Crete, the largest and sunniest of the Greek islands, offers an ideal setting for a family vacation, combining stunning landscapes with a rich cultural heritage. Its diverse range of family-friendly resorts provides the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories, with each resort offering unique activities and amenities designed to cater to both children and adults. From expansive waterparks and engaging kids' clubs to serene beaches and organized excursions, Crete's top family resorts ensure that every member of the family, regardless of age, finds something to enjoy.
Whether you're seeking a luxurious retreat with a private beach, a resort with thrilling water slides, or a place where children can engage in creative and educational activities, Crete delivers on all fronts. The island’s family resorts stand out for their commitment to providing comprehensive services that balance relaxation with adventure, making it easy for families to unwind and explore. This guide highlights some of the top family resorts in Crete, each offering a range of features that promise an unforgettable vacation experience tailored to the needs and interests of families.
Creta Maris Beach Resort
Hersonissos
PHOTO BY CRETA MARIS BEACH RESORT
Highlights:
Large flat beach area perfect for families to relax
5 children's pool and children’s waterpark with slides and splash areas
Baby Room for supervised play with babies and toddlers
Kids Club, Teen Club, and babysitting
Themed nights and family entertainment
Creta Maris Beach Resort in Hersonissos, Crete, is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and extensive amenities tailored for all ages. The resort boasts a variety of features specifically designed for children, including a well-equipped kids' club with organized activities and a dedicated children's pool area with water slides. Young guests can also enjoy the playground, mini-golf, and a range of interactive games that keep them entertained while parents relax. The resort's comprehensive family program ensures that both parents and children have enjoyable experiences, with activities ranging from educational workshops to fun sports events.
For families looking for a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure, Creta Maris offers several options. The resort’s spacious family suites provide comfortable accommodations with ample room for everyone, and many come with stunning views of the sea or lush gardens. Dining is also catered to families, with restaurants that offer child-friendly menus and flexible meal options. Additionally, the resort’s location on the beautiful coast of Crete allows for easy access to nearby attractions, such as archaeological sites and natural wonders, making it a convenient base for family excursions.
Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection
Elounda
PHOTO BY DOMES OF ELOUNDA
Highlights:
Focus on health and locally supplied ingredients
Variety of accommodations including some with private pools and hot tubs
Kids’ club with supervised activities and themed events
Children’s pool and gentle entry beach
Family-friendly excursions and cultural tours
Domes of Elounda offers a luxurious family experience with a focus on both relaxation and engagement. One of the standout features for younger guests is the "Domesland" Kids’ Club, which caters to children aged 4 to 12 with a range of engaging activities. Among its unique offerings is the "Kids Kieopos Gardening" program. This hands-on experience not only entertains kids but also introduces them to the basics of gardening and environmental stewardship. Additionally, the resort features a dedicated children's pool with shallow areas and playful water features, giving younger kids plenty of opportunities for fun and safe aquatic play.
Family accommodations at Domes of Elounda are designed to provide both luxury and practicality. The resort offers spacious family suites and private villas, some of which include private pools and stunning Mediterranean views, making them perfect for families who value both comfort and privacy. Dining options cater to all ages, with several restaurants providing diverse menus that include kid-friendly options and flexible dining times. The resort’s private beach is an added highlight, offering a serene sandy shore ideal for family beach activities and enjoying the beautiful sea views.
Phāea Blue Palace, a member of SLH
Elounda
PHOTO BY BLUE PALACE
Highlights:
Kids’ club with supervised activities
Children’s pool and private beach
Watersports including kayaking and snorkeling
Organized beach games and family excursions
Also in Elounda lies Blue Palace. This resort already had a growing following of families returning year after year and its renovation into two exciting hotels: Phaea Blue Palace boutique hotel and Rosewood Blue Palace will only increase its popularity amongst families.
The resort's "Blue Palace Kids Club" offers engaging activities for children aged 4 to 12, including arts and crafts, educational games, and themed workshops. A unique feature of the kids’ program is the "Little Gardeners" initiative, where children can participate in hands-on gardening activities, learning about planting and nurturing various plants in a fun and interactive way. Additionally, the resort features a dedicated children's pool with gentle water slides and splash zones, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for young guests.
