




Facts we have checked
- Private-pool rooms
- Full-size private pool
- Family suites
- Babysitting
- Kids' menu
- Spa
- Sauna/steam
Tripplo's verdict, based on guest reviews
Tripplo’s analysis · Updated 26 September 2026 · How we review hotels
Cayo Exclusive is the choice for travellers who want everything in one place near Elounda. Three sea-view pools, five restaurants and a large spa sit a short walk from Plaka Beach, and every room has its own balcony. It is a full-scale resort rather than an intimate one, and Heraklion airport is a long transfer away.
Guests score it 9.5 out of 10 — the average across the 53 hotels we list on Crete is 9.1.
Featured in our guide: 12 luxury spa hotels in Crete: The best in 2026
What Guests Loved
- With three separate pools set against the Cretan coastline, guests can choose their preferred spot for sunbathing or swimming without competing for loungers, even during peak season.
- A four-minute stroll brings guests to Plaka Beach, making it easy to alternate between resort amenities and a natural seaside setting without relying on transport.
Things to Consider
- At roughly 37 miles from Heraklion International Airport, transfers take close to an hour, so travelers should factor this into arrival and departure planning; an airport shuttle is available.
- With five dining venues on site, popular spots may see higher demand during peak meal times, particularly for guests seeking a specific cuisine in high season.
Should you book it?
Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa is worth booking for guests wanting pool choice and easy beach access — but pick somewhere else if you want an intimate boutique feel, not a large resort.
Book it if you want
- Guests wanting pool choice and easy beach access
- Travellers who value variety across five on-site restaurants
- Couples wanting spa, fitness and private balcony views
- Families needing family rooms plus shuttle and parking
Pick somewhere else if
- You want an intimate boutique feel, not a large resort
- You dislike a near hour-long transfer from Heraklion airport
- You want quiet dining without peak-time restaurant crowds
Rooms & which one to pick
Our tip: Couples should book the Superior Room with Private Pool Sea View for a private pool and sea view without paying for extra sleeping space, or the Deluxe Double or Twin Room with Sea View if a pool isn't needed. Families of five or six should look at the Prestige 3 Bedroom Family Pool Suite Sea View or the Two Bedroom Interconnecting Rooms with Private Pool - Sea View, both offering separate bedrooms plus a private pool.
- Superior Room Sea View2 twin beds or 1 queen bedsleeps 2Sea view
- Superior Room with Private Pool Sea View1 queen bed or 2 twin bedssleeps 2Private poolSea view
- Executive Room with Private Pool Sea View1 queen bed or 2 twin beds and 1 sofa bedsleeps 3Private poolSea view
- Two Bedroom Interconnecting Rooms with Private Pool - Sea View1 queen bed and 2 twin bedssleeps 5Private poolSea view
- Prestige 3 Bedroom Family Pool Suite Sea View1 queen bed, 1 queen bed, 1 full bedsleeps 6Private poolSea view
- Premium Room with Private Pool Sea View2 twin beds or 1 sofa bed and 1 queen bedsleeps 3Private poolSea view
- Family Duplex with Private Pool - Basement Level - Sea View2 sofa beds and 1 queen bedsleeps 4Private poolSea view
- Superior Fam Room with Private pool - Sea view1 sofa bed and 1 queen bed or 2 twin beds and 1 sofa bedsleeps 4Private poolSea view
- Executive Suite with Private Pool - Sea View1 queen bed and 2 sofa bedssleeps 5Private poolSea view
- Family Retreat with Private Pool - Sea View1 queen bed, 2 twin beds, 1 sofa bedsleeps 5Private poolSea view
- Grand Suite with Private Pool & Outdoor living area - Sea View1 king bed and 1 twin bedsleeps 4Private poolSea view
- Deluxe Double or Twin Room with Sea View2 twin beds or 1 queen bedsleeps 2Sea view
Room types as listed on Booking.com; availability varies by date.
Photos from previous guests
Photos provided by GoogleWhat guests say
Reviews from Google“A magical place with a breathtaking sea view. We arrived for our first family vacation in Crete with our two daughters, and from the very first moment we felt warmly welcomed. We were offered an early check-in and even upgraded to larger, more luxurious rooms, which made the start of our vacation perfect. The hotel staff were exceptionally kind, friendly, and attentive, always happy to help with every request. The location is excellent — very close to Plaka and within walking distance of another charming little village, giving us the perfect combination of peace, beautiful scenery, and a special Greek atmosphere. In short, we enjoyed every moment and are already looking forward to our next vacation at this hotel.”
“What an excellent stay did we have in this place. Fantastic location, very clean and beautiful rooms and a service level that can match top class premium hotel chains. The beach club could use a small upgrade to get to the same level as the main resort but all the rest was just close to perfection.”
“We had an amazing week here the summer of 2024. We loved the rocky beach with crystal clear water. The view from our room was amazing and our son loved the private pool. Missing this place about right now.”
“We had an amazing time at Cayo with our infant. The room was stunning, so much space, well designed and the pool was delightful. The twice daily cleaning was exceptional. They left little treats in our, loads of water and kept the place immaculate. We had half board, the buffet breakast and dinner were great. It varies pretty much every day for dinner and some off the dishes were delicious. They alwsy had a lovely grilled fish or meat and loads of sides. They keep everything well stocked, have delicious oils and sides. The breakfast was wonderful, so much choice, from a menu or the various buffet choices. I've been to a fair few buffets and this was high up there. The drinks and the cocktail bar were grear for a drink. It has great wine menu with some lovely choices. The pool areas are well spaced and relaxing. It's a short walk into to town which is small but has a nice few restaurants. My wife did have a massage which she said was just okay and it was expensive so that was probably the only downside. I would certainly recommend Cayo as a stunning hotel where you can enjoy a little bit of luxury.”
“This was my first time in Crete. The Staff from Cayo Exclusive Hotels made our stay awesome. Everyone so kind und made us feel like home. Such a hospitable place. We are very thankful to everyone that contributed and make our stay unforgettable. Very clean, the breakfast incredibly tasty with an awesome view. So, if u have the possibility to book this hotel, don’t think twice. You won’t regret it 🤍”
Frequently asked questions
How far is Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa from the airport?
Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa is 50 km from Heraklion Airport (HER).
How do guests rate Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa?
Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa is rated 4.8 out of 5 on Google, based on 445 reviews. On Booking.com it scores 9.5/10 from 265 guest reviews.
How many stars does Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa have?
Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa is a 5-star hotel.
What amenities does Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa offer?
Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa offers 3 swimming pools, free Wifi, free parking, family rooms, airport shuttle and spa and wellness center.
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Right now: 21° air · 24° sea
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Plaka, Elounda, 72053


