From pristine beaches with turquoise waters to water parks and donkey farms, and from stalactite caves to canyon hikes: experiencing Crete with kids is something truly special and we, as a family, absolutely loved it.
Crete is perfect for a family vacation. The Cretans are incredibly fond of children, and you feel welcome with kids everywhere. All across the island, you’ll find great family hotels and plenty of exciting activities that make kids’ eyes light up. Tom & Ella
We spent two months traveling around Crete with our daughter, just before her second birthday. Driving our own car, we crossed Greece’s largest island from west to east, covering nearly 4,000 kilometers, visiting countless playgrounds across Crete, and testing each region for its family-friendliness.
In this post, we’ll show you our 18 favorite destinations, the most family-friendly beaches, and the best family hotels in Crete, clearly listed by region (West, North, South, East). This way, you can find the right tips for your family vacation in Crete at a glance:
- Western Crete with Kids (Chania Region)
- Family-friendly beaches in western Crete
- Great Family Hotels in Western Crete
- Northern Crete with Kids (Heraklion Region)
- Family-friendly beaches in Northern Crete
- Great family hotels in Northern Crete
- Southern Crete with Kids
- Family-Friendly Beaches in Southern Crete
- Great family hotels in southern Crete
- Eastern Crete with Children
- Great family hotels in Eastern Crete
- FAQ: Crete with Kids
🏖️ Dream beaches & hidden bays
🍽️ Restaurants, tavernas & cafés
🏛️ Must-see highlights & ancient sites
🗺️ Worthwhile spots & insider tips
🚘 Practical info like rentals & parking
♾️ Lifetime access & updates
Western Crete with Kids (Chania Region)
For us, the area around Chania is the best all-around region for a family holiday on Crete and our top recommendation for families visiting the island for the first time. The combination here is simply perfect: beautiful flat sandy beaches, a wide selection of family-friendly hotels, plenty of varied excursion options with kids, and pleasantly short transfer times to the hotel thanks to Chania Airport. Here are our highlights for Western Crete with kids:
→ Find out everything there is to discover in western Crete in our separate post: Western Crete
#1 Limnoupolis Water Park
A real highlight for water lovers of all ages. The Limnoupolis Water Park is located southwest of Chania and offers plenty of fun for the little ones with a shallow kids’ pool featuring slides and tipping buckets. For older children, there are a variety of slides available. There are also plenty of shaded lounging areas. You can float leisurely along the Lazy River while lifeguards monitor the individual attractions.
➲ View tours to Limnoupolis Water Park*
- Limnoupolis Water Park hours: daily 10 a.m.–7 p.m. (starting May 15)
- Limnoupolis Water Park admission: €20 (online ticket)
#2 Botanical Garden of Crete
Just 15 kilometers south of the water park, a trip into the countryside to the Botanical Garden of Crete is well worth it. This green oasis, with its magnificent peacocks, donkeys, turtles, and more, as well as its wonderfully fragrant, colorful flowers, is a real highlight for children too. The only requirement: Kids should be good walkers, as there are several kilometers to cover.
Otherwise, it’s advisable to bring a baby carrier or backpack to Crete, as the uneven paths are unsuitable for strollers and buggies. For a refreshment afterward, the attached restaurant is recommended, offering freshly squeezed juices, delicious ice cream, and cake, among other things. Try the Sfakian Pie here, a type of crêpe and a culinary classic of Cretan Greek cuisine. Our kids really enjoyed it too :-).
- Botanical Garden hours: daily 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
- Botanical Garden admission: €8 (reduced €4)
#3 The Little Fun Train (Agia Marina)
Crete’s popular tourist train departs from Agia Marina/Platanias and offers various routes into the green hinterland of Chania. Each trip lasts about three hours and winds through picturesque mountain villages, past olive oil mills, monasteries, and local producers where you can sample Cretan specialties such as honey, raki, and freshly squeezed orange juice.
