Agia Pelagia is a fantastic seaside village a few minutes from the center of Heraklion, Crete’s main town. The fishing settlement offers fantastic beaches and a quaint atmosphere. Located close to unique traditional villages, Agia Pelagia can be a great place to stay for your vacation in Crete. In this post, we include the best Agia Pelagia hotels, resorts, and other accommodations in the area for your next trip to the island!
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– Boat cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa
– Ticket to Knossos Archaeological Site
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Agia Pelagia
Located only 20 km west of Heraklion, Crete’s capital, Agia Pelagia is a lively but relaxed seaside resort that caters to stunning holidays.
Far from the more vibrant resorts of Hersonissos and Malia, which are home to noisy discos, beach clubs, and bars, Agia Pelagia is the perfect destination for a calm vacation on the northern coast of Crete.
The area offers excellent beachfront accommodations, good restaurants, and easy access to many attractions throughout the Heraklion region. Agia Pelagia has beautiful beaches with clear and shallow waters, perfect for families.
Where to Stay: Agia Pelagia and Nearby Areas
First, you must pick one of the many areas in which to stay in the village. Keep reading to make the right decision. Here are some areas where you might consider staying in and around Agia Pelagia.
Agia Pelagia Beachfront
This is the village’s central area, housing the main beach and plenty of amenities, including supermarkets, a bank, pharmacies, and more. Staying here provides easy access to the center of Heraklion and the local beach, restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Lygaria
East of Agia Pelagia, Lygaria (or Ligaria) offers a more relaxed atmosphere. It has its own beach and a variety of accommodations. This area suits those seeking a quieter environment close to Agia Pelagia.
Psaromoura
To the west of Agia Pelagia, Psaromoura is known for its small cove and crystal-clear sea, perfect for water sports. This area is ideal if you prefer a more secluded setting away from the main town.
Mononaftis
Mononaftis is another beach close to Agia Pelagia, offering a peaceful retreat with stunning sea views.
Fodele
If you’re willing to stay a bit further away from Agia Pelagia, Fodele is a charming traditional village known as the birthplace of El Greco, the famous painter. Fodele is about a 15-20 minute drive from Agia Pelagia.
Rogdia
Not far from Fodele, the mountain village of Rogdia is a good alternative for staying close to Agia Pelagia, but having a car is a must.
Which car rental service is the best to choose? If you want to rent a car for your trip, consider Discover Cars, a worldwide car rental booking service.
Luxury Accommodation in Agia Pelagia
These are some of the best properties in the area for those looking for excellent accommodation and top-class services.
Nymphes Luxury Apartments
Nymphes Luxury Apartments – rating: 4/5
Distances: The property is about 20 km from Heraklion town and port, and the Minoan Palace of Knossos is about 23 km away.
The accommodation stands on a hill with panoramic views of Agia Pelagia. The complex features 10 beautifully decorated accommodations, all with swimming pools.
Units can fit from 2 to 5 guests, and amenities include:
- 3 swimming pools
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Airport shuttle
- Parking
Seascape Luxury Residences
Seascape Luxury Residences – rating: 4 stars
Distances: About 18 km from the center of Heraklion and 20 km from Heraklion Airport,
The residences are within a short walk from the beach and the center. The complex features two swimming pools and a poolside bar. Each apartment includes a fully equipped kitchen with a dining table, a seating area, and a luxurious bathroom.
Units can fit from 2 to 6 guests, and amenities include:
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Parking
- Bar, gym, spa
Belvedere Village
Belvedere Village – rating: 3/5
Distances: about 150 meters from the beach, 18 km from Heraklion city. Heraklion International Airport is 20 km away.
This family-run hotel features a pool, a furnished sun terrace, and a poolside bar. The air-conditioned rooms have a fridge and an electric kettle. The on-site restaurant offers dinner, cocktails, and wine. Recreational activities at the property include billiards, a volley, and a football court.
Units are for 2 guests, and amenities include:
- Pool – outdoor (for kids)
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Airport shuttle
- Parking
- Restaurant and bar
- Fabulous breakfast
Mid-Range Hotels in Agia Pelagia
Mid-range hotels in the area are perfect for extended stays, families, and groups of friends.
Irida Hotel Pelagia
Irida Hotel Pelagia – rating: 4 stars
Distances: Located 350 meters from the beach. It’s 24 km from the city of Heraklion and the palace of Knossos.
Located on a hill overlooking the sea, the newly renovated guestrooms and suites are designed with eco-friendly natural materials. The complex also features a restaurant, a lounge bar, a pool bar, two swimming pools, a children’s pool, an outdoor gym, and an outdoor massage area.
Units can accommodate from 2 to 3 guests, and services include:
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Parking
- Restaurant and bar
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Very good breakfast
OMG Agia Pelagia
OMG Agia Pelagia – rating: 3/5
Distances: The place is 19 km from the center of Heraklion and just 1.8 km from Agia Pelagia Beach.
Featuring a terrace with sea views and a seasonal outdoor pool, the air-conditioned apartment has one bedroom and a fully equipped kitchen.
The place can accommodate up to 2 guests, and services include:
- Air conditioning
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Parking
Budget Hotels in Agia Pelagia
Those traveling on a budget can easily find affordable accommodation in the area. These are some of the most convenient properties we recommend for a stay in Agia Pelagia:
Renia Hotel Agia Pelagia
Renia Hotel Agia Pelagia – rating: 3/5
Distances: The hotel is 21 km from the center of Heraklion, 1 km from Psaromoura Beach, and 200 meters from Agia Pelagia Beach.
This aparthotel features a courtyard, a sun terrace, a bar, and a swimming pool. Rooms with a kitchenette equipped with a fridge, a stovetop, and kitchenware.
Units can accommodate from 3 to 4 guests, and other services include:
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Parking
- Family rooms
- Non-smoking rooms
- Bar
Scala Hotel-Apartments
Scala Hotel-Apartments – rating: 3 stars
Distances: The hotel is 70 meters from the beach, 150 meters from the bus stop, 10 km from Fodele village, and 10 km from Heraklion Airport.
Located on the picturesque Agia Pelagia Bay, the hotel features spacious rooms with balconies, a swimming pool, an outdoor seating area, a wireless internet corner, gardens, and a parking space.
The units can accommodate from 2 to 6 guests, and services include:
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Beachfront location
- Parking
- Family rooms
Renia Studios
Renia Studios – rating: 3/5
Distances: The hotel is situated 18 km from the center of Heraklion. It’s 70 meters from the beach and 300 meters from the nearest bus stop.
This traditional Cretan hotel features an outdoor pool and a pool bar. It has studios and apartments with a balcony or terrace and a kitchenette with a fridge. Breakfast is available at the restaurant by the pool.
The units can accommodate from 3 to 4 guests, and services include:
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Parking
- Family rooms
- Airport shuttle
- Non-smoking rooms
Perla Apartments
Perla Apartments – rating: 3 stars
Distances: The hotel is about 500 meters from the beach and 15 km from the center of Heraklion.
Located at the heart of the tourist resort of Agia Pelagia, this modern studio & apartment complex offers fully refurbished accommodations, an indoor bar, a large pool with a sun terrace, loungers, and an outdoor bar. Private balconies offer sea, pool, or mountain views.
Units can accommodate from 2 to 6 guests, and services include:
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Parking
- Bar
- Breakfast
Adult-Only Hotels in Agia Pelagia
Ideal for a romantic escape, these adult-only hotels offer comfort, intimacy, and fantastic amenities.
Eva Mare Hotel & Suites – Adults Only
Eva Mare Hotel & Suites – Adults Only – rating: 3 stars
Distances: The property is minutes from Psaromoura, only 400 meters from Mononaftis Beach, and 700 meters from Agia Pelagia Beach. Heraklion International Airport is 25 km from the hotel.
This Psaromoura Beach hotel features accommodations with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a terrace, a fitness center, and a garden. Some rooms have a balcony with sea views, and others have a patio. The on-site restaurant serves Greek and Mediterranean cuisine and vegetarian and gluten-free meals.
Units can accommodate from 1 to 5 guests, and services include:
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Parking
- Restaurant, bar
- Non-smoking rooms
- Fitness centre
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Superb breakfast
Thania Seaside Smotel – Adults Only
Thania Seaside Smotel – Adults Only – review score: 9/10
Distances: The hotel is 5 meters from Agia Pelagia Beach and 700 meters from Psaromoura. It’s also 20 km from Knossos Palace and 25 km from Heraklion International Airport.
The units can accommodate up to two guests, and services include:
- Beachfront location
- Non-smoking rooms
- Room service
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Excellent breakfast
Castello Infinity Suites – Adults Only
Castello Infinity Suites – Adults Only – rating: 5 stars
Distances: 700 meters from Ligaria Beach, 35 km from Hersonissos, and about 7 km from Fodele
This hotel features a restaurant, a garden, a terrace, and private heated plunge pools with hydromassage. At the hotel, rooms are fitted with a balcony.
Units can accommodate from 2 to 3 guests, and services include:
- Beachfront
- Parking
- Airport shuttle
- Restaurant, bar
- Non-smoking rooms
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Fabulous breakfast
Family Hotels in Agia Pelagia
These are some of the best kid-friendly properties for a family holiday in Agia Pelagia. Take a look!
Happy Cretan Suites
Happy Cretan Suites – rating: 4 stars
Distances: The hotel is about 1.5 km from Agia Pelagia’s three beaches and has a bus stop just outside the property. Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport and Heraklion Port are 22 km away, while Fodele is about 8 km from the hotel.
Located in Agia Pelagia, Happy Cretan Suites has panoramic views over Stavros Bay. It features a seawater pool, a whirlpool, and tastefully decorated rooms with private balconies and sea views. Some accommodation types are stone-built, and some are fitted with an indoor or outdoor hot tub.
The property serves a traditional buffet breakfast, while Greek and Cretan dishes are served at the restaurant by the pool.
Units can accommodate from 2 to 4 guests, and services include:
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Parking
- Family rooms
- Airport shuttle
- Restaurant, bar
- Non-smoking rooms
- Superb breakfast
Pelagia Bay Hotel
Pelagia Bay Hotel – rating: 3 stars
Distances: It’s 450 meters from Psaromoura Beach and 500 meters from Agia Pelagia Beach. Knossos Palace is about 19 km away.
The hotel features a restaurant, bar, a garden, and a terrace in Agia Pelagia. The hotel features free private parking and car hire services. Rooms feature a balcony, and a continental breakfast is available daily. Air conditioning is available upon charge.
- 2 swimming pools
- Parking
- Family rooms
- Airport shuttle
- Restaurant, bar
- Non-smoking rooms
- Very good breakfast
Alexander House Hotel
Alexander House Hotel – rating: 4 stars
Distances: Only 150 meters from Agia Pelagia Beach and 20 km from Heraklion Airport.
The hotel features an outdoor pool with a shallow area for children, a restaurant, and two bars. The swimming pool is equipped with free sunbeds and umbrellas. Rooms overlook the garden or sea.
The on-site restaurant prepares Cretan and International dishes. Hotel activities include a fitness room, table tennis, darts, and billiards.
Units can accommodate from 3 to 4 guests, and services include:
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Parking
- Family rooms
- Non-smoking rooms
- Fitness centre
- Bar
- Very good breakfast
Spiros-Soula Family Hotel & Apartments
Spiros-Soula Family Hotel & Apartments – rating: 3 stars
Distances: The hotel is in Ligaria, about 18 km from Heraklion city center.
The family-run property features an 8,000 m² garden and a large swimming pool with separate sections for adults and children. Every room has a balcony with views over Agia Pelagia Bay. The property offers a genuine Cretan breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Mini-bus transfers to the beach are available, too.
