Red Beach, from Matala

Access

The beach is located about 68 km south-west of Heraklion and a few kilometres from the village of Matala.

Introduction

The Red Beach of Matala, also known as 'Red Beach' or 'Kokkini Ammos' in Greek, is one of the most striking and iconic beaches on Crete. Situated near the village of Matala on the south coast of the island, this beach is famous for its golden sand with reddish hues, its crystal-clear waters and its calm and relaxed atmosphere. The distinctive feature of the beach is the golden, reddish-coloured sand, which gives the place a unique and evocative appearance.

The Red Beach is less crowded than other beaches on Crete, making it a perfect place for those seeking peace and tranquillity. The beach is popular with nudists and nature lovers, and retains a bohemian atmosphere that harks back to its roots as a destination for hippies in the 1960s and 1970s.

The Red Beach at Matala is a perfect destination for those seeking a unique and tranquil bathing experience, set in an extraordinary natural landscape and full of atmosphere. The combination of red sand, crystal-clear waters and a sense of seclusion make it one of Crete's hidden gems. It is recommended that you go early in the morning to enjoy the place without the crowds.

To reach the beach, it is recommended that you wear comfortable, suitable shoes for the rocky path leading to the beach.

Description

0h00' (0.00km) From the various car parks, join the main street of Matala. Follow the street for 200 metres and then, having reached a small square, take the small parallel road on the left. After a hundred metres there is a signpost for Red Beach.

0h05' (0.28km) Turn left and take a steep climb through the white houses of Matala. Some steps mitigate the climb. You quickly leave the village and the small road becomes a path. The gradient decreases slightly as the path stretches towards a barren saddle at the top of which one begins to catch a glimpse of the sea below. Start the descent and after a few minutes you will come to a gate (keep closed so as not to let in the characteristic Cretan goats). 

0h20' (0.86km) Continue the descent following the obvious path, which in a few short bends reaches the spectacular 'Red Beach'. On the beach there is the Giannis Bar 0h35' (1.20km) . 

The return journey is along the same route as the outward journey 0h35' (1.20km) .