The “Southern Comfort” Fun Train tour also includes a stop at the Charma Brewery. For families with children, the trip to the Orange Valley and the route to Limnoupolis Water Park are particularly recommended. Train rides are also offered in many other resorts across Crete. More info about the Little Trains on Crete at: funtrain.gr.
Family-friendly beaches in western Crete
Falassarna Beach (northern section): One of the most beautiful beaches in Crete, with the northern section being particularly appealing to families. Here, shallow pools form with calm, shallow water where even small children can splash around safely. The sand is fine and light-colored, perfect for digging and building sandcastles.
Marathi Beach (Akrotiri): A small, sheltered cove on the Akrotiri peninsula with a very gentle slope into the water. Thanks to its sheltered location, the sea here usually remains calm, even when the Meltemi is blowing at other beaches. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available for rent, and there are also a few nice taverns right on the beach.
Elafonisi Beach: The famous pink-sand beach is stunningly beautiful and, thanks to the shallow lagoon, also suitable for children. However, we recommend visiting Elafonisi with kids only during the off-season, as the beach is extremely crowded in summer and it’s nearly impossible to get through. In May or October, on the other hand, it’s pleasantly quiet here.
Pachia Ammos (Paleochora): A beautiful, wide sandy beach with a gentle slope into the water in Paleochora. Thanks to the offshore rocks, the water here is often calmer than elsewhere. The beach is well-organized with lounge chairs and umbrellas yet still offers plenty of space for playing. Taverns and cafés are located in the immediate vicinity.
Paralia Kalives (Kalyves): A long sandy beach with crystal-clear and very shallow water, ideal for small children. The pretty village of Kalyves offers good amenities with supermarkets, taverns, and playgrounds right behind the beach. A small river also flows into the sea here, which fascinates the kids even more.
Kalyvaki Beach (Georgioupoli): A small and quiet stretch of beach near Georgioupoli that is very popular with families with small children. The sand is fine, the water clear and shallow, and the White Mountains provide a spectacular backdrop. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available for rent.
Great Family Hotels in Western Crete
HARPIN Georgioupolis Resort & Aqua Park
This 5-star resort in Georgioupoli is a true paradise for families. Located directly on a miles-long sandy beach, the hotel features its own water park with several water slides, a Kids Club, a Teens Club, children’s pools, and a colorful entertainment program. The spacious family rooms and maisonettes are modern and newly renovated. There’s also an all-inclusive package with themed evening buffets.
Pilot Beach Resort
This 5-star resort is situated directly on the sandy beach of Almyros Bay near Georgioupoli and captivates with its traditional Cretan architecture amidst olive and avocado trees. With five pools (including a children’s pool with water slides), an international Kids Club, a playground, and a varied entertainment program, families are well taken care of. The Family Junior Suites offer separate sleeping areas for parents and children. The hotel’s own Blue Flag beach with a gentle slope into the sea perfectly rounds out the experience.
➲ More info on Pilot Beach Resort*
Euphoria Resort
This award-winning 5-star family resort near Kolymbari, west of Chania, sets the standard for child-friendliness. The Kids Club offers programs for three age groups: Family Vibe (0 to 4 years with parents), Kids Vibe (4 to 12 years), and Club Vibe for teenagers. Add to that a fantastic water park with fast slides and adventure towers, one of the largest hotel pools in Greece, and an ultra-all-inclusive concept featuring five restaurants. A dream hotel for families who don’t want to compromise.
➲ More info on Euphoria Resort*
The go-to spot for affordable toys, beach gear, clothing, and accessories for babies and kids. A mix of Toys”R”Us, Tedi, and Depot. It feels like they have EVERYTHING here, and at great prices. A visit to Jumbo is a must for us on every trip to Greece. 😉
Northern Crete with Kids (Heraklion Region)
The region around Heraklion, with the resorts of Kokkini Hani, Chersonisos, and Malia, is the most tourist-developed part of Crete. This has pros and cons: On the one hand, you’ll find the highest concentration of truly great family hotels here, complete with water parks, kids’ clubs, and all-inclusive packages.
