Crete: Matala Beach and Hippie caves, Red beach

Discover Crete’s Unique Charm: Matala Beach and Hippie Caves, Red Beach

This guided tour of Crete’s southern coast offers a fascinating blend of history, natural beauty, and laid-back vibes. For around $40, you’ll get to explore the legendary Hippie caves of Matala, relax on its iconic beach, and trek to the striking Red Beach, all with the comfort of a modern bus and a live guide.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines cultural storytelling with breathtaking scenery—perfect for those wanting a taste of authentic Crete without spending days on the road. The inclusive nature of the trip, with hotel pickups from various locations, makes it accessible, especially for travelers staying in popular spots like Heraklion, Malia, or Stalida.

One thing to consider is that the day is quite packed, with about 1.5 hours of travel each way, so it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a longer day on the bus. If you’re looking for a relaxed, slow-paced beach day, this might feel a little rushed, but if you’re eager to hit the highlights of southern Crete, it’s a smart, value-packed choice.

This tour suits those interested in a mix of history, scenic landscapes, and local culture, especially if you’re curious about the famous hippie era and want to enjoy some genuine beach time. Perfect for first-timers to Crete or anyone wanting to maximize their sightseeing in a single day.

Key Points

• Convenient Pickup & Drop-off: Multiple central locations in Crete make it easy to join the tour without extra hassle.
• Authentic Cultural Experience: Visiting the hippie caves offers a glimpse into the island’s 1960s counterculture with a chance to imagine the lives of those who lived there.
• Stunning Beaches & Views: Matala Beach with its crystal-clear waters and the dramatic Red Beach with its steep cliffs provide unforgettable scenery.
• Guided Tour with Local Insights: A live guide enhances the experience, sharing stories and details you might not find in guidebooks.
• Balanced Schedule: The tour provides around 4 hours in Matala, enough for swimming, exploring the caves, shopping, or relaxing on the sand.
• Additional Scenic Highlights: You’ll pass by the rushing Grand River and towering cliffs of Kourtaliotikos Gorge, perfect for photos.

Exploring Crete’s Southern Shores: A Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

The Journey Begins: Convenient Pickup & Comfortable Transport

Starting from various locations like Heraklion, Malia, or Stalida, the tour kicks off with a scenic 1.5-hour drive in a modern, air-conditioned bus. The buses are well-equipped, providing a comfortable way to cover the considerable distance while enjoying views of Crete’s diverse landscape. The pickup process is straightforward, with clear instructions sent the day prior, although travelers should note that pickups are from main roads, sometimes near hotel exits.

The journey itself is part of the experience—passing through lush countryside, olive groves, and small villages, giving travelers a taste of everyday Crete life before reaching the coast.

The First Major Stop: Heraklion Regional Unit

On the way, there’s a brief 20-minute stop in Heraklion, where you can grab some local snacks and stretch your legs. This stop is mostly a pass-through, but it provides a small window to buy water, snacks, or just take in the local atmosphere before heading to the main destination.

Matala Beach & Hippie Caves: The Heart of the Tour

Once you arrive in Matala, the vibe shifts. Known globally for its fascinating caves carved into the cliffs, the beach has a distinctive, almost mystical charm. Historically, these caves served as tombs in ancient times, but in the 1960s, they became the home and sanctuary for hippies, giving the village its bohemian reputation.

We loved the way the tour combines history with present-day life—guides often share stories about the hippies’ era, and you can walk through the caves, imagining how life must have been back then. Be aware that the entrance fee to the caves is around €5, which isn’t included in the tour price.

With four hours in the area, you can choose to swim in the crystal-clear waters of Matala Beach, explore the caves, browse local shops with handmade crafts, or unwind at a seaside taverna. Many reviewers mention how the beach itself is wide, with golden sand and waters that invite you to relax or snorkel. An earlier review pointed out that the parasols and deckchairs cover much of the beach, so the postcard-perfect image might require a bit of imagination.

The Village Experience

Matala village is charming, with colorful murals adorning the walls and small, friendly shops selling souvenirs and local crafts. Sampling fresh fish or enjoying traditional Greek dishes at a tavern is highly recommended. The atmosphere is relaxed, and many travelers find it’s a perfect spot to enjoy authentic Crete cuisine and perhaps a glass of raki.

