Where to stay in Elounda: areas, resorts and what to know before you book (2026)
Elounda, in eastern Crete, is a cluster of villages on a calm bay opposite Spinalonga island, known for its luxury resorts. Which area suits you and what to know about getting there.
- Elounda is about 68 km from Heraklion airport, around 1.5 hours' drive, and 12 km from Agios Nikolaos.
- Plaka is closest to Spinalonga and quiet, Elounda village is livelier, Agios Nikolaos is cheaper.
- The nearest Chabad house is in Hersonissos, on the way from the airport.
Elounda suits a relaxed resort or villa holiday for couples and families. For livelier evenings and lower prices, consider Agios Nikolaos. Either way a car helps, and if you keep kosher, coordinate with Chabad of Crete in advance.
Where is Elounda?
Elounda is a group of seven small villages on Elounda Bay, on the north coast of eastern Crete, about 12 km from Agios Nikolaos and about 68 km from Heraklion airport, roughly an hour and a half's drive. Across the bay lies Spinalonga, with its Venetian fortress and former leper colony. The area is known for luxury resorts, sheltered beaches and calm water.
Which area of Elounda?
| Area | Best for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Elounda village and harbour | Tavernas, shops and an evening promenade | Boats to Spinalonga leave from here |
| Plaka | Couples and families wanting quiet | Closest village to Spinalonga, direct views |
| Olous and Kolokytha | Snorkelling and nature | Remains of ancient Olous under the water |
| Resorts along the bay | A holiday spent at the hotel | Many with private beaches; expensive in season |
| Agios Nikolaos | Lower budget and nightlife | Town with a lake, about 12 km away |
Spinalonga: how to get there from Elounda
Boats to Spinalonga leave from Elounda, Plaka and Agios Nikolaos; from Plaka the crossing is shortest. Half-day cruises of about 5.5 hours include a swim and a meal. In summer boats fill up, so go early.
Resort, small hotel or villa?
- Luxury resort: the most common in Elounda, many with private beaches, spa and kids' club. Prices peak in July–August.
- Small hotel or apartment in a village: cheaper and within walking distance of tavernas.
- Villa: good for a big family or several families, with a kitchen and pool. Handy if you keep kosher and cook yourself.
How to get to Elounda
- Fly to Heraklion: there are direct flights from Tel Aviv. See flights to Crete.
- From the airport: rental car or pre-booked transfer, about 1.5 hours. See car rental in Greece.
- A car in Elounda: not essential if you stay in a resort, but very useful for Agios Nikolaos, beaches and villages.
Kosher food and Shabbat in Elounda
There is no kosher food in Elounda. Chabad of Crete is in Hersonissos, between Heraklion airport and Elounda, with a kosher tavern, grocery and ready Shabbat food. Depending on the area they deliver Shabbat kits to hotels; ask in advance whether delivery reaches Elounda. See Chabad of Crete and Shabbat times.
When to go to Elounda
May–June and September–October are pleasant and quieter. July–August is hottest, priciest and busiest. In winter many resorts close. About the island: our Crete guide.
What to do in Elounda beyond the hotel
- Spinalonga: the area's best-known visit; combine it with a cruise and a swim.
- Snorkelling at Olous: near the Kolokytha isthmus you can see remains of the ancient town in shallow water.
- Agios Nikolaos: promenade, lake, restaurants and shops, about 12 km away.
- Plaka: a small fishing village with tavernas facing Spinalonga.
How many nights? Four to seven for a resort holiday. If you also want to see western Crete, such as Chania and Rethymno, consider splitting your stay between two bases, as the drive across the island is long.
FAQ
Where is best to stay in Elounda? For quiet and Spinalonga views, Plaka. For tavernas and evening life, Elounda village. For a lower budget, nearby Agios Nikolaos.
How far is Elounda from Heraklion airport? About 68 km, roughly an hour and a half's drive.
How do I get to Spinalonga from Elounda? By boat from Elounda harbour, Plaka or Agios Nikolaos; the crossing from Plaka is shortest.
Is there kosher food in Elounda? No. Chabad of Crete is in Hersonissos; coordinate meals or delivery with them in advance.