Units can accommodate from 1 to 6 guests, and services include:
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Parking
- Family rooms
- Restaurant, bar
- Non-smoking rooms
- Superb breakfast
Resorts and Spa Hotels in Agia Pelagia
These are some of the all-inclusive resorts, I suggest checking Agia Pelagia and the nearby beaches.
Athina Palace Resort and Spa
Athina Palace Resort and Spa – rating: 5 stars
Distances: 250 meters from Mades Beach and 1.5 km from Agia Pelagia Beach. Heraklion is about 15 km away.
Modern and overlooking the sea, this Mades hotel features 3 swimming pools, a hot tub, a private beach area, a restaurant, and several bars. Rooms come with cable TV and a mini fridge. Some include a terrace or balcony.
The on-site restaurant serves international and local cuisine. The pool, the main bar, and the beach bar serve drinks and beverages. Sporting facilities include illuminated tennis courts, a basketball court, and a fitness center. Young guests can enjoy a dedicated pool and playground.
Units can accommodate from 1 to 7 guests, and services include:
- 3 swimming pools
- Beachfront property
- Parking
- Family rooms
- Spa and wellness center
- Bar and 3 restaurants
- Private beach area
- Very good breakfast
Acro Suites, a Wellbeing Resort
Acro Suites, a Wellbeing Resort – rating: 5 stars
Distances: The hotel is 250 meters from Psaromoura Beach and steps from Mononaftis Beach. It is 19 km from Knossos Palace.
The hotel features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a garden. Rooms come with a private bathroom. Selected rooms also feature a terrace, and others also feature a sea view. The on-site restaurant serves Chinese, Greek, and Mediterranean cuisine.
Units can accommodate from 2 to 8 guests, and services include:
- 2 swimming pools
- Parking
- Spa and wellness center
- Bar and 3 restaurants
- Non-smoking rooms
- Fitness center
- Superb breakfast
Out of the Blue Resort and Spa
Out of the Blue Resort and Spa – rating: 5 stars
Distances: 100 meters from the center of Agia Pelagia. The Minoan Palace of Knossos is 28 km away, while Heraklion International Airport is 25 km away
Resting upon its private peninsula in Agia Pelagia, the complex features seven fresh-water pools, seven restaurants, and a spa with a hydrotherapy pool. Resembling a Cretan village, the place is surrounded by extensive gardens and two beaches.
All units have a balcony with a garden or sea view. Restaurants vary from French gourmet to Italian, Fusion to traditional Greek and Cretan cuisine. The Euphoria Spa also features hammam and sauna facilities. Children up to 10 have free access to the Minoan Amusement Park.
Units can accommodate from 3 to 16 guests, and services include:
- 3 swimming pools
- Beachfront
- Parking
- Family rooms
- Airport shuttle
- Spa and wellness center
- Bar
- Private beach area
- Good breakfast
Blue Bay Resort Hotel
Blue Bay Resort Hotel – rating: 4 stars
Distances: Located on the outskirts of Agia Pelagia, 250 meters from Mononaftis Beach and 850 meters from Agia Pelagia Beach. The old port of Heraklion is about 15 km from the property.
The hotel is located on a cliff overlooking the sea. It has six swimming pools, two restaurants, and two poolside bars. Sports facilities include a gym, tennis, volleyball, and basketball court. Rooms and suites have private furnished balconies and a mini fridge.
At the hotel, there’s a buffet restaurant and an a la carte restaurant serving Cretan, Greek, and international cuisine. The on-site spa facilities include a steam room and a sauna. There are two pools for children.
Units can accommodate from 2 to 5 guests, and services include:
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Parking
- Family rooms
- Airport shuttle
- Spa and wellness center
- Bar and 4 restaurants
- Non-smoking rooms
- Very good breakfast
Peninsula Resort and Spa
Peninsula Resort and Spa – rating: 4 stars
Distances: 100 meters from Psaromoura Beach, 1.8 km from Ligaria, and 25 km from Heraklion.
