the bad, the meh, the good The Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas is a 5.5 Star hotel and part of the „The leading hotels of the world“. Disclaimer: We love the Greek people and nature. During our stay we talked to different clients, the operations manager, director and the employees. Some employees kindly asked us to give our feedback in writing. So here is our experience. We hope it helps. We wish the hotel management and team best of luck and success. The Verdict We do not recommend the hotel. We were very disappointed with the treatment of the hotel employees and will not be going back. The service had several poor experiences. The food was mediocre. We never threw away so much food. We as a family (a couple with three children) stayed 10 days from the 25.9-5.10.2022. The location of the hotel in the bay of Elounda and the scenery are spectacular. It is a big complex with two hotels. We enjoyed the beach and the cleanliness very much. Unfortunately the 5.5 Star hotel didn’t live up to their great marketing and branding - classified as „the leading hotels of the world“. Of course there can be glitches, but too many customer experiences were poor. There were some exceptions of engaging and hard working employees - thanks for their effort to make the stay pleasant and memorable. Analysis: the bad: - service: too many poor customer experiences with the employees and the operations manager M. Sotiris Radikopoulos. - breakfast was not ready at 7.15 a.m. no water, no orange juice, no hot food service,… - the reception told us wrong departure times for the bus and could not organize one van to fit our family. - they made dinner reservation in the wrong restaurant. - a lot of self service in their restaurants i.e. missing cutlery, searching for a suitable table,… - missing children seats for the transfer back to the airport. The day before we asked them to reconfirm with the transfer company but they refused to do it. - reduced tables for the customers on the beautiful terrace for breakfast. Some tables are reserved for clients at breakfast without being used and without a time frame. Additionally the operations manager reserved 3 tables for about 10 people and himself. - the operations manager could not and did not want to do anything with our feedback although we gave it in the beginning of our stay. - food: - mediocre quality (breakfast and dinner). Inconsistent quality of the preparation and cooking of the food over several days (fruits, cooking of the meat, noodles, ice cream disgusting gooey, chocolate sauce stretched etc.) We never threw away that much food - unfortunately. :-( - very slow service up to 2-3 hours in the gourmet restaurant. Our small children got tired and fell asleep with empty stomachs. Another family did not take the desert because the service was so slow. Some employees really tried their best. - prices were high i.e. bottle water EUR 4 - 6, a scoop of ice cream EUR 8 - 13. In town water is 30 cents and a big scoop of ice cream EUR 2.- the meh - room: the rooms are older and used. It is time for a refurbishment and modernization i.e. shower, bathtub, toilets, furniture etc. - swimming pool was not so clean and had several moldy spots. the good - great location of the hotel. A beautiful garden, bay, surroundings, beach and scenery. It was always clean outside. - the room was cleaned daily and small bottles of water was provided as a compliment. - the wifi was in most locations good.

Having recently got married at this resort, I couldn’t recommend it highly enough. Every detail was taken care of without me having to worry about a thing. Ourselves and guests were made to feel special and wanted for nothing. The chapel setting was perfect. Thank you Minas and team - I’m grateful to you for giving us the perfect day & stay!

We spent five wonderful and unforgettable days at the Elounda beach hotel. From the moment you arrive you are greeted by extremely warm and personable reception and concierge staff. The hotel has amazing landscaping and it feels like you are staying on a private island in your own world. Elounda beach has THE best location on the mirabello bay with the best views of the bay on either side of the hotel. The hotel beaches were one of the biggest attractions for us and they did not disappoint. They have 2 beaches (1 large and 1 small). We loved the small beach which was almost felt like our private beach. The water was great and refreshing and service was excellent. The rooms have amazing views and are very well equipped The hotel has 4 excellent restaurants on the property with excellent quality food and a wide variety and we never felt the need to go anywhere outside for our meals. The restaurant staff was very accommodating with tables with excellent view and great service. There was a special 3 hour Greek BBQ and song and dance night that was one of the highlights for our stay. The veghera bar which is almost in its own rock island and shaped like a ship was favorite place for drinks and cocktails. Overall the staff of the hotel is amazing and super professional and accommodating. They set very high standards and always aim to satisfy their guests Thank you to the Elounda beach staff for making our stay a memorable one. Tania

