Daios Cove

Aghios Nikolaos | Crete (Heraklion Area)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

 
Tucked into its own amphitheatre-style bay, Daios Cove is one of Crete’s most coveted luxury hideaways. Contemporary architecture carved into the cliffside, a private sandy beach, serene saltwater infinity pools and the cutting-edge KEPOS by Goco spa set the tone for truly indulgent stays. Add in destination dining across multiple restaurants, a sophisticated All Inclusive Plus concept and suites and villas with private pools, and you have a Greek escape that feels more like a chic island retreat than a typical resort.

Soaring glass, pale stone and shimmering Aegean blues create a cinematic outlook from almost every angle at Daios Cove. Loungers line the cascading infinity pools that overlook the private bay, while funiculars and pathways wind past suites and villas towards the sheltered sandy cove. This is elevated Cretan luxury with a strong sense of place and sweeping sea views that steal the show at sunrise and sunset alike.

For couples and families seeking Crete (Heraklion Area)’s coastal drama without the crowds, Daios Cove delivers the perfect balance of design-led luxury and low-key seclusion. It’s around 1 hour and 15 minutes from Heraklion airport. See more Greece holidays.

Hotel Overview | Daios Cove

Highlights

💆 Perfect for spa escapes at KEPOS by Goco
🌊 Jaw-dropping Aegean views from almost every room
🏖️ Design-led infinity pools overlooking a private cove
🤫 Peaceful, tucked-away location near Aghios Nikolaos
🏝️ Direct access to a secluded private sandy beach
📶 Free Wi-Fi throughout

Rating and Board

Official rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rooms: 290 | Blocks: 24 | Floors: 5 | Lifts: 6
Board options: All Inclusive Plus, Full Board, Half Board

Child age guideline: up to 12 years for child pricing; family-friendly with crèche and kids’ club.

Location | Daios Cove

Location

Daios Cove is carved into a natural amphitheatre-like bay on Crete’s northeastern coast, a short drive from cosmopolitan Aghios Nikolaos. The setting is all about privacy and views: terraced suites and villas cascade down towards the resort’s own sheltered sandy beach, framed by rugged cliffs and crystal-clear water.

You’re close enough to dip into the boutiques, tavernas and lakeside cafés of Aghios Nikolaos when you fancy it, yet far enough away to feel completely cocooned in your own coastal sanctuary. This is a superb base for exploring Mirabello Bay, Spinalonga island and traditional Cretan villages, then retreating back to your cove at the end of the day.

Distances and Transfers

Beach: On a private beachfront cove
Nearest shops, bars & restaurants: approx. 650m
Aghios Nikolaos resort centre: approx. 7.4km

Approx. transfer time from airport: 1 hour and 15 minutes from Heraklion (HER)

Map


Aghios Nikolaos, Crete (Heraklion Area), Greece

Facilities and Rooms | Daios Cove

Restaurants and Bars

Culinary experiences are a core part of a stay at Daios Cove. Expect creative Mediterranean and global dishes, an emphasis on local ingredients and a choice of atmospheres from relaxed barefoot lunches to dress-up dinners.

Pangea Buffet Main Restaurant
The resort’s main restaurant serves generous buffet breakfasts and dinners with live-cooking stations, kids’ buffet options and plenty of Greek specialities. It’s also the primary dining venue for Half Board guests.

Ocean Restaurant
An à la carte venue by the poolside with international cuisine and refined plating. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (seasonal, occupancy-dependent), with kids’ menus and highchairs on hand – ideal for long, lazy lunches overlooking the bay.

Taverna Restaurant
An authentic Cretan-Greek taverna elevated for modern tastes, serving traditional recipes at breakfast (for selected room types), lunch and dinner. A great spot for grilled seafood, meze and local favourites, with children’s options and highchairs available. Minimum age 14+ for breakfast in some concepts.

Beach House
Steps from the sand, this à la carte restaurant serves globally inspired dishes and light bites for lunch and dinner in a laid-back, feet-in-the-sand setting. Think fresh salads, grilled fish and cooling drinks between dips in the Aegean.

