10 Best Greek Islands for families

Choosing the best greek islands for families

Choosing the best greek islands for families is not easy and of course all families are different. But the Greek Islands offer a range of experiences, activities and sights that mean it would be unlikely that any family member would not find some enjoyment in the Greek Island experience. No doubt there is a difference between family types and the best Greek island for young children might be different from the best greek islands for teenage families.

Greek island holidays offer a good range of attractions:

Nice beaches, often sandy for the younger ones
Good healthy and fresh food of all type
Watersports of course plus hiking options
Great sailing and boating experiences
Super friendly people
A good range of accommodation options

Here are some of the best greek islands for families islands

1. Crete: An Island of Adventure and Culture

Crete, the largest of all Greek islands, is one of the best Greek islands for families seeking a mix of adventure and cultural exploration and one of the best greek islands for families. Families with small children can enjoy the calm waters of beaches like Elafonissi and Falassarna, while teenagers can indulge in water sports along the northern coast. Don’t miss the historical wonders of Knossos, where the mythical labyrinth once stood.

Family-Friendly Activities:
- Water Park Fun: Spend a day at Acqua Plus Water Park in Hersonissos, featuring thrilling slides and pools suitable for all ages.
- Aquarium Exploration: Discover marine life at Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos, one of Europe’s largest aquariums, with interactive exhibits for kids.
- Horseback Riding: Enjoy a horseback riding excursion through Crete’s beautiful landscapes, suitable for kids and teens.
- Cretan Cooking Class: Participate in a family cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Cretan dishes together.
- Glass-Bottom Boat Trip: Take a glass-bottom boat tour to explore the underwater world without getting wet, perfect for families with young children.

Crete is a big island and choosing the right place(s) to stay is important – here are some of the main locations:

Chania – The picturesque port town of Chania has a historic old Venetian harbor lined with restaurants and shops. The Samaria Gorge offers a dramatic hike through steep rock walls down to the Libyan Sea. Nearby beaches like Elafonisi and Balos are renowned for pink sand, turquoise waters, and rugged natural beauty.

Rethymno – Rethymno’s star attractions include the huge Venetian fortress known as the Fortezza which overlooks the charming old quarter. The old town is a maze of Venetian and Turkish architecture styles with plenty of attractive tavernas.

Agios Nikolaos – Built around a picturesque small lake connected to the sea, Agios Nikolaos offers scenic views of the harbour. Nearby beaches like Voulisma provide crystal clear waters while the town of Elounda is a luxurious haven. The island of Spinalonga just offshore contains abandoned Venetian fortifications and remnants of a former leper colony.

Sitia – Sitia is the closest city to major Bronze Age Minoan sites like Palaikastro. The forest and palm grove at Vai represent a unique landscape. It’s a good base for exploring teheastern side of Crete.

Ierapetra – As the southernmost town in Europe, Ierapetra enjoys a sunny and mild climate. The bay at Aghia Fotia provides sparkling blue waters and smooth sandy beaches. Koutsounari is a lively beach resort area with many tavernas and cafes.

Plakias – Palm-lined beaches abound near Plakias, including the popular Palm Beach. The nearby pebble and sand beach of Damnoni provides gentle surf. Preveli is both a scenic palm forest ecosystem and historic cliffside monastery.

Malia – If you like it lively than Malia is the place to go but steer clear if you don’t. Malia contains the remains of a large Minoan palace compound and town ruins to explore. The long sandy beach of Potamos provides ample water sports and seaside activities. The area also boasts waterparks and an active nightlife scene.

2. Naxos: A Paradise of Beaches and Local Culture

Naxos is a gem in the Cyclades, offering a laid-back atmosphere, a wide range of activities and is one of the best all-round greek islands for families. The island boasts beautiful sandy beaches like Agios Prokopios, ideal for families with small children to build sandcastles and paddle in the gentle waves. Families with teenagers can explore the vibrant town of Naxos, filled with shops, cafes, and local tavernas as well as the many villages outside the main town.

