How to Hike to Red Beach in Matala, Crete

Red Beach is a secluded, nudist-friendly beach along the South Coast of Crete, near Matala Beach. With fine red sand and vertiginous cream-colored cliffs, this eye-catching beach is well worth the extra effort when visiting the caves of Matala. 

To access Red Beach (Kokkini Ammos), first drive to Matala Beach. From this historic hippie destination where Joni Mitchel once lived and composed Carey, featured on the album Blue (1971), a rugged trail crosses over the Ákra Mátala headland and descends to Red Beach. The Red Beach Trail takes about 30-40 minutes one-way.

The path is very uneven and scattered with loose rocks, so it’s essential to wear sturdy footwear. Flip flops are not an option.

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Red Beach Hiking Map

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How to Get to Red Beach

From the Matala Beach car park, head south and locate the main café-lined road that runs through the village. Just beyond Giannis Family Restaurant, turn left. There is a handwritten “Red Beach” sign on the street wall. 

Walk up this steep residential street, following the signs. After ascending the white-painted staircase, the hiking trail begins. 

The rocky trail rises steadily above Matala, rewarding hikers with stellar views of the caves, bay, and village. 

Cross the shrub-studded headland, following the red-painted dots. There are a few large cairns (rock piles) along the path.

The trail runs parallel to a fence, before reaching a high point. Detour to the viewpoint for a view of the coast and Red Sand Beach. From this vantage point, the beach doesn’t seem especially scenic, or awe-inspiring. But, don’t let this first impression deceive you. 

Return to the fence and pass through the padlock-loaded gate, located to the right of the “Welcome Nudist Beach FKK” sign. 

The rocky path twists down to the beach, forking part-way down. You’ll see white-painted and blue-painted arrows. Follow the most appealing trail. 

There are three beach bars at Red Beach. Unfortunately, one of the beach bar owners burns his trash near his bar. So, as you approach this slice of paradise, you may see heaps of burned garbage (soda cans, etc…). 

When we visited Red Beach in March, we shared the entire beach with only two other people. Because the beach bars were closed, it was especially idyllic (no loud music, etc…). 

To start the return hike to Matala, follow the trail that leads directly between Red Beach Cafe and Best Mojito Yannis. 

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Beach Bars

There are three beach bars at Red Beach. They are all cash only. 

Red Beach Cafe | The northernmost beach bar sells beverages, salads, and fresh fruit: Google Maps

Best Mojito Yannis | Colorfully-painted in bright pastel hues, this establishment looks like a fun place to hang out, but read the reviews first: Google Maps. 

Red beach Εxtra vitamin Street Beach food and drinks | This modest beach bar is located south of the other bars. A few umbrellas are provided, but there is minimal shade. Reviews are overwhelmingly positive: Google Maps. 

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Where to Stay

Matala

In Matala, the best accommodations are Hotel Sunshine Matala (budget) and Matala Prime Villas (midrange). Just outside of Sivas, O Mikros Kosmos Hotel Resort – Adults Only is the most luxurious hotel in the area.

All accommodations in Matala.

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Plakias

We visited Matala as a day trip from the laid-back seaside town of Plakias, set in a picturesque bay between rolling mountains and the Libyan Sea.

We recommend staying in AELIA (budget-midrange), KYMĀNI Boutique Hotel (midrange-luxury), or Belvedere Luxury Apartments & Spa (midrange-luxury).

For more budget-friendly accommodations, check out Mythos Apartments near Damnoni Beach.

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More Crete Travel & Hiking Guides

Hiking:

• Best Hikes in Crete
• Aradena Gorge Hike
• Loutro – Sweet Water Beach Hike
• Lissos Gorge Hike in Sougia
• Katholiko Bay Hike
• Kourtaliotiko Gorge

Travel:

• Plakias Travel Guide
• Chania Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Chania

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