The Creta Maris Resort in Hersonissos is one of the most famous all-inclusive hotels in Crete. It promises a five-star holiday with Cretan hospitality.
This family-run resort offers 680 rooms, 17 swimming pools, seven restaurants and a Blue Flag beach. It is located just 25 kilometres from Heraklion Airport.
Over 1,800 verified reviews and an average rating of 9.1 speak for themselves. Many guests report that they have had really good experiences here.
But does the resort really deliver what it promises? In this review, you will learn everything about the rooms, food, leisure activities and service on site.
You will get an honest insight into its strengths and weaknesses. This will make it easier for you to decide whether Creta Maris is right for you.
Are you travelling with children, looking to relax as a couple, or want to discover the culture and nature of Crete? This report will help you weigh up your options.
We take a look at what makes the resort special. We also give tips on nearby excursion destinations and what you should look out for when booking.
First impression and location
The Creta Maris Resort is located just 25 kilometres from Heraklion, in the heart of Hersonissos. The complex features traditional Cretan architecture and stretches directly along the beach, which has been awarded a Blue Flag.
Creta Maris, Chersonissos (Google Maps)
Arrival and check-in
When you arrive at Creta Maris Resort, you are first confronted with a huge hotel complex. It takes a few days to find your way around completely.
However, the paths are well signposted and there are clear maps. This helps when you arrive.
Check-in is professional. The local staff will introduce you to Cretan hospitality.
You will quickly notice that everything is very well maintained. The resort has been open since 1975 and knows how to provide a five-star holiday in Crete.
Atmosphere and architecture
Creta Maris features Aegean architecture and looks like a small Cretan village. The design is reminiscent of classic Greek architecture and blends beautifully into the landscape.
First impressions: very well maintained, very tidy.
There are 17 pools, a water park and separate areas for families and couples.
The architecture combines modern amenities with the charm of Crete. Every corner shows that a lot of attention has been paid to detail here.
The environmentally friendly concept runs throughout the resort. It is clear that the operators value sustainability.
Surroundings: Hersonissos and Crete
Hersonissos is a lively town on the north coast of Crete. There are lots of things to do here.
The beach at the resort is sandy and shallow, which is quite practical for families with small children.
The location in Hersonissos gives you quick access to restaurants, shops and nightlife. Nevertheless, you stay in the resort in a quiet, spacious environment, away from the hustle and bustle.
From here, you can explore the whole of Crete. Heraklion, the capital, is only 25 kilometres away.
This is very convenient for day trips to the Palace of Knossos or the archaeological museum. The central location makes the resort the perfect starting point if you want to discover Greece.
Rooms and accommodation
The Creta Maris Resort has 676 rooms in various categories. The rooms are spread across two main buildings and several bungalows.
Each accommodation has a balcony or terrace. The furnishings are modern and practical.
Room types and bungalows
You will find different room categories for different needs. The deluxe rooms are located in the main buildings and are suitable for couples or small families.
Family rooms offer more space. Those who prefer a quieter atmosphere can choose the exclusive adult rooms – these are for adults only and have access to separate pools.
The premium rooms and premium suites are mostly located in the bungalow area. It is more relaxed here, away from the hustle and bustle of the main buildings.
The pool villa is the highlight: a private pool and plenty of luxury. Many guests love the bungalow area because it is quieter and offers more privacy.
Facilities and cleanliness
All rooms have air conditioning, which is worth its weight in gold in summer. A large 50-inch LG 4K TV with Netflix and streaming apps is provided.
Nespresso coffee machine, high-speed Wi-Fi – everything is there, even in the public areas. Cleaning takes place daily, and most guests rate the cleanliness as top notch.
Beach towels are provided free of charge. The bathrooms are modern, with some minor criticism of older furniture, but overall the condition is satisfactory.
Views and balconies
Each room has a balcony or terrace. The views vary: some look directly out to sea, others onto the gardens or the pool.
Rooms with sea views are more popular and usually slightly more expensive. However, the gardens are also beautifully landscaped, with lots of flowers and old trees.
Bungalows often have terraces that are at ground level – practical for families with small children. The balconies in the main buildings are smaller, but often offer a good view of the grounds.
