As one of Crete's most popular resorts, you'll find plenty of things to do in Elounda. Beach-lovers can catch some rays on the powder-soft sands or, if you prefer things a little livelier, there are plenty of water sports to get to grips with.
For those who prefer their adventures below the waves rather than on them, Elounda Lagoon offers excellent visibility, shoals of shimmering fish and some wonderful underwater wrecks to explore, whether you're an experienced diver or a laid-back snorkeller.
Watching the world go by at the local marina is one of the most popular things to do in Elounda: sit yourself in a café or taverna, order a coffee or a beer, and soak up the scenery. The marina is also the best place to hop on a boat tour to Spinalonga. Once a leper colony and the site of a Venetia fortress, today it's a popular attraction that offers visitors a fascinating look into Crete's past.
Hit the Beach
It may be fairly peaceful here, but Elounda holidays aren't just for adults, they can be family-friendly, too. The main beach is easily accessible, with clean, soft sand and water that's perfect for paddling. Plus, there's a brilliant waterpark not too far away.
Elounda is a great choice for a beach holiday, with soft sands right next to the promenade and harbour. You'll find plenty of places to eat, drink and shop, all within easy reach of your sun lounger. There's even a play area in case the kids need a break from paddling in the sea and building sandcastles. Elounda's beach has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag status, so you know its golden sand and shallow water are in excellent condition, clean, and safe.
Visit Spinalonga
A visit to Spinalonga Island must be one of the most interesting things to do in Elounda. Although it's now completely deserted, the atmospheric ruins of the Venetian fortress still stand and its history as a 20th century leper colony only serves to add a touch of slightly macabre fascination to the whole island.
There are scheduled trips to Spinalonga, leaving Elounda harbour every half an hour, during the summer months. In the winter, there are no official tours but, if you ask about in the marina, you're sure to find someone to take you across!
Fun On and Under the Water!
Although it's smaller than a lot of the other resorts, there are plenty of things to do in Elounda, particularly if you're a fan of the water. The marina is full of boats for hire, from small, fishing boats to luxurious yachts. If you're travelling with kids, the chances are you'll need some entertainment aces up your sleeve. Book a family day out at the nearby Acqua Plus waterpark, packed with rides, slides, flumes and pools.
Kick Back and Relax
However, if you're looking for the fastest way to slow down, you've come to the right place! Holidays to Elounda can be as laid-back as you want: start the day on the beach, before enjoying a leisurely lunch in one of the cafés, bars or tavernas along the promenade. After all that relaxing, it's probably time for a siesta, followed by more sunbathing! If you've got the energy, browse one of Elounda's weekly markets. With everything from fresh fruit to local cheeses on the stalls, it's the perfect chance to pick up some Greek delicacies for a picnic lunch on the beach.
Sun-Splashed Santorini
The island of Santorini is only a short boat-trip away, situated on the edge of a sunken volcano and peppered with blue and white houses. You'll find plenty of cafés and restaurants along the seafront, but don't pass up the chance to visit the island's capital, Fira. So Cretan it's almost a cliché, Fira is a network of cobbled streets and quirky shops, selling everything from designer goods to unusual, handmade gifts. If you've a yearning to top up your tan, check out the beaches at Perissia and Kamari, which have also been awarded the Blue Flag.