Where to Stay in Crete: Tried, Tested & Travelled by Kelsey

Looking for the perfect place to stay in Crete? Kelsey from our King’s Lynn branch recently took a 4-night trip to this beautiful Greek island with easyJet Holidays – and she’s brought back plenty of travel inspiration.

During her time in Crete, Kelsey explored a range of luxury hotels across the island. From stylish beachfront resorts to peaceful adults-only escapes, here are her top recommendations – all tried, tested, and truly unforgettable.

Mirabello Bay Luxury Resort – Agios Nikolaos

Set on Crete’s north-eastern coast, this 5-star resort blends modern elegance with authentic Cretan charm. Ideal for couples, families or groups, Mirabello Bay offers something for everyone.

Highlights:

• 343 rooms, including 7 private villas and a penthouse suite

• Private beach area for villa guests

• Greek-themed shows and Blue Flag beaches

• On-site restaurants and bars

• Water park, yacht marina, and open-air cinema

Elounda Sunrise Apartments 

Elounda Sunrise is a great option for those looking for cost-effective, simple accommodation in a prime location. Set along the marina, it offers beautiful seafront views and is just a 5–10 minute walk from the lovely town of Elounda.

Once a small fishing village, Elounda is now a popular tourist spot full of charm, local culture, and independent businesses. It’s also the perfect base for visiting the famous island of Spinalonga.

The hotel is just a 13-minute drive from Agios Nikolaos. While standard transfers take around 2.5 hours, private transfers can reduce travel time to 1–1.5 hours, and are well worth recommending.

This small, family-run hotel has just 28 rooms, with spacious layouts and ground-floor options available. Rooms are equipped with a TV, kitchenette, fridge, safe, and private bathroom.

Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas and Elounda Bay Palace

Located on Crete’s north-eastern coast, these two luxury sister resorts offer a village-style layout, direct access to two private beaches, and lush gardens.

Elounda Beach runs on a bed & breakfast basis with five waterfront à la carte restaurants and a focus on bungalows and villas. It’s also home to the Chenot Spa, offering high-end wellness treatments.

Elounda Bay is half board, with guests enjoying a €45 à la carte dining credit and mainly main building rooms. A 2026 refurbishment will add interconnecting family rooms for better value and flexibility.

Both resorts offer shared facilities and nightly live entertainment, just steps from the Aegean Sea.

Enorme SantAnna Beach Resort & Suites 

Located in buzzing Hersonissos, Enorme SantAnna offers a chic, beachside retreat with 280 modern rooms, suites, and bungalows. Many include private pools or jacuzzis, perfect for added privacy.

Enjoy all-inclusive dining with access to food and drinks 23 hours a day. Restaurants double up — the Asian Fusion spot is a coffee bar by day, and the Italian and Cretan venues serve snacks and fresh juices before transforming into à la carte restaurants by night.

Right on the beach, with sunbeds, umbrellas, and multiple bars, SantAnna is ideal for relaxed days and vibrant evenings.

Mitsis Laguna Resort & Spa 

A luxury all-inclusive in Anissaras, just outside Hersonissos, Mitsis Laguna features upscale service, stylish rooms, and a beachfront location.

With five themed à la carte restaurants (Greek, Italian, Asian, Mexican, and more) plus an extensive main buffet, food is a highlight. There’s even on-site ice cream made fresh daily and adult-only champagne breakfasts.

Families are well catered for with kids’ clubs, splash pools, playgrounds, and even Disney-style shows. Mitsis Laguna is a polished all-rounder perfect for couples and families alike.

Stella Palace Resort & Spa

Located near the village of Anissaras, Stella Palace Resort & Spa is a luxurious, family-friendly destination blending relaxation and entertainment. Part of the renowned Stella Hotels Group, it offers high-quality service and stunning views of Crete’s coastline.

The resort features multiple pools, water slides, and a private sandy beach, providing fun and relaxation for families and couples alike. The Elixir Spa offers a tranquil space for rejuvenation.

Dining:

• Main Restaurant: Buffet-style with international and Mediterranean dishes.

• À la Carte Options: Greek Taverna, Italian, Asian Fusion, Seafood by the beach.

• Snack Bars: Light meals and drinks by pools and beach.

• In-Room Dining: Available 24/7 for privacy.

Facilities:

• Private sandy beach ideal for swimming and water sports.

• Several outdoor pools, including lagoon-style, adults-only, and children’s pools with water slides.

• Poolside bars offering drinks and snacks.

Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa

An exclusive adults-only, five-star resort in Anissaras, Stella Island offers a sophisticated, peaceful retreat ideal for couples and honeymooners.

Accommodations:

• Overwater bungalows with private decks and lagoon access for a romantic experience.

• Spacious suites and villas, some with private pools, garden views, and direct lagoon pool access. Many include private jacuzzis.

Pools & Beach:

• Lagoon-style pools winding through the resort with private cabanas.

• Access to a quiet, beautiful private beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

• Water sports available, such as kayaking and pedal boating.

Atmosphere:

• Adults-only policy ensures a serene and relaxing environment, perfect for a romantic getaway focused on wellness and luxury.

Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay, a lively beach resort, or a peaceful adults-only hideaway, Crete offers something for every traveller. Ready to start planning your dream holiday on this magical island?

Book your perfect Crete getaway today and experience the best of Greek island life!