Culinary highlights
Seven restaurants, ten bars and five snack points await you at the Creta Maris Resort. You can choose between buffet and à la carte dining and enjoy a fine selection of Cretan and international wines.
Buffet and à la carte restaurants
The seven restaurants take you on a culinary journey through Crete and the Mediterranean. There are buffets and à la carte options with fine Greek cuisine.
Each restaurant has its own style. You can eat right on the beach or sit outside next to a small chapel.
The cuisine focuses on local and organic products. The resort’s own organic garden supplies fresh ingredients directly to the restaurant.
The dishes range from classic Greek to modern Mediterranean. There is also a well-chosen selection of wines and Cretan raki.
Bars, cocktails and snack points
The ten bars offer everything from cocktails by the pool to sundowners or a glass of tsikoudia in the evening. The atmosphere is relaxed, both during the day and at night.
There are five snack points spread across the grounds. Here you can get drinks, snacks and ice cream – perfect for when you’re feeling peckish.
Wine cellar and outdoor dining
The resort’s wine cellar surprises with a large selection of Cretan, Greek and international wines. The selection goes well with the dishes and is really successful.
For special occasions, you can book Seaside Dining. This is a private table right by the sea with menus from the chef.
Whether seafood or vegetarian – the choice is yours. Many guests rave about dining al fresco, which is simply part of the experience here.
With sea views and balmy evenings, everything tastes even better.
Leisure activities and things to do
At Creta Maris Resort, you will find 16 pools, a water park and a spa with a hammam. There is also an open-air cinema, a fitness centre and daily entertainment programmes.
Pools and water park
There are a total of 16 pools on the grounds. Ten of them are outdoors and are for adults only, three of which are even heated.
The Spira pool is reserved for guests staying in the Adult Deluxe rooms. Families with children have five separate children’s pools at their disposal.
If the weather is not cooperating, simply jump into the indoor pool. This way, you remain flexible no matter what the sky looks like.
The water park covers a whopping 4,000 square metres. Various slides and other attractions await you here.
Admission to the water park is free of charge. Convenient, isn’t it?
The beach is just a few minutes’ walk from the pool. The sandy strip is 250 metres long and has been awarded the Blue Flag.
You can try your hand at various water sports on the beach. Boredom? Not a chance.
Spa and fitness centre
The spa offers a hammam, sauna and hydrotherapy. You can choose from a range of body and beauty treatments.
You can book treatments individually, as a couple or for the whole family. If you book directly via the website, you will receive a 10% discount on all spa services – except beauty treatments.
The fitness centre is equipped with modern machines and weights. The heated indoor pool is suitable for water aerobics.
There are different fitness classes every day that you can take part in. There’s something for everyone.
Evening entertainment and open-air cinema
Cine Creta Maris is one of the largest open-air cinemas in Europe. The latest Hollywood films are shown here under the open sky.
The cinema promises a rather cosy evening experience.
A different entertainment programme awaits you every day.
You can listen to live music or take part in dance events. There are regular shows on stage.
Classic arcade games are available for in-between times. The resort also organises cultural evenings with Cretan music and traditional dances.
Family friendliness & children’s activities
The Creta Maris Resort clearly focuses on families. There are comprehensive childcare services and activities for all age groups.
The all-inclusive resort ensures that both children and adults can relax. It sounds almost too good to be true, but the concept works.
Kids Club and childcare
At the Asterias Kid’s Club, professional staff look after children aged 4 to 12, daily from 10:00 to 18:00. The carers organise games and activities while you take a break.
The club offers indoor and outdoor areas for various activities. There is a separate club for teenagers with board games and access to the sports facilities.
Baby cots are available on request in the deluxe rooms. This makes planning a trip with small children much more relaxed.
The five children’s pools and the water park provide fun outside of childcare hours. This keeps the kids entertained while you laze on the beach or visit the spa.
Activities for families
The family resort has 17 swimming pools, including special areas for children and adults. You have direct access to the sea on the 250-metre-long Blue Flag sandy beach.
