Santa Marina Mykonos is one of Mykonos’s best luxury hotels for families, beach lovers, and travelers who want a full-service resort without being far from Mykonos Town. Set on a private peninsula on Ornos Bay, its biggest advantage is something few Mykonos hotels can offer: a private sandy beach with calm, protected water. After touring Santa Marina alongside Four Seasons Mykonos, Kalesma, Fouquet’s Mykonos, and One&Only Aesthesis, we found Santa Marina particularly compelling for its combination of beach, views, family-friendly accommodations, and extensive resort amenities.
We visited Santa Marina as part of a broader hotel tour across Mykonos, alongside Four Seasons Mykonos, Kalesma, Fouquet’s Mykonos, and One&Only Aesthesis. Seeing these luxury hotels back to back gave us a clear sense of where Santa Marina stands out. Alongside Four Seasons, it was one of our top family choices, and its views tied with Kalesma for some of the best we saw on the island. We toured the beach, pools, and several accommodations, including the Luxury Sea View Suite and Windmill, giving us a firsthand look at both the resort’s strengths and the practical details worth considering before booking.
Is Santa Marina Right for You?
Santa Marina is one of those properties where the setting does a lot of the work. A private sandy beach on Mykonos is a real advantage, especially during the busier summer months when the island’s most popular beaches can feel crowded. Add the resort’s extensive villa collection, family-friendly amenities, and proximity to Ornos and Mykonos Town, and it’s easy to see why Santa Marina appeals to so many travelers. That said, its scale and atmosphere won’t suit everyone. Here’s who we think will get the most out of a stay.
Stay Here If…
- A private sandy beach is at the top of your list. Santa Marina’s beach is one of its biggest selling points. Set along the resort’s own peninsula, it’s reserved for hotel guests rather than shared with the public or operated as a separate beach club. For travelers who want to spend much of their vacation by the water without leaving the property or competing for a spot, that privacy is hard to beat.
- You’re traveling with children or a multigenerational group. Alongside Four Seasons, Santa Marina is one of our top choices for families in Mykonos. The resort combines a children’s pool and playground with family accommodation options, a private beach, and villas that can bring everyone together while still offering room to spread out. The range of options makes it particularly appealing for families traveling with grandparents or a larger group.
- You want beautiful views without sacrificing resort amenities. Santa Marina’s position on Ornos Bay offers expansive views across the water, and we found it tied with Kalesma for the best views among the properties we visited. Unlike a smaller boutique hotel, however, Santa Marina pairs that scenery with multiple pools, restaurants, a spa, a private beach, and a substantial range of accommodations.
- You’re booking a villa for a group or special occasion. Santa Marina’s private villas are central to its appeal. With options ranging from two to seven bedrooms, private pools, and butler service, the collection suits families, groups of friends, and travelers who want the privacy of a standalone residence with full resort services and amenities.
- You want a lively atmosphere without staying in the middle of the nightlife scene. Buddha-Bar Beach brings social energy to the resort, especially later in the day, while the peninsula itself feels removed from the island’s busiest parts. You can enjoy a lively lunch or evening on property and still retreat to a quieter part of the resort when you’re ready to unwind.
- You want convenient access to Ornos and Mykonos Town. Santa Marina feels private once you’re on the property, but it isn’t especially remote. Ornos village is within walking distance, while Mykonos Town is a short drive away. That makes the resort a good fit for travelers who want a beach vacation feel without sacrificing easy access to the island’s restaurants, shopping, and nightlife.
Consider Something Else If…
- You prefer a smaller, more intimate hotel. Santa Marina is a full-scale resort, with a broad range of accommodations, several dining and leisure areas, and plenty of activity around the property. If a quieter, more personal atmosphere is your priority, Kalesma offers a more intimate, design-focused experience.
- You want the beach-club scene right outside your door. Santa Marina has its own lively beachside restaurant, but it feels more private and resort-oriented than the scene around some of Mykonos’s best-known beach clubs. If being close to the action is the main reason you’re visiting, Fouquet’s Mykonos is a better fit for travelers who want that atmosphere on their doorstep.
