Kos is a quieter, more intimate alternative to the larger Greek islands — shorter flight times than Corfu, a compact island layout, and Ikos Aria, which opened in 2019 and brings the Ikos all-inclusive model to the eastern Aegean. For families who've researched Ikos Dassia in Corfu, Aria is the Kos equivalent — same concept, newer property, different island setting.
The island itself is flat and easy to navigate — you can rent a bicycle and cross it in a morning. The ancient Asklepion ruins, the plane tree of Hippocrates, and the old town are all accessible with children. The beach at Tigaki, 20 minutes from the hotel, is one of the best sandy beaches in the eastern Aegean for families with young children — shallow, warm, and calm.
Our top pick: Ikos Aria
Ikos Aria
Kefalos, Kos · 5-star all-inclusive · 35 mins from Kos airport
Ikos Aria opened in 2019 and applies the same Infinite Lifestyle concept as Ikos Dassia — the full all-inclusive model including Dine Out at local restaurants, complimentary activities, and the Heroes Kids Club for ages 0–17. The family room configurations mirror Dassia: Family Interconnecting Rooms give genuine two-bedroom separation, and the Deluxe One-Bedroom Suite with Garden gives adults a separate bedroom while children have the suite area opening onto a private garden. As with all Ikos properties, the Deluxe Collection upgrade adds a personal concierge via WhatsApp — consistently the most useful upgrade for families.
What families who stayed in 2024–2025 say
"First time at this wonderful hotel. We will be back next year. We have been so looked after — wonderful very hard working staff who are fantastic with adults and kids. Such a family friendly place. Spotlessly clean."
"Great hotel, very family friendly. Lovely staff and excellent food. Only negative was bad pillows on the bed — worth packing your own if you're a stomach sleeper."
"Excellent location, glad we stayed in the Kefalos area as it seems like the more upmarket, family-friendly part of the island. Beautiful grounds with sun bed spots that my family loved."
Strong alternative: Blue Lagoon Resort
Blue Lagoon Resort
Tigaki, Kos · 4-star all-inclusive
The Blue Lagoon Resort is the mid-market family alternative on Kos — all-inclusive, strong kids' facilities, and located at Tigaki, which has one of the best family beaches on the island. Family bungalows with separate sleeping areas are available and reviewed well by families with children aged 5–12. At roughly half the price of Ikos Aria, it's the right choice for families who want a strong family environment without the premium Ikos price point.
Questions to ask before booking in Kos
- For Ikos Aria: which room type? Family Interconnecting or Deluxe Suite with Garden — not Junior Suite.
- Do you want the premium Ikos experience (Kefalos, south coast) or a value all-inclusive closer to the main tourist areas (Tigaki, north coast)?
- Tigaki beach is the best family beach on Kos — flat, shallow, warm. Worth considering whichever hotel you choose.
- Ikos Aria's Dine Out programme covers local Kos restaurants — use it to explore the island's food beyond the resort.