Hersonissos with kids: waterparks, aquarium and where to stay
The family side of Hersonissos: waterparks, an aquarium, an open-air museum, beaches and where to stay.
- Star Beach in town; Acqua Plus and Water City nearby.
- Aquaworld by the harbour, CretAquarium about 10 km west.
- Stay on the edges of town, away from the nightlife street.
Hersonissos can be a good family base if you pick a quiet hotel. Most attractions are seasonal.
Hersonissos with kids: does it work?
Hersonissos, about 25 km east of Heraklion, is known for its nightlife. But beyond the bar street it has a family side: waterparks, a small aquarium, an open-air museum and parks, all close together. Many families pick a hotel on the edges of town or in nearby villages, and enjoy the attractions without the noise.
Kids' attractions in and around Hersonissos
| Attraction | Where | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Star Beach Water Park | In town, on the beach | Waterpark and beach in one |
| Acqua Plus | Hersonissos area | Large waterpark |
| Water City | Anopolis, between Heraklion and Hersonissos | Large waterpark |
| Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue | Near the harbour | Aquarium and reptiles, open April–October |
| Lychnostatis | Hersonissos | Open-air museum of Cretan village life |
| Labyrinth Park | Hersonissos area | Maze and activities |
| CretAquarium (Thalassokosmos) | About 10 km west, at Gournes | Crete's big aquarium |
| Dinosauria Park | Next to CretAquarium | Dinosaur park |
Waterparks open in the summer season only. Check opening times before you go.
Beaches for kids
The town beach is organised, with sunbeds and facilities. Crete's north coast has many shallow, sandy beaches, but on windy days the sea can be wavy. Details in Crete's best beaches.
Where to stay with kids
Stay away from the nightlife street in the centre. The edges of town and nearby areas such as Koutsounari or Malia's western side are quieter. More on the town in our Hersonissos guide.
Kosher food and Shabbat
Chabad is active in Hersonissos in season, with meals and kosher food. See kosher and Chabad in Hersonissos.
More for a family trip to Crete
See Crete with kids, Crete month by month, car rental in Crete and our Crete guide.
Tips for families in Hersonissos
- Timing: in July and August midday is very hot. Beach in the morning, rest at lunchtime and an attraction after 4pm.
- Car: most attractions are close, but a hire car helps a lot with small children, especially for CretAquarium and the waterparks.
- Day trip: the Palace of Knossos, south of Heraklion, suits kids who love myths. Go early, as there is little shade.
- Airport: Heraklion to Hersonissos is about half an hour by car, depending on traffic.
FAQ
Is Hersonissos good for families? Yes, if you stay away from the nightlife centre. It has several waterparks, an aquarium and parks nearby.
Which waterpark is in Hersonissos? Star Beach in town, with Acqua Plus and Water City in the area.
How far is Crete's big aquarium? CretAquarium is at Gournes, about 10 km west of Hersonissos.
Are the attractions open in winter? Most are seasonal. Aquaworld opens April–October, and the waterparks only in summer.
