we like elounda !! nice beach and a good few bars as well
manos apartments are nice J

Stalis would be an ideal resort for people of your age. I would highly recommend the Socrates 11 apartments. They are just at the end of the resort, up a side road so perfect for a good nights sleep. A 10 minute leisurely stroll littered with tavernas will bring you into Malia where the old town is a must see. A 10 minute walk in the other direction takes you into the centre of Stalis. I really cannot praise the location of these apartments enough. See the link below for reviews.

http://www.holidaytruths.co.uk/holiday_truths/hotel_reviews/7773/Socrates%20Ii%20Studio%20Apartments/

I think Stalis would be the most suitable resort at the time of year you're going. Me and my girlfriend are similar ages to yourselves and had a week in Stalis in September a couple of years ago. There was a good selection of bars, some lively some quiet. I've also stayed in Malia and Hersonnissos previously but Stalis is the best of the three.

As for Elounda I've only ever spent a few hours in the resort but did find it a nice place although I would be concerned that it may be a bit too quiet especially going into October.

Hi Helen-gemini,
You'll find that the majority of people who visit this site inevitably go to the Brit dominated areas to the East of Heraklion. If as you say you don't want Malia, you like good sandy beaches and if you want to get the best impression of Crete's beauty, then head west. There you'll find by far the best beaches on the island, much more local character, the amazing White mountains (inc. Samaria Gorge) and Chania town if you want nightlife, although there's also plenty in Platanias. I know all parts of the island but west is best!

I would agree with comment by Helen T. Stalis is a great resort and Socrates II although self catering accom. is a great place to stay. Myself and my fiancee hope to stay at the Socrates II again during Sept 2010. This will be our 4th visit having stayed there 2005, 2006 & 2007.
Although the apartments are actually in Malia, they are far enough away from the lively night life to be a quiet base, but close enough to reached on foot ( about 10 mins ) if you want to experience the wild night life.
Stalis is a gentle 15/20 min stroll in the opposite direction.
There are plenty of places to eat within 5 min walk.
We have always received a warm friendly welcome at the Socrates II and the all complex and its grounds are kept immaculate and clean.

It is hard to define really where Stalis ends and Malia begins as the resort road just merges from one into the other. We were with Helen at the Socrates and agree it's in a perfect location, away from the noise of central Malia but within easy walking distance of a selection of quiet/lively bars, be they in Malia or Stalis

Thanks for your ideas everyone.

We've booked to stay at the Anastasia in Stalis for a fortnight, last week of September and first week of October

We can't wait to try Crete