Rho Restaurant
A sophisticated adults-only terrace restaurant specialising in Greek cuisine with a contemporary twist. Perfect for sunset dinners and special-occasion evenings, with smart dress expected.

Bars
Beach Bar – beachfront refreshments, cocktails and chilled tunes from morning until late.
Crystal Box – the stylish lounge bar for signature cocktails, premium spirits and late-night conversation with sweeping views; smart dress requested in the evenings.
Ocean Bar – poolside bar open through the day for barista coffee, fresh juices and drinks by the water.

Dress codes are generally smart casual (no beachwear at dinner; long trousers requested for gentlemen in certain venues). Reservations and supplements may apply depending on your board basis and room type, and facilities or opening dates may vary by season.

The resort’s All Inclusive Plus concept means gourmets can really explore the dining scene, with set menus available in à la carte restaurants, snacks including ice cream and fresh fruit juices, and a wide selection of branded drinks. What All Inclusive typically includes.

Pool Areas and Beach

Pools at Daios Cove are designed as much for aesthetics as for cooling off. Stone terraces, infinity edges and sea-facing loungers create the feel of a luxurious Mediterranean beach club.

Outdoor saltwater infinity pool (main) – large, freeform pool with sunbathing terraces, Balinese beds and parasols; a separate section is suitable for children. This pool is heated in season (approximately late March to early November, depending on occupancy), making early- and late-season swims more inviting.
Adult-only outdoor saltwater pool – a quieter, adults-only zone with its own sundeck and loungers, ideal for couples and spa-goers.
Indoor spa pools – two heated indoor freshwater pools in the spa area (adult-only) form part of the immersive thermal experience and are perfect for cooler days.

Pool towels are complimentary, and inflatables and water toys are permitted in the main family-friendly pool.

The private sandy beach sits at the base of the cove, sheltered from winds and lapped by clear, calm waters – brilliant for swimming and snorkelling. Loungers and parasols are laid out for guests, with beach service available and the Beach Bar close at hand. A water sports centre (run by an external operator) offers canoeing, kayaking, pedalos, snorkelling, scuba diving and motorised water sports for an extra charge, so you can dial the pace of your day up or down as you like.

Spa, Sports and Other Facilities

KEPOS by Goco Spa
Wellness is a real highlight here. KEPOS by Goco (meaning “sanctuary” in Greek) is a contemporary spa with nine private treatment rooms offering massages, facials and body rituals. The Therapeutic Water Circuit combines a Finnish and soft sauna, experience shower walk, steam room and a heated indoor pool with massage jets. There’s also a dedicated Mind & Body studio and a BXR-branded gym for bespoke fitness sessions. Spa facilities and treatments are for guests 16+ and carry extra charges; opening dates and times vary seasonally.

Fitness & Sport
• Air-conditioned gym with cardio machines, free weights, fixed strength equipment, stretching zone and aerobics studio (minimum age 16 years; typically open 07:30–20:00 between April and November).
• Tennis court(s) for a casual knockabout or a more structured game in the cooler parts of the day.
• Scheduled wellness classes such as yoga or stretching may be available (programme varies).

Entertainment & atmosphere
Daios Cove keeps the mood refined yet relaxed, with:
• Occasional daytime activities for families from spring through autumn.
• Evening entertainment including live DJs and live music on selected nights (programme and dates subject to change, usually March–November).

Other facilities
• Reception and concierge service to arrange reservations, taxis and experiences.
• Luggage storage.
• Equipment hire such as bottle warmers, kettles, pushchairs and mobility scooters (some items incur a local charge, as does scooter charging).
• Certified sustainable hotel credentials, with a strong focus on eco-conscious operations and local sourcing.

Facilities, opening hours and entertainment are subject to seasonal variations and may change without prior notice.

Rooms

Light-filled rooms, suites and villas are staggered down the hillside to maximise those cove and sea views. Natural materials, neutral tones and floor-to-ceiling glass bring the outdoors in, while thoughtful touches – pillow menus, turndown service, Nespresso-style coffee – elevate the experience. Many options come with private pools and access to enhanced Residents’ Club benefits.