As families transition to the newly renovated sections of the Blue Palace Resort, they can take advantage of upgraded accommodations designed with luxury and comfort in mind. The resort is set to offer a range of spacious family suites and villas, many featuring private pools and expansive terraces with stunning views of the Mediterranean. Dining options at the resort are also family-friendly, with several restaurants offering diverse menus that cater to both adult and children’s tastes. The resort's private beach area provides direct access to a serene sandy shoreline, perfect for families to play in the sand and water.
Grecotel Amirandes
Gouves
PHOTO BY GRECOTEL AMIRADES
Highlights:
Kids’ club with daily activities and crafts
Lagoon-style pool and children’s pool
Sports activities including tennis and mini-golf
Spa and relaxation areas for adults
Grecotel Amirandes stands out for its luxurious amenities, family-friendly offerings, and beautiful hotel architecture. The resort features a well-appointed kids' club where children can participate in creative activities and supervised play. The lagoon-style pool provides a unique and enjoyable swimming experience for kids, while the various sports facilities cater to active families.
Parents can take advantage of the resort’s relaxation areas, including a spa and wellness center, while children are entertained. The resort's 10 restaurants and bars are sure to please any palate and the resort’s prime location also allows for exploration of local attractions and cultural sites, adding a fun and educational element to the family vacation.
Aldemar Knossos Royal
Hersonissos
PHOTO BY ALDEMAR KNOSSOS ROYAL
Highlights:
Kids’ club with organized activities and games
Waterpark with slides and splash zones
Private beach with water sports
Themed entertainment and family events
Located in Hersonissos, Aldemar Knossos Royal is a sprawling resort perfect for families seeking a mix of relaxation and entertainment. The resort’s large waterpark, with numerous slides and splash areas, is a major draw for families. Also featured are spacious family rooms and suites, many with private pools or sea views. Kids will delight in the water slides, playgrounds, and organized activities at the Mini Club, while parents can unwind with spa treatments or enjoy sports facilities including tennis and beach volleyball.
Families can enjoy the private beach, participate in beach games and water sports, and take part in themed entertainment and family events. The resort’s dining options provide a range of choices to satisfy different preferences.
St. Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas
Agios Nikolaos
PHOTO BY ST. NICOLAS BAY RESORT HOTEL & VILLAS
Highlights
Kids’ club with a range of activities and entertainment
Multiple swimming pools including a children’s pool
Private beach with watersports and beach games
Evening entertainment and family-friendly events
St. Nicolas Bay Resort provides a blend of luxury and family-friendly amenities. Set in a secluded bay near Agios Nikolaos this resort offers a serene retreat with stunning sea views. Families can choose from luxurious rooms, suites, or private villas with pools. The resort’s kids’ club offers a range of supervised activities including crafts, games, and beach fun. Multiple swimming pools and a private beach provide ample opportunities for family enjoyment and relaxation.
Children can also participate in organized beach activities and watersports, while parents can take advantage of the resort’s spa and wellness facilities. The evening entertainment and family-friendly events ensure that there is always something to keep everyone engaged.
Grecotel Meli Palace
Sissi
PHOTO BY GRECOTEL MELI PALACE
Highlights:
Kids’ club with supervised activities
Children’s waterpark with slides and splash areas
Beachfront activities and water sports
Evening entertainment and themed events
Grecotel Meli Palace is designed with families in mind, offering a range of amenities and activities for children. The resort’s kids' club, Grecoland, for children aged 4-12 features supervised activities including arts and crafts, games, and educational programs. Grecoland also features a children’s pool with water slides and splash zones, making it a favorite spot for younger guests to have fun while parents relax in the nearby sun loungers.
The resort’s beachfront location allows families to enjoy a range of beach activities and water sports. Evening entertainment and themed events provide additional enjoyment for families, ensuring a well-rounded vacation experience. The on-site dining options cater to both adults and children, making mealtime easy and enjoyable.
