Participants will need to be able to walk and navigate uneven terrain.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are allowed to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour operator recommends packing a lunch, water, and any personal snacks to have during the free time in Matala. However, some light refreshments are provided during the excursion.

How Strict Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Plans?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility if plans change. Cancellations after this window may result in a partial refund, so it’s best to notify the operator as soon as possible.

Is There an Option to Add Additional Activities or Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour operator doesn’t offer options to add activities or extend the duration. However, travelers can explore Matala independently after the guided portion, as the tour provides 4 hours of free time at the destination.

Can I Request a Pickup From a Location Not Listed in the Information?

Customers can request a pickup from a location not listed, but the tour operator may not be able to accommodate this. It’s best to check with the operator ahead of time to see if they can provide pickup from a specific location.

Recap

Matala Beach in Crete offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical charm.

Visitors can explore the ancient Roman-era caves, once a hippie haven, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters and stunning seaside cliffs.

The nearby Red Beach, with its captivating crimson sands, adds to the allure of this must-visit destination, providing a relaxing and immersive experience in Crete’s vibrant past.

You can check if your dates are available here: