Sea Side Resort and Spa

The grounds at Sea Side Resort & Spa are well-maintained and spread out among various levels, so walking up and down several steps is a requirement. Stone pathways and tan stucco buildings are pretty but nothing special. A lounge area with cushioned seating and a hammock is right outside the lobby. The common area has plenty of modern seating and the floor-to-ceiling windows provide gorgeous views; the views throughout the hotel in fact are spectacular. Chic outdoor pools heighten relaxation. The Sea Side Resort & Spa generally attracts more couples than families, though the kids’ club and animation programs make it suitable for either group. Still, this can lead to a more lively atmosphere than some guests may want.

The hotel is situated along the northern coast of Crete at the tip of the Agia Pelagia peninsula. Its hillside location provides magnificent views of the sea and it's a short jaunt down to Mononaftis Beach, though be careful as the walk can be slippery. The beach’s clear water is perfect for snorkeling. There's not much in the way of dining or shopping in the immediate area of the hotel, but it provides free parking for guests who have a car to explore Crete. Heraklion, the capital and home of the nearest airport, is a 30-minute drive southeast. Knossos, considered Europe's oldest city, is a 25-minute drive southeast and home to the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on the island.

Units range from Double Rooms to Junior Suites and Superior Rooms with private pools. All are spacious, most with tile floors, bland Ikea-like furniture, and plain bedding. The spaces do have flat-screen TVs, safes, air-conditioning units (though these can be loud), and kettles for tea or coffee. A welcome bottle of wine is an added perk. Marble bathrooms have shower/tub combos with handheld showerheads and ample toiletries. Sea view rooms have lovely vistas, but beware that some are really partial sea views. Furnished balconies or terraces are in each room and some have private or shared pools. Note that some beds are actually two twin beds pushed together and that guests have complained of too-firm mattresses.

The medium-sized Pelagos pool has a connected children's pool and whirlpool. It's part of a lively area with a volleyball net above the water as well as table tennis and darts on dry ground. Animation programs are often held here as well. The small Thalassa pool is a serene setting with many cushioned loungers on the wooden deck. It's meant to be adults-only, but guests have complained that the hotel staff doesn't monitor the pool and children are often present. A tennis court, kids’ club, and basketball court are features to keep both adults and children busy. A small fitness center has a variety of cardio and strength-training machines.

Several dining options are on-site: Veranda Main Theme Restaurant serves buffet-style meals in a traditionally decorated room with an interesting green glass wall. Kullinarium Gourmet has outdoor seating with stunning views. Jasmin Chinese Restaurant is situated high above the sea for gorgeous views and is decorated in red and gold. A dress code is required for all restaurants. There are two pool bars and Panorama Main Bar has worn wicker seating outside. The lovely spa includes an indoor pool with fountain features, treatment rooms with seashells and lighted candles, a sauna, and a hammam. A meeting room/TV room is also available.