Red Sand Beach in Crete, Red Beach, Heraklion, Crete, map, photos

Red Sand Beach or Red Beach

In a short distance from Matala is the Red Sand Beach or Red Beach, a name it has gotten from the red brown color of the sand around the beach and the wonderful clear waters, sand that is derived from the reddish rocks of the area.
The combination of the crystal clear waters with the unique sand make up a magical landscape.

Hotels and rooms to let in Matala

It has become one of the favorite destinations in the region by the hippies of the 60' and 70'. It was and it still is a nudist beach, especially its northern part, however the nudists number is significantly reduced, since it has now become a favorite beach and to those who do not embrace nudism.

If you visit the Red Sand Beach, it would be useful to have the necessary supplies with you, because the beach is not organized and the few umbrellas are often occupied and the canteen is not always open.
The only disadvantage is that is vulnerable to the west winds, making it difficult for swimming.

It has been repeatedly voted as one of the best nudist beaches in the world by various media dealing with tourism.
The long rocky limestone that protects its northern part represents a thumbnail of Matala, with several representations of Minoan and Egyptian forms, carved on stone by the Belgian lover of the region, Gerard, and which till today forms an integral part of it.

How to go to the Red Sand Beach
Although the easiest access is by boat from Matala, it is not of considerable difficulty the access via the mainland, crossing the small hill that separates the beach from Matala, after a walk of 15-20 minutes. During the journey, you will see great images of the beautiful surroundings.
Before starting your journey, it would be right to get information for your route, so to avoid any inconvenience.

Accommodation
For your stay in Heraklion of Crete, you can book a room in one of the hotels and Bed & Breakfast inns.
In Matala, as well as in many other areas of Heraklion Perfecture, there are hotels and accommodations of various categories and types (rooms to let, residences, Bed & Breakfast inns, studios, hostels, guesthouses and furnished apartments) that can satisfy every visitor's demands and needs for a pleasant and enjoyable stay.

You will find wonderful hotels, rooms and apartments to let of all categories and price ranges.
Below, you can see a list of hotels and lodgings for staying in the area and selected accommodation's 'offers and deals' as well as various options for low-cost holidays.

Access
The access to Matala of Heraklion and to the most parts of Heraklion is easy and fast via the existing road network by your own car or by using the public transportation means.

For your convenience, you can use the route map on the field “Routes” with information about the mileage, the time you need and the route you will follow, selecting the points of interest.