Enter
When planning a family holiday in Crete, you need to make sure that every family member enjoys the trip – both adults and children. Right from the start we can tell you: in Crete with kids you will find everything you need! The main thing is to make the right choice. That is why we recommend paying special attention to family hotels in Crete for holidays with children, looking at key indicators, advantages and disadvantages, and other details.
For children spending their holiday by the sea, entertainment is extremely important. Of course, getting a tan, swimming and playing in the sand are fundamental. That is why, when booking a family package to Crete, we recommend focusing on the following criteria:
Distance to the beach and the airport
Safe sandy beach
Swimming pool, water slides and water park
Kids’ animation and activities
Children’s menu in the restaurant
Why Crete is ideal for a family holiday with kids
Wide choice of family-friendly hotels in Crete – from budget options to luxurious 5★ resorts.
Sandy beaches with shallow entry into the sea – perfect and safe for younger children.
Water parks, Dino parks, aquariums, amusement parks and zoos for unforgettable days out.
Clear criteria for choosing a hotel: distance to the beach and airport, pool and slides, animation and kids’ menu.
Dedicated support from Admiral.Travel managers – we help you choose the hotel that truly fits your family.
Fun places to visit with kids in Crete
In addition to classic beach time, there are plenty of interesting places in Crete to visit with children. For example:
Several water parks where kids can splash around in pools, enjoy water slides and other water-based fun.
Numerous beaches on the island that are suitable for children. Some of them are sandy with shallow water – ideal for kids.
Dinosauria Park with “live” and mechanical dinosaurs. The park features interactive exhibitions and the possibility to take part in workshops.
The Crete Aquarium, where children can see various species of fish and marine animals and learn more about the work of scientists studying the marine ecosystem.
Amusement parks in Crete with rides for different ages, playgrounds, restaurants and cafés.
Several zoos where children can see different animals, including tigers, lions, zebras, giraffes and more.
A Museum of History and Culture: visiting this museum, children will learn more about the history of Crete and its culture through interactive exhibitions and games.
Several caves that can be visited with children. Some of them have particularly interesting shapes and sizes, so exploring them becomes a real adventure.
These are just some of the options you can consider when planning your trip to Crete with kids.
Family-friendly hotels in Crete: what to expect
In Crete, the best hotels for children offer all the necessary, high-quality services. We have prepared a list of hotels both for larger budgets and for families looking for more affordable seaside accommodation in Crete. You can study them to make the right choice, and our managers will be happy to help and support you!
Below you will find a selection of some of the best hotels for a holiday with kids, chosen especially for you:
Recommended family hotels in Crete
HYDRAMIS PALACE (4*)
Comfortable 4★ hotel, suitable for a relaxed seaside holiday with children.
WHITE OLIVE ELITE RETHYMNO (5*)
Modern 5★ hotel for families who value a higher level of service and facilities.
ANNABELLE BEACH RESORT (5*)
5★ beach resort with a well-developed territory and convenient access to the sea.
ZEUS HOTEL BLUE SEA BEACH (5*)
5★ hotel for families who want to combine comfort with proximity to the beach.
GRECOTEL MELI PALACE (4*)
Popular 4★ family-oriented hotel with services tailored to guests with children.
CANDIA PARK VILLAGE (4*)
“Village-style” resort with green grounds – a cosy option for family holidays.
BLUE MARINE RESORT & SPA (5*)
5★ resort with spa services – a good choice for parents, with plenty of activities for kids.
VANTARIS PALACE (4*)
Welcoming 4★ property for families who seek a good price-to-quality ratio.
CRETAN MALIA PARK (5*)
Stylish 5★ hotel thoughtfully adapted for family holidays.
STAR BEACH VILLAGE & WATER PARK (4*)
Well-known complex with its own water park, loved by kids of all ages.
ELOUNDA BAY PALACE (5*)
Premium 5★ option for families who want the highest level of service.
KALIMERA KRITI HOTEL & VILLAGE (5*)
“Hotel & village” concept with a large territory and relaxed family atmosphere.
MITSIS LAGUNA HOTEL (5*)
Hotel of a well-known chain, with all inclusive and developed infrastructure for children.
VASIA RESORT & SPA (5*)
5★ resort with a wide range of facilities and entertainment options for the whole family.
PENINSULA RESORT & SPA CRETE (4*)
4★ hotel in a scenic location – a great choice if a beautiful sea view is on your wish list.
EKAVI HOTEL (3*)
More budget-friendly 3★ option for families who still want to enjoy Crete without overspending.
MANOS PALACE (4*)
Cosy 4★ hotel with a friendly atmosphere, ideal for a calm, family-style stay.
SILVER BEACH HOTEL (4*)
Beachfront 4★ hotel, convenient for families who appreciate being just a few steps from the sea.
RETHYMNO MARE & WATER PARK (5*)
5★ hotel with its own water park – a real hit with children who love slides and pools.
MALEME MARE BEACHSIDE HOTEL (4*)
4★ hotel close to the beach, great for evening seaside strolls with the family.
KALYVES BEACH HOTEL (4*)
4★ choice for families who prefer quieter seaside resorts and a more relaxed vibe.
ATLANTICA CALDERA BEACH (4*)
Family-friendly 4★ hotel with an all inclusive concept and easy beach access.
CAVO SPADA LUXURY RESORT & SPA (5*)
Luxury 5★ resort with a high level of comfort and spa services for families who love a bit of pampering.