Serene, extravaganza, calmness and tranquility of the place will mesmerize you and keep you nostalgic after you leave. This resort is located on northeast coast of Crete island. Stayed for about a week here and had a great everlasting experience here. Place is huge! with large tennis court, basketball and volleyball courts. Knowing about Greek culture, the behaviour of the staff, their service with love and the food here are to die for. I still remember the Choriatiki which is a must try with almost every meal. Made with lovely cucumber, olives, tomatoes and a chunks of feta cheese to give you a tasty Mediterranean flavored dish. The place is well maintained with clean infinity pool and lovely sea facing rooms.

WHAT A GREAT TIME! The staff at the wonderful Elounda Beach Hotel and Villas are all fantastic. From the resort manager to those who took us on a cart to and from our room, everyone was wonderful and made us feel as though we were the only ones there. We stayed14 days, and wish we had stayed 14 more. I highly recommend this resort to ANYONE looking for a special vacation in Greece. You will be glad you did.

My family and I recently stayed at Elounda and it was such an amazing experience. The rooms are fantastic and the staff is absolutely amazing. They are kind and accommodating and genuinely want you to have a great stay. The restaurants on site are incredible and they will give you great recommendations for places off the property if you want to venture out! The beach is right at the hotel and the views are absolutely stunning. I usually do not right reviews but I had to for this hotel because it was exceptional. If you are considering a trip to crete, you must stay at Elounda!!! My family and I will definitely be coming back :)

So relaxing. Lovely roms. Great service. Gracious. Lovely beach. Gorgeous food. Great facilities. Do go

A real 5 star hotel!! Amazing bed and pillows, great landscape and very polite staff. We stayed only one day but we hope we will be back again!!!

Large and old hotel and unfortunately it has become an impossible task to hide its age. Management seems to be preoccupied with upgrading some of the expensive suites, while the rest of the hotel and especially the public areas are deteriorating. Everywhere an incompatible mixture of furniture of different style, age, cleaningness. Location had potential, but most open spaces have been built. Personnel is doing a commendable effort, but impossible to overcome the condition of the infrastructure.

Hello.. I previously posted a review stating how my Husband and I stayed in the Elounda Beach in June 2023… Unfortunately I only clicked 1 star.. I want to correct my error and give it the 5 Star rating it deserves.. It was our 3d visit and we had a wonderful Holiday.. Great restaurants, and very Helpful and friendly staff. We hope to be back next year… Would definitely recommend this hotel

We spend a couple of days at the hotel and we loved it. We had a tour of the resort first and realized what a big community it is and how it is spread just like a proper village. Then we booked and stayed immediately. The beaches are stunning and the food is delicious. There's many restaurants to choose from and many boutique shops with jewellery, clothes and glasses. I particularly enjoyed the beach bar on a jetty, Veghera. Awesome cocktails with a loungy feel around the bay's vibes, colors  and lights. Will definitely come back!

AMAZING resort and amenities. The Staff Team was exceptional in every way. Courteous, conscious, friendly, professional!! Made the special wedding unforgettable! Hope to return and spend more time enjoying the island and chilling with the Elounda Beach Team. THANK YOU ALL !

I stayed at Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas for 7 nights. It was one of the best vacation i have ever had. The staff was amazing, always friendly and ready te help. From the guys at the beach who put our towels( i did not get their names) Anna and Orestis at Veghera Bar, the housekeeping ladies to the girls and boys at the reception greeted me always with a smile, always there to accomodate my needs. The breakfast was great and had a variaty of food. The only thing that would make me think twice to come again are the prices of the restaurants. The food is delicious of course but in my opinion overpriced. I understand that nowdays the inflation and prices have gone crazy but still, i would suggest you to have a look at the prices again. I would love to come again. Thank you again to the whole team.

I have never been to Crete before and Elounda was a fantastic introduction to the country. The hotel, area, and staff were absolutely fantastic. Would go back to the same place in a heartbeat. 😃

An amazing experience for your holidays either short or long term it will be an unforgettable experience for you and your family.

Parkplatz vorhanden, mit Bäumen, wenn man Glück hat bekommt man Schattenplatz, gratis. Liegen ausreichend vorhanden, allerdings sind die mittigen mit Strohdach Hoteleigene und kosten für Nichtgäste 40!! Euro. Nein danke. Die andere Schirme sind ziemlich unnütz da sie aus solch Kpchensieb dünnem Material sind das sie die Sonne nicht effektiv abhalten( die Erfahrung habe ich vor 3vTagen machen dürfen. Ganz links gibt es Schirme mit Strohdach und teils gepolsterte Liegen für Set 10 Euro. Eigentlich bräuchte ich nur eine da ich allein reise musste aber set nehmen...okay. Zugang zum Wasser teils aus Holzstegen möglich welcher in großer Metallplatte endet, welche sehr rutschig ist und mit Kabelbinder am Boden befestigt ist. Aua. Im Wasser welches glasklar ist und auch am Strand sehr große runde Steine, ebenfalls sehr rutschig. Im Grunde fällt man einfach ins Wasser. Geht gleich ziemlich tief. Für kleine Kinder nicht so geeignet. Naja für einen Tag wars okay. (Translated by Google) Parking available, with trees, if you're lucky you get a spot in the shade, free of charge. There are enough loungers available, but the ones in the middle with thatched roofs are the hotel's own and cost 40 for non-guests!! Euro. No thanks. The other umbrellas are pretty useless because they are made of such a thin material that they don't block out the sun effectively (I had that experience 3 days ago. On the far left there are umbrellas with a straw roof and some upholstered loungers for a set of 10 euros. I actually need them only one because I was traveling alone but had to take a set...okay. Access to the water is partly possible from wooden walkways which ends in a large metal plate which is very slippery and is attached to the bottom with cable ties Beach very large round stones, also very slippery. Basically you just fall into the water. Well, it was okay for a day.

One of the nicest beaches on the east side of Crete! You pay €10 for two sunbeds and an umbrella if you want, or you can lie down on the pebbly beach with your own towel. Other option is to pay €30 for the luxury beds near the beach club/restaurant. On the beach you also have the option to rent a jet ski. 15 minutes is €50 and half an hour is €90. The sea is really calm and the water is extremely clear!

A very nice pebbly beach with crystal clear water. Beautiful view of the island Spinalonga. Quite big, free of charge parking lot on the backside. You can also order some fresh drinks delivered directly to your place. 10€ price per set (2 sun beds and umbrella)

A very nice rocky beach great for children. Beautiful view of the famous island Spinalonga and the surrounding villages. Crystal clear water , well kept clean environment. Limitless free of charge parking located on the back. With a variety of easily accessible restaurants, shops and you have everything you need for your holidays.

Very nice beach. Stones so shoes needed.

pebbles… but the waters …. oh my !!

(Translated by Google) Wonderful place! The water was so beautiful and pleasant (Original) Merveilleux endroit ! L'eau était tellement belle et agréable

This is the most beautiful beach I have ever been. The water is salty and crystal clear. The are no sunbeds. This is a hidden gem.

Beautiful secluded beach... a real little paradise. Difficult approach, but really worth it. My sincere recommendation. YOU WILL ENJOY IT!

Wow such a crystal clear water!!! And small fishes are all around. Very nice for snorkeling, too. We went there last summer late august 2018. We enjoyed a lot!

Wow nothing less to say! Please visit this place. Clear water and its cold! Was nice to stay there

Secluded beach with beautiful water. It's a tiny stretch of beach so it gets very busy.

Nice beach , but to difficult to get there.

The beach deserves a thousand stars, but the boat excursions are ruining the experience. Be sure to go early in order to avoid them!