The beach slopes gently and is suitable for the whole family. Those who like sports can use the football pitch, basketball courts or tennis courts.
The village-style complex is ideal for walks. The seven restaurants offer child-friendly options, including vegetarian, gluten-free and lactose-free menus.
The all-inclusive offer covers breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. So there’s always something to eat.
Weddings & anniversaries at the resort
Creta Maris is ideal for weddings or anniversaries. The Convention Centre offers rooms with sea or garden views for larger celebrations.
You can spend your wedding day in a romantic atmosphere while the children are looked after. Various restaurants, such as Mademi or the Greek speciality restaurants, offer a festive backdrop for a special dinner.
The resort team will help you plan family celebrations. The Premium Private Pool Villa is particularly suitable for small gatherings.
Beach and sustainability
The Creta Maris Resort combines a great beach with a genuine commitment to environmental protection. Here you will find ideal conditions for swimming and water sports.
The resort also takes sustainability very seriously. It feels a little different from typical beach resorts.
The Blue Flag beach
The beach at Creta Maris has been awarded the Blue Flag. This certification is only awarded if the water is clean and strict environmental standards are met.
The fine sandy beach is located directly in front of the resort. So you’re just a few steps away from the water.
The beach slopes gently, making it particularly family-friendly. The Blue Flag stands for tested water quality and safety.
Environmental friendliness and sustainability
The resort has been committed to sustainable principles since 1975. Since 2013, the hotel management has been publishing regular sustainability reports – so you can read about what is really happening.
Important sustainability measures:
- Reducing energy consumption
- Minimising greenhouse gas emissions
- Using local and organic products
- Supporting regional suppliers
You will notice the sustainable concept particularly when it comes to food. The restaurants use products from Cretan farmers and producers in the region.
Most of the staff come directly from the island. The resort invests in projects to protect Crete’s natural resources.
Water sports & public beach
You can try out various water sports on the resort’s beach. The resort offers several activities right by the water.
Hersonissos Beach is a public beach. This means that not only hotel guests are allowed to swim here.
As a guest of the resort, you get reserved sunbathing areas and free access to sun loungers and parasols. According to guests, you can usually find a free spot even in high season.
The beach is large enough that it rarely feels crowded. It’s really easy to relax here.
Service, hospitality and experience
At Creta Maris, the focus is on personal service and genuine Cretan hospitality. Most of the staff are from the region and know the island quite well.
Friendly staff & quality service
The team creates a warm atmosphere right from the start. Upon arrival, you will be greeted warmly and looked after attentively.
At this all-inclusive resort, the staff in all areas will take care of your well-being. Whether in the restaurant, at the bar or by the pool – service is truly a way of life here.
The staff take the time to chat and are happy to offer tips. The team pays attention to details so that you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Experience Cretan hospitality
Cretan hospitality goes beyond good service. At Creta Maris, you will feel a generosity that is deeply rooted in the local culture.
The resort celebrates the island’s architecture, cuisine and nature, bringing you closer to the Cretan way of life. You can take part in authentic local experiences and learn about the island’s traditions.
Local artisans and regional products take centre stage. This philosophy permeates all areas of the resort.
Tips and insider knowledge
Feel free to ask the staff for insider tips on beaches or tavernas off the beaten track. The locals know places you won’t find in the guidebooks.
Ask about sustainable events and cultural programmes. The resort regularly organises activities that give you a real insight into Cretan culture.
Talk to the team about local products. They will be happy to explain where the ingredients come from and what makes typical Cretan dishes so special.
Excursion tips around the resort
Creta Maris’ location makes it pretty easy to reach some of Crete’s best attractions. From the historic capital to underwater worlds, there’s plenty to discover in the surrounding area.
Aquaworld Aquarium
The Aquaworld Aquarium is just a few minutes away from the resort. It’s ideal for families with children.
You can observe Mediterranean sea creatures such as turtles, snakes and various species of fish up close. The facility is compact but cleverly designed.
A visit usually takes about an hour. Perfect if you don’t want to be out too long on a hot afternoon.
The rescue stations for injured animals are really popular with children. Here they learn in a playful way how important marine conservation actually is.
