If you've come to Crete looking for nightlife, then Matala is the place for you. It attracts single groups and young people looking for a party time. It is a lively resort where you won't find time to be bored.

Matala is a very famous beach. It was once used by hippies who used the caves around the beach as a place to camp. The caves were formed by naturally by the wind and the waves, and today the caves are cordoned off so it is not possible to go inside them. It is a busy and popular beach but stands in an area of natural beauty. The beach is somewhat protected from the northern breezes however, for people who like to surf and body board, this is not an unknown pastime. The beach is light, golden and sandy and there are plenty of facilities to enjoy your time spent here.

If you tire of spending time at the beach, why not try the market for a change of scene. There are plenty of water sports on offer but if you want to take some time just enjoying the surroundings, you have the magnificent caves and the mountain views.

It is one of the club capitals of Crete, with at least 8 well known clubs where you will find plenty of choice whatever your music taste. There are resident DJ's along with international DJ's and most clubs continue until the early hours. There is also a wide selection of music bars that play the latest sounds. The majority of clubs and bars are positioned alongside the beach, as well as plenty of tavernas and restaurants.

There is much more to Matala than the nightlife and beaches. It originated as a port in the Minoan era, and to this day evidence of the ancient ruins of what was the old city can be seen, but only on the sea bed as the ancient city fell into the sea.

There are archaeological findings of palaces from the cities of Phaistos and Gortys, of which Matala once originated from.

One of the attractions that Matala is famous for is its caves and rock formations at the inlet where the sea approaches the land. The naturally formed cave of Kouroupi is the habitat of many birds and seals who find shelter here. Some of the caves are protectedby the Archaeological Service.