What to do with kids in Crete
Crete is a very family-friendly island, and it is easy to combine relaxed seaside time with fun activities for children.
Spend lazy mornings on sandy beaches with shallow entry, building sandcastles and paddling in the warm sea.
Visit nearby water parks with kids’ areas, pools and water slides adapted to different ages.
Plan a trip to Dinosauria Park – children usually love seeing dinosaurs “come to life” in interactive zones.
Explore the Crete Aquarium, zoos and amusement parks with attractions for a wide range of ages.
Add a bit of learning: museums of history and culture, as well as easy cave visits, turn a day out into a mini adventure.
Sample 1-day itinerary with kids in Crete
Even in one single day you can organise a programme that keeps both children and adults happy without tiring anyone out.
Morning: relaxed breakfast at the hotel, then time on a nearby sandy beach with shallow water. Children can play in the sand and splash around, while parents unwind under an umbrella.
Lunch: head back to the hotel for lunch, ideally with a children’s corner or simple dishes the kids enjoy. After lunch – a short rest in the shade or a nap in the room.
Afternoon and evening: visit a water park or the Crete Aquarium. Children discover marine life or have fun on the slides, and in the evening you return to the hotel for dinner and kids’ animation – mini-disco or organised games.
Sample 2-day itinerary with kids in Crete
With two full days you can balance beach time, water fun and cultural experiences for the whole family.
Day 1: in the morning, enjoy the beach or hotel pool – sunbathing, playing in the sand and swimming. After lunch, go to a nearby water park where children can spend several hours on slides and in kids’ pools. In the evening, take a walk along the seafront and have dinner at the hotel or in a local taverna.
Day 2: start with a visit to Dinosauria Park or a zoo so kids can see dinosaurs, animals and interactive exhibits. In the afternoon, add a visit to a Museum of History and Culture or one of the accessible caves. Finish the day back at the hotel with evening animation and some quiet time for parents.
How to get to Crete with kids
When planning your journey to Crete with children, it is important to consider both the total travel time and the comfort of the route and transfers.
In the warmer season, Crete is usually served by charter and regular flights, sometimes with a connection in major European hubs or via Athens. Admiral.Travel managers can help you choose the most convenient combination of flights so that the journey with children is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
It is also worth planning the transfer from the airport to the hotel in advance: private transfer, minivan or shared coach. For families with kids, a direct and comfortable transfer without long waiting times after the flight is a big plus.
Frequently asked questions about family holidays in Crete
When is the best time to travel to Crete with children?
For families with kids, the period from May to October is generally considered the most comfortable: the sea is warm enough, there is plenty of sunshine and a wide choice of hotels. In peak season (July–August) hotels with water parks and rich animation programmes are especially convenient.
What should I look for when choosing a hotel for a holiday with kids?
Focus on distance to the beach and the airport, a safe sandy beach with shallow entry, a pool and water slides, kids’ animation and a children’s menu in the restaurant. Together, these factors make the holiday more comfortable for the whole family.
Are the beaches in Crete suitable for small children?
Yes. Many beaches in Crete have soft sand and a gently sloping seabed. Children feel more comfortable and safe playing at the water’s edge, and parents can keep an eye on them more easily.
Are there water parks for children in Crete?
Yes, there are several water parks on the island with kids’ areas, pools and slides. Some of the hotels in our list are located fairly close to such parks, which makes family day trips easy to organise.
Are there educational and “learning through play” activities for kids?
Definitely. Museums of history and culture, the Crete Aquarium, Dinosauria Park and other thematic parks offer interactive exhibitions, allowing children to learn new things while having fun.
Are these hotels suitable for toddlers (1–3 years old)?
Most recommended hotels are oriented towards families with children of different ages. When booking, it is important to indicate the child’s age so the hotel can confirm availability of baby cots, high chairs and other useful equipment.
Can we combine hotel relaxation with excursions around the island?
Yes, and it is often the best formula. You can start the day on the beach or by the pool, then head to a water park, zoo, Dinosauria Park or a museum in the afternoon. The main thing is to keep a comfortable pace for the kids and alternate activity with rest.
Are there zoos and animal parks in Crete?
Yes. The island has several zoos where children can see tigers, lions, zebras, giraffes and many other animals. It is a great idea for a half-day or full-day family outing.
What type of room is best for a family with two children?
Family rooms, junior suites or two-room apartments are usually recommended – depending on the hotel. They provide more space and make it easier to add extra beds or create a separate sleeping corner for the kids.
What is the most convenient way to get from the airport to the hotel with kids?
The most convenient option is a direct flight or one with a single connection, followed by a pre-booked transfer (private or shared) to the hotel. Admiral.Travel managers can suggest suitable routes and transfer options based on your children’s ages.
What does kids’ animation in Cretan hotels usually include?
Typically it includes mini-clubs with daily programmes, games by the pool, competitions, creative workshops and evening mini-discos. Children are entertained and engaged, while parents can enjoy some free time.
Do family hotels offer special menus for children in the restaurant?
Many family-oriented hotels have a special kids’ corner or dishes that are simple and suitable for children: light soups, pasta, easy side dishes, fruits and desserts. When booking, you can mention any special dietary needs for your child.
Is Crete a safe destination for a holiday with children?
Crete is generally considered a safe and very family-friendly destination. Well-equipped beaches, hotels designed for families and developed tourist infrastructure create comfortable conditions. Still, it is important to follow basic safety rules, especially around the sea and pools.
