Matala, the Hippie Beach! Tour From Heraklion

Exploring the Matala, the Hippie Beach Tour from Heraklion

If you’re planning a trip to Crete, a visit to Matala Beach is often high on the list—and for good reason. This tour promises a full day of relaxation, scenic views, and a dash of history, all wrapped into a manageable 7 to 9-hour experience. We haven’t personally done it, but from what’s shared and the reviews, it sounds like a straightforward, well-organized way to see one of Crete’s most iconic spots without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we like about this tour is how it combines relaxation with a touch of adventure—lunch by the sea, crystal-clear waters, and the optional exploration of the famous prehistoric caves carved into the cliffs. Plus, the multilingual guide and air-conditioned transport promise comfort and informative narration, making it suitable even if you’re not fluent in the local language. However, a consideration for some travelers might be the additional cave entrance fee of 4 euros, which isn’t included in the price.

This experience is ideal for those who want a hassle-free day trip that combines natural beauty, a bit of local history, and some relaxing beach time. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate not having to worry about logistics, since pickup, drop-off, and transportation are all handled for you.

Key Points

• Convenient Pickup and Drop-Off: The tour includes transportation from designated points, saving you the trouble of navigating yourself.
• Balanced Itinerary: Enjoy a relaxed beach day with optional cave exploration, combining leisure with a touch of history.
• Multilingual Guide: Helpful for international travelers; you’ll get insights in multiple languages.
• Affordable Price: Around $48 per person, offering good value for the experience and transport.
• Limited Group Size: Max 50 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.
• Good Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

What to Expect on the Tour

Starting Point and Transport

The tour kicks off in the morning, with pickup from designated locations in Heraklion. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially during the warmer months, and helps set a relaxed tone for the day. The group size, capped at 50, means you’re not lost in a crowd, and the multilingual guide means you’ll be well-informed without feeling overwhelmed.

Matala Beach: The Heart of the Experience

Once you arrive at Matala, you’ll immediately notice its reputation as a hippie haven. The beach itself is known for its crystal-clear waters and warm sunshine, perfect for swimming, lounging, or just soaking up the scenery. The waters are inviting, and many find this the highlight of the trip—whether for a quick dip or a longer stay.

Lunch by the Sea

One of the standout features of this tour is the lunch included in the price. While the menu specifics aren’t detailed, travelers often mention enjoying delicious food and tapas, which adds significant value considering the overall cost. Expect to dine with views of the sea, which makes the meal feel like part of the experience rather than just fuel for the day.

Optional Cave Exploration

After lunch, you have the option to explore the prehistoric caves carved into the steep cliffs of Matala. These caves, once Roman tombs, gained fame when the hippie community moved into them in the 1960s and 1970s. The entrance fee is modest at 4 euros, payable on-site, and many find it interesting to step into a piece of history and culture.

Duration and Flexibility

The overall tour lasts around 7 to 9 hours, with plenty of time at each stop to relax or explore. The flexibility to opt into the cave visit makes it suitable for those interested in history or simply looking to add a bit of adventure to their day.

The Value of this Tour

At approximately $48, this tour offers a lot—transportation, a guide, lunch, and access to one of Crete’s most iconic beaches. The fact that it’s booked around 27 days in advance indicates its popularity, and the positive review suggests it’s well-organized.

While the cave entrance fee isn’t included, it’s a small extra for a chance to see the ancient carved caves. The tour’s focus on relaxation and scenic beauty makes it a good choice for travelers wanting an easy day out without the stress of DIY planning.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a laid-back day with a mix of beach time and light history, especially if they prefer to avoid the hassle of organizing transportation and guides themselves. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages who enjoy scenic coastal views, tasty local food, and a touch of culture. Keep in mind, if you’re very particular about exploring caves or interested in a more in-depth historical experience, you might want to allocate extra time or look for a different tour.

Final Thoughts

The Matala, the Hippie Beach! Tour from Heraklion offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to see one of Crete’s most famous beaches without breaking the bank. The combination of relaxing beachside lunch, optional cave exploration, and comfortable transport makes for a balanced day suitable for many types of travelers.

If you’re after a relaxing escape, love scenic coastal views, and want a hassle-free experience with friendly guides, this tour could be just what you need. The included lunch and scenic stops make it a practical choice, especially if you’re trying to make the most of your limited time on the island.

For those who want a relaxed, straightforward, and memorable day on Crete’s southern coast, this tour hits most of the right notes. Just remember to bring your beach gear, some euros for the cave entrance, and an appetite for good food and great views.

FAQ

Is pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from designated points, which makes logistics much easier.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 to 9 hours, giving you plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.

What’s the cost of the caves?
The cave entrance fee is 4 euros, payable on-site. It’s a small additional cost for the experience.

Is food included?
Yes, lunch by the sea is included, and travelers often praise the quality of the food and tapas offered.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The policy is flexible and user-friendly.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the relaxed pace and scenic nature make it suitable for most travelers, but consider the optional cave visit if traveling with young children.

This tour strikes a nice balance between leisure and cultural interest, all wrapped up in a relaxed day at one of Crete’s most iconic spots. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy Matala Beach, this package offers good value and a memorable experience.