On the other hand, the beaches in Northern Crete are often crowded in the summer, and due to the north wind and waves, they aren’t always the best option for swimming with small children. If you rent a car, you can do an incredible amount with your kids from here, as there are plenty of day trip destinations in the region. The exact hotel location for your family vacation in Crete then becomes almost secondary.
✓ Full coverage & unlimited mileage included
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✓ Best price guarantee via Discover Cars
#4 CRETAquarium
The CRETAquarium near Gournes is one of the largest aquariums in Europe and is part of the Hellenic Center for Marine Research. Around 2,500 marine creatures from 250 different species thrive in over 60 tanks: from sharks and rays to sea turtles and seahorses, all the way to colorful reef fish.
Our little one was completely fascinated by the jellyfish, which float almost weightlessly through the water in atmospherically lit tanks. The aquarium is also educational for older children, as interactive information panels explain the underwater world of the Mediterranean. The CRETAquarium is accessible by bus from Heraklion. It’s a perfect outing in Crete with kids, even on days when the weather isn’t cooperating.
➲ Get tickets for the CRETAquarium*
- CRETAquarium hours: daily 9:30 AM–7 PM
- Admission to the CRETAquarium: €8 (reduced €6)
#5 Cretan Animal Park
This small animal park is located about 15 km south of Heraklion near the village of Astritsi in the hinterland. The well-maintained grounds are a real highlight for kids, featuring camels, deer, llamas, ponies, and goats, among other animals. The park is family-run, and visitors can feed the animals—a feature that especially delights the little ones. After visiting the Cretan Animal Park, it’s worth stopping in the wine village of Archanes for a delicious lunch or a snack (tip: Bakaliko Crete).
- Cretan Animal Park hours: daily 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
- Admission to Cretan Animal Park: €9 (children ages 5–12: €5, under 5: free)
#6 Pantheon Water Park
The Pantheon Water Park is a new water park in Chersonisos, scheduled to open in spring 2026. Spanning 50,000 m², it will feature a wide variety of water slides and plenty of water fun for all ages. A lazy river and a shallow children’s pool with slides for the little ones are planned. Chill-out areas and dining options have also been included. As soon as the park opens, we’ll update the information here. Feel free to leave a comment below and let us know how you liked the new water park in Crete!
- Pantheon Water Park opening hours: TBA
- Pantheon Water Park admission: TBA
#7 Video Games Museum
The small video game museum in Heraklion takes you on a journey through time, from the early days of gaming with screen templates from the 1970s to the latest developments like virtual reality. In the basement, you can even try out a few games. It’s especially exciting for older kids and for dads who feel a sense of nostalgia when seeing the old consoles from PlayStation and others.
- Video Games Museum Hours: Daily 8 a.m.–8 p.m.
- Admission to the Video Games Museum: €10
#8 Natural History Museum of Crete
The Natural History Museum in Heraklion showcases the fascinating flora and fauna of Greece and the Mediterranean region across several floors. Schoolchildren, in particular, can learn and discover a great deal here. The life-size, moving dinosaur models are sure to make every dinosaur fan’s heart race.
The absolute highlight for us was the earthquake simulator, which even our little one experienced while being held in our arms. She thought the shaking—almost up to the strongest magnitude—was really cool, until the older schoolkids started screaming; that’s when the fun was over for her, too. 😉 An entertaining outing that’s especially worth it on rainy days.
- Hercaklion Natural History Museum hours: daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Admission to the Natural History Museum in Heraklion: €8
#9 Stalactite Caves near Heraklion
Crete also has plenty to offer underground: In the stalactite caves of Sfentoni and Melidoni, young cave explorers can delve into the island’s mysterious underworld. Both caves are open daily and feature impressive, massive chambers filled with stalagmites and stalactites, all beautifully illuminated.
Sfentoni Cave: Crete’s largest accessible stalactite cave is located in the village of Zoniana, south of Rethymno. The large chambers are well-lit and beautifully presented. On the illuminated tour, you’ll discover bizarre stalactite formations that have grown over thousands of years. We took the last tour of the day and had the cave almost to ourselves. Tip: Pack sturdy shoes and a light jacket, as it’s significantly cooler inside the cave than outside.
