Giannoulis - Santa Marina Plaza (Adults Only)

We had a fabulous 10 days at this lovely hotel. Everything was perfect, the Manager and all the staff are so friendly, helpful and professional, the food was amazing, so much choice and the Chefs and waiting staff are incredible. Our sea view room (306) was very comfortable and serviced by wonderful housekeeping staff keeping our tea and coffee stocked, cleaned and fresh towels daily. We loved the pool where the beds are extremely comfy as are the ones on the beach, which was literally through the hotel just down a few steps. The area is quite flat too which we like. All in all we had a great time, it suited us being an Adults Only and also short distance from the airport. Will definitely return to this great hotel in the future.

We spent a week at Santa Marina Plaza in Mid October. We’d read lots of the tripadvisor reviews before we went, and they rang true when we were there. The hotel staff are really friendly and attentive, nothing is too much trouble. The manager is everywhere at all times of the day. He is clearly determined that visitors have an enjoyable time. We were fortunate to have booked a sea view room with a balcony and each morning the sunrise was spectacular. The hotel is beautifully clean, and the smaller size of the hotel means that you feel that staff recognise you and remember who you are, your likes, dislikes and room numbers. We enjoyed the themed food evenings in the restaurant and there was always plenty of food. The chef came out to check the food regularly during service and sorted out any shortages. As a side point, any hotel that offers five pillow options takes your sleep and happiness seriously. To pick up on things I’d read before we went. There was loud music from the bar next door, but it was only one night during our stay. I believe that there was an issue with availability of a room for a visitor during our stay, but the problem was sorted amicably. The issue does seem to revolve around the point at which the travel companies notify the hotel which customers are arriving the following day. We arrived late and were provided with food in our room to greet us. We had a late departure and we were provided, at a fee, continued access to our room much later in the day than is specified. Both of these situations seemed to work for everyone. Would we return, certainly we would. If you’ve got this far through the review and are still undecided, go and experience it for yourselves. You won’t regret it.

I was expecting a great holiday at this hotel after regularly checking the reviews and it fulfilled my hopes and expectations. We stayed for ten nights at the beginning of October on half board basis. When the transfer drops you off the front of the hotel looks a little underwhelming / understated but once inside and beyond the feeling is that you've made a great choice. You are immediately warmly received in reception by the reception team with sparkling wine. There was initially a problem with room allocation but it was only the first night. The hotel has a boutique / intimate atmosphere as opposed to a busier all inclusive hotel. The pool area is calming with good sunbed availability and the pool area adjoins a lawned area which gently slopes down to the beach where there are more sunbeds belonging to the hotel. The pool bar area looks outwards to the sea and the bar menu has great choices for lunch: pizza, salads, club sandwiches etc all of which are excellent. The staff at the bar ( Kevin and Nicky) are friendly and warm and the restaurant staff are exceptionally friendly too ( special thanks to Veronica and Nicoletta ). The food at breakfast and dinner was varied and delicious. The rooms are very comfortable and they are cleaned and beds made each day. The surrounding area is good with local busses only €2 to Chania ( not to be missed ). On two nights we ate away from the hotel and the Taverna options nearby are unlimited which might make bed and breakfast a better option next time. That's not to say evening dinner at the hotel wasn't good, it absolutely was delicious and I loved that the Chef came into the restaurant to meet guests. I fail to see how anyone would not enjoy and appreciate this hotel especially it's laid back vibe and position on the beach. If in doubt then go ahead and book it. I must however be slightly negative on two points to be 100% honest. Firstly there is clearly an issue with room allocation upon arrival based not only on my direct experience but also talking to other guests and also reading previous reviews. However the management go out of their way to make ammends by upgrading and / or offering free lunch with wine at the bar; despite this some guests are still problematic. Secondly ( and this is my own personal opinion) I thought the drink prices were overpriced especially wine. Most guests bought alcohol from the nearby supermarkets and asked Kevin at the bar for ice and drank it on their balcony. I think the drink pricing needs reviewing and I also think a happy hour - maybe 2000 to 2200 - would encourage guests to use the hotel bar. Nevertheless it was a great stay and it was a pity to come home.