One of the most celebrated luxury resorts in the Mediterranean, Elounda Beach has hosted royalty, celebrities, and heads of state since it opened in 1971. Set on a private bay with views of Spinalonga Island, the resort offers bungalows and villas with private pools directly on the Aegean. World-class dining, a thalassotherapy spa, a private beach, watersports, and impeccable service define the experience.
Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas stands on a private bay along the Gulf of Elounda in northeastern Crete, overlooking the haunting silhouette of Spinalonga Island — a former Venetian fortress and one-time leper colony now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Open since 1971, the resort has built a reputation as one of the Mediterranean's most enduring luxury destinations, having hosted royalty, film stars, and heads of state across more than five decades of operation. Its position 75 kilometres east of Heraklion, near the village of Elounda in Lasithi prefecture, places it within reach of Agios Nikolaos (12 km) and easy day-trip distance of Spinalonga itself, reachable by water taxi from the hotel's private jetty.
The resort's architecture is low-rise and organic, spreading across manicured seafront gardens. Accommodation ranges from spacious standard bungalows and suites to private villas with their own pools set directly above the Aegean. The most exclusive options — the Prestige Villas — function as self-contained residences with private heated pools, outdoor Jacuzzis, and butler service. The design language is warm Aegean vernacular: white render, timber shutters, and terracotta tones softened by bougainvillea and oleander.
Dining encompasses six restaurants and bars, ranging from formal Mediterranean cuisine at the main dining room to casual poolside grills and a waterfront seafood taverna. Breakfast is a generous spread emphasising local Cretan produce — artisan honey, thyme-scented cheeses, fresh pastries, and freshly caught fish. The Thalassotherapy Spa is one of Crete's most celebrated wellness facilities, combining seawater-based therapies with traditional treatments and a full fitness centre. Watersports facilities are comprehensive, with sailing, windsurfing, waterskiing, and kayaking available from the private beach.
Families are well served by a Kids Club offering supervised daily activities for children aged four and above, while the concierge team excels at arranging island excursions, private yacht charters, and helicopter transfers to and from Heraklion or Athens. The resort's relatively flat seafront footprint makes it more navigable than many cliff-side properties along the Cretan coast, with paved paths connecting the main facilities.
Amenities
- Private beach
- Multiple pools
- Thalassotherapy spa
- 6 restaurants
- Watersports
- Helipad
- Private villa with pool option
- Tennis courts
- Kids club
Location
Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, Lasithi 72053
35.2602, 25.7261 View on map
Highlights
- Panoramic views of Spinalonga Island from private bungalows and villas set directly on the Aegean shoreline
- Thalassotherapy Spa offering seawater-based treatments, one of Crete's most prestigious wellness facilities
- Six restaurants and bars showcasing fresh Cretan produce, from formal Mediterranean dining to waterfront seafood
- Private bay with full watersports centre including sailing, windsurfing, and water taxi access to Spinalonga
- Operating since 1971 and consistently ranked among the Mediterranean's most iconic luxury resort destinations
Tips for visiting
- Book 6–12 months ahead for July and August arrivals; the resort sells out at peak season well in advance.
- Bungalows with private pool offer the best balance of luxury and value within the resort's tiered accommodation.
- Arrange a water taxi to Spinalonga through the concierge — departures are more flexible than public ferry schedules.
- Consider half-board; the on-site restaurants are excellent and taxi journeys to Elounda town add up quickly.
- Early-October stays offer warm sea temperatures, near-empty grounds, and rates often 30–40% below August peaks.
Accessibility
The resort's relatively flat seafront layout is more accessible than many cliff-side Crete properties. Several rooms are adapted for guests with reduced mobility. The main beach and pool areas have paved access paths, though stone steps are present in some villa areas.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Elounda Beach Hotel child-friendly?
Yes, the resort has a dedicated Kids Club for children aged 4–12 with supervised activities. Family rooms and villa configurations are available, and the beach and pools are well suited to families.
How far is the hotel from Heraklion airport?
The resort is approximately 75 kilometres from Heraklion International Airport, roughly a 70-minute drive by private transfer. The concierge can arrange airport shuttles and helicopter transfers.
Do guests need a car to explore the area?
The resort is self-contained with its own beach, restaurants, spa, and watersports, making a car unnecessary for those staying on-site. A car is recommended for exploring Agios Nikolaos and the wider Lasithi region.
Can guests visit Spinalonga Island from the hotel?
Yes. The concierge arranges water taxi transfers to Spinalonga, approximately 20 minutes by boat. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with significant Venetian and Ottoman history.