Skip to main content
Matala, Crete

Matala

Couples and travellers interested in coastal villages and outings in southern Crete.

Matala sits around a bay beneath cliffs and rock-cut caves in southern Heraklion. Its association with the bohemian communities of the 1960s and 1970s forms part of the village’s identity.

Restaurants, cafés and shops line the approaches to the beach. Compare it for southern beaches and local outings rather than the northern resort scene. The village attracts day visitors, particularly in summer; surrounding settlements provide other options for a longer villa stay.

Our tip

Consider Matala for a southern itinerary or day visit. In summer the small village can be busy with daytime visitors.

  • Matala, Crete
  • Matala, Crete
  • Matala, Crete

Stays nearby

Every stay on the map is listed below.

  • Stone villa with pool

    Villa Thalia

    Crete · Rethymno

    ⁨12⁩ guests⁨4⁩ bedrooms

  • Villa exterior with pool

    Villa Parea

    Crete · Rethymno

    ⁨12⁩ guests⁨4⁩ bedrooms⁨4⁩ bathrooms

  • Pool with sea view

    Villa Kyanos I

    Crete · Heraklion

    ⁨8⁩ guests⁨4⁩ bedrooms⁨4⁩ bathrooms

  • Pool and loungers by white house

    Villa Kyanos II

    Crete · Heraklion

    ⁨8⁩ guests⁨4⁩ bedrooms⁨4⁩ bathrooms

  • Villa with terrace pool, Heraklion, Crete

    Villa Galini

    Crete · Heraklion

    ⁨6⁩ guests⁨3⁩ bedrooms⁨3⁩ bathrooms

    SEASCAPE PICK
  • Pool beside the sea, Heraklion, Crete

    Villa Ourania

    Crete · Heraklion

    ⁨14⁩ guests⁨6⁩ bedrooms⁨7⁩ bathrooms

    SEASCAPE PICK

More places in Crete

  • Plakias, Crete

    Plakias

    A coastal town in southern Rethymno with a broad bay and mountain setting, useful for comparing outings towards Damnoni and Preveli.

  • Adelianos Kampos, Crete

    Adelianos Kampos

    A developed coastal resort east of Rethymno, with a long beach, restaurants and accommodation, allowing beach days alongside outings into town.

  • Bali, Crete

    Bali

    A coastal resort spread around several small bays between Rethymno and Heraklion, with restaurants and hillside accommodation.

  • Panormos, Crete

    Panormos

    A small village east of Rethymno, with a harbour, coves and waterfront restaurants, offering a quieter base than a large resort.