- Sfentoni Cave hours: daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Admission to Sfentoni Cave: €7 (reduced €4)
Melidoni Cave: The Melidoni Cave (also known as Gerontospilios) is located about 27 km east of Rethymno and impresses with its massive “Hall of Heroes,” featuring imposing stalagmite columns and atmospheric lighting. The cave’s history dates back to the Neolithic era; during the Minoan period, the mythical bronze giant Talos—who was considered the protector of Crete—was worshipped here.
In the center of the main hall stands an ossuary (bone house) commemorating the tragic events of 1824, when over 370 villagers sought refuge from the Ottomans in the cave and lost their lives. A place steeped in history and equally impressive. The accessible hall isn’t huge; a visit takes about 20 to 30 minutes, but the atmosphere is unique. Note that you’ll need to descend about 100 steps.
- Melidoni Cave opening hours: daily 9 a.m.–7 p.m. (approx. April to October)
- Admission to Melidoni Cave: €5
#10 Fairy Cave near Episkopi
About 18 km south of Heraklion lies Fairy Cave near Episkopi, a small, lushly vegetated fairy forest in a quiet gorge. The place does indeed have a mystical quality: at the entrance lies a small lake (Neraidospilios), where, with a bit of luck, you can spot turtles, and the densely overgrown rock walls set the kids’ imaginations racing.
If you hike south along the gorge, you’ll pass a mysterious cave and shortly after reach the old Astrakiani arch bridge. It makes for a great photo opportunity and rounds out the excursion. Feensee and the bridge are each about a kilometer from the village, but the access road is in poor condition. Afterward, we recommend stopping for a bite to eat at one of the traditional taverns in Episkopi (Tip: Cretan Cuisine Murelo).
#11 Theme Parks Near Heraklion
Dinosauria Park (Gournes): A theme park for dinosaur fans in Gournes, not far from the CRETAquarium. Some dinosaur models are equipped with movement and sounds, making them seem quite lifelike. There is a playground, and in two spots, kids can dig up dinosaur skeletons in the shade. For the very little ones, there’s a dinosaur train, and most children are absolutely thrilled by the dinosaur hospital. A lovely half-day excursion that pairs well with a visit to the CRETAquarium.
- Dinosauria Park hours: daily 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
- Admission to Dinosauria Park: approx. €10
Labyrinth Park (Chersonisos): This theme park with a large wooden maze is very popular with children. In addition to the maze, other attractions such as archery, mini-golf, kids’ ATVs, pottery, and a small farm are offered. The kids can easily spend half a day here while parents relax in the café. A great day trip, especially for children ages 4 to 12.
- Labyrinth Park hours: daily 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
- Labyrinth Park admission: €12
#12 Finikia Horseriding
If you want to treat your kids to a special experience, Finikia Horseriding south of Heraklion is the perfect spot. The friendly team offers various riding tours for children and beginners; the horses are well-groomed and well-trained. The rides take you through beautiful landscapes—sometimes along the beach, sometimes through the mountains—and are sure to bring a sparkle to the eyes of even non-riders. Hotel pickup can be arranged upon request.
- For information and booking, visit: finikiahorseriding.com
Family-friendly beaches in Northern Crete
During the season, all northern beaches are exposed to the Meltemi wind, which means you should expect it to get quite windy on your beach lounger. Due to the northern orientation, all sorts of flotsam and trash are washed ashore. While hotels generally clear this away, unmanaged areas are unfortunately not always as tidy.
Potamos Beach (Malia): A beautiful, intimate little beach that is ideal for families with children. The entry into the sea is shallow and sandy, and the golden sand is perfect for digging. The beach right in Malia is similar in character, but it gets very crowded starting in June and, unfortunately, isn’t always clean. Potamos Beach is therefore the much better choice for families.
Stalida Beach: Stalida Beach is very shallow and therefore ideal for children, as you can walk several meters into the water without it getting deep. However, it gets really crowded here during peak season, which is why we also recommend visiting during the off-season or early in the morning.
