Crete with Kids just got better! If you’re dreaming of a fun, family-friendly Greek getaway, look no further than the Elounda Residence Hotel & Water Park — our May trip with the kids was a win from start to finish!
Why This is One of the Best Family Hotels in Crete
At Elounda Residence, every detail is designed with families in mind:
• A free water park – featuring thrilling slides, a toddlers’ splash area and a water-playground.
• Kids’ club – featuring mini-golf, football, basketball, table tennis, air hockey & pool tables.
• The main buffet restaurant “Ariadne” – serving a natural and fresh menu with local cretan ingredients; as well as a dedicated kids’ menu.
• Suitable accommodation catering for all – spacious family rooms and apartments with sea and Spinalonga views.
• Available extras include – a spa, a free shuttle bus to Elounda, free Wi Fi, bistro, snack bars, and a mini-market.
👉 Pro tip: Book all-inclusive for unlimited soft drinks, beer, wine, snacks, and ice cream — great value for families .
Getting Around Crete with Kids – Car Hire & Booster Seat Tips
Exploring Crete by car is one of the best ways to experience the island at your own pace — especially when traveling with kids.
We rented a car through Elounda Happy Travel, which is conveniently located near the hotel and also works directly with Elounda Residence Hotel & Water Park. Their prices were very reasonable, and their customer service was excellent. Booking was smooth, and the staff spoke great English.
👶 Child Car Seats in Crete: What to Know
Elounda Happy Travel provided child car seats free of charge, and they were in excellent condition — which isn’t always the case in our travel experience. However, we always bring a backup just in case…
✅ Travel Gear We Recommend: BubbleBum Booster Seats
We always travel with our BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Seats — I would recommend them for older children (over 135 cm / approx. 6–11 years old). They’re:
• Lightweight and inflatable (pack flat in your suitcase!)
• Compliant with EU and US safety regulations
• Perfect for taxis, rental cars, or last-minute transfers
🔗 Official Site: www.bubblebum.co
🔗 Amazon UK: Buy BubbleBum Booster
Perfect Family-Friendly Beaches & Local Gems
✅Elounda Beach (15 min walk / hotel shuttle):
• Safe, shallow waters and a playground for kids.
• Verano Café for gourmet ice cream.
• Eden Bar next door: laid-back, kid friendly atmosphere with a pool table.
✅ Plaka Village (10 min drive):
• Quiet pebble beach ideal for snorkelling (bring water shoes — sea urchins are common).
• Traditional tavernas, boutique shops, and winding streets perfect for a relaxed stroll.
✅ Boat Trip to Historic Spinalonga:
• A scenic day trip to Spinalonga Island – kids love the boat ride, and the fortress is full of fascinating stories.
✅Lots of options for a family day out:
• Cretaquarium.
• Amazonas Park
• Natural History Museum
Our Recommendation – Dinosauria Park, Gournes – A Must for Dinosaur Fans!
Just 45 min from Elounda and 10 min from Heraklion Airport, Dinosauria Park is a highlight for curious kids and families:
• Over 50 life-sized – animated dinosaur models, along a 500 m themed trail.
• Interactive exhibits: fossil museum, dinosaur hospital, excavation zone, time machine, and science centre
• Extras: VR simulators, planetarium, 5D cinema, and large outdoor playground near the café
• On-site restaurant and gift shop stocked with educational toys
• Gold Pass (~26 € adult / 23 € child) gives full access; kids under 4 can skip extras .
• Plan for 4+ hours — it’s worth every minute.
Quick Tips – Crete Family Travel Guide
• Best time to visit: May–September — warm weather, fewer crowds in colder months.
• Airport: Fly into Heraklion (HER), then drive or take shuttle.
• Must-packs: Swimwear, water shoes, sunscreen, snorkel gear, booster seats.
✨ Final Thoughts
Elounda Residence Hotel & Water Park is truly among the best family hotels in Crete, combining luxury, convenience, and nonstop entertainment. From slides and sea to dinosaurs and history — this island has it all
We’re already dreaming of our next Crete family holiday!