Climbing to the Red Beach

The highlight for many adventurers is the walk to the nearby Red Beach. It involves a steep climb, which reviewers note is not suitable for those with mobility issues or who aren’t comfortable with a vigorous hike. The scenery from the top is spectacular, with rugged cliffs and the sea spreading out below.

Once at the Red Beach, you might discover that the “red sand” is more about the dramatic cliffs and the landscape’s color rather than actual pink or red sand. This might disappoint some expecting a pink-sand paradise, but the landscape itself is truly impressive.

Scenic Stops on the Return Journey

On the way back, the tour passes by the imposing Kourtaliotikos Gorge, with towering cliffs and rushing river—ideal for photos and appreciating Crete’s rugged terrain. The group often stops for short scenic views, allowing everyone to capture the moment and take memorable photos.

What to Expect: The Practicalities and Highlights

Transportation & Duration

The round-trip journey totals about 8-9 hours, making it a full day of sightseeing. The bus is modern and air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the long drive. The schedule allows for roughly 4 hours at Matala, giving enough time for swimming, exploring caves, or just soaking in the views.

Guided Tour & Local Insights

With a live guide speaking multiple languages including English, French, Polish, Italian, and Russian, you’ll get plenty of interesting stories and background. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more engaging.

What’s Included & Not

The tour price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the bus ride, the guide, insurance, and four hours in Matala. You’ll need to budget extra for entrance fees (€5 for the caves), food, drinks, and any souvenirs.

Reviews & Real Experiences

While many find the scenery stunning and the caves intriguing, some visitors note the long bus rides—about 1.5 hours each way—and wish for more free time. One reviewer mentioned that the tour leaves you with a meeting time for the return bus, so it requires some coordination. Others appreciated the efficiency; one said, “Very efficient, nice and to the point,” and highlighted how the trip made them eager to return.

A less favorable review pointed out that the village itself is mainly souvenir shops, and the beach is covered with parasols, making the postcard look less authentic. The steep climb to the Red Beach can be daunting for some, so a good level of fitness helps.

The Value for Money & Who It’s Best For

At around $40, the tour offers solid value—transportation, guide, scenic highlights, and a full day out. It’s a great way to see a variety of sights without the hassle of planning individual transfers or hikes.

This experience is ideal for travelers wanting a structured day of sightseeing, especially those interested in history, culture, and natural beauty. It suits first-time visitors to Crete who prefer guided tours, as well as those looking for a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration.

However, if you prefer a slow, beach-heavy day with minimal travel, or if mobility is an issue, this might not be the best fit. The long bus rides and steep hikes are worth considering, especially if you’re traveling with children or seniors.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Crete’s southern coast, combining stunning beaches with a touch of history and local culture. The hippie caves of Matala make for a unique experience, and the Red Beach’s dramatic scenery is sure to leave an impression. The guided aspect ensures you’ll learn stories and details that bring the landscape and history to life, making it more than just a beach day.

While the bus ride is lengthy and the village can be quite commercial, the overall experience balances these with genuinely breathtaking scenery and the chance to see one of Crete’s most distinctive spots. It’s a solid choice for travelers eager to pack a lot into one day, especially if you enjoy a mix of sightseeing, walking, and swimming.

For those wanting a taste of Crete’s hippie past, spectacular coastline, and local flavors, this tour delivers good value and memorable moments. Just come prepared for a full day, some walking, and a bit of adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from main roads in various locations are included, with a comfortable bus ride to and from the coast.

How long do we stay in Matala?
You get about 4 hours to explore, swim, visit the caves, shop, or relax.

Are there any additional costs?
Entrance to the caves costs around €5, which isn’t included in the tour price. Food and drinks are also extra.

Is the Red Beach hike difficult?
The walk to Red Beach involves a steep climb, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a vigorous hike and with good mobility.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, towel, camera, beachwear, and some cash for extras.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
The long bus ride and steep climb may not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues or young children.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, Polish, Italian, and Russian.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, a live guide is provided, offering insights and stories about the sites.

Will I get time to swim?
Yes, you can swim at Matala Beach during your four-hour stay, which is perfect for cooling off and relaxing.

In summary, this guided trip to Matala and Red Beach offers a rich blend of scenery, history, and culture for a reasonable price. It’s a fantastic way to experience some of Crete’s most iconic spots with the convenience of organized transport and knowledgeable guides. Just be prepared for a full day of exploration—your memories will be well worth it.