Great family hotels in Northern Crete
Arina Beach Resort (Kokkini Hani)
A 5-star all-inclusive resort right on the beach, just 12 km east of Heraklion. The newly renovated resort spans a sprawling garden area and features a water park with slides, four outdoor pools, a heated indoor pool, and the Arina Kids Club, which offers cooking classes, craft workshops, and games for children ages 4 to 12. The family rooms are spacious and offer ocean views, while the waterfront bungalows provide a particularly exclusive experience.
➲ More info on Arina Beach Resort*
Creta Maris Resort (Chersonisos)
One of the most famous family resorts in Crete, located directly on the Blue Flag beach of Chersonisos. This all-inclusive resort impresses with multiple pools, a large water park, the Asterias Kids Club (ages 4 to 12), and a Teens Club. The seven restaurants offer an enormous variety of culinary options, and there is even an open-air cinema. For families with small children, baby rooms, bottle warmers, and strollers are available.
➲ More info on Creta Maris Resort*
Lyttos Beach Hotel (Anissaras)
This 5-star resort near Chersonisos is a popular family hotel with a wide range of sports activities. It features several pools, a water park, a children’s playground, and a professionally run Kids Club. Families with sports-loving children will especially enjoy their stay here, as tennis, soccer, and various water sports are offered. The resort is located directly on the beach with a gentle slope into the water.
➲ More info on the Lyttos Beach Hotel*
Nana Golden Beach (Hersonissos)
An elegant 5-star resort right on the beach in Chersonisos with extensive gardens. The hotel offers family rooms, a Kids Club, several pools (including children’s pools), a playground, and a varied entertainment program. The buffet restaurant stands out with its wide selection, including options specifically for children. The gently sloping sandy beach right outside the door makes the hotel an excellent choice for families.
➲ More info on Nana Golden Beach*
Phāea Cretan Malia
A modern and stylish resort in Malia that skillfully combines luxury with family-friendliness. The hotel offers spacious family rooms and suites, several pools, a Kids Club with a creative program, and direct beach access. The well-thought-out design of the resort and the high quality of service are particularly appealing. Ideal for families who value aesthetics and a child-friendly environment.
➲ More info on Phāea Cretan Malia*
Fodele Beach & Water Park Holiday Resort
This all-inclusive resort is located in the picturesque bay of Fodele, about 30 km west of Heraklion. The on-site water park ensures plenty of fun for young and old alike, and there are also several pools, a Kids Club, playgrounds, and a varied entertainment program. The beach is sandy and shallow, ideal for small children. A plus: The location is quieter and closer to nature than in the tourist hotspots of Malia or Chersonisos.
➲ More info on Fodele Beach Resort*
🗺️ 10 road trip routes with maps
🏖️ Beautiful beaches & swimming spots
🏛️ All top sights & attractions
🤫 Unpublished insider tips
🍽️ Accommodation, tavernas & cafés
Southern Crete with Kids
Southern Crete is wilder, quieter, and far removed from the mass tourism of the north. Untouched beaches, unspoiled villages, and dramatic landscapes make this part of the island particularly attractive for families seeking a true escape from the hustle and bustle. Many choose to stay in a vacation home here, but there are also some good hotels. A rental car is a must, as it’s the only way to truly discover the most beautiful spots. Here are our highlights for Southern Crete with kids:
→ Find out everything there is to discover in southern Crete in our separate post: Southern Crete
#13 Agia Marina Donkey Sanctuary
The Agia Marina Donkey Sanctuary in the south near Petrokefali is a wonderful project run with great care. The operators take in older donkeys when they retire and are no longer needed for farm work. Here, the animals can spend their twilight years in peace and quiet. The oldest animal is over 40 years old.
It’s also great fun for small children, as the donkeys are very calm and gentle animals. You can pet them or groom them with a brush. They look healthy and are lovingly cared for. A real must-see for every animal lover! Admission is free, but we would encourage everyone to make a donation to the cause or purchase something from the small shop. Note: usually open only in the mornings!
