Water park hotels in Greece made for sun, sea and splashing

With a private beach, tropical gardens and ocean-view dining, every detail of the Renaissance-style Fodele Beach and Water Park exudes laidback luxury. Choose to stay in the Sun Room, where splashes of vibrant yellow provide a startling contrast to the deep blue of the Aegean. Or if you’re with the children, the family suites and maisonettes make for a fantastic choice.

The on-site water park will keep kids happy all day long. The large park features seven adrenaline-pumping rides, from the exhilarating 36-metre free-fall slide, to the pitch Black Hole.

When they’re not splashing in the pool, children aged four to 12 can play at the supervised kids’ club, leaving you free to visit the wellness centre. Try ‘the Cretan Signature Treatment Collection’, which uses only local ingredients from the island, such as olive oil, grapes and honey. Unwind with a facial or massage, detoxify with a scrub or wrap, or feel polished with a manicure and pedicure.

Labranda Blue Bay Resort overlooks the pebble-flecked sands and clear waters of Ialyssos Beach on the island of Rhodes. Bungalows nestle in the verdant garden, while the main building offers panoramic views over the sea.

With an on-site water park, youngsters can get into the swashbuckling spirit on the pirate boat, let loose in the splash area or brave any one of the five water slides. After an energetic morning in the water, take them on a walk in the footsteps of ancient Greeks and Crusaders through Rhodes’ many unforgettable ruins.

Rooms range from spacious family rooms or bungalows where you can keep a close eye over little ones – the only thing to decide is whether to choose one with a sharing pool or a sea view. For a bit of privacy, opt for double rooms which come complete with their own terrace.

At mealtimes, head to a traditional Greek tavern with an outdoor terrace and fresh white tablecloths. Tuck into different ‘mezedes’ – small plates such as marinated anchovies and octopus served with ouzo.

Warm and welcoming Albatros has all the ingredients for the ideal family holiday: it’s just a short stroll to the beach and a five-minute walk to Chersonissos Town. Here, you can enjoy cocktails on the coastal road or walk among the ruins of an ancient civilisation.

Albatros is 10 minutes away from the Greek mythology-themed Labyrinth Water Park, which features immersive mazes, interactive games and its very own labyrinth. These fun activities are suited to older children who love a challenge. Treat little – or big – appetites to a mid-morning scoop of ice cream at the Minoan Café.

Back at the hotel, take a break from the midday sun in the Euphoria spa. Treatments based on ancient Greek remedies take place in five tranquil cabins. Let your stresses melt away with a facial, massage or body therapy, spruce up with a haircut, manicure or pedicure, or while away the afternoon in the Jacuzzi, steam bath, hammam and sauna.

The hotel offers both standard and superior rooms – and for convenience and ease, go for a family room which features two separate bedrooms adjoined with a sliding door.

On the idyllic island of Zakynthos, you’ll find the Vanessa Hotel. With its baroque arches, it’s a striking example of Zakynthian design, with the warm hospitality to match. Don’t miss the island-famous Vanessa Pool Bar, where you can play pool or indulge in hearty family fare like pizzas and burgers.

Under the Mediterranean sun, you and your little ones can romp in the tropical gardens or while away the afternoon in the hotel’s outdoor pool. There’s also a children’s pool, complete with a water slide. Sip on a frozen daiquiri from the pool bar as your kids make a splash.

When it’s finally time to retire, spacious suites and apartments with pool views offer an inviting place of refuge. Earthy tones and natural materials lend rooms a rustic feel. Airy apartments with multiple bedrooms are the ideal choice for families.

The sprawling Amada Colossus Resort is located on the island of Rhodes, close to the seaside town of Faliraki, with its long beaches and historic streets. The resort’s designated adult-only areas and family zones give you a choice of a quiet retreat or a fun holiday with your children.

One highlight of the family zone is the hotel’s water park. Featuring five water slides and an aquatower with plenty of challenging obstacles and a splash bucket, there’s an abundance of activities to keep children entertained while you bask poolside under the Mediterranean sun. Indulge in some well-deserved ‘me’ time by leaving your kids in the hands of one of the three kids’ and teens’ clubs, supervised by qualified childminders.

As the sun goes down, choose from one of four restaurants which offer Greek, Asian and Italian cuisine. Watch expert chefs create teppanyaki masterpieces before your eyes or nibble meze while looking out over the Aegean Sea.

At the Elysium Resort & Spa, care has been taken with every detail in the ornate rooms with cascading bubble chandeliers. The rustic beach bar, a hop from the sand, is constructed from warm wood for an authentic feel. The hotel is located on a blue flag beach in Kallithea, just 8 kilometres from Rhodes Town.

You’ll also be five minutes’ drive from the Water-Park, a hidden treasure filled with thrilling slides and exciting activities for little ones who love a bit of adventure. Spend a day or two exploring the near-vertical drops, winding rivers and artificial wave pools.

For a tranquil morning, wind down at the Serenity Spa. Relax in the lagoon, unwind in the hydromassage pool, or stretch out in the fitness centre. Featured by National Geographic’s collection of luxury spas, it offers products crafted from indigenous ingredients. Pamper yourself with a facial, massage, wraps, scrub, manicure or pedicure.

Escape to the seaside at Hotel Lakitira Resort. Studded between two beaches and just four kilometres from the village of Kardamena with its hilly ruins, it offers the best of both worlds. The hotel also has its own town of cottages to stay in, where deep azure and cerulean accents complement the whitewashed walls.

You’re also just four minutes from Aquatica Water Park. There are a total of nine different slides to try, from the steep Kamikaze to the more relaxing Lazy River. Race your kids down the multi-track slide or simply bask by the swimming pool and watch them excitedly play.

When it’s time to turn in, relax in your cosy sanctuary. If your children are old enough to appreciate sparkling ocean views, treat them to a spacious twin room with a sea view. If they’re early risers, they can watch the sunrise over the water in the morning. Alternatively, opt for the suite which sleeps four so you can all be together – ideal for young families.