Deluxe Room Sea View
Sleeps 2–3 (Half Board only). Elegant open-plan room with balcony or terrace and sweeping sea views.
Amenities: flat-screen TV, Wi‑Fi, safety deposit box, bathrobe and slippers, hairdryer, fridge, minibar (charge), bathroom with bath and separate shower, air-conditioning, daily cleaning, linen and towel changes.

Deluxe Room Sea View (Sole Use)
Sleeps 1–2. Same facilities and styling as the Deluxe Room Sea View, perfect for solo travellers seeking space and comfort.

Deluxe Room Sea View with Individual Pool
Sleeps 2–3 (Half Board only). Adds a private plunge pool on the balcony or terrace plus iPod docking station, ideal for secluded lounging with a view.

Deluxe Room Sea View with Individual Pool (Sole Use)
Sleeps 1–2. A private-pool retreat tailored to solo travellers, with all the amenities of the Deluxe Pool rooms.

Deluxe Junior Suite
Sleeps 2–4. Part of the Residents’ Club and operating on All Inclusive only, with enhanced gastronomic extras. Includes a spacious sleeping and lounge area, balcony, plus access to breakfast at Pangea or Taverna. Amenities include flat-screen TV, Wi‑Fi, safe, bathrobe and slippers, hairdryer, coffee and tea facilities, minibar (charge), bath and separate shower, air‑conditioning and turndown service.

Deluxe Junior Suite with Individual Pool
Sleeps 2–4. As above but with a private pool and terrace. A superb choice for couples or small families who value their own outdoor space and upgraded Residents’ Club benefits.

Premium Junior Suite with Private Pool
Sleeps 2–3. Open-plan junior suite with terrace, private pool and sunbeds. Amenities include flat-screen TV, Wi‑Fi, safe, hairdryer, bathrobe and slippers, coffee facilities, kettle, fridge, pillow menu, turndown service, bath and separate shower, air‑conditioning and on-request linen/towel changes.

One Bedroom Suite Sea View
Sleeps 2–4. Part of the Residents’ Club and All Inclusive only. Separate bedroom and living area with terrace and sea view; breakfast can be taken at Pangea, Ocean or Taverna. Comes with flat-screen TV, Wi‑Fi, safe, iPod docking station, coffee facilities, fridge, minibar (charge), bath and separate shower, air‑conditioning and turndown service.

One Bedroom Suite Sea View with Private Pool
Sleeps 2–4. As above but with private pool and terrace. Ideal for longer stays or family groups wanting both privacy and shared space.

The Collection One Bedroom Suite Sea View
Sleeps 2–5. Part of “The Collection”, these upgraded suites feature a separate bedroom and living area, large terrace, enhanced amenities, bathrobes and slippers, pillow menu and turndown service. All have bath and separate shower and are designed to maximise those sea views.

The Collection One Bedroom Suite Sea View with Private Pool
Sleeps 2–5. Adds a spacious terrace with private pool and sunbeds – a great option if you want the feel of a villa with the services of a luxury resort.

The Collection Premium One Bedroom Suite Sea View
Sleeps 2–5. Premium-level suite under The Collection concept, with enhanced space and amenities including Nespresso-style coffee, upgraded toiletries and daily housekeeping with on-request linen and towel changes.

The Collection Premium One Bedroom Suite Sea View with Private Pool
Sleeps 2–5. Similar to the Premium Suite above but with a private pool and balcony, plus sunbeds for lounging in privacy.

The Collection Junior Suite Sea View
Sleeps 2–4 (Residents’ Club, All Inclusive only). Contemporary junior suite with balcony or terrace, bath and separate shower, coffee facilities, fridge, minibar (charge), turndown service and access to multiple breakfast venues.

The Collection Junior Suite Sea View with Private Pool
Sleeps 2–4 (Residents’ Club, All Inclusive only). Junior suite plus private pool; brilliant for couples who want a bit more seclusion or families whose children love to splash.

