The Ikaros is fronted by a guarded security entrance, which then leads to the beautifully landscaped grounds filled with palm trees and blooming flowers. Marking the middle of a circular drive near the Ikaros’ shops is a 1500-year-old olive tree. Stone pathways and ample greenery contribute to the natural aesthetic. The lobby is gorgeous with rock walls, a backlit green reception desk, and chandeliers hanging overhead. There are also multiple clusters of seating, including modern earth-tone sofas and traditional red velvet armchairs. Additional touches include a weaving loom and huge works of art.

Couples can use any of the pools lined with wooden lounge chairs, but families are more likely to be spotted at the main Aeolos Pool, which has an adjacent kids' pool featuring waterslides designed to look like animals. The hotel does get very busy, attracting equal numbers of couples and families, but with multiple restaurants, bars, and a large beach area, space isn't an issue.

A large draw of the Ikaros is its direct access to the sea. Many rooms and almost all restaurants and bars have a gorgeous view of Malia Bay. Malia is primarily a tourist destination due to its nightlife and archaeological sites, and it's a 20-minute walk from the hotel to reach the town center. Knossos, considered Europe's oldest city, is about a 40-minute drive west and home to the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on the island of Crete. Crete's capital, Heraklion, which also hosts the area’s international airport, is a 30-minute drive east.

Rooms at the hotel range from Classic Rooms with basic amenities to seafront suites with private pools. The more standard rooms are on the small side but include a mini-fridge, flat-screen TV, air-conditioning unit, and safe. Bathrooms either have a bathtub or shower. All rooms have tile floors and slightly dated furniture with unique touches like hand painted flowers on the wall and Moroccan-style throw pillows. Wi-Fi, coffee/tea facilities, and a balcony or terrace are standard as well. Rooms either face the garden or have full or partial views of the sea. The most luxurious suites are spacious with whirlpool baths and separate showers. Some have gorgeous private pools on the terrace along with wicker chairs and wooden loungers.

Relaxation is key at the Ikaros. There are several pools including the Aeolos, which has an adjacent children's pool with fun animal-themed waterslides. The sandy beach area is gorgeous and there are ample sun loungers and umbrellas to snag. The Aura Spa is home to an indoor pool, sauna, and relaxation room with an extensive list of treatment options available. There's also a spacious fitness center with panoramic windows, several cardio and strength-training machines, and free weights. Other activity options include a tennis court, ping pong table, coin-operated billiards, soft animation, and live performances on an open-air stage. Parking is free.

Two pool bars and a lobby bar are on-site along with multiple restaurants that offer outdoor seating and gorgeous views of the sea. The venue’s primary eatery serves each meal buffet style and with a theme in a large area featuring a gorgeous tree centerpiece under vaulted wooden ceilings. Guests also rave about Sunset Asian Restaurant, which serves Chinese cuisine on a terrace. All-inclusive packages are available.