Primavera Beach Studios & Apartments

The Primavera's bar aspects are visible from the initial approach. Wood decking and semi-outdoor stools here are simple, but with most guests coming to party, they make for reassuring first impressions. Malia is Crete's party capital, and while the nearby beach road offers a wealth of nightlife, guests here get their own piece of the action, either poolside or at the Oscar's Bar. Expect thumping beats at both, and though the small pool gets crowded, youthful travelers mostly find the atmosphere ideal. They tend to use the nearby beach for relaxing, while drinking games and poolside disc-jockeys render the space a dedicated party zone. The scene continues indoors, where sports screens and British food cater to the clientele, and a metal pole shows the establishment's wilder side. With no proper reception, the bar acts as a 24-hour front desk. Guarded security at night keeps the place secure, and family owners are fondly remembered for their kindness.

The hotel occupies a great spot in Malia's center. Bars, clubs, pubs, and restaurants fill its main drag, a five-minute walk to the south, and a McDonald's is on the way. Walks of three minutes in the opposite direction lead to Malia Beach. White sands here abut blue waters, and loungers and umbrellas can be rented. Beach bars are plentiful, and the small Afentis Christos islet with its whitewashed chapel is a five-minute swim. The Old Town's winding streets, churches, and tavernas are 12 minutes away on foot, while Malia's Port and main bus station are around twice that. Busses from here run around the island, including the capital, Heraklion. Taxis and supermarkets are a two-minute walk. The Malia Palace archaeological dig is a nine-minute drive. Heraklion International Airport is 32 minutes by car.

Facing the pool or gardens with sea glimpses, studios and apartments are simply outfitted. Standard Studios have gray-wood furniture with darker lining, nautical-themed bed spreads and curtains, purple accent walls, and light tile floors. Superior Studios and Apartments have the same lilacs walls, as well as purple drapes and bed runners, white furniture, and darker tile floors. Sleeping three or four, respectively, these categories have a fresher look. All rooms have plastic-furnished outdoor spaces reached by sliding glass doors, which help keep rooms bright. Note, however, that upper-level rooms are reached by stairs and rooms are subject to nearby party noise.

Flat-screen TVs, desks, safes, and basic kitchenettes with stoves, kettles, mini-fridges, sinks, and kitchenware come standard, although no microwaves are provided. Use of in-room AC and Wi-Fi requires a fee. Dining areas turn more expansive in Apartments with living areas (or a second sleeping area). Tiny (but spotless) bathrooms in white or tan tiling have stall showers with colorful plastic curtains, mirrors, hairdryers, hand soap, and towels. Housekeeping and towel/linen changes occur three times a week. 

Features are limited, but sufficient for the room rate. The outdoor pool and Oscar's Bar are the property's focal points. On the small side, and surrounded by palm trees, white plastic loungers, tables, and umbrellas, the pool is mostly used as splash space for pool games and parties. DJs will occasionally play by the pool. A shack-like bar here serves snacks and drinks, plus popular evening barbecues. A touch more sophisticated, Oscar's Bar has industrial vibes from exposed brick and green hanging lamps over pool tables (use is at a fee), and there's a good array of booth seating in brown and beige pleather. Sports screens, music, and cheap drinks here are popular, as are cooked Full English breakfasts, all-day meals, and evening pole dancing. There's no full restaurant. There are no laundry or parking facilities, but guests can park on the street. Pets are not permitted. Wi-Fi is free in common areas.