The Collection Premium Junior Suite with Private Pool
Sleeps 2–4. Premium junior suite with private pool, terrace and upgraded mini-bar (charge), plus bath and separate shower and enhanced housekeeping.

Waterfront One Bedroom Villa Sea View with Private Pool
Sleeps 2–4 (Residents’ Club, All Inclusive only). Set closer to the water’s edge, these villas offer a bedroom, separate living area, private pool, balcony or terrace with sunbeds, two bathrooms (both with bath and separate shower) and Residents’ Club inclusions such as complimentary room service and enhanced dining.

Two Bedroom Villa Sea View with Private Pool
Sleeps 2–5 (Residents’ Club, All Inclusive only). Great for families or friends travelling together, with two bedrooms, separate living space, two bathrooms, private pool, terrace or balcony with sunbeds and access to the full Residents’ Club concept.

Two Bedroom Wellness Villa Sea View with Private Pool
Sleeps 2–5. Tailored for wellness-focused stays, this villa adds dedicated wellness touches alongside the private pool, generous terrace and two bathrooms with bath and separate shower.

All accommodation includes individually controlled air‑conditioning (seasonal in some categories), Wi‑Fi, flat‑screen TV and a safety deposit box as standard.

*Images indicative; layouts/views may vary.

Activities & Experiences

Hotel Activities

🎾 Tennis court for daytime or early-evening play
🏋️ State-of-the-art gym with cardio, strength and stretching zones (16+)
🧘 Mind & Body classes such as yoga and stretching (programme varies)
🌊 Water sports including canoeing, kayaking, pedalos, snorkelling, scuba diving and motorised options (external operator, charges apply)
🎵 Occasional daytime activities for families from spring to autumn
🎹 Evening entertainment with live music and DJ sets on selected nights

The sheltered bay and warm Aegean make this an excellent spot for stand-up paddling, gentle swims and boat trips along the Mirabello coastline, all easily arranged through the concierge or external partners.

Guest Services

🛎️ 24-hour reception and dedicated concierge service
🧸 Crèche facilities from 4 months up to 3 years (pre-booking and local charges apply)
🎨 Children’s club (4–11yrs) with arts & crafts, sports, small team games, movie nights and more (seasonal, registration fees may apply from 2025 onwards)
👶 Family-friendly facilities including bottle warmers, highchairs, kids’ menus and buffets in several restaurants
🧳 Luggage storage for early arrivals or late departures
♿ Equipment hire including pushchairs and mobility scooters (local charges for some items and scooter charging)
💼 Private transfers available as part of many premium packages (subject to booking)
🌱 Certified sustainable hotel practices, from energy use to sourcing

All Inclusive Plus and Residents’ Club guests enjoy additional service layers such as complimentary room service (24 hours in many cases), daily replenished minibars and tailored concierge support, depending on room category.

Practical Info

Board basis
All Inclusive Plus – Buffet breakfast at Pangea and à la carte options at Ocean and Taverna (depending on room type); lunch and dinner across the hotel’s restaurants with a three-course set menu (some exclusions apply); snacks including ice-cream and fresh fruit juices; a wide choice of international branded wine, beer, spirits, signature cocktails, hot and soft drinks at all outlets; and one bottle of wine from an extensive list per room with every lunch and dinner. 24-hour room service is included without delivery charge for qualifying room types.
Full Board – Typically includes breakfast, lunch and dinner, with drinks payable extra unless stated.
Half Board – Buffet breakfast and dinner at Pangea, plus a dinner allowance per person (approx. €20 per adult / €10 per child) to use in selected à la carte restaurants, deducted from the final food bill.

Family policy
Child age is generally up to 12 years for pricing. The resort is very family-friendly, with dedicated kids’ pools, playrooms and activities. Note that certain restaurants or spa areas have minimum age requirements (e.g. spa 16+, Rho adults-only, Taverna breakfast from 14+).

Accessibility & mobility
The resort is terraced over a hillside, so there are slopes, lifts and some steps between levels. Electric funiculars and resort buggies are used to help guests move around, but this layout may be challenging for those with very limited mobility. If you have particular access needs, speak with a Travelisto advisor so we can check suitability and arrange assistance.