- More info on Facebook: Agia Marina Donkey Rescue
#14 Caves of Matala
An exciting spot for older, sure-footed children. The famous caves of Matala were inhabited as far back as the Neolithic era and served as burial chambers during Roman times. In the 1960s and 70s, they became a legendary gathering place for the hippie movement; Joni Mitchell is said to have stayed here, among others.
→ Find out everything there is to discover in Matala and the surrounding area in our separate post: Matala Crete
The chambers carved into the sandstone cliffs are spread across several levels and offer impressive views of the bay. Since the individual levels of the caves are not secured, there is a risk of falling! Climbing experience and sturdy footwear are recommended. This site is definitely not suitable for small children.
- Matala Caves opening hours: daily 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
- Matala Caves admission: €5
#15 Horse Riding Plakias
If you’re looking for a well-run riding stable with well-cared-for horses in the coastal village of Damnoni near Plakias in southern Crete, Horse Riding Plakias is the place for you. They offer various tours along the beach and in the mountains, and riding is available for children ages 4 and up. The experienced riding instructors tailor their approach to each rider’s skill level, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience. The sunset beach rides are among the absolute highlights of the region.
- More info and booking at: cretehorseriding.com
Family-Friendly Beaches in Southern Crete
In southern Crete, gray sand and pebble beaches dominate, and in many places, the water gets deep quite quickly. They are therefore only suitable to a limited extent for a day at the beach with children. On many beaches in the south, nudism is tolerated, or it is not uncommon to encounter nude bathers. It’s a good idea to check Google reviews beforehand to see if the beach is popular with nudists.
Frangokastello Beach: The very shallow lagoon offshore is ideal for children. Here, the little ones can have a wonderful time building sandcastles, and thanks to its secluded location, the beach isn’t as crowded as other hotspots, even in high season. In the background stands the Venetian fortress of Frangokastello, a great photo opportunity.
Damnoni Beach: A beautiful bay with a sandy beach and gently sloping water, perfect for children. The small river that flows into the sea here is also particularly charming. Freshwater turtles can often be spotted here, which is naturally a real highlight for children. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available, as are a few nice taverns right on the water.
Makry Gialos Beach: A beautiful sandy beach with crystal-clear water, perfect for small children. The entry into the sea is very shallow, and the water remains shallow for a long way out. A little further east, Ammoudi Bay (Dragon’s Cave) is also suitable for children. A great alternative to the often overcrowded beaches in the north.
Great family hotels in southern Crete
Hapimag Resort Damnoni
This family-friendly 4-star aparthotel is located in a sheltered bay right on the golden sandy beach of Damnoni. With around 200 spacious apartments featuring their own kitchenettes, it’s perfect for families who’d like to cook for themselves. There’s also a large outdoor pool, an indoor pool, playgrounds, a kids’ program, and a water sports station right on the beach. The surrounding area is ideal for hikes and excursions to the nearby Plakias region. The resort is currently undergoing phased renovations through 2028.
➲ More info on the Hapimag Resort*
Petra Mare Hotel (Ierapetra)
A cozy 4-star hotel right on the beach in Ierapetra on the southeast coast of Crete. The hotel offers spacious family rooms, a pool with a children’s pool, a playground, and direct access to the dark sand beach. Its location in Ierapetra, Europe’s southernmost city, offers the advantage of a mild climate and a typical Greek small town with shops, taverns, and a waterfront promenade for strolling.
➲ More info on the Petra Mare Hotel*
Paralos Irini Mare (Agia Galini)
A lovely family-friendly hotel in the resort town of Agia Galini on the south coast. The hotel features a pool, family rooms, and is just a short walk from the town center and the beach. Agia Galini itself is a lively coastal town with cozy taverns at the harbor and a relaxed atmosphere. From here, you can easily take day trips to Matala, the Agiofarango Gorge, or Preveli Beach.
➲ More info on Paralos Irini Mare*
The Greek word for playground is “Paidiki Chara”, which literally translates to “children’s joy.” They can be found in nearly every larger Greek village, though their condition ranges from neglected to well-maintained. They’re easy to find via Google search by typing in Παιδική χαρά.
