Agia Pelagia Holidays

Agia Pelagia is a sun-drenched Cretan gem where the water is as clear as your out-of-office intentions, and the vibe is 10/10 relaxed.

Why do people love going on holidays to Agia Pelagia?

• Sheltered Bays - the main beach is tucked into a north-facing horseshoe bay, meaning the water stays calm and flat even when the rest of Crete is getting a bit breezy.

• Authentic Tavernas - you won't find many chain restaurants here; instead, it is all about family-run spots serving up mahoosive portions of moussaka and fresh-caught seafood right on the sand.

• Underwater Wonders - The rocky coastline makes this a high-grade destination for snorkelling and scuba diving, with sea caves and colourful fish popping off just a few meters from the shore.

• Proximity to Heraklion - You get the quiet, village-style jollies while being only 20km from the capital, perfect for a cheeky shopping trip or a visit to the Palace of Knossos.

What is the best time to go on your Agia Pelagia holidays?

Agia Pelagia holidays are a vibe all year round, but the "best" time really depends on whether you want to sizzle like a souvlakia or enjoy a gentle stroll through the hills. Summer is the headline act for beach bums, while the shoulder seasons offer that boujee, exclusive feel without the mid-July crowds.

• Spring - the island is bursting with colour from the wildflowers, and the vibe is super chill. Hikers and cafe loungers, this might just be the perfect time for you! You can expect temperatures to sit between 15°C and 20°C, with plenty of sun, and the odd spring shower chucked in.

• Summer - the beach bars are booming, the cocktails are flowing, the musics pumping, and the sun doesn't seem to want to set... yeah, sounds like Summer in Greece to us. You can expect scorching conditions with highs of 29°C, warming the sea up for you to paddle in without needing to let your body adjust first.

• Autumn - things start to wind down around this time, but that doesn't mean the temps do, we're talking between 20°C and 25°C, so still plenty of chance for couples to make the most of the family-free peace (unless it's half term, of course).

• Winter - it's not the booming vibe of its Summer opposite, but there's still a lot of charm to Agia Pelagia in the Winter months, just don't expect all the shops and restaurants to be open. Temperatures are normally around 13°C and 16°C, with more chance of rain than any other season (typical).

What hotels should you stay at on your Agia Pelagia holidays?

Agia Pelagia is a total pro at the holiday game, offering everything from chilled-out family bases to clifftop sanctuaries that are strictly for the grid. Whether you want to be in the heart of the village or tucked away in a boujee cave suite, these spots are top-tier for your Agia Pelagia holidays.

• Pelagia Bay - a charming and budget-friendly 3-star gem situated high above the bay, offering a whopping view of the sea and a cosy, family-run atmosphere.

• Eva Mare Hotel and Apartments - Adults Only - perched right over Psaromoura Beach, this swanky retreat features a live-cooking breakfast and panoramic views that are perfect for a romantic escape.

• Out Of The Blue Resort & Spa - occupying its own private peninsula, this 5-star heavyweight is a total winner for families with its botanical gardens and private beaches.

• Acro Wellness Suites - Adults Only - the definition of boujee, this clifftop sanctuary features 'Cave Suites' with private pools and a Byzantine hammam for ultimate wellness vibes.

What are the best beaches to visit on your holidays to Agia Pelagia?

While the main beach gets all the glory, the surrounding coastline is hiding some real stunners. Whether you want a swanky sunbed experience or a hidden cove to avoid the kiddos, you are spoilt for choice.

• Agia Pelagia Main Beach - a narrow, sandy stretch with calm waters and loads of amenities, perfect for families and anyone wanting everything within arm's reach.

• Ligaria Beach - this wide, sandy bay is just around the corner and offers a more laid-back feel that's a massive hit with the locals.

• Mononaftis Beach - a pebble-and-sand mix that is world-famous for its diving schools, attracting underwater explorers and those who like a rugged coastal backdrop.

• Psaromoura Beach - this hidden gem is tucked away behind a rocky outcrop, offering a more secluded and peaceful vibe for those who want to dodge the crowds.

• Fylakes Beach - a tiny, turquoise cove that you usually have to swim or boat to, giving off serious "private island" vibes for the adventurous.

Things to do on your Agia Pelagia holidays

There is way more to Agia Pelagia than just working on your tan, though we wouldn't blame you if that was the only goal. From ancient history to quad bike adventures, this part of Crete is packed with ways to fill your camera roll.

• Scuba Diving at Stay Wet - grab your gear and head underwater to explore sea caves and shipwrecks with one of the best diving schools around.

• Boat Trip to Dia Island - hop on a catamaran for a lush day out at sea, complete with snorkelling stops and maybe even a dolphin sighting.

• Visit the Palace of Knossos - take a short drive to see where the Minotaur supposedly lived and get your fill of ancient ruins and Greek myths.

• Quad Safari Adventures - trade the sunbed for a quad bike and roar through the olive groves and mountain trails for a blood-pumping adrenaline rush.

• Dinner in Achlada - head up to this traditional mountain village for a sunset dinner that offers a stunning view over the entire bay.

• Cooking Classes - learn how to whip up your own Cretan mezze so you can bring a taste of your jollies back home to the UK.