Nice beach, the sea was very clear BUT the road is the worst, choose a boat to visit that beach or don’t go because the road has only one and a half line, so the cars stacks. Such a beautiful place left us with the worst experience due to our transportation there

Quite interesting, but unless you’ve got a snorkel and mask, you’re not really gonna appreciate it. From the land, it looks nothing more than a load of brick wall and rubble, but I sure bet it’s something spectacular underwater.

The Olous Archaeological Site in Elounda is a fascinating historical gem. Walking through the ruins, you can sense the ancient city's past glory. The remains offer glimpses into daily life with its intricate streets, houses, and public spaces. The site's location overlooking the sea adds a serene backdrop to the exploration. The information provided at the site is helpful in understanding its significance. While it might not be extensive, the experience of stepping into history is truly memorable. If you're interested in ancient civilizations, a visit to Olous is definitely worth your time.

Beautiful scenery with joining lagoon and back drop of mountains, just not any signs or information boards to tell you anything. so as beautiful as a area, walking around and looking at 1. -2 foot high walls underwater lacks the information of what’s what to gain any interest

Nice place with not much to do. 3 small fortresses and two sea view. Near the place there is a quite nice village with a lot of coffeeshops and restaurants. The locals there are very friendly. It is a very recommended place for couples.

Olous, the sunken ancient city near Elounda north east of Crete. History, deities and the say of Britomartis, sunken in the sea and today remains like the old basilica. Clear water, some tavernas, and if you feel like it, even a 3 hours trekking to reach an old church. Follow me on IG @van_venuti

I didn't see much of an archeological site there, just ruins in a very hard to get place. Also very touristic place in a bad way.

Little romantic place, nice walking paths all over the peninsula

It is a nice spot. You just drive there and enjoy the views.

No need for any ticket. It is literally at the side of the road. Was able to make out some structures but no information on site to help explain. I had read about a mosaic but never saw it.

One of the best afternoons during our recent holiday in Crete! The staff were welcoming and with excellent, clear instructions ensured that we could enjoy a beautiful and safe trip around the coastline. We consider the four hour trip excellent value for money, the scenery and swimming were delightful!

Be your own Captain Awesome experience, the staff are helpful and friendly. You receive a full explanation of the boats and a quick tutorial before you are left to explore the coastline and bays. We had a great time in the 4 hours as we explored Spinalonga, dived in the bays, visited the caves and enjoyed the beaches. Would highly recommend being your own captain. It gives you the freedom to have your own boat trip.

Great service and well maintained boats. If you are visiting the area, it is a great way to explore the area. It's just fantastic to throw the anchor out near a cove and do a little swimming and snorkeling. Circling around the Spinalonga Fortress was fun, as well as going through the small channel under the bridge at Archeologikos Choros Olous.

Perfect experience. Competent staff. Good explanations. Nice boat, which is easy to drive and perfect spots for boat driving and snorkeling, because the sea is calm with almost no waves and the water at the caves is crystal clear. Can fully recommend! Thank you Minos guys for this awesome experience :)

Boat rented with boat license. they also have without. Very nice boat with all the options you want such as electric anchor and fresh water shower. Quick response via whatsapp and very friendly reception on site. Clear explanation of how the boat and all options work and a test sail to see if you can handle the boat safely. Compliments and definitely recommended!

Very serious team. Good boat , fair price. They take a lot of time to explain you the boat and the area to make sure you have a good time. We had a wonderful time in Elounda bay. Nice snorkeling areas.

Wow what an amazing experience with Minos boats- we did the sunset cruise and it was the best way to end our honeymoon in Crete. Great people and also a lot of experienced Skippers and good condition boats. 10 out of 10.

Great place! Rented a 30HP boat for self driving. Got a great lesson from Spiros (giving a thumbs up in the picture). Super knowledgeable and friendly. The owner Milos is also very nice and welcoming! Recommend this place very much!

Best Boat rental around Elounda. Very friendly, fair prices, good and modern boats with enough power and in very good conditions. Boats with bloototh for ad music. Wenn you rent longer you get free softdrinks with ice and coolbox. Very nice area for snorkeling or relaxing and enjoy the wonderful view. Be your own captain without licence!