The hotel overlooks Agia Pelagia Bay and has lush gardens and two beaches. It has two large pools, two children’s pools, and two tennis courts. A certified diving center is in the area. The Cretan-styled rooms feature a fridge.
There’s a buffet restaurant and four bars. The property also has football, basketball, and volleyball courts, pool games, table tennis, and billiards. Taxis and the public bus stop are available right outside the hotel.
Units can accommodate from 3 to 7 guests, and services include:
- 4 swimming pools
- Beachfront
- Parking
- Family rooms
- Airport shuttle
- Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
- Bar
- Private beach area
- Fabulous breakfast
Best Rental Houses in Agia Pelagia
If you prefer the flexibility and comfort of a house, then check out these vacation rentals in the area:
Bouganvillea Sea View Apartments
Bouganvillea Sea View Apartments – rating: 3/5
Distances: 25 km from Heraklion airport, opposite the sea, and 1 km from Psaromoura.
Sustainable seafront apartments with a balcony. The apartment also offers family rooms. Apartments include a terrace with sea views, a seating area, and a fully equipped kitchen with a coffee machine, an oven, and a fridge.
Units feature accommodation for 2 to 4 guests. Services include:
- Beachfront
- Parking
- Family rooms
- Non-smoking rooms
Keramos Villa and Apartments
Keramos Villa and Apartments – rating: 4/5
Distances: The place is 12 km from Heraklion and 35 km from Hersonissos.
Offering a seasonal outdoor pool and sea views, the property features units with seating and dining areas and a kitchen fitted with a microwave. There’s also a fitness center that offers massage treatments.
Units can accommodate from 2 to 8 guests. Services include:
- Pool – outdoor (kids)
- Parking
- Family rooms
- Non-smoking rooms
- Fitness centre
Anatoli Apartments
Anatoli Apartments – rating: 2 stars
Distance: 30 meters from Agia Pelagia Beach and 1.3 km from Mades Beach.
The vacation home is 30 meters from the beach. It boasts an outdoor pool and a snack bar, while studios and apartments overlook the pool or the sea.
Units have modern decor and offer a kitchenette and a seating area. Some units are split-level. Traditional taverns, café-bars, and supermarkets are conveniently located near the apartments.
Units can accommodate from 2 to 5 guests, and services include:
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Beachfront
- Parking
- Family rooms
- Airport shuttle
- Bar
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Read more about Accommodation in Crete
More resources to enhance your Crete adventure
Start by checking out my ultimate guide to planning your trip to Crete, packed with helpful essential information. Explore the articles on prices in Crete, common mistakes to avoid, and insider secrets for an unforgettable experience.
Use this comprehensive Crete packing list to ensure you have everything you need. Explore the best places to visit on Crete Island, discover my tours and activities, be amazed at Crete’s incredible beaches, and check out the best times to experience its beauty.
If you are exploring specific areas like Heraklion or Rethymnon, I’ve got detailed guides to help you make the most of your time.
Suggested accommodation in Heraklion
No time to read all my accommodation guides? Check out these hotels in the city:
- Affordable: Rea Hotel in the city center.
- Mid-range: Capsis Astoria in town.
- Luxury: GDM Megaron H. M. Hotel near the port.
- Check also this Heraklion Hotel Guide and this guide to the Best Places to Stay in Crete.
More useful travel resources
- Check out all the digital travel guides I’ve specifically written about Crete. They are affordable and practical to check from your mobile.
- Find convenient ferry tickets with Ferryhopper.
- Welcome Pickups offers a convenient pre-paid airport transfer service, while Discover Cars is the engine I use to find a rental car on the island.
- To book adventures, tours, and cultural experiences, I recommend Get Your Guide.
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Local’s Guide to the Best Hotels in Agia Pelagia, Crete
About me:
I have lived in Chania, Crete, since 2016. As a local, I have an intimate knowledge of the Crete. I host culinary and concierge tours and experiences in Crete and write about the island for several travel media. During the last five years, I have helped many travelers plan the perfect holiday in Crete. I co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person could ever handle.