Eastern Crete with Children
Eastern Crete is the quietest and most unspoiled region of the island. Those who travel here are usually independent travelers—with a vacation home, a rental car, and a desire for genuine distance from the hustle and bustle. You won’t find major attractions for kids here like those in the north, but you’ll discover endless nature experiences and, in the southeast near Xerokampos, some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Crete. The region around Agios Nikolaos is ideal for a relaxing beach vacation with the family, as it’s just an hour from Heraklion Airport.
→ Find out everything there is to discover in Agios Nikolaos and the surrounding area in our separate article: Agios Nikolaos
#16 Greek Mythology Theme Park
The Greek Mythology Theme Park is located on the Lasithi Plateau below the famous Cave of Zeus (Dikteon Cave) and is a wonderful destination for families with children who have already been introduced to Greek mythology. An audio guide takes you through the detailed grounds, where scenes from Greek mythology are reenacted. For children who are fascinated by the stories of Zeus, Hercules, and others, this is a truly exciting experience.
- Greek Mythology Theme Park Hours: Daily 8 a.m.–3 p.m.
- Admission to the Greek Mythology Theme Park: €8
#17 Short Hikes in Eastern Crete
The Richtis Gorge: A beautiful, lush green hiking gorge near Mochlos in northeastern Crete, ideal for older children who are already sure-footed and enjoy hiking. The highlight of the hike is the impressive Richtis Waterfall halfway along the route, where you can also swim in the natural pool. The hike takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace, and leads through dense vegetation with oleanders, plane trees, and ferns. Sturdy footwear is highly recommended, as the path is slippery and rocky in places.
- Richtis Gorge admission: €5
Zakros Gorge (Valley of the Dead): This impressive gorge starts in Ano Zakros and leads down to the coastal village of Kato Zakros in the far east of Crete. It owes its nickname “Valley of the Dead” to the Minoan burial caves carved into the rock walls. The hike is relatively easy and well-suited for older children (approx. 2 hours, 4 km). At the end, you’ll find the small beach of Kato Zakros and the ruins of the Minoan palace, where you can grab a bite to eat at a tavern.
#18 Beaches of Xerokampos
For us personally, this is where the most beautiful beaches in all of Crete are located. There is turquoise-blue, crystal-clear water and light-colored, gently sloping sandy beaches, and everything is very clean and virtually untouched by humans. Mazida, Ammos, Argilos, and others are among the most child-friendly beaches in Crete and are an absolute swimming paradise for young and old alike. But from Sitia, the last major city in eastern Crete, you’ll need to plan for an hour’s drive; from Agios Nikolaos, it’s even two hours.
→ We reveal the most beautiful beaches in Crete in this post: Crete Beaches
Xerokampos is located in the very southeast of the island and is therefore still a real hidden gem that has so far been spared from mass tourism. Several small bays line up here, each one a paradise in its own right. There is some infrastructure in the form of a few small taverns (Our tip: Liviko View) and studios, but no major tourism. Eastern Crete is perfect for families seeking peace and nature.
Great family hotels in Eastern Crete
There are only a few large hotels in Eastern Crete, but all the more small family hotels, as well as beautiful villas and vacation rentals for a relaxing, personalized getaway. The perfect region for anyone who prefers a quieter and more intimate experience.
Candia Park Village (Agios Nikolaos)
Family-friendly 4-star bungalow resort on a hillside with breathtaking views of Mirabello Bay near Agios Nikolaos. The resort consists of small village-style houses and bungalows nestled in a sprawling garden landscape. There are several pools (including children’s pools), a playground, a mini-club, and direct access to the beach. The family-friendly atmosphere and thoughtful architecture make this hotel a wonderful choice for families looking for something special.
➲ More info on Candia Park Village*
Atlantica Mikri Poli Crete (Makry Gialos)
A solid 5-star all-inclusive family resort in Makry Gialos on the southeast coast. The hotel features several pools, a water park, a children’s playground, and a professional kids’ club. Located directly on a flat sandy beach, it offers easy access to the sea and a relaxed vacation pace. The region around Makry Gialos is quiet and authentic, perfect for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the north.
