Location
Greece
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Sand
Best season
May to October
About Red Beach
Red Beach (Kokkini Ammos) is a small cove on the south coast of Crete about 800 m south of Matala and 68 km south-west of Heraklion, in the Moudia area. It is cut off from the road by Kastri hill, so it is reached only on foot or by boat, which has helped it stay one of Crete's best-known nude beaches; Greek media reported its inclusion in CNN's list of the world's best nudist beaches. The name comes from the soft, brick-red sand, eroded from the surrounding reddish soil, which gives the water a green-turquoise tint. Rocky sandstone shelters the northern end, where nude bathers are most concentrated, and a few rocks there carry carved sea figures made by a Belgian named Gerard, not ancient art. Between Matala and Red Beach is the Kourouri sea cave at the Theosyni rock. The beach is exposed to the westerly winds common in the area and usually has waves. There are umbrellas and a small kiosk selling basics, although the kiosk does not always open. Nudity is optional and the crowd is mixed.
Getting there
From Matala, follow the signs for Kokkini Ammos from the north edge of the village and take the footpath over Kastri hill; it involves scrambling over some rocks and a steep descent at the end and takes about 15-25 minutes. It is not especially difficult but needs proper shoes and is not step-free. Parking is in Matala (the village car park near the beach). In summer a small boat (caique) from Matala harbour is an alternative to the walk. Bring water in summer heat.
What visitors say
Visitors describe a striking red-sand cove with clear water and a relaxed, mixed nude and clothed crowd, with nude bathers concentrated toward the rocky northern end. The walk over the hill is part of the appeal but is hot and rocky in summer, so good shoes and water are recommended. The kiosk is unreliable, so many bring their own supplies. Wind and waves can make swimming rough on some days.
Summarised in our own words from public reviews and guides listed under Sources.
Amenities
Legal context
Greek law has no national designation of nude beaches and public indecency can be prosecuted under the Penal Code, but nude bathing is widely tolerated on remote or customary beaches; at Red Beach nudity is a long-standing custom rather than a designation, and we found no report of enforcement.
Naturism at Red Beach sits under Greece's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: Greece public nudity guide.
Researched 24 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 34.9900, 24.7500
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in Greece
Frequently asked questions
Is nudity allowed at Red Beach?
Nude bathing is customary and widely accepted, but not officially designated; nudity is optional.
How do I get there from Matala?
Walk the signed path from the north of Matala over Kastri hill, about 15-25 minutes, or take a boat from Matala harbour in season.
Are there facilities?
There are umbrellas and a small kiosk, which does not always open, so bring water and food.
Where do nude bathers go?
Mostly to the northern end, sheltered by sandstone rocks.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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