While lots of beaches in Greece have become iconic and well-known internationally, while many Greek destinations have become favoured by the rich and famous, while there are lots of scenic spots in Greece, some have particularly strong reputations and ardent fans. If you're a fan of 1960s and 1970s music stars and hippy culture and the likes of Bob Dylan, Cat Stevens, and Joni Mitchell and aim to emulate their styles and lives then Matala Beach is the one for you. Now a rather more touristy and developed spot (though less so than many other towns in the area) but still a pretty gem that managed to attract all three aforementioned stars among others, inspire songs, and more in the past, this lovely beach is a perfect place for a day at the sea if you have found a vacation rental in Crete and are exploring some of the different seaside towns in the area.
Located in the Bay of Messara, 68km southwest of Heraklion, at the exit of a small valley where the plain Messara meets the Asteroussia Mountains, this naturally-sheltered beach boasts a lovely view to the islands of Paximadia and has long since been one of the most popular tourist destinations in Crete. The most famous beach of the South Heraklion prefecture, it is around 250m long and 45m wide and is a sand and pebble beach with crystal clear blue waters, which is flanked by yellow sandstone cliffs and backed by tamarisk trees. In addition to being picturesque it is also both steeped in millennia of history and boasts excellent facilities.
Located in the Bay of Messara, 68km southwest of Heraklion, at the exit of a small valley where the plain Messara meets the Asteroussia Mountains, this naturally-sheltered beach boasts a lovely view to the islands of Paximadia and has long since been one of the most popular tourist destinations in Crete. The most famous beach of the South Heraklion prefecture, it is around 250m long and 45m wide and is a sand and pebble beach with crystal clear blue waters, which is flanked by yellow sandstone cliffs and backed by tamarisk trees. In addition to being picturesque it is also both steeped in millennia of history and boasts excellent facilities.