➲ More info on Atlantica Mikri Poli*
In Greece, these play paradises are also known as Παιδότοπος. A real blessing for parents who just want to sip their freddo in peace and enjoy a little couple time. The Greeks are very resourceful and incorporate a separate play area for children into their café or tavern. This area is visible but still allows parents to take an undisturbed coffee break. We recommend the KAFEpoieio café in Heraklion, the Square Café, and the Playground Nefeli restaurant on the Akrotiri Peninsula near Chania, as well as the Dreamcity Cocktail Bar & Outdoor Playground in Makry Gialos.
→ You can find more helpful articles and numerous tips for Crete at:
- Crete Attractions – All Must-Sees in Crete
- Crete Travel Tips – From Getting There to Accommodations
- Crete Highlights – Our 20 Most Beautiful Places
- Crete Holiday Resorts – Where is it Worth Taking a Vacation?
- Best Hotels in Crete – The Best Hotels on the Island
- Crete Holiday – Our Experiences in Crete
FAQ: Crete with Kids
Is Crete a good destination for families with children?
Absolutely! Crete is one of the best destinations in the Mediterranean for a family vacation. The Cretans are incredibly fond of children, the infrastructure is excellent, and there is a wide selection of family-friendly hotels, beaches, and activities. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teenagers, you’re guaranteed never to get bored in Crete.
Which region of Crete is best suited for families?
The north (Heraklion region) offers the highest concentration of family hotels, water parks, and activities for children. Those who prefer a quieter, more authentic experience will be best served in the south or east of Crete. The west, around Chania, combines the best of both worlds: great hotels, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere.
When is the best time to visit Crete with children?
The best time to visit for families is May/June or September/October. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm (25 to 30 degrees), the sea is warm enough for swimming starting in June, and the beaches and attractions are significantly less crowded than in July and August. If you have school-age children and are limited to the summer vacation period, you should opt for the first or last week of the break.
Do I need a rental car in Crete with kids?
We definitely recommend a rental car if you want to explore Crete with children. The island is relatively large at 260 km long, and many of the most beautiful beaches and attractions are only accessible by car. Most rental car companies also offer child seats and infant car seats; it’s best to reserve them in advance.
Are the beaches in Crete suitable for children?
Yes, many beaches in Crete are excellent for children, but it’s best to check in advance. The flat sandy beaches in the north (such as Stalida and Potamos Beach) and the sheltered coves in the west (such as Marathi or Falassarna) are ideal. On the south coast, the beaches often drop steeply into the sea; here we recommend Frangokastello, Damnoni, or Makry Gialos as family-friendly alternatives.
Are there water parks for children in Crete?
Yes, there are several water parks in Crete. The Limnoupolis Water Park near Chania is particularly family-friendly, with shallow children’s pools and slides. In Chersonisos, the new Pantheon Water Park is expected to open in 2026. In addition, many large family hotels, such as the HARPIN Georgioupolis, Creta Maris, or Arina Beach, have their own water parks.
How much does a family vacation in Crete cost?
Costs vary greatly depending on your preferences. A good all-inclusive family hotel costs between approximately 120 and 180 euros per night for a family during the off-season. Eating at taverns is cheaper than on other Greek islands; a family meal with drinks costs around 40 to 60 euros. Admission to attractions is usually between 5 and 20 euros per person.
What should you pack for a trip to Crete with kids?
Sunscreen with a high SPF is the most important thing in Crete, and you can usually get it cheaper at the drugstore back home. We also recommend water shoes (for pebble beaches and sea urchins), a lightweight baby carrier or backpack for hikes, and a small cooler bag for beach days. However, most items like diapers, baby care products, and beach toys are also easily available locally, for example at Jumbo or in supermarkets and discount stores. Unfortunately, the selection of baby food (jars) is very limited in Greece, so it’s better to bring some from home.
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