Mare Blue Crete Hotel
Ierapetra | Crete (Heraklion Area)
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Set on a long, shingle-sand sweep of Crete’s tranquil south coast, Mare Blue Crete Hotel brings together an easygoing beachfront setting, a great-value All Inclusive programme and plenty of space for families. With four sparkling pools, a splash park, kids’ facilities and modern rooms – including family options – this is a relaxed base for sunny days by the sea and low‑key evenings surrounded by mountain and Mediterranean views.
Think big blue horizon, palm‑trimmed pools and laid‑back Cretan hospitality. Newly introduced for summer 2025, Mare Blue Crete Hotel unrolls along the seafront in Koutsounari, just outside Ierapetra. Spend lazy days by one of four pools, let little ones go wild in the splash park, or wander straight onto the beach for a dip in the Libyan Sea. All Inclusive dining, a friendly entertainment team and an easy stroll to local tavernas mean you can keep things simple – or explore when the mood takes you.
For couples and families seeking Crete (Heraklion Area)’s quieter, sun‑drenched south coast, Mare Blue Crete Hotel is a smart choice: beachfront, nicely set up for children, and with a generous All Inclusive set‑up that keeps days hassle‑free. It’s around 1 hour 30 minutes from Heraklion Airport. See more Greece holidays.
Hotel Overview | Mare Blue Crete Hotel
Highlights
🆕 New for Summer 2025
🏊 Lovely pool area with four pools and splash park
🍹 Great-value All Inclusive with snacks and drinks
🏖️ Prime beachfront setting on Crete’s south coast
👨👩👧👦 Family rooms and kids’ facilities available
📶 Free Wi-Fi throughout
Rating and Board
Official rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Travelisto rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rooms: 219 | Blocks: 2 | Floors: 4 | Lifts: 2
Board options: All Inclusive
Child age guideline: up to 12 years (for child pricing and certain facilities).
Location | Mare Blue Crete Hotel
Location
Mare Blue Crete Hotel sits right on the waterfront in Koutsounari, a peaceful pocket just outside Ierapetra on Crete’s south coast. This is the island’s sunniest stretch, with long beaches, a laid‑back vibe and a more authentic, local feel than the larger northern resorts.
Stroll a few minutes for low‑key bars and traditional tavernas, take a short drive into Ierapetra’s charming old town for flower‑decked lanes and seafront promenades, or hop on a boat trip from the port to the golden sands of Chrissi Island. With the mountains rising inland and the Libyan Sea on your doorstep, it’s a scenic base for easy beach days and gentle exploring.
Distances and Transfers
Beach: on the beachfront
Nearest bars and restaurants: approx. 400m
Ierapetra town & harbour (for Chrissi Island boats): short drive
Heraklion (HER) airport: approx. 1 hour 30 minutes by road
Approx. transfer time from airport: 1 hour 30 minutes
Map
Ierapetra, Crete (Heraklion Area), Greece
Facilities and Rooms | Mare Blue Crete Hotel
Restaurants and Bars
Food is a real focus here, with plenty of choice for both adults and little ones. The main Dionissos buffet restaurant lays on breakfast, lunch and dinner with show‑cooking stations and a dedicated kids’ buffet in season, so everyone can find favourites. Expect a mix of Greek classics and international dishes, plus fresh salads and desserts.
In the evening, Mamma Mia, the Italian à la carte restaurant by the pool, offers pizzas, pastas and crowd‑pleasing Mediterranean plates (reservations required; operates seasonally and may carry a supplement depending on your board).
Three bars keep drinks close by wherever you choose to relax:
• Beach Bar Thalassa for cold drinks and sea views during the day
• Main Bar Poseidon on the terrace for pre‑ or post‑dinner cocktails
• Pool Bar Aphrodite for poolside refreshments
Smart casual dress is usually expected at dinner (no beachwear in restaurants or bars). Reservations and opening days/hours can vary by season and occupancy, and some premium items may incur an extra charge even on All Inclusive. For a wider look at inclusions on similar plans, see what All Inclusive typically includes.