Local area
Aghios Nikolaos is a charming harbour town centred around Lake Voulismeni, fringed with cafés, tavernas and small boutiques. It’s known for pretty beaches, sunset drinks by the water and easy boat trips around Mirabello Bay and to nearby islands such as Spinalonga.

Local currency is the Euro (€). Language is Greek, though English is widely spoken in hotels and tourist areas. Time difference is typically GMT+2. Average flight time from the UK to Heraklion is around 4.5 hours, followed by an approximate 1 hour 15 minute transfer to the resort.

Information is based on the most recent supplier details and may change, especially regarding seasonal facilities, entertainment and opening dates. For entry rules and health guidance see the UK FCDO Spain advice.

Prices and Book | Daios Cove

Daios Cove Prices & Book
Choose your dates in the search box for live availability and offers. Tailor your stay with All Inclusive Plus, Full Board or Half Board, and upgrade to suites or villas with private pools for the ultimate indulgence. Book with low deposits. ATOL Protected.

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FAQs | Daios Cove

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Daios Cove on a private beach?
Yes. Daios Cove is built around its own sheltered private sandy cove, accessible only to resort guests. Sunbeds and parasols are provided, with a beach bar and water sports centre on hand.

2. How far is Daios Cove from Aghios Nikolaos?
The resort is approximately 7.4km from the centre of Aghios Nikolaos, which is around 10–15 minutes away by taxi depending on traffic.

3. What is included in the All Inclusive Plus package at Daios Cove?
All Inclusive Plus typically covers buffet breakfast at Pangea, plus à la carte breakfast at selected venues for certain room types; lunch and dinner in the hotel’s restaurants with set menus; snacks, ice-cream and fresh fruit juices; international branded alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks; and one bottle of wine from an extensive list per room with every lunch and dinner. Many suites and villas also benefit from 24-hour room service with no delivery charge. Inclusions can vary slightly by season and room category, so check the latest details when booking.

4. Is Daios Cove suitable for children and babies?
Absolutely. There’s a children’s pool section, kids’ menus and buffets, a kids’ club for ages 4–11 years and a professionally run crèche for babies and toddlers from 4 months to 3 years (charges apply and pre-booking is recommended). Family rooms, suites and villas with multiple bedrooms or sofa beds make it easy to share space while still enjoying plenty of comfort.

5. Are there adults-only areas at Daios Cove?
Yes. Daios Cove offers an adults-only outdoor pool, an adult-only indoor pool and spa facilities at KEPOS by Goco (16+), along with Rho, an adults-only restaurant in the evening. These areas create a more serene atmosphere for couples and friends travelling without children.

6. How long is the transfer from Heraklion Airport (HER) to Daios Cove?
The transfer from Heraklion Airport to Daios Cove is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by road, depending on traffic and any other stops if you are travelling by shared coach. Private transfers are often quicker and can be arranged with your Travelisto holiday.

7. Do all rooms at Daios Cove have sea views?
Yes, the vast majority of rooms, suites and villas at Daios Cove are designed to face the bay, offering sea or cove views thanks to the terraced hillside layout. Exact outlook can vary by category and location within the resort.

8. What is the Residents’ Club at Daios Cove?
The Residents’ Club is an elevated service concept available for guests staying in selected suites and villas. Benefits usually include All Inclusive-only operation, complimentary daily meals in several restaurants, 24‑hour room service with no delivery charge, daily replenished minibar, access to signature cocktails and enhanced wine lists, and personalised concierge support, alongside wellness-focused menu options.

9. Is Wi‑Fi free at Daios Cove?
Yes. Complimentary Wi‑Fi is available throughout the resort, including in rooms, suites and villas as well as public areas such as restaurants, bars and pool decks.

10. Does Daios Cove have spa facilities?
Yes. The KEPOS by Goco spa is one of Daios Cove’s standout features, offering nine treatment rooms, a Therapeutic Water Circuit with saunas, steam room and heated pool, plus a BXR gym and Mind & Body studio. Spa access and treatments are for guests aged 16+ and are payable locally.

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