Alai Crete A Tribute Portfolio Resort formerly Alai Beach Resort
Beachfront setting with direct access to Stalis’ golden sand Fantastic central location in the heart of Stalis resort Attentive, personalised service with a boutique feel Two freshwater pools with loungers and sea views Family-friendly vibe with kids’ menus and gently shelving shore Free Wi-Fi throughout
Overview
When it comes to toes-in-the-sand stays on Crete, Alai Crete A Tribute Portfolio Resort formerly Alai Beach Resort is hard to beat. This contemporary 4-star hotel sits right on Stalis’ golden beach with direct access to the shore, two freshwater pools overlooking the sea and a run of stylish rooms and suites, many with shimmering Aegean views. Step outside and you’re instantly in the resort centre, with tavernas and cocktail bars lining the promenade for easy-going Greek nights out.
Gallery
14 photos
Map & location
Stalis, Crete (Heraklion Area), Greece
Stalis is the mellow middle ground between lively Malia and buzzing Hersonissos, and Alai Crete sits right at its heart. Step out of the hotel and straight onto a long ribbon of soft sand backed by cafés and tavernas, or hop on the little “Happy Train” for a fun trundle along the seafront. The calm, shallow water and wide promenade make this area particularly easy for families and relaxed evening strolls, while nightlife and waterparks in nearby resorts are an inexpensive taxi ride away.
- • Beach on the beachfront (direct access)
- • Stalis resort centre on the doorstep
- • Hersonissos resort centre 5km
- • Malia 3km
- Approx. transfer time from airport 1 hour 30 minutes from Heraklion (HER)
Facilities
Pool & outdoors
Days here naturally centre around the water. The hotel features two outdoor freshwater pools set just back from the sand, each with sunbathing terraces, cushioned loungers and parasols. Inflatables and water toys are permitted, making it a relaxed choice for families, and complimentary pool towels mean lighter packing.
Directly in front of the hotel, Stalis’ long, sandy beach shelves gently into clear, calm water – excellent for paddling and swimming. A variety of water sports such as canoes, pedalos, motorised options and giant inflatables is typically available for a fee from an independent provider on the beach (usually with a minimum age of around 5 years).
Spa, sports & wellness
Stay active in the air-conditioned gym, which offers cardio machines, a free-weights area and a stretching zone (minimum age 15 years; opening hours can vary seasonally).
Beyond that, the focus here is on unhurried beachfront living rather than a packed activity schedule. You can stroll the promenade, join boat trips from nearby harbours or simply unwind with a drink at the beach or lobby bar while soaking up the Aegean views.
On the practical side, there’s a 24-hour reception with concierge-style support and luggage storage, plus free Wi-Fi across the property so you can stay connected whether you’re by the pool or up in your room.
Activities
? Two outdoor freshwater pools for swimming and relaxing
?️ Beach days on Stalis’ gently shelving golden sand
? Water sports on the beach, including canoes, pedalos and motorised options (external provider, extra charge, seasonal; minimum age usually 5+)
? Workouts in the air-conditioned gym with cardio and free weights
? Rides on the local “Happy Train” along the seafront (payable locally)
? Sundowner sessions at the beach and pool bars with sea views
Guest services
?️ 24-hour reception with concierge-style assistance
? Luggage storage for early arrivals or late departures
? Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
? Daily housekeeping and towel change
? Minibar in room (contents at extra charge)
??? Family-friendly dining with highchairs and kids’ menus in main restaurants
♻️ Certified sustainable hotel ethos, including energy and waste initiatives
✈️ Support with airport assistance requests arranged at booking stage
Food & drink
Food is a real highlight at Alai Crete A Tribute Portfolio Resort. The main restaurant, Raeti, pairs buffet and à la carte breakfast with live show-cooking and a terrace setting, while Lychnama specialises in modern Greek dishes served à la carte, again with chefs on show and plenty of local flavours. On the beach, Sealai All Day Bar Restaurant offers Greek and international favourites and snack-style plates, ideal between swims.
You’ll also find a relaxed beach bar, a stylish lobby bar and an inviting pool bar for chilled drinks, coffees and sundowners. Highchairs, microwaves and children’s menus are available in the main dining venues, and a smart-casual dress code may apply for dinner. Reservations and supplements can vary by season and board basis.
Half Board here typically includes buffet breakfast in Raeti and a three-course à la carte dinner at Lychnama. What All Inclusive typically includes.
Rooms
Standard Double Room Inland View Sleeps 2
Sleeps 2 (min 2, max 2). Similar in layout to the Classic but with allocation in standard category; ideal for couples looking for value in a beachfront hotel. Also available for sole use (sleeps 1).
Superior Double Room Inland View
Sleeps up to 3 (min 2, max 3). Extra space compared to Standard rooms, with a sofa bed or similar sleeping arrangement for a third guest and inland-facing balcony or terrace.
Premium Double Room Inland View Sleeps 2
Sleeps 2 (min 2, max 2). Upgraded interiors and a preferred location within the resort, plus inland views.
Premium Double Room Sea View Sleeps 2
Sleeps 2 (min 2, max 2). Chic upgraded room with a balcony or terrace looking straight out towards the Aegean – ideal for sunrise coffees or evening drinks.
Superior Double Room Sea View
Sleeps up to 3 (min 2, max 3). Combines the additional space of Superior category with a wide sea view from the furnished balcony or terrace.
Classic Twin & Premium Twin Rooms Inland View Sleeps 2
Each sleeps 2 (min 2, max 2). Two separate twin beds with inland views; Premium Twin adds an upgraded feel and often a preferred position within the building.
Standard Double Inland View for Sole Use Sleeps 1
Sleeps 1 (min 1, max 1). Perfect for solo travellers who want all facilities of the hotel in a comfortable, private space.
In-room amenities (typical across room types):
Flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, safety deposit box, balcony or terrace, hairdryer, ironing board and iron, coffee-making facilities and kettle, fridge, pillow menu, USB charging port, air conditioning, shower bathroom, daily room cleaning and a minibar (local charges apply for contents).
*Images indicative; layouts/views may vary. Room categories and features can change by season; we’ll confirm exact room type at the time of booking.
More info
Good to know: Stalis is a relaxed, beach-focused resort that suits couples and families who like an easy stroll to tavernas and low-key bars. Livelier nights and additional attractions await in neighbouring Malia and Hersonissos, a short taxi or bus ride away.
• Country: Greece
• Island/Region: Crete (Heraklion Area)
• Resort: Stalis
• Flight time from UK: around 4–4.5 hours
• Local time: GMT +2 hours (GMT +3 in summer)
• Currency: Euro (€)
• Language: Greek (English widely spoken in resort areas)
Hotel features: official rating 4-star; approx. 115 rooms across 2 blocks and 4 floors, with 2 lifts. Child age generally up to 12 years. Facilities, opening hours and entertainment are often seasonal and may be weather or occupancy dependent. Some services and activities incur local charges.
If you or someone you’re travelling with needs assistance at the airport or on your flight, please advise at the time of booking so arrangements can be made in advance.
For entry rules and health guidance see the UK FCDO Greece advice.
Prices & book
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Live availability and real-time offers. Low deposits, full ATOL protection.