Pool Areas and Beach
Water babies are well catered for. There are four outdoor freshwater pools, including:
• A main pool with plenty of sunbeds and parasols
• A beachside pool area with loungers overlooking the sea
• Two children’s pools ideal for splashing about
• A colourful splash park with slides and water features (age/height restrictions may apply)
Pool towels are provided free of charge, so you can travel lighter. Just in front of the hotel, the long seafront invites lazy days by the Libyan Sea – perfect for a morning dip or sunset stroll.
For more active guests, there are seasonal water sports such as pedalos, inflatables and motorised options available from an external provider on the beach (minimum age typically 7 years; extra charges apply and restrictions may apply for the splash and aqua facilities).
Spa, Sports and Other Facilities
While there isn’t a full spa, you’ll still find ways to stay active or simply unwind.
Sports & fitness
• Outdoor gym with cardio equipment and stretching zone (seasonal opening hours)
Children’s facilities
• Two children’s pools
• Splash park with slides and water features
• Children’s playground with swings, slides and a shaded area (age/height limits may apply)
Other facilities & services
• 24‑hour reception and luggage storage
• Mobility scooter hire (local charge)
• Luggage storage lockers (local charge)
• Free Wi‑Fi throughout the hotel
Entertainment is a big part of the atmosphere, with daily and evening programmes across the main season – see “Hotel Activities” below for more detail.
Rooms
Family Room with Sea View
Sleeps: minimum 2, maximum 4
Designed with families in mind, these rooms offer extra space plus a balcony or terrace with sea views. Facilities include: flat screen TV, free Wi‑Fi, safety deposit box, air conditioning, fridge, hairdryer and a bathroom with shower. Daily cleaning and towel change are included.
Family Room with Garden View / Land View
Sleeps: minimum 2, maximum 4
Similar in layout to the Sea View family rooms but overlooking the gardens or land. All come with a terrace, shower bathroom, air conditioning, Wi‑Fi, flat screen TV, hairdryer, fridge and in‑room safe. Great value for families who expect to spend most of the day outdoors.
Superior Double Room with Garden View
Sleeps: minimum 2, maximum 3
Comfortable, contemporary rooms suited to couples or small families. Each comes with a balcony or terrace, shower bathroom, flat screen TV, Wi‑Fi, safety deposit box, air conditioning, fridge and hairdryer. An additional bed or sofa bed may be provided for the third person.
Superior Double Room with Sea View
Sleeps: minimum 2, maximum 3
As per the garden‑view Superior doubles but with the added bonus of sea views from the balcony or terrace. Ideal if you love a sunrise coffee or sunset drink with a backdrop.
Single Room
Sleeps: minimum 1, maximum 2
A practical option for solo travellers or friends wanting their own space. Rooms include a balcony or terrace, shower bathroom, flat screen TV, Wi‑Fi, safety deposit box, air conditioning, fridge, hairdryer and daily cleaning with towel change.
*Images indicative; layouts/views may vary. Room views, layout and décor can differ between buildings and floors; specific views must be selected at time of booking where available. Local charges may apply for some in‑room services.
Activities & Experiences
Hotel Activities
🎨 Daytime entertainment – frequent activities from late April to October, including small team games, family fun and water‑based activities.
💦 High‑season family fun – between early July and late August, the programme steps up with more arts and crafts, pool games and family‑focused sessions.
🎤 Evening entertainment – look forward to bingo, karaoke and live music several nights a week across the season, plus mini‑disco sessions for little ones in peak months.
🌊 Beach & water sports – pedalos, inflatables and motorised water sports available from an external company on the beach (local charges; seasonal; age restrictions apply).
💪 Outdoor gym – keep active with cardio equipment and a stretching zone in the fresh Cretan air.
Programmes, frequency and operating dates can vary depending on season, weather and occupancy.
Guest Services
🛎️ 24‑hour reception and friendly multilingual staff
📦 Luggage storage and lockers (lockers at extra charge locally)
🧳 Assistance for guests with reduced mobility available on request (pre‑book)
🛴 Mobility scooter rental (local charge)
📶 Free Wi‑Fi throughout the hotel
🧺 Daily housekeeping with regular towel changes
If you or someone in your party requires additional assistance at the airport or during your journey, let your Travelisto expert know at enquiry stage so arrangements can be made in good time.
