Hotels
All inclusive Crete: the resorts we pick for sun, sand and children
All inclusive means a holiday without bills, with food, drinks and pools in one place. The best resorts on Crete are east of Heraklion, close to the airport. These are the ones we pick, and what is actually included.
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In short: all inclusive in Crete
If you want as much as possible included, stay by the beach east of Heraklion. Our first choice is Creta Maris, with fifteen outdoor pools and a water park included in the price. The airport is close by, so you arrive quickly.
Our first choice: Check availability and prices at Creta Maris Beach Resort
What is included?
At most resorts all meals, snacks and local drinks are included. Imported spirits, à la carte restaurants and the spa often cost extra. Also check whether the kids club is included, and from what age it takes children.
Good to know: The wristband you get at check in shows which package you have. Read the terms before you book, so the bar holds no surprises.
The resorts we pick
Creta Maris Beach Resort
Creta Maris sits on the beach in Hersonissos, with fifteen outdoor pools, an indoor pool and a water park included in the price. Seven restaurants, five pool bars and nine bars mean you can pick a new spot every evening. The kids club is included, and guests praise the staff.
Best for: families who want a water park and a beach without leaving the hotel.
Good to know: The resort is large, so ask for a room near what you will use most.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Creta Maris Beach Resort
Agapi Beach Resort
Agapi Beach is a premium all inclusive resort with a private beach west of Heraklion. There are three outdoor pools, four restaurants and four bars, and the Mediterraneo restaurant looks out over the beach. The kids club is included, and guests praise the beachfront location.
Best for: families who want to combine the beach with a day in Heraklion.
Good to know: It is close to town, so you can take a taxi to Knossos and the archaeological museum.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Agapi Beach Resort
Mitsis Laguna Resort & Spa
Mitsis Laguna in Hersonissos has five outdoor pools, six restaurants and a kids club with supervised activities included. The spa offers massage and aromatherapy, and there is a tennis court and a gym. Star Beach water park is about ten minutes away by car.
Best for: families with school-age children.
Good to know: The water park is not part of the hotel, so expect to buy a separate ticket.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Mitsis Laguna Resort & Spa
Lyttos Beach
Lyttos Beach sits on the beach east of Hersonissos, with a water park and a kids club included. There are four restaurants, four bars and a spa with hot stone massage. The Zorbas restaurant looks out over the beach. With fifteen tennis courts and activities for children, the days fill up easily.
Best for: families who want both a beach and water slides.
Good to know: It is popular in the school holidays, so book early.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Lyttos Beach
Our first choice for all inclusive
Creta Maris Beach Resort
Creta Maris sits on the beach in Hersonissos, with fifteen outdoor pools and a water park included in the price. Children can ride the slides in the morning and swim in the sea in the afternoon. You eat and drink when it suits you, without thinking about the bill.
Frequently asked questions about all inclusive in Crete
Where is the best place for all inclusive in Crete?
The coast east of Heraklion, around Hersonissos and Malia, has the most large all inclusive resorts. It is a short ride from the airport, and many hotels sit right on the beach. For a quieter setting with more luxury, Elounda also has all inclusive options, but the choice there is smaller.
Are drinks included in all inclusive in Crete?
Local wine, beer, soft drinks and local spirits are usually included. Imported spirits, branded cocktails and wine from the wine list often cost extra. Each hotel sets its own rules, so read the terms before you book. Some resorts offer a pricier package with more included.
When is the all inclusive season in Crete?
Most resorts are open from April or May to October. July and August are the hottest and most expensive months, and also the busiest with families. June and September bring a warm sea, lower prices and more space by the pool. In winter many of the large resorts are closed.
Is all inclusive good for young children?
Yes, especially resorts with a kids club, shallow pools and a beach right outside. Check the age limit for the kids club before you book, as it varies. Also ask about cots and high chairs. A resort with a water park included saves you extra tickets and long days in the car.