The admission price remains moderate. Incidentally, the staff speak English, which makes everything more relaxed.
Knossos Palace and Heraklion
The Knossos Palace is the most famous archaeological site in Crete. It is located about 25 kilometres from the resort.
Heraklion is about 30 minutes away by car or bus. The palace dates back to the Minoan period and is considered Europe’s oldest city.
Allow two hours for the tour. The reconstructed areas give a vivid impression of life 4,000 years ago.
After visiting the palace, it is worth taking a detour to the old town of Heraklion. There you will find cosy taverns, small shops and the impressive Archaeological Museum.
The Venetian fortress at the harbour is also worth seeing. It is best to come early in the morning to avoid the heat and the largest tourist groups.
Other sights in the area
The village of Hersonissos is only a ten-minute walk from the resort. There you will find a beautiful waterfront promenade with restaurants and bars.
You can visit the Roman excavations in the town centre free of charge.
The Lassithi Plateau with its windmills is about an hour’s drive away.
Along the way, small mountain villages invite you to sample authentic Cretan cuisine. The area is significantly cooler than the coast – really pleasant in summer.
Hiking enthusiasts should check out the Sarakina Gorge. It is less crowded than the famous Samaria Gorge, but just as impressive.
Frequently asked questions
Many travellers ask similar questions about the Creta Maris Resort, especially about rooms, food and family offers. The location right on the beach in Hersonissos makes the resort exciting, but also raises questions about activities and excursions.
How are the rooms at the Creta Maris Resort equipped?
The rooms offer you solid basic amenities for your holiday. The resort has a total of 680 rooms in various categories.
Most rooms have air conditioning, a balcony and modern bathrooms. A safe and television are also standard.
Some rooms offer direct sea views. Others overlook the gardens.
Families will find plenty of space, as the rooms are designed to be family-friendly. Depending on the category, you can also book larger family rooms.
Can you tell me about the dining options at the hotel?
Creta Maris operates an all-inclusive concept with seven different restaurants. The focus here is on Cretan cuisine using local products.
There are also six snack points. Nine bars ensure that you can always get something to drink or a snack.
There is also a wine cellar if you fancy some local wines. The hotel focuses on sustainable and regional ingredients – olive oil, feta cheese and fresh vegetables often come from the region.
What leisure activities does the Creta Maris Resort offer?
The resort has 17 swimming pools spread throughout the complex. There is also a water park that families love.
The private sandy beach is located directly in front of the hotel and has been awarded the Blue Flag. You can try out various water sports or simply relax.
A fitness centre and several outdoor sports facilities are available. You can pamper yourself in the spa with hammam.
In the evenings, there is an open-air cinema. The hotel also organises cultural activities and entertainment programmes.
Is the resort child-friendly and are there offers for families?
Creta Maris is very family-friendly. A kids’ club offers regular childcare for the little ones.
Several pools and playgrounds are designed especially for children. The water park is a real highlight for families with children of all ages.
The rooms are family-friendly and offer plenty of space. Thanks to the all-inclusive concept, you hardly have to worry about additional costs.
The restaurants also serve child-friendly dishes. This makes the whole experience quite straightforward.
How is the cleanliness and hygiene in the hotel rated?
Guests generally rate the cleanliness at Creta Maris positively. The complex appears well-maintained and in good condition.
The hotel maintains high standards of hygiene in all areas. The rooms are cleaned regularly, and the public areas and pools are also serviced daily.
Some guests note that the service is not always consistent during the high season. Nevertheless, the hotel scores 9.1 out of 10 on Booking.com – which speaks for itself.
Are there any interesting places to visit near the resort?
The hotel is only 25 km from Heraklion. You can explore the city and the harbour at your leisure.
By car, you can reach the capital of Crete in about 30 minutes. It’s really quick.
Hersonissos is about a 10-minute walk away. There you will find shops, restaurants and bars.
The lively atmosphere in the town offers a change from everyday hotel life. Perhaps you would like to treat yourself to a drink or simply stroll through the streets.
Crete has many historical sites and impressive natural scenery to offer. Day trips to ancient ruins or the mountains are definitely worthwhile.
