La Mer Deluxe Hotel & Spa

This five-pearl property was built in 2009 near the shingle shores of the popular Kamari Beach. The absence of kids at the adults-only resort means the vibe here is peaceful and relaxed -- despite the airplanes flying overhead en route to or from the nearby airport. There’s none of the typical loud music at the pool bar found at more party-focused resorts around the world; instead, faint tunes play at the poolside bar, where guests -- most of whom are couples and convention-goers -- receive welcome drinks. The hotel’s sleek circular entrance faces the outdoor parking lot. Inside, the round lobby features black-and-white floor designs and a light blue ceiling. The property’s layout looks like a village, with room terraces and dining patios facing the pools. Exteriors display modernized Cycladic architecture with exposed bricks and Mediterranean flowers climbing up railings and trellises. 

The hotel is on the southeast end of Santorini in the tourist town of Kamari, a one-minute walk from the beach, which is lined with restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops. Santorini Airport is only 10 minutes by car. Rental car companies are also nearby for travelers who want to explore other areas of the island. It’s a 10-minute drive to Pyrgos and Ancient Thera. Oia -- known for its beautiful sunsets -- is a 40-minute drive from the hotel, and Fira is 20 minutes away. 

Minimalist designs in rooms are attractive, and balconies or terraces are charming with brick accents, flowers crawling up trellises, and pool views -- but they lack privacy. All rooms include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, safes, daily housekeeping, bathrobes, and slippers. Higher-category rooms have wine and fruit welcome gifts. Standard Double and Executive Double Rooms have colorfully upholstered headboards, while Honeymoon Suites and Deluxe Double Rooms have wooden floors and neutral contemporary furniture with living rooms and romantic features including whirlpool tubs and round beds (in some). Royal Suites have hot tubs. Modern bathrooms have hairdryers and shower/tub combos or walk-in showers with jets. Two accessible rooms are available.

Unlike most hotels on the island, La Mer offers numerous amenities on its large property, including three pools. One is a small figure-eight pool tucked in greenery, and there's a second pool that has whirlpool jets. There's also a rooftop terrace that has cabana beds. A chic blue-and-white decorated restaurant and the Nautilus Bar offer poolside food and drink service, and there's a free American breakfast. Rooms service is provided until late. With stylish Greek designs, the indoor pool and hot tub are luxurious, and the full-service spa has a sauna, a hammam, and hair services. The modern gym offers free weights and cardio machines, and there's a pool table in the 8 Ball Club. Other recreational activities include foosball, ping-pong, and mini-golf. The convention area has a rotunda -- with blue monkeys painted on the walls -- and a connecting meeting room fits up to 200 people for cocktail receptions. Wi-Fi is free throughout the resort and laptops are available for rent. The hotel is right by the beach and the beachside White Restaurant offers cabana beds, discounts for food and drinks to guests, and free lounge chairs shaded by parasols.