Crete all inclusive: 25 five-star hotels for families and couples

Crete with an all-inclusive rate saves you time and stress. The flight, transfer, lunch, and sunbed are already included in the price. All that's left is to choose a hotel that fits your vacation style. Some people need a water park and a kids' club, others want quiet and a spa. We've rounded up 25 five-star Crete hotels where meals and drinks are usually included in the rate, and organized them by resort: Agia Pelagia, Elounda, Hersonissos, Rethymno, Sisi, and Analipsi. Below you'll see who each hotel suits, what's included in the price, and what to look for when booking. We verify hotel status and rate inclusions against the Crete tourist office catalog (as of 09/2026, tourist office catalog).

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Our pick of 5-star Crete hotels

💡 In short:

• Families with kids: check out Grecotel Club Marine Palace, Fodele Beach Water Park Resort, and Mitsis Laguna Resort & Spa.
• Couples and adults without kids: Sensimar Elounda Village, Elysium Boutique Hotel & Spa, and Insula Alba Resort & Spa.
• Young travelers and nightlife: Creta Maris Beach Resort and Bella Beach Hotel near Hersonissos.
• Quiet and nature: Creta Royal in Skaleta and Kalimera Kriti in Sisi.
• Hotel status and all-inclusive inclusions: 09/2026, Crete tourist office catalog.

The table sets our scale: from family-friendly buzz to quiet time for two. Below, each hotel comes with photos, facts about the property, and a link to prices.

1. Out Of The Blue Capsis Elite Resort 5*

The resort occupies a private peninsula next to the fishing village of Agia Pelagia. From your room you see the Aegean Sea on three sides. The kitchen covers three directions: French, Italian, and traditional Cretan. Large groups choose it because of the accommodation formats: suites, maisonettes with private pools, standard and two-level bungalows, plus an eight-person villa with four bedrooms.

© alljengi from Edinburgh · CC BY-SAPhoto: alljengi from Edinburgh, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0), Wikimedia Commons

The property has a botanical garden and the Euphoria Rejuvenating spa center. It features a hydrotherapy pool, hammam, and sauna. Produce for the restaurants is grown in three on-site greenhouses, so the local cuisine is presented as eco. Eight bars and seven pools are at your disposal.

Kids have plenty to do here: the Capsis Minoan amusement park, a water slide, a separate pool, and a mini zoo. Adults can enjoy tennis, golf, yoga, dancing, diving, cooking classes, and horseback riding.

• Location: Agia Pelagia, first beach line (per map).
• Who it's for: large families and groups who want a choice of villas and bungalows.
• Not for: those who want a compact hotel with everything in one building.
• The catch: the beach is sand and pebble, not pure sand.

We verified the building layout and service list against the resort's official website (as of 09/2026, outoftheblueresort.com). check prices at Out Of The Blue on Trip.com

2. Sensimar Elounda Village Resort & Spa by Aquila 5*

The resort sits seven kilometers from Agios Nikolaos, on a slope above the bay. It's adults-only: children are not accommodated here. That changes the atmosphere. The pools are quiet, and in the evening all you hear is the sea.

The hotel beach is sandy, with loungers and umbrellas. The cuisine here has won awards, and you can book a romantic dinner on the beach, in your room, or by the pool. The spa center has its own pool, a chromotherapy room, and an Ayurvedic room.

Guests have access to a sauna and a fitness room. In your room, a welcome treat from the hotel awaits: wine and fruit.

• Location: Elounda, about seven kilometers from Agios Nikolaos (per map).
• Who it's for: couples and adults who want a peaceful vacation without kids' programs.
• The catch: the hotel does not accept guests with children, so a family vacation won't work here.

rooms at Sensimar Elounda Village on Trip.com

3. Creta Maris Beach Resort 5*

The hotel is in Limenas Hersonissou, in the liveliest part of the resort. By day you relax by the pools, and in the evening clubs and bars open nearby. For a five-star hotel, this kind of neighborhood is unusual.

© Dkoukoul · CC BY-SAPhoto: Dkoukoul, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

The complex follows an eco philosophy and has earned the Green Key certification for its care for the environment. The property has six freshwater pools and three tennis courts, with six restaurants and bars operating.

Kids get a club with a playground and game room, daytime activities, and an evening disco. Adults have access to a sauna, mini golf, dance and cooking classes, karaoke, billiards, fitness, aqua aerobics, archery, and water sports.

• Who it's for: those who want both a beach and evening entertainment steps from the hotel.
• Not for: those looking for peace and quiet.
• The catch: the Hersonissos area is noisy, with clubs running until morning.

prices at Creta Maris Beach Resort on Trip.com

4. Grecotel club marine palace 5*

The club hotel sits on the shore of a picturesque bay, next to two sandy coves with Blue Flag status. Seasonal fruits and vegetables are supplied by Cretan farmers. The complex has received an award for its environmental standards.

Families with children choose it for the on-site water park and the Grecoland kids' club. The water entertainment park covers six thousand square meters. Children have seven attractions, a playground, and a daytime program for teenagers.

Adults can enjoy fitness, tennis, windsurfing, diving, archery, and canoe rental, with folklore shows in the evening. You can cool off in three pools with fresh or sea water. There is also a separate heated Aqua Elixir Thalasso pool at the Elixir Thalasso Spa marine therapy center. Beach towels, umbrellas, and loungers are already included. You can book a studio, bungalow, or family room.

• Location: Panormos, Rethymno region (see map).
• Who it's for: families with children who want a water park without leaving the hotel.
• Not for: couples looking for quiet without children's voices.
• The catch: it's a family hotel, so the main pool area is noisy during the day.

rooms at Grecotel Club Marine Palace on Trip.com

5. Stella palace resort & spa 5*

The hotel is located in Hersonissos and is designed for a relaxed vacation. It has its own sandy beach, and the grounds are immersed in landscaped gardens. Two pools are designed as lagoons, so you swim almost as if in the sea.

Children have three dedicated water entertainment zones. Tennis lovers have access to two courts. Rooms come in single, double, and family configurations, with garden or sea views. There is an option with a private pool and terrace. Every room has air conditioning, toiletries, a small fridge, and satellite TV.

The main restaurant serves a buffet and hosts themed dinners. Local cuisine can be tried at the Elia restaurant. The bar features live music, active events are offered during the day, and massages can be booked at the spa center.

• Location: Hersonissos, private sandy beach (see map).
• Who it's for: families and couples who want a quiet vacation in a garden by the sea.
• The catch: the view from the room depends on the building, so it's worth confirming the category when booking.

prices at Stella Palace on Trip.com

6. Sea side resort & spa 5*

This spa hotel opens directly onto a sandy beach, just a few steps to the water. Rooms face the sea or the garden, and some have their own private pool. The grounds are compact, so everything is close by.

At the wellness center you can book a massage and other body treatments, relax in the Turkish bath or sauna, and swim in the indoor pool with a jacuzzi. The hotel's three restaurants serve local, Chinese, and international cuisine. The main dining room features a cooking show.

• Location: Agia Pelagia, sandy beach a few meters away (according to the map).
• Who it's for: couples who want a spa and a short walk to the water.
• The catch: some rooms face the garden rather than the sea.

prices at Sea Side Resort on Trip.com

7. St Constantin 5*

The hotel sits on the sandy beach of Kato Gouves, where in addition to loungers there are activities for children and adults. The room inventory includes one hundred thirty-two rooms with all amenities. Food and drinks are on an all-inclusive basis.

You have access to a spa center with programs, daytime and evening entertainment, three outdoor pools, and an indoor one next to the fitness room. Traditional cuisine is served in the main restaurant, snacks at the Kalypso bar, and drinks at the Dionysos bar. A barbecue restaurant is available for open-air dinners. Wedding ceremonies are held in the St. Andrews & St. Athanasius chapel.

• Location: Kato Gouves, sandy beach (according to the map).
• Who it's for: couples planning a ceremony in Crete, and families with children.
• The catch: the hotel is geared toward the beach and entertainment rather than a quiet getaway for two.

rooms at St Constantin on Trip.com

8. Hersonissos Palace 5*

This is one of the most in-demand hotels in Limenas Hersonissou. The sandy beach starts a few meters from the buildings, and the restaurants prepare traditional and Mediterranean cuisine. In the evening you step out of the hotel right into town.

The property has outdoor pools and one indoor pool, a tennis court, a sauna, and a gym. Drinks are served at the lobby bar. For walks and dancing, the town center with a nightclub is right nearby.

• Location: Limenas Hersonissou, sandy beach nearby (according to the map).
• Who it's for: those who want to stay in town and walk to the beach.
• The catch: it's a city hotel, so don't expect quiet on the grounds.

prices at Hersonissos Palace on Trip.com

9. Blue palace, a luxury collection resort and spa 5*

The resort overlooks the island of Spinalonga and the bay of Elounda. Rooms and bungalows here come with private pools, and the kitchen uses farm-fresh produce. Some suites open directly onto the water.

© Vadim Indeikin · CC BY-SAPhoto: Vadim Indeikin, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

The thalassotherapy center covers two thousand square meters. It has several outdoor and indoor pools, hammams, and saunas. Hair styling or makeup is done at the beauty salon, and you can stay in shape at the fitness room and tennis court. You can grab a bite and a cocktail at the pool bar or on the beach. Steaks are served at the Flame restaurant.

Important booking update: the resort is transitioning to the Rosewood brand and changing its name to Rosewood Blue Palace (as of 09/2026, rosewoodhotels.com). Check at check-in what status the hotel is operating under for your dates.

• Location: Elounda, near the village of Plaka (according to the map).
• Who it's for: couples who want a suite with a private pool.
• The catch: this is the luxury segment, so you won't find a budget all-inclusive option here.

rooms at Blue Palace Elounda on Trip.com

10. Rethymno Mare Hotel 5*

The hotel is located near Rethymno, with rooms overlooking the mountains or the sea. The nearby beach is sandy and has a Blue Flag designation. At check-in you'll receive a welcome treat from the hotel: wine, fruit, and flowers in your room.

Breakfast is served buffet style, and before it you can swim in the large pool or head to the sea. On the terrace of the Artemis bar you can order cocktails with a view; in the evening they host cooking shows and themed dinners here. Live music, often piano, plays every evening in the lobby bar.

• Location: Rethymno, sandy Blue Flag beach (according to the map).
• Who it's for: couples who want a romantic evening with music.
• The catch: only some rooms have a jacuzzi.

prices at Rethymno Mare on Trip.com

11. Elysium boutique hotel & spa 5*

This small boutique hotel sits on the seafront. Children under sixteen are not accommodated here, so the pool area is quiet and peaceful. The airport is about twenty kilometers away.

You have access to a freshwater pool, free towels and loungers on the pebble beach, a spa center with treatments, a sauna, and a steam room. There's billiards and table tennis, and Wi-Fi is free. Rooms have air conditioning, a minibar, a safe (also free), toiletries, a bathrobe, and slippers.

• Location: Hersonissos, seafront, about twenty kilometers to the airport (according to the map).
• Who it's for: adults who appreciate clean design and quiet.
• The catch: the beach is pebbly, and children under sixteen are not accepted.

rooms at Elysium Boutique Hotel on Trip.com

12. CHC Athina Palace Resort & Spa 5*

The hotel is located in Agia Pelagia, where beaches hide in small coves, so the sea is almost always calm. There is no nightlife here, but evenings are quiet. From the room windows you see the turquoise sea or the surrounding area.

The restaurants offer international and local cuisine. There are several bars, dinner in an open-air dining room, a pizzeria, and an a la carte restaurant with Mediterranean cuisine. Children play on the playground, there is a mini club and a pool, and a nanny can be arranged for an extra fee.

The hotel's own sand and pebble beach is three hundred meters away, and a hotel shuttle runs there every twenty minutes. Sun loungers and umbrellas on the shore are free.

• Location: Agia Pelagia, beach three hundred meters away (on the map).
• Who it's for: families who want a quiet resort without nightclubs.
• The catch: you take a shuttle to the beach, walking there is far.

prices at CHC Athina Palace on Trip.com

13. Bella Beach Hotel 5*

The hotel is near Hersonissos, so in the evening the city's bars and clubs are at your service. During the day you relax on the sandy beach and swim in the warm sea. Well-kept gardens are perfect for quiet evenings for two.

The rooms are modern, and there are several pools and restaurants on the property. A wellness center and spa are available. Dining is all-inclusive: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks at the bar.

• Location: near Hersonissos, sandy beach (on the map).
• Who it's for: those who want both the beach and the city's nightlife.
• Not for: those seeking seclusion.
• The catch: the hotel is in a lively part of the resort, so there is little quiet here.

rooms at Bella Beach Hotel on Trip.com

14. Apollonia Beach Resort & Spa 5*

The hotel is in Amoudara, where the wind attracts windsurfers and water sports enthusiasts. From here it is convenient to travel to the Palace of Knossos and other historic sites. For a relaxing stay there is a private beach, pools, a spa center, a sauna, and a hammam.

All-inclusive takes care of dining: several restaurants and a Greek taverna are available. At breakfast, try the Greek pastries. Bathrobes, slippers, and free internet are included by default. The spa center offers more than fifty programs.

• Location: Amoudara, private beach (on the map).
• Who it's for: those who combine beach time with trips to the palaces.
• The catch: the shore is often windy, and there is no sheltered cove here.

prices at Apollonia Beach on Trip.com

15. Mitsis Laguna Resort & Spa 5*

The hotel is in Anissaras, about three kilometers from Hersonissos. Families with children come here: the shore is sandy, the sea is warm, and there are loungers and umbrellas by the water.

For children, there are animation programs, a game room and playground, as well as a pool with water slides. For adults, there is a tennis court, a spa center with programs, and two pools. You can rent a car, motorbike, or bicycle at the hotel.

Seven restaurants are open for guests: local, European, Mexican, and Asian cuisine with sushi. After dinner, you can have a glass of champagne in one of the five bars.

• Location: Anissaras, about three kilometers from Hersonissos (on the map).
• Who it's for: families with children who want slides and animation.
• The catch: you need to drive to the center of Hersonissos.

rooms at Mitsis Laguna on Trip.com

16. Fodele Beach Water Park Resort 5*

The hotel sits on the sandy Fodele Beach in one of the island's most scenic bays. The complex is shaped like a Greek amphitheater and consists of thirty-three buildings. The painter El Greco was born in the village of Fodele.

Why families come here with children: a water park with seven slides and six pools. There is also a mini club, a beach playground, and a mini disco. Adults can enjoy three pools, a tennis court, a fitness center, a sauna, a spa salon, and mini golf. You can play volleyball, soccer, and basketball, do water and step aerobics, and try archery.

• Location: Fodele, sandy beach (on the map).
• Who it's for: families with children who want a water park and the sea in one place.
• The catch: the buildings are spread across the grounds, so it takes longer to walk from the far rooms to the beach.

prices at Fodele Beach on Trip.com

17. Mitsis Rinela Beach 5*

The hotel is next to the Cretan aquarium and the Water City amusement park. Children won't be bored here. For them, there are two water slides, two seawater pools and one freshwater pool, a mini club, a playground, and a disco.

Adults can use several equipped tennis courts, water sports, and three pools. You can join aerobics classes or book body treatments at the spa center.

• Location: next to the Cretan aquarium and Water City park (on the map).
• Who it's for: families with children who want slides and water activities.
• The catch: the hotel has many families with children, so quiet evenings by the pool are rare.

rooms at Mitsis Rinela Beach on Trip.com

18. Annabelle Beach Resort 5*

The hotel is in Hersonissos and is designed for family vacations. For children, there are two mini clubs: in one they learn to draw and model with clay, in the other children aged six and up play sports games. They can swim in one of the two pools.

In the evening, children can enjoy a mini disco. Adults have access to three pools, two outdoor and one indoor heated pool, the Adriani Spa salon, two tennis courts, billiards, table tennis tournaments, a sauna, and a jacuzzi.

The rooms are bright and equipped with everything you need, and the safe is free to use. The beach has loungers and umbrellas, and the bar serves drinks for every taste. The restaurant offers appetizers, salads, and main courses buffet style, and at the taverna you can try traditional cuisine.

• Location: Hersonissos (on the map).
• Who it's for: families with children of different ages.
• The catch: it's next to a lively town, so there is no quiet resort feel here.

prices at Annabelle Beach on Trip.com

19. Aquila Rithymna Beach 5*

The hotel is set in landscaped gardens near Rethymno, and its sandy beach stretches for half a kilometer. There are activities for both adults and children. The windows overlook the sea or the garden.

Guests can play tennis on one of five courts, take diving lessons and go for a dive, water ski, rent a jet ski or canoe. Children can take tennis lessons and watch theater performances, and there is a children's restaurant.

You can have lunch in the shade of mulberry trees at the taverna, meze and traditional drinks are served at the cafe, and cocktails at the lounge bar. Main courses are prepared at the Ancient Eleftherna restaurant.

• Location: Rethymno, sandy beach half a kilometer long (on the map).
• Who it's for: families who want a wide choice of sports by the sea.
• The catch: this is a large family complex, so there is little quiet time for couples here.

rooms at Aquila Rithymna Beach on Trip.com

20. Kiani Beach Family Resort 5*

The hotel is on the Turquoise Coast (Kiani Akti) and is designed for family vacations with children. The rooms are spacious and bright, with air conditioning, a TV, a small kitchen area, and a mini fridge. Every room has a balcony or terrace.

The balcony overlooks the mountains or the sea. You can book a family room or a maisonette. Children play on a ship-shaped playground, and there is an open-air theater and a children's pool.

For adults, there is a tennis court, a large pool, and a gym, and you can relax in the hammam or book a massage. Freshly squeezed juice and drinks are served at the pool bar, and snacks at the beach bar. Cretan dishes are prepared at the restaurant on the open veranda, and breakfast is served in a separate room.

• Location: Turquoise Coast, Kiani Akti (on the map).
• Who it's for: families with children who want a kitchen in the room.
• The catch: it's noisy near the children's pool and playground during the day.

prices at Kiani Beach Family Resort on Trip.com

21. Creta Royal 5*

The hotel is in Skaleta and suits a quiet vacation. It's easy to get away from the hustle here: there are no parties nearby, but there is a calm bay. The beach stretches for four hundred meters.

For a romantic evening, just take a walk through the tropical garden or along the shoreline. There's plenty of beach space for everyone: enough loungers and umbrellas, and if you want privacy, just walk a few meters away. The rooms have nothing superfluous, but the balcony offers a sea view.

• Location: Skaleta, a four-hundred-meter beach (on the map).
• Who it's for: couples who want quiet and seaside walks.
• The catch: don't expect nightlife or kids' programs here.

rooms at Creta Royal on Trip.com

22. Village heights golf resort by diamond resorts 5*

This resort sits next to the Aquaworld aquarium. They keep a turtle named Blondie and a spiny-tailed lizard named Mark Antony, and families come here with kids just for them. Our pick for value for money.

Some apartments have a kitchenette with an oven and microwave, a dining area, and a dishwasher. If your rate doesn't include meals, you won't go wrong: you can cook for yourself. During the day, guests play tennis, join the animation team's activities, and there's a golf course nearby. The spa offers treatments.

• Location: next to the Aquaworld aquarium (on the map).
• Who it's for: families and couples who want a kitchen in the apartment and golf nearby.
• The catch: some rates don't include meals, so you'll need to sort out dinner yourself.

prices at Village Heights on Trip.com

23. St. Nicolas bay resort hotel & villas 5*

The resort sits near Agios Nikolaos, with rooms and suites overlooking Mirabello Bay. The hotel has its own private beach, so there are no outsiders on the shore. For complete privacy, book a suite with its own pool.

After the evening club, it makes sense to stop by the spa and wellness center. You can satisfy your hunger at one of the five restaurants. In the evening, it's lovely to watch the sunset with a glass of wine on the suite terrace or by the pool.

• Location: Agios Nikolaos, private beach, view of Mirabello Bay (on the map).
• Who it's for: couples who want a private beach and a suite with a pool.
• The catch: prices here are above the island average.

rooms at St. Nicolas Bay on Trip.com

24. Insula Alba Resort & Spa (adults only) 5*

The hotel is located in the village of Analipsi, where olive trees line the road and locals gather for chats on the paved streets. Children are not accommodated here, so the pools stay quiet. Analipsi has preserved authentic Greek traditions and hospitality.

In addition to standard rooms, there is a minimalist suite with the romantic name Honeymoon. On the open terrace you can have lunch or dinner, and the soft sofas are perfect for an evening glass of wine with live music.

Each room has its own reserved lounger, so there is no need to get up at six in the morning to claim a spot by the pool. The indoor pool is lit up beautifully in the evening. For couples, this is one of the best places for a honeymoon.

• Location: Analipsi, sandy beach (see map).
• Who it's for: adults and couples looking for privacy.
• The catch: children are not accommodated at this hotel.

prices at Insula Alba Resort on Trip.com

25. Kalimera Kriti Hotel & Village Resort 5*

The hotel sits in the former fishing village of Sisi and is a great fit for those who want to combine a beach holiday with sightseeing. The Milatos Cave, the Malia Palace, and a monastery with a miraculous icon of Saint George are all within a few kilometers. This is not ultra-modern luxury, but the rooms are cozy and have everything you need.

Guests specifically highlight the quality daily housekeeping and impeccable cleanliness. You can book a suite in a bungalow right on the seafront. The hotel has earned many positive reviews for its sports activities and fitness programs, and there is a proper games area. Guests also get perks at the golf club next to the hotel.

• Location: Sisi, near Milatos Cave and Malia Palace (see map).
• Who it's for: those who want beach time and excursions in one trip.
• The catch: the hotel is not ultra-modern, and the rooms are classic in style.

rooms at Kalimera Kriti on Trip.com

5-Star all-inclusive Crete hotels on the map

The map below shows all the hotels from the list. It makes it easier to see which resort is closer to you: Rethymno in the west or Elounda and Agios Nikolaos in the east. Open the map and compare which option is more convenient to reach from Heraklion airport.

⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

What is included in the all-inclusive rate in Crete?

It usually includes buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner, locally produced drinks at the bars, and loungers and umbrellas on the beach or by the pool. Some hotels also add daytime snacks. Check the exact details when booking, because every hotel has its own package. One exception in our list: at Village Heights, some rates come without meals.

Which hotel should I choose with children?

Look at Grecotel Club Marine Palace and Fodele Beach Water Park Resort: they have a water park and kids' clubs right on site. Mitsis Laguna Resort & Spa and Mitsis Rinela Beach are a good fit for families with preschoolers. If you are traveling without children, Sensimar Elounda Village and Insula Alba Resort & Spa are better options.

When is the best time to go to Crete?

From May to October the weather is stable, and pools and water parks run at full capacity. July and August are hot on the island, so book rooms with air conditioning and plan excursions for the morning. In May and October the sea is cooler, but there are fewer people and lower prices.

Do I need a transfer from Heraklion airport?

Yes, if you are heading to Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, or Rethymno. The island is long, so the drive takes a noticeable amount of time. A taxi costs more, while renting a car gives you freedom for trips to palaces and beaches. It is better to book a transfer in advance so someone is waiting for you in the arrivals hall.

Can I find a 5-star all-inclusive hotel cheaper?

Yes, if you look at the end of the season and book in advance. Hotels in Analipsi, Amoudara, and Agia Pelagia are usually cheaper than the resorts in Elounda. Flexible dates give you more options within your budget. Compare prices for your specific dates rather than relying on an average figure for the season.

If you have not decided on a hotel yet, check available options for your dates.

In short: what to book

If you are traveling with a large group, go for a villa or bungalow at Out Of The Blue Capsis Elite Resort. If you are traveling with children, Grecotel Club Marine Palace and Fodele Beach Water Park Resort offer an on-site water park. If you are traveling as a couple and want peace and quiet, look at Sensimar Elounda Village or Insula Alba Resort & Spa. If excursions matter to you, Kalimera Kriti in Sisi and Apollonia Beach in Amoudara are conveniently located.

Plan your trip in advance: Crete hotels on Trip.com, internet on the island with eSIM, and compare insurance options.