Matala accommodation from NZ$70

The Zafiria and Matala Bay Hotel are near the Red Beach.

The Palazzo Greco is located 14 kilometres away from the main part of Matala. Another option is the Astoria, which is located 14 kilometres away. Alternatively, you could book the Nana Apartments or the Hariklia Rent Rooms.

You'd have to be a flamin' galah to leave Matala without exploring all the other fabulous attractions on offer in Crete Island. View Crete Island's beaches. Alternatively, explore the area's ruins and traditional villages. Visitors in this region of Greece commonly enjoy mountain biking.

Looking for more to do? Spend a few hours enjoying the Palace of Phaistos, Komos Beach and Beach of Matala, which you'll find in Faistos, 10 kilometres to the northeast of Matala. If you'd like to visit Faistos, check out the Ksa Sou Traditional Guesthouses and Olive Villas. Alternatively, you could stay in Gouves, 60 kilometres to the northeast of Matala, where you can pick from the Knossos Beach Bungalows & Suites and Arina Sand Hotel - All Inclusive. If you're staying in Gouves, make sure you visit the Cretaquarium and Watercity Waterpark.

Get your sports fix by taking a trip to Pankritio Stadium, which is 50 kilometres to the northeast of Matala. The Galaxy Hotel Iraklio and the El Greco Hotel are near all the action.

Situated 55 kilometres away from Matala is Nikos Kazantzakis Airport. Stay nearby at the Prince of Lillies or the AKS Minoa Palace Hotel.