Mitsis Laguna Resort & Spa
Anissaras
PHOTO BY MITSIS LAGUNA RESORT & SPA
Highlights:
Heated children's pool, waterslide, and playground
Children's disco available in the evenings
Family photography service available
Welcome gifts for kids
Mitsis Laguna Resort & Spa is a standout family destination with a plethora of activities and amenities included in its all-inclusive offering. The resort features a kids' club with supervised activities including arts and crafts, games, educational programs, and even occasional cooking classes. The large waterpark, complete with slides and splash zones, is a major highlight for children.
Families can also enjoy the resort’s private beach, where they can participate in various water sports and beach games. The resort’s range of dining options caters to all tastes, and evening entertainment ensures that the fun continues after the sun goes down.
Nana Golden Beach Hotel
Stalida
PHOTO BY NANA GOLDEN BEACH HOTEL
Highlights:
Multiple bedroom family rooms are available
8 restaurants, 6 snack bars, and 7 bars
Large children's world area including water play and dry climbing structures
Located in Stalida, Nana Golden Beach Hotel is a fantastic choice for families looking for a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. The hotel features a spacious and well-supervised kids' club where younger guests can engage in arts and crafts, play interactive games, and participate in fun, educational activities. The club also offers themed nights and entertainment tailored for children, ensuring that they have a memorable and enjoyable stay. For families looking to relax together, the hotel boasts a large, family-friendly pool area with shallow sections for young swimmers and plenty of comfortable loungers for parents.
In addition to the kids' club, Nana Golden Beach Hotel provides an array of family-oriented amenities that enhance the overall experience. The hotel’s accommodations include family suites with multiple bedrooms and ample living space, allowing families to stay comfortably together. Dining options are also family-friendly, with buffets and a la carte menus offering a range of choices that cater to all ages and dietary preferences. Moreover, the hotel’s location by the beach offers easy access to sandy shores and shallow waters perfect for family fun.
Lyttos Beach Hotel
Anissaras
PHOTO BY LYTTOS BEACH HOTEL
Highlights:
Family rooms and rooms with shared or private pools
Two waterslides areas tailored to different age groups
Large number of land and water activities available
Situated in Anissaras, Lyttos Beach Hotel is a paradise for families seeking an all-inclusive resort experience with a focus on sports and activities. The hotel features an extensive range of facilities tailored to younger guests, including a large water park with multiple slides and splash zones suitable for different age groups. In addition, there are dedicated children’s pools and a well-supervised kids' club where children can engage in a variety of activities such as arts and crafts, sports, and themed entertainment. The hotel's playground and mini-golf course also provide additional recreational options for families.
For accommodations, Lyttos Beach Hotel offers spacious family rooms and suites designed to provide comfort and convenience for parents and children alike. The hotel’s dining options cater to families with kid-friendly menus and buffet selections that appeal to all ages. Additionally, the hotel’s location along a picturesque beach allows families to enjoy a range of outdoor activities, from beach games to exploring nearby attractions. This combination of amenities ensures that both children and adults have a well-rounded and enjoyable stay.
Summary:
Crete's top family resorts offer an impressive array of amenities and activities that cater to both children and adults, ensuring that every aspect of your vacation is covered. From the exhilarating waterparks and well-organized kids' clubs at places like Mitsis Laguna Resort & Spa and Grecotel Creta Palace, to the luxurious relaxation and family-focused activities at Blue Palace and St. Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas, each resort provides a unique experience designed to meet diverse family needs. These resorts not only offer exciting ways for children to stay engaged but also provide ample opportunities for parents to unwind and enjoy quality time together.
Choosing any of these premier family resorts guarantees a memorable Crete vacation, blending the island’s natural beauty with top-notch amenities and activities. Whether you're looking to explore ancient sites, indulge in luxurious relaxation, or simply enjoy fun-filled days at the beach or by the pool, Crete’s resorts ensure that your family vacation will be both enjoyable and enriching. With their dedication to providing exceptional service and creating a welcoming environment for families, these resorts stand out as the best places to stay for a truly unforgettable family holiday on this enchanting Greek island.