Stalis is located on the coast of family-friendly Crete near the town of Heraklion. As it is the quieter of the three main resorts in Crete, it is very popular among British holidaymakers. Its lovely beachfront boasts sandy shores and stunning blue waters, while its restaurants, hotels and entertainment are all family-friendly. There is also an array of child-orientated activities that will keep the kids busy, including thrilling water sports and fascinating aquarium tours.
Fun at the Beach
Stalis offers a gorgeous display of clear waters and soft white sand. Gently shelving, its shallow waters make it perfect for families (it’s much easier to throw a ball around if the water is only up to your waist!). The beach is 2.5 kilometres long and has varying landscapes. Each one is better suited to a certain activity. If you want to go swimming or play on the beach, you should favour sandy beaches. If you’d like to take the kids snorkelling, however, I’d recommend the rocky shores.
Insider Tip: If you are looking to rent a deckchair, keep your eye out for the beach staff. They will be able to provide you with one.
Daring Water Sports
If your kids fancy a challenging adventure, Sea Wolf Water Sports offers a wide range of thrilling water sports. Located on the main beach in Stalis, your kids can have the experience of a lifetime by trying out the fun banana boat or the flying rings. They can also rent a pedalo or enjoy a ride on the crazy-sofa squab. Don’t worry about the kids’ safety; the staff of this water sports centre are all fully qualified and the equipment is regularly serviced.
The Wonders of the Sea at Cretaquarium
If your kids loved watching Blue Planet 2, they will be amazed to see the wonders of our oceans at this brilliant sea life museum. You can explore the riches of the sea floor by strolling through the aquarium’s four sections. Start in the low light area, where you can learn about the array of creatures that live in the ocean’s caves and crevasses. See if you can spot the crayfish, dusky groupers and sting rays. Then move into the open sea area to admire the impressive octopuses, sea turtles and sand tiger sharks before entering the coastal section with its lobsters, jellyfish and sea anemones. Top off the visit by travelling to the tropics and seeing the cobia and clownfish (I’m willing to bet you that the kids will be thrilled to find Nemo and Dory!).
Family-Friendly Restaurants and Bars
With over sixty restaurants to choose from, Stalis boasts a wide range of tavernas, pubs and bistros that cater to every taste. If you’re in the mood for a traditional Greek meal, Katerina Taverna has an amazing mixed grill menu, while Restaurant Creta has an outstanding slow-cooked stifado and an even better lamb kebab. If you fancy some good old-fashioned British pub food, though, the Red Lion has a great fry-up, while the Robin Hood Restaurant has a family-orientated atmosphere, friendly staff and a menu filled with British pub classics. You’ll also find a range of Chinese, Italian and Mexican restaurants on the eastern side of the island.
How to Get to Stalis
The easiest way of getting to Stalis is to fly from London to Heraklion Airport (HER) with Aegean, Lufthansa or Olympic Airlines. All of these flights have a stopover in Athens, so make sure that you bring plenty of games and books to keep the little ones entertained.
After a long journey, you don’t want the added hassle of trying to call a cab or attempting to figure out how the complicated local transport system works. It’s much easier to book a private, shared or group transfer with Shuttle Direct. A friendly driver will pick you at the airport and take to Stalis in just half an hour. Talk about easy!
Where to Stay
As Stalis is a fairly quiet resort, it’s probably best to book a livelier hotel with good Wi-Fi and a TV to keep the kids entertained in the evenings.
Sentido Blue Sea Beach: This 5-star beachfront hotel runs daily animations to keep your young ones busy. There’s a brilliant pool for them to cool off in during the day and – if they’re teenagers – a nightly disco where they can practice their moves. While they’re busy, you can enjoy the spa facilities, which boasts a sauna, steam baths and massage treatments. All guest rooms have a satellite TV and free Wi-Fi, while the restaurant serves a delicious Cretan breakfast buffet.
Skajado Holiday Apartments: This self-catering accommodation is just a short walk away from the beach. You’ll have direct access to its sandy shores and warm waters, as well as a stunning view from your bedroom window. The flat is modern and furnished with a fully-equipped kitchenette, air-conditioning and a great lounge area that will seat the whole family. There is also free Wi-Fi.
Latania Apartments: Ideally located, these large flats are right on the shores of Stalis Beach. They share a large outdoor swimming pool, as well as a pool bar with satellite TV, arcades and internet access. Your kids will love the games rooms and you can even rent bikes for the day.
About Shuttle Direct
Thanks to its family-friendly service, Shuttle Direct has become Europe and North Africa’s leading transport provider. Make all your travel arrangement in advance via their user-friendly website and choose the transfer option that best suits your budget.
