To Crete or Not To Crete?
 

I am travelling to Greece in late June and only have eight nights (three of which I will spend in Santorini and one in Athens). Do you suggest travelling to Crete for the other four nights or is it too big and overwhelming for that minimal amount of time? If you think that I should stick with a less intimidating island for the remainder of my trip what do you suggest that is different than Santorini but has the same high quality accomodations and food and lots of things to do? THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP!!!

Definitely - Crete it !!!!
My wife and I spent 5 nites in Crete, 4 nites in Santorini and 4 in Athens, this past September (our first trip to Greece). We were a litle disappointed in Santorini. Beautiful, yes, but not real. Crete, on the other hand, was beautiful, real, full of wonderful little towns, rolling hills, olive orchards and the friendliest people. I'd recommend staying in Chania (or Hania/Xania, depending on your map). Specifically, I'd stay at the Amos Guest Hotel. Wonderful folks. You'll need a car, but don't worry - traffic moves at a moderate pace. Even on the 'New National Road', you'll generally not get past 50 mph. Be sure to visit the ruins at Knossos. For the most romantic (and very reasonable meal) you've ever had, be sure to go to Annopolus (spelling???). Also, bring your hiking shoes and spend a day in the Samaria Gorge - you'll have to make arrangements to take the ferry from the exit, and a bus back to your car - all well worth it.

I agree. Do Crete and stay at Chania. Plus it has easy transportation between it and both Santorini and Athens.
We loved the Casa Delfino Suites in Chania.

If on the other hand you're looking for glitz, resorts, and swinging night life, then you probably want Agios Nikolaos or Eloundra.

Play it one day at a time. Once you're on Santorini you will know if the spirit's moving you to go elsewhere. If you decide against Crete, Naxos and Paros are close by and both have much to offer.

Crete certainly has what you're looking for.

Crete, Crete, & more Crete. Ditto to joearena99, stay in Chania, rent a car to explore,visit the glorious mid south & southwest coasts.The beaches, the gorge walks(if you're time limited do the Imbros as it's about 2 1/2 hrs vs Samaria's 6 or so hrs). Plakias, Loutro,mmmm to be back there.