Hippies Beach and Matala Tour from Heraklion

If you’re thinking about adding a day trip from Heraklion to your Crete itinerary, the Hippies Beach and Matala Tour could be a solid choice. We haven’t done this particular tour ourselves, but from what’s shared and the overall buzz, it looks like a relaxed, well-organized way to soak in some history, natural beauty, and a dose of 1960s hippy nostalgia.

What immediately catches the eye is the value for money, with a price around $30 per person, including pickup and drop-off. Plus, the modern bus and friendly guide seem to make the day smooth and enjoyable. However, keep in mind that some key sites, like the caves, aren’t included in the ticket price, which might be worth considering if you’re eager to explore more deeply.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a balanced day—covering scenic coastal spots without feeling rushed—especially those interested in a mix of history, nature, and a bit of cultural flavor. If you’re into relaxing beaches, fascinating caves, and a taste of hippie-era history, this could be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-organized: Excellent value for the price, with most reviews praising the smooth logistics.
• Comfortable transport: Air-conditioned bus makes the long day more pleasant.
• Historical and scenic stops: Combines natural beauty with a touch of ancient history and modern culture.
• Flexible options: Pickup and drop-off included, making logistics easier.
• Limited cave access: Entry to the caves costs extra, so plan accordingly.
• Short travel times between stops: You’ll spend most of your time at the destinations, not on the road.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off bright and early at 9:00am with a comfortable pickup in Heraklion, and from there, it’s about a 68-kilometer drive southwest to Matala Beach. The journey typically takes around four hours of travel time, which means you’ll get a good chunk of your day to explore and relax.

Matala Beach – The Heart of the Experience

Matala is a standout for its historic significance and beach vibes. Known as a hub for hippies back in the 1960s and 70s, this beach is famous for the caves carved into the steep cliffs overlooking the bay. These caves, originally Roman tombs, became home to flower children, and today they’re a major draw.

The beach itself is about 250 meters long and 45 meters wide—perfect for stretching out, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or just soaking up the sun. The nostalgia and bohemian history are palpable here, making this spot more than just a pretty beach.

According to one reviewer, “the guide was absolutely wonderful and a place worth seeing,” confirming that the experience is well-organized and enjoyable. However, note that entry to the caves costs €4, so if you’re eager to explore inside, bring some cash.

The Historic and Mythical Significance

While most visitors today come for the beaches and caves, it’s fun to remember that Matala’s ancient harbor history goes way back. The area was used by both Minoans and Romans, and legend has it that Zeus, in the form of a bull, swam ashore here with Europa on his back, then took her off to Gortys. It’s a little myth that adds a layer of magic to an already scenic spot.

The Cave Visit

The caves are a major highlight, with many carved into the cliffs. Back in the day, they served as tombs, but modern visitors often find them fascinating for their history and the views they offer. Visitors can expect to see some stairs, beds, and windows carved into the rock, echoing their past as dwellings or tombs.

Most guides include the cave visit in the tour, but remember the €4 entrance fee isn’t covered. One reviewer called the caves “auto-translated,” hinting that the experience might be a bit rough around the edges but still worth it for the history and scenery.

The Rest of the Day

After exploring Matala, the tour takes you back toward Heraklion, with plenty of time to relax or explore at your own pace. The total tour duration is about 7 hours, including travel time, so it’s definitely a full day but not overly exhausting.

The Pros and Cons in Detail

The Good Stuff

• Excellent Value: For under $30, you get transportation, a scenic drive, and a visit to one of Crete’s most iconic beaches. The guide’s positive reviews suggest the organization is top-notch.
• Comfort and Convenience: The air-conditioned bus and pickup/drop-off service remove a lot of logistical stress, especially if you’re not keen on renting a car.
• Rich History and Natural Beauty: From ancient caves to legendary tales of Zeus, there’s plenty of interesting stuff to see and learn.
• Relaxed Pacing: With most of the day dedicated to the stops, you’ll have time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

The Not-So-Great

• Caves Cost Extra: If exploring inside the caves is a must for you, you’ll need to pay €4 on the spot, which isn’t included in the tour price.
• Limited Cave Exploration: The caves are a highlight but visiting inside is an optional extra, so don’t expect an in-depth tour of every chamber.
• Timing and Travel: About four hours of travel each way means long hours in the bus, which might not suit everyone, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer shorter trips.
• Weather dependency: The tour is weather-dependent, so if storms or heavy rain hit, the experience could be affected, though full refunds or alternative dates are available.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed day out that covers scenic spots and offers a touch of history without breaking the bank. It’s particularly good if you enjoy beaches, easygoing group tours, and are curious about the hippie history of Crete. It’s also a nice option if you prefer not to drive yourself but still want to see some of the island’s highlights.

If you’re traveling with others who enjoy a leisurely pace, beautiful coastlines, and a bit of cultural storytelling, this tour could be a good pick. But if you’re looking for a deep dive into caves or historical sites, you might find the €4 cave entry fee and limited cave visit a bit underwhelming.

Final Thoughts

This Hippies Beach and Matala Tour offers straightforward, good-value access to one of Crete’s most iconic beaches combined with a dose of history and scenery. The day is well-paced, the transport comfortable, and the guide gets praise for being friendly and organized. It’s ideal for those who want a hassle-free way to see and relax at Matala without the need to plan every detail.

While a few extras like cave entry fee and long travel times are worth noting, overall, it looks like a reliable, enjoyable experience. It’s certainly a good option if you’re after a balance of scenic beauty, historical interest, and affordability.

FAQs

Is the pickup offered in this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics easier, especially if you don’t want to rent a car.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, with around four hours of travel time between stops, so be prepared for a full day but not overly long.

What is the cost of visiting the caves?
Entrance to the caves costs €4 and is not included in the tour price, so you should have some cash ready if you want to explore inside.

What kind of transportation is used?
You’ll travel in a modern, air-conditioned bus, which helps make the long drive more comfortable.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly advertised as family-focused, the relaxed pace and scenic stops could make it suitable for travelers with older children interested in beaches and history.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for the cave entrance, sun protection, water, and maybe a swimsuit if you plan to swim. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the caves and beach.

If you’re after a budget-friendly, straightforward way to see some of Crete’s highlights with a touch of hippie nostalgia, this tour might just fit the bill. Just remember to set your expectations about the cave visit fee and long bus hours, and you’ll likely come away with some lovely memories.