island in Greece?
 

we are traveling this coming summer to Greece with inlaws and 4 kids ages 8-12. We are looking for an island that will give us culture, beauty, beaches and relaxation without the crowds. Are we asking too much? any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

First let me ask when you are going. Nearly any island will probably have half the crowds in June that they have in August.

Crete?

Something in or near Chania, Crete should do the trick, and you can either take the bus or rent a car for day trips.

I would sign up to the foregoing

Hey, I always say Paros has something for everyone. Busy beachs, shops and nightlife on the North end of the island and lonely coves on the South. With plenty of antiquities, churches, and fun beaches inbetween. It is also easy to get to and from.

What about these following islands:
Samos, Halki, Symi, etc.
The main thing is to pick accommodation or a village, that is "Away" from the crowds or main port. Try to pick a village some distance from your arrival point, say 1 hrs drive at least.

i would go to any of the northeastern aegean islands, preference for Chios and Lesvos. they have all of the things you are looking for, and are much more reasonably priced than the more popular islands

There are so many nice islands. How long a time do you have. It is fun to go to two islands. We have often done that visiting for example Paros and Santorini or Rhodes. You could pretty much pick any two that are close and ferry from one to the other with out any trouble. I like Paros (Naoussa), Samos, Chios, Lesvos, Santorini, Rhodes, Kos...truthfully each has alot to offer. August is usually the busiest month.