We loved our first Ikos stay, at Ikos Andalusia, so much that Ikos Aria on Kos was an easy booking. It’s a big, beautiful all-inclusive resort on a white-sand beach, and it works brilliantly with a toddler.
The Beach
The beach is white sand with clear water, and Ikos Aria provides loungers and service. There’s also a kids’ play area on the sand with a chest full of toys, which kept my toddler busy for hours.
A small island with a church sits within swimming distance. You can swim or rent a pedalo to get there. It’s well worth it, but there’s a steep climb up to the church.
The Pools
If you’d rather not swim in the sea, there are plenty of pools, all with a gorgeous view, including a shallow one that’s perfect for little ones.
Dining
We had lunch at the beachside restaurant, Kos, a couple of times. It had a great atmosphere, and the lunchtime barbecue was delicious.
We tried each of the breakfast restaurants and preferred the buffet.
The food was genuinely impressive, with fresh, flavourful dishes at every meal. Honestly, though, Ikos Andalusia has the edge on dining. At both resorts, Seasons was my favourite restaurant.
Ikos Aria vs Ikos Andalusia
The biggest difference is size. Ikos Aria is much larger and more spread out, and reaching the other side of the resort usually meant a golf buggy ride. Ikos Andalusia is more compact, and its food is a notch better. Ikos Aria wins on the beach.
Lena’s Tips
- Ask for a room near the main pool and restaurants. The resort is big.
- Use the beach toy chest. It’s brilliant for toddlers.
- Pedal out to the island. Wear proper shoes for the climb.
- Book Seasons. It’s the best restaurant on site.
The Verdict
Ikos Aria is a beautiful, easy family resort, with attentive service, good food and wine and a dreamy white-sand beach. If you’re choosing between Ikos resorts, pick Aria for the beach and Andalusia for the food.
“Ikos Aria is all-inclusive done properly, with a beach you’ll dream about afterwards.” – Lena