Family-Friendly Activities:
- Windsurfing Lessons: Teens can take windsurfing lessons at Plaka Beach, known for its ideal wind conditions.
- Horse Riding: Embark on a horseback riding adventure through the scenic countryside of Naxos.
- Kite Flying: Have fun flying kites with your kids on the wide sandy beaches of Agios Prokopios.
- Folklore Museum Visit: Explore the Naxos Folklore Museum to learn about the island’s traditional culture and history.
- Pottery Workshop: Join a pottery workshop with the family to create your own souvenirs inspired by Naxian pottery traditions.
- Boat trips : Take a trip to Koufonisia and explore the lovely beaches there.

Book in Naxos

3. Rhodes: A Blend of History and Fun

Rhodes, the largest island in the Dodecanese, is another of the best greek islands for families, offering a perfect blend of ancient history and family-friendly entertainment. Families with small children can enjoy the shallow beaches like Afandou or Tsambika, while older kids and teenagers can explore the medieval Old Town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Family-Friendly Activities:
- Medieval Adventure: Explore the Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes Old Town, where kids can feel like knights and princesses.
- Butterfly Valley Exploration: Take a family hike in the enchanting Butterfly Valley to witness thousands of butterflies.
- Segway Tour: Enjoy a fun-filled Segway tour around the medieval streets of Rhodes Town, suitable for teens and parents.
- Family Snorkeling: Discover underwater wonders by snorkeling together at Anthony Quinn Bay or Tsambika Beach.
- Mini Golf: Have a friendly family competition at one of Rhodes’ mini-golf courses.

4. Corfu: A Lush Island of Beauty and Charm

Corfu, located in the Ionian Sea, enchants families with its lush green landscapes and Venetian architecture. Families with small children will love the sandy beaches of Glyfada and Sidari, while teenagers can explore the vibrant nightlife in Kavos (with parental consent, of course!).

Family-Friendly Activities:
- - Achilleion Palace Visit: Explore the Achilleion Palace and its beautiful gardens, inspired by Greek mythology.
  - Glass-Bottom Boat Adventure: Take a glass-bottom boat tour to admire the diverse marine life around the island.
  - Hiking to Peroulades: Hike to Peroulades in northwest Corfu to witness breathtaking sunset views over the sea.
  - Corfu Old Town Treasure Hunt: Engage in a fun-filled treasure hunt as a family while exploring the charming alleys of Corfu Old Town.
  - Beach Picnic: Enjoy a family picnic at Palaiokastritsa Beach, surrounded by lush green hills and crystal-clear waters.

5. Paros: A Serene Haven for Families

Paros, nestled in the Cyclades, is a serene haven that caters to all types of families. Families with small children can relax on the sandy shores of Santa Maria Beach, and its one of the best greek islands for teenage families with windsurfing and kiteboarding along Golden Beach and plenty of shopping options in the cute alley streets. In fact this combination makes it one of the best Greek islands for families travelling with older children.

Family-Friendly Activities:
- - Watersports Galore: Teens can try windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding at Golden Beach, a haven for watersports enthusiasts.
  - Family Bike Ride: Rent bikes and explore the picturesque villages and scenic landscapes of Paros together.
  - Boat Tour to Antiparos: Take a boat trip to the nearby island of Antiparos, known for its stunning caves and clear waters.
  - Greek Dancing Class: Learn traditional Greek dancing as a family and join a local festival to show off your new skills.
  - Family Art Workshop: Engage in a family art workshop to create unique souvenirs inspired by the beauty of Paros.

6. Skiathos: A Dreamy Island for Beach Lovers

Skiathos, part of the Sporades island group, is known for its picture-perfect beaches and turquoise waters. Families with small children can bask in the shallow waters of Koukounaries Beach, while teenagers can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and water sports of Banana Beach. It is one of the best Greek islands for families.

Family-Friendly Activities:
- - Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise: Take a glass-bottom boat tour to explore the rich marine life of the Aegean Sea without getting wet.
  - Snorkelling Excursion: Go on a snorkelling excursion to discover the colourful underwater world around Skiathos.
  - Family Kayaking: Rent kayaks and explore the hidden coves and turquoise waters of the island together.
  - Boat Trip to Tsougria: Hop on a boat to the nearby uninhabited island of Tsougria and enjoy a relaxing day on secluded beaches.
  - Family Bike Tour: Embark on a family bike tour to explore the beautiful countryside and coastal paths of Skiathos.

