Let’s be honest. Traveling with kids – whether toddlers, tweens, or moody teenagers – can be a challenge. Finding the right island, one with just the right mix of fun, comfort and calm, is a delicate balancing act. You want space to relax, safe places to swim, and ideally something more stimulating than an iPad screen. Bonus points if there’s a cozy taverna nearby and no one rolls their eyes.

And with 227 inhabited islands, each with its own character, Greece offers no shortage of options – but all that choice can be mystifying when you’re trying to plan the perfect family getaway.

Luckily, The Times of London has done some of the legwork, publishing a curated list of the 17 best Greek islands for families. Their picks range from slow-paced hideaways to activity-filled favorites – each offering a unique slice of island life. What unites them? Sunshine, kiddie-friendly beaches, and Greece’s legendary love of children. In a country where family is everything, little ones are not only welcome – they’re celebrated.

Among the top picks is Lefkada, an Ionian gem known for its turquoise waters, boat-friendly coves, and family-sized villas with private pools – perfect for multi-generational stays. Zakynthos delights nature lovers with turtle-nesting beaches at Gerakas, while nearby Kefalonia charms with fishing villages and sapphire coves, especially in the tranquil north around Fiskardo. Over in the Cyclades, Naxos shines as a family favorite, offering shallow, lifeguard-patrolled beaches, windsurfing, and even horse riding by the sea.

If you’re looking for something cinematic, head to Skopelos, the Mamma Mia! island, where the sea sparkles and day trips to nearby Alonissos reveal Europe’s largest marine park. For a blend of culture and fun, Corfu combines Venetian architecture, sandy coves, and the ever-popular Aqualand Waterpark.

Several islands on the list are refreshingly low-key. Meganisi and Halki offer a nostalgic, back-to-basics experience with little more than tavernas, harbors, and quiet swimming spots. The Cycladic islands of Amorgos, Sifnos, Milos, and Paros offer alternatives to Mykonos and Santorini, with pottery workshops, pirate coves, catacombs, and ancient acropolises to explore.

For boat-hopping adventures, Paxos and Symi fit the bill, combining colorful harbors, secret beaches, and neoclassical charm. Meanwhile, Santorini makes a surprise appearance – its volcanic boat trips and black-sand beaches prove there’s more to the island than honeymoon photos.

Finally, there are the big hitters. Crete, with its Minoan ruins, beaches, aquariums, and hiking trails, is the all-rounder, delivering a bit of everything. Rhodes, too, offers a ready-made playground of medieval castles, butterfly-filled valleys, and resorts with on-site childcare and splash parks.

Why It Works

What unites these islands, according to The Times, is their blend of accessibility, variety, and family-focused hospitality. Whether you’re seeking ancient history, outdoor adventure, or simply a quiet cove and a good taverna, Greece’s islands offer an unbeatable mix – and a warm welcome for kids of all ages.