Practical Info
Destination essentials – Ierapetra, Crete
• Country: Greece
• Language: Greek (English widely spoken in resorts)
• Currency: Euro (€)
• Time difference: GMT +2 (GMT +3 in summer)
• Average UK–Crete flight time: around 4.5 hours
• Typical local costs (approximate): a local beer ~£4.20; three‑course meal for two ~£42.00
Ierapetra is known as the “southernmost town in Europe” and enjoys long hours of sunshine, relaxed beaches and a traditional old town with flower‑filled courtyards and classic Cretan tavernas. From here you can take a simple day trip to Chrissi Island for Caribbean‑style water and soft golden sands, or explore nearby coves such as Agia Fotia.
Hotel facilities, opening dates and entertainment schedules may change from season to season or due to weather and occupancy. Some services and activities carry a local charge, particularly motorised water sports and external excursions. For entry rules and health guidance see the UK FCDO Greece advice.
Prices and Book | Mare Blue Crete Hotel
Mare Blue Crete Hotel Prices & Book
Choose your dates in the search box for live availability and latest offers. Secure your Crete holiday with low deposits and full ATOL protection when you book with Travelisto.
FAQs | Mare Blue Crete Hotel
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Mare Blue Crete Hotel directly on the beach?
Yes. Mare Blue Crete Hotel enjoys a prime beachfront setting in Koutsounari near Ierapetra, with just the promenade and hotel gardens between you and the sea. You can walk from the pool area to the water in a matter of moments.
2. Is Mare Blue Crete Hotel suitable for families?
Very much so. The hotel offers family rooms sleeping up to four, two children’s pools, a splash park, a playground and family‑focused daytime and evening entertainment in main season. The main restaurant also provides a kids’ buffet corner when open, making mealtimes easier with younger travellers.
3. What does All Inclusive include at Mare Blue Crete Hotel?
All Inclusive at Mare Blue Crete Hotel typically includes buffet‑style breakfast, lunch and dinner in the main restaurant, plus snacks at selected times between meals (for at least three hours per day). A selection of local wines, beers, spirits and soft drinks is usually available for a minimum of 12 hours daily. Exact times, venues and brands can change by season, so your Travelisto specialist will confirm the latest details before you travel.
4. Are there adult‑only areas at Mare Blue Crete Hotel?
This is a family‑friendly resort rather than an adults‑only property, so facilities are shared. However, thanks to the multiple pools and the spacious beachfront, it’s often possible to find a quieter spot, especially outside school holidays and away from the splash park and children’s pools.
5. How far is Mare Blue Crete Hotel from the nearest town?
The hotel is located in Koutsounari, a small resort area with bars and restaurants about 400m away. The larger town of Ierapetra, with its old town, harbour and wider choice of shops and eateries, is a short taxi or local bus ride away, making it easy to combine beach time with a change of scene.
6. What is the nearest airport and transfer time for Mare Blue Crete Hotel?
The nearest major airport is Heraklion (HER). Coach transfers from Heraklion Airport to Mare Blue Crete Hotel typically take around 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of stops en route. Private transfers may be quicker.
7. Does Mare Blue Crete Hotel have accessible facilities?
The hotel features lifts in the main buildings and generally level outdoor areas around the pools and beachfront. Mobility scooters can be hired locally and staff can help with luggage. However, room layouts, bathrooms and pool access may not meet full UK accessibility standards, so we recommend discussing your specific needs with a Travelisto expert before booking.
8. Is Wi‑Fi available at Mare Blue Crete Hotel?
Yes, complimentary Wi‑Fi is available throughout the hotel, including most public areas and guest rooms. Signal strength can vary slightly depending on location and usage, but it’s generally adequate for browsing and messaging.
9. When is the best time to visit Ierapetra and Mare Blue Crete Hotel?
The main season runs from late April to October. For hot beach weather and a full entertainment programme, June to early September is ideal. If you prefer slightly cooler temperatures and a quieter atmosphere, consider late April–May or late September–October, when the sea is still warm but the resort is more relaxed.

















