Eight reasons why this Cretan all-inclusive is stealing the show

Words: Agatha Zarzycki

Spread along an award-winning beach, Creta Maris Resort takes the feel of a traditional Cretan village and adds modern, next-level entertainment, including a large open-air cinema and a 4,000sqm water park. There is every accommodation style under the sun (including Exclusive Adult Rooms, and Premium Rooms and Suites), while seven raved-about restaurants and the 500sqm Hammam Spa add to the ‘everything for everyone’ energy. Here are eight reasons why this luxury all-inclusive is more than worthy of the hype.

Location, location, location

With buzzing bars and a family-friendly water park, Creta Maris is where thriving town meets Blue Flag beachfront bliss. It’s relaxation without the remoteness. Heraklion International Airport is just a 30-minute drive away, ensuring a smooth plane-to-piña colada transition.

Superior service

If any resort has perfected the art of above-and-beyond hospitality, it’s Creta Maris, which has had 50 years of practice. Established in 1975, it was one of the first ever resorts in the area, so its guest satisfaction levels are consistently high.

Cretan village charm

Inspired by a traditional Cretan village, cobbled lanes snake between sloping terracotta roofs and whitewashed façades swathed in scarlet bougainvillea, fountain-filled piazzas and olive tree-filled gardens. It’s the perfect setting to experience Crete’s timeless traditions, from the resort’s lyra and laouto performances (folk music known for its expressive melodies) to Pentozali dance shows symbolising heroism, and interactive workshops including cooking lessons.

Foodie brilliance

All seven excellent restaurants use the finest ingredients from the resort’s organic garden, and pair meals with a curated selection of Greek wines and Cretan raki. Buffet options include all-day Enomy for Cretan and international fare alongside live cooking stations, and Mediterranean, family-friendly Estia, whose kids’ menu is designed by a children’s nutritionist. After something atmospheric? Platia is beside a Byzantine chapel and serves Greek mezze that’s perfect for sharing, while Pithos is the go-to for traditional, farm-to-table Cretan dishes amid rustic, earthy interiors. There’s even private beachfront dining under the stars.

Accommodation for every travel style

Spread across two buildings (‘Maris’ and ‘Terra’), a cluster of bungalows next to one of the resort’s pools, Creta Maris has no shortage of possibilities for slumber. The resort offers 676 rooms of different categories and views, including the renovated for 2026 Exclusive Adult Rooms within an exclusive adult area, as well as Premium Rooms & Suites with exclusive perks. There are plenty of options for families, too, including open-plan and connecting bedroom layouts.

Exciting entertainment

Creta Maris is home to a large open-air cinema (guests receive two free tickets per stay), screening blockbuster bangers and family favourites. The cinema craze takes place from June to September, but there’s loads of year-round fun, too. Activities run six days a week, including DJ sessions, karaoke and classes spanning Cretan cooking to Greek language learning. For active jet-setters, table tennis, yoga and aerobics are a hit. Kids will love the mini discos, and the arcade games are the latest teen obsession.

The ultimate water lover’s wish list

If there were an award for aquaphile adventures, it would go to Creta Maris. To start, there are 16 freshwater pools, including three outdoor heated gems, one outdoor Jacuzzi (this one’s in the Exclusive Adult Rooms area) and five children’s pools. But most exhilarating is the resort’s 4,000sqm water park, featuring slides and interactive play (think nets and tipping buckets), and its water sports centre staffed by experienced instructors. And let’s not forget a swim or snorkel in the sparkling sea, or the resort’s top-secret diving spot in Plakoura. 

Wholesome wellness

Eastern mysticism and modern design unite at the resort’s 500sqm Hammam Spa, whose soft lighting and purple marble puts you in a tranquil trance alone. When it comes to rejuvenating rituals, the traditional hammam steam-bath experience takes centre stage. Other highlights are a detoxifying body scrub-wrap combo that cocoons you in local, natural herbs, and signature Greek traditional massages incorporating olive oil. Guests staying within the Exclusive Adult Rooms area also enjoy access to the outdoor spa pavilion for ultra-private pampering.

Book your holiday

All holidays with British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and include a generous checked baggage allowance and a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your Creta Maris Resort holiday now with a low deposit and enjoy flexible payments until you fly.*

*Full balance due four weeks before departure. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply. See ba.com/deposits.