Aquila Rithymna Beach is one of the most well-known beachfront resorts on the north coast of Crete, Greece. Located in the quiet seaside area of Adelianos Kampos near Rethymno, this resort is popular with families, couples, and travelers who want a relaxed beach holiday without being far from culture and local life.
If you are planning a trip to Crete and want a balance of comfort, a good beach, and easy access to nearby towns, Aquila Rithymna Beach is worth considering.
Where Is Aquila Rithymna Beach Located?
Aquila Rithymna Beach is located in Adelianos Kampos, about 7 km east of Rethymno town on the north coast of Crete. The resort sits directly on the Rethymnon Riviera, facing the Aegean Sea.
You can reach the resort from:
- Heraklion Airport in about 70 minutes
- Chania Airport in about 75 minutes
Both airports offer easy transfers by taxi, private transfer, or rental car. The location is convenient if you want to explore both western and central Crete.
Entry Fees & Timings
Location: Adelianos Kampos Crete (7km Rethymno, 70min Heraklion Airport)
Entry Fee Table (€):
| Room Type | Adult | Child | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garden View Room | 180/nt | 140/nt | Breakfast + beach access |
| Sea View Bungalow | 250/nt | 200/nt | Direct beach + pool access |
| Family Suite | 320/nt | 260/nt | Kids club + waterpark entry |
Open 24/7 May-Oct. Peak: Jun/Sept golden hour.
Best Time: May-Oct mornings (empty beach/Cretan calm).
What Is the Beach Like?
The beach in front of Aquila Rithymna Beach is a long, sandy shoreline that stretches for several kilometers. It is a Blue Flag beach, which means it meets high standards for cleanliness, water quality, and safety.
The sand is soft, the water is usually clear, and the sea is generally calm, especially in summer. This makes it suitable for swimming and safe for children when supervised.
Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for guests, and there is direct access from the resort to the beach, which is a big plus for families and older travelers.
About the Aquila Rithymna Beach Resort
Aquila Rithymna Beach is a 5-star beachfront resort designed like a small village rather than a single large building. The layout makes it easy to move around and gives the resort a relaxed feel.
Accommodation options include:
- Sea-view rooms
- Garden-view rooms
- Family rooms
- Bungalows
- Suites and villas with private pools
Rooms are spacious, clean, and well maintained. Many offer balconies or terraces, which is ideal for enjoying sea or garden views.
Facilities and Amenities
The resort is well equipped and suitable for long stays.
Main facilities include:
- Large outdoor swimming pools
- A water park with slides and splash areas
- A spa and wellness center
- Fitness center and tennis courts
- Kids club and children’s play areas
- Private beach section with loungers
Everything is well organized, and staff are generally helpful and professional, which adds to the overall comfort of the stay.
Dining Experience
Food is one of the strong points of Aquila Rithymna Beach. The resort offers all-inclusive and half-board options, with a good variety of dishes.
You can expect:
- Traditional Greek and Cretan food
- Mediterranean and international cuisine
- Fresh seafood
- Themed dinner nights
- Beach bar snacks and drinks
There are also local tavernas and cafés within walking distance if you want to eat outside the resort and try local flavors.
Activities and Things to Do
Aquila Rithymna Beach is not just about relaxing. There are plenty of activities for both adults and children.
Popular activities include:
- Swimming and beach walks
- Snorkeling and light water sports
- Beach volleyball and paddle sports
- Yoga and fitness sessions
- Evening entertainment and live shows
For kids, the children’s club and water park provide enough entertainment to keep them busy throughout the day.
Best Time to Visit Aquila Rithymna Beach
The best time to visit is May to October.
- June to September is ideal for beach weather and swimming
- May and October are great for fewer crowds and mild temperatures
July and August are the hottest months and also the busiest. If you prefer a quieter experience, late spring or early autumn is a better choice.
Nearby Attractions and Day Trips
One of the advantages of staying at Aquila Rithymna Beach is its location near important attractions.
Nearby places worth visiting:
- Rethymno Old Town – charming streets, shops, and cafés
- Venetian Fortress (Fortezza) – great views and history
- Platanias and Adele villages – local culture and tavernas
- Other beaches along the north coast of Crete
A rental car makes exploring easier, but local buses and taxis are also available.
Is Aquila Rithymna Beach Good for Families?
Yes, this resort is especially popular with families. The calm beach, kids club, water park, and family-friendly rooms make it suitable for travelers with children of different ages.
Couples will also enjoy the spa, quiet areas, and beachfront dining, especially outside peak family season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Aquila Rithymna Beach a private beach?
The beach is not fully private, but the resort has a reserved section with sunbeds and umbrellas for guests.
Is Aquila Rithymna Beach suitable for children?
Yes. The beach has calm water, and the resort offers kids clubs, pools, and family-friendly facilities.
How far is Aquila Rithymna Beach from Rethymno?
It is about 7 km from Rethymno town and takes around 10–15 minutes by car.
Does the resort offer all-inclusive options?
Yes, Aquila Rithymna Beach offers all-inclusive, half-board, and bed-and-breakfast options.
When is the best time to visit?
The best months are May, June, September, and October for good weather and fewer crowds.
Final Thoughts
Aquila Rithymna Beach is a solid choice for travelers looking for a comfortable beachfront stay in Crete. It combines a clean sandy beach, good facilities, and a convenient location near Rethymno. Whether you are traveling with family, as a couple, or for a relaxed beach holiday, this resort offers a well-balanced experience without feeling overcrowded or overly commercial.
If you value comfort, beach access, and easy sightseeing, Aquila Rithymna Beach fits the bill.