We are visiting this area every year. This is the best company for boating experience, and best area to explore by boat. Beautiful islands, cristal clear water. We we traveling with children so we asked for the captain to lead the boat. We had a best time in years. Kids were so happy they were jumping in a water as monkeys where it was allowed, I love rocks and diving I had a chance to explore rural places that is impossible to access in any other way but the boat. We felt that we were took care of by professionals who are locals with knowledge of area and wind and the sea. Safety and comfort is their first priority. They also do fishing this is my next dream. Equipment are new and well kept. Nice and friendly staff. We looove everything about this experience and will come back!

Adorable staff, super focus on security. We were there with our tiny 2.5 yrs old kid and they were super nice to him, convincing us to do the water sofa. The driver paid attention not to go too fast for the kid but still pushing a bit for the parents. Perfect moment!! Thank you!

Best experience of my holiday getting to use a jetski ! The staff were very friendly and couldn't of been more supportive. Equipment was also top tier, would highly recommend. Can't wait to come back next year :D

Amazing staff. Very friendly. Incredible water sport equipment! We hired a self hire boat for 3 hours with great snorkeling places to anchor off from. Also had an unforgettable speed boat inflatable ride! Everyone was genuinely helpful and friendly priding themselves in people having a good time. THANKS ALL! HIGHLY RECOMMEND

I visited Plaka water sports in June, and we decided to book a sailing boat to Santorini; it was one of the best experiences; the boat comes with three bedrooms, a toilet, a shower and a kitchen. The view of the sea was incredible between both islands. We had George as our tour guide, he was very helpful and kind and very funny. I will visit again. Strongly recommend their water sports as it comes with excellent training and many different water sports.

Excellent Waterskiing equipment with three skiing boats to include two Master Craft Boats and a very good selection of top of the line slalom skis. Very friendly and helpful crew in a beautiful private beach setting. Thank you to Christos, Giorgios, Lefteris and Tatjana.

Strange place.. we were driving there for an hour to wake surf, as the web site says they have wake surfing. When we came, the guy (I suppose he is the owner of the place) told us that he has the skimboard for the wake surfing, but he has no boat. His boat only allows wake boarding, but not wake surfing, but he tries to wake surf with that boat, which is not quite safe. Okay.. At this point we spotted a jet ski, which was announced as available on the web site as well. We asked if we can at least try a jet ski. Apparently, jet ski was not for rent because belonged to a friend of him.. at this point we left.

Very well organised and safety conscious. They give you all the info needed and the GPS shut off stops you from going where you shouldn't.

The guys at the Watersports are great My 6 year old grandson was skiing by his 2nd lesson and not falling .. George was so patient with him Bravo to George and all his staff They are a very professional team .. Very hospitable and friendly .. We shall be going again ..that's for sure Have a good season you guys and thank you once again ....😉

Great place to take a dip to cool down after walking through the ruins of Spinalonga. Very rocky and there are many sea urchants so reef shoes are a must if you don't want to risk getting needles in your feet.

Worth a visit (as long as it's not too hot). The history is very interesting/dark and teaches us many lessons.

Can get busy but it's deffo worth a visit. Very beautiful.

Very expensive, experience. The entrance 8 euro. To go there from Eluda 12 euro.

Not worth a visit. Is too expensive. The history is very interesting.

I went here about 38 years ago and remember walking down the streets, very eerie and looking in the concrete graves which had had their tops removed , you could see the human bones etc. There were was no cafe or shop to buy drinks then. We were staying in Elounda and I was looking to go into business here at the time renting cars, mopeds etc. The food and Raki was great

Instead of including the entrance fee in the ticket price for the boat, you have to spend a substantial amount of time in a queue on the island in line to buy a ticket. Absolutely ridiculous

Interesting but I wish I didn't go with a guide, we saw one street and got 10 minutes to yourselves to explore. There's a lot of history here for those who are interested, I'd recommend and independent visit.