Stalida sits approximately 32 kilometres east of Heraklion Airport — a transfer of around 30–35 minutes — on the same continuous stretch of north coast beach that runs through Hersonissos and Malia. The beach here is sandy, broad and calm, with the clear blue water of the Cretan Sea and good facilities throughout the season. What distinguishes Stalida from its immediate neighbours is character rather than geography: the same coastline, but a slower pace, fewer large nightlife venues and a more genuinely family-oriented atmosphere.
For families who have looked at Hersonissos and found it either too expensive or too lively for young children, Stalida is Eleni’s recommended alternative. The hotels here tend to offer very competitive pricing relative to comparable properties in Hersonissos, the beach is equally good, and the evening atmosphere on the main strip is animated enough to be enjoyable without the intensity that Hersonissos reaches at the height of summer. It is the kind of resort that suits families with children under twelve very well — enough going on to keep everyone entertained, but without the noise levels that can make a family holiday stressful.
The all inclusive hotel offer in Stalida is solid at the mid-range and good value level. It does not have the large luxury all inclusive resorts of Hersonissos, but the properties here consistently deliver on their promise without the premium pricing of the more famous resort areas. For guests who want a reliable, honest all inclusive Crete holiday without paying for a brand name or a famous address, Stalida regularly surprises on the upside.
The location also works well for day trips. Hersonissos is a short taxi or bus ride to the east and easily accessible for a day or evening if guests want more variety. Heraklion and Knossos are 35–40 minutes to the west. The waterpark at Star Beach in Hersonissos is close enough to be a realistic day trip for families. Stalida’s central position on this stretch of the north coast makes it one of the most flexible bases available.
One honest note: Stalida does not have the variety of restaurants, bars and evening entertainment of Hersonissos. Guests who specifically want a wide choice of nightlife and dining within immediate walking distance will find Hersonissos more satisfying. Stalida is the right choice for guests who want the beach, the value and the calm — and who are happy to taxi to Hersonissos on the evenings when they want something livelier.
For all inclusive holidays in Stalida, cheap Crete family holidays from the UK or Crete package holidays — book through GotoBeach with full ATOL protection under licence #11211, low deposits from £30 per person and the honest advice of someone who was born on this island.