7. Milos: A Unique Island of Geological Wonders

Milos, an off-the-beaten-path island in the Cyclades, boasts unique geological formations and stunning beaches and might also be one of the best Greek islands for teenagers. Families can explore the colourful Sarakiniko Beach, where teenagers might want to challenge themselves by jumping off the cliffs. Sailing trips are another option for teenagers to discover hidden coves around the Milos coastline.

Family-Friendly Activities:
- - Sarakiniko Rock Climbing: Teens can experience rock climbing in the otherworldly landscape of Sarakiniko.
  - Boat Trip to Kleftiko: Take a boat trip to Kleftiko and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the volcanic rock formations.
  - Pirate Adventure: Enjoy a family pirate-themed boat tour around the island, complete with treasure hunts and pirate costumes.
  - Visit Ancient Theatre of Milos: Explore the ancient theatre in Milos and imagine performances from the past.
  - Milos Mining Museum: Discover the island’s rich mining history at the Milos Mining Museum.

8. Zakynthos: A Photogenic Island with Natural Beauty

Zakynthos, also known as Zante, captivates families with its stunning landscapes and vibrant atmosphere. Families with small children can enjoy the calm waters of Gerakas Beach, a protected area for nesting sea turtles. Teenagers can take a boat trip to the iconic Navagio Beach for an Instagram-worthy shot.

Family-Friendly Activities
- - Turtle Spotting at Laganas Bay: Take a boat tour to Laganas Bay to spot caretta-caretta sea turtles in their natural habitat.
  - Family Cycling Tour: Rent bikes and explore the picturesque countryside of Zakynthos as a family.
  - Blue Caves Boat Tour: Venture into the mesmerizing Blue Caves on a family boat tour and take a dip in the azure waters.
  - Zante Water Village: Spend a day at Zante Water Village, an aqua park with slides and pools suitable for all ages.
  - Family Pottery Workshop: Join a pottery workshop to create unique Zakynthian souvenirs together.

9. Syros: An Island of Elegance and Local Flavour

Syros, part of the Cyclades, offers an authentic Greek experience away from the crowds. Families with small children can enjoy the peaceful beaches of Galissas, while teenagers might like the beach club at Agathopes. Those with teenagers can also explore the charming town of Ermoupoli with its elegant neoclassical architecture. The nature of the island as the capital of the Cyclades makes it one of the best Greek islands for teenagers.

Family-Friendly Activities:
- - Family Sailing Trip: Rent a small sailboat and explore Syros’ coastline, discovering secluded coves and beaches.
  - Apollo Theater Visit: Visit the Apollo Theater and enjoy a family-friendly theatrical performance or concert.
  - Family Scuba Diving: Teens can try scuba diving with certified instructors and explore the island’s underwater world.
  - Traditional Cooking Class: Learn to cook traditional Syriot dishes together as a family.
  - Family Bike Ride: Rent bikes and cycle along the scenic coastal roads of Syros
  - Open Air Cinema: see if you can visit the cinema in the centre of Ermoupoli.

10. Hydra: A Car-Free Paradise with Timeless Charm

Hydra, a unique Saronic island, charms families with its traditional character and car-free streets (which will be a surprise in itself to many families). Families with small children can enjoy the shallow waters of Mandraki Beach, while teenagers can explore the island on foot or by donkey.

Family-Friendly Activities:
Donkey Ride Adventure: Enjoy a unique experience riding donkeys through Hydra’s car-free streets.
Kayaking Trip: Rent kayaks and paddle around Hydra’s crystal-clear waters and hidden coves.
Family Hike to Mount Eros: Hike to Mount Eros for stunning panoramic views of the island.
Art and Craft Workshop: Join an art and craft workshop to create handmade souvenirs inspired by Hydra’s beauty.
Family Snorkelling: Explore the island’s underwater world through a family snorkelling adventure.