- Your top priority is the overall beach experience and a polished full-service stay. Santa Marina’s private beach is a rare advantage, but Four Seasons Mykonos earns the top spot for the island’s best overall beach experience. Its protected cove, beach setting, and full-service resort experience make it worth considering if those details matter more to you than having a beach exclusively reserved for hotel guests.
- You’re looking for a couples-focused escape with minimal family activity. Santa Marina’s family-friendly amenities are a strength, but they also shape the atmosphere, particularly during peak season. Couples looking for a quieter, more romantic setting may prefer Kalesma, especially if they don’t need the extensive facilities and larger scale of a traditional resort.
Location: A Private Peninsula on Ornos Bay
Santa Marina’s location is one of its biggest advantages, and it’s also what makes the resort feel so different from many of the other luxury hotels in Mykonos. Set on its own peninsula along Ornos Bay, the property is surrounded by water on multiple sides, with the private beach tucked along the shoreline below the main resort. The setting creates a sense of separation from the busier parts of the island without putting guests far away from the places they may want to visit. This makes it especially appealing for travelers who want to spend most of their time at the resort but still have the option to head into town for dinner or an evening out.
The resort is approximately 3.4 kilometers from Mykonos Town and roughly 3.5 to 5 kilometers from Mykonos Airport, depending on the route. Both are a relatively short drive, making Santa Marina one of the more convenient luxury resorts for getting around the island. Ornos village is also within walking distance, with waterfront tavernas and the wider Ornos Bay area nearby. We especially like that guests can enjoy a quieter beach setting at the resort while staying close to a more traditional village atmosphere.
The peninsula’s position on the island’s southwest coast is another practical advantage. Ornos Bay is among the more sheltered areas of Mykonos during the summer Meltemi winds, which can make a noticeable difference when spending time at the beach. While wind conditions can vary day to day, Santa Marina’s protected setting is a welcome contrast to some of the island’s more exposed beaches.
Getting to Mykonos is relatively straightforward, with frequent connections from Athens and seasonal direct flights from several European cities. If you’re arriving through Athens, the flight to Mykonos is about 45 minutes. Once on the island, we recommend arranging an airport transfer through the resort or your travel advisor in advance, particularly during the busy summer months when transportation can be harder to coordinate.
Key Location Details
Address: Ornos Bay, Mykonos 846 00, Greece
Airport: Mykonos International Airport (JMK), about a 10-minute drive, depending on traffic.
Nearby:
- Ornos Village: Within walking distance, with waterfront tavernas and access to Ornos Bay.
- Mykonos Town (Chora): Approximately 10 minutes by car.
- Nammos at Psarou Beach: A short drive from the resort.
- Scorpios: Accessible by car or boat.
- Delos: Approximately 15 minutes by speedboat or 50 minutes by traditional kaiki, depending on the boat and conditions.
Transportation:
- Santa Marina can arrange airport transfers and private transportation around the island. We recommend booking ahead, particularly during peak summer.
- The resort has a private marina, making private boat transfers and excursions a convenient way to explore nearby beaches and islands.
- Ornos village is within walking distance, but a car or arranged transfer is generally the easiest way to reach Mykonos Town and other parts of the island.
- Ride-hailing services can be unreliable on Mykonos, so it’s worth coordinating transportation with the concierge rather than relying on an app at the last minute.
Arrival at Santa Marina
Arriving at Santa Marina feels like entering a private resort tucked away from the busier parts of Mykonos. The property sits behind its own entrance on the Ornos Bay peninsula, and once inside, the setting opens up to expansive sea views, landscaped grounds, and the resort’s signature blend of traditional Cycladic architecture and polished, full-service luxury. Unlike some of the smaller boutique hotels we toured, Santa Marina feels like an established beach resort, with multiple areas to explore and a more traditional sense of arrival.
One of the first things that stands out is how green and landscaped the property feels compared with several of the other hotels we visited. The grounds have a more lush, resort-style atmosphere, with pathways connecting the accommodations, pools, restaurants, and beach. The hillside layout means some areas involve stairs and elevation changes, although the resort has golf carts available to help guests get around. If mobility or minimizing walking is a priority, discuss room placement with your advisor before booking.
Santa Marina also offers a few different ways to arrive beyond a standard airport transfer. The resort has a private marina for guests arriving by yacht or arranging boat transfers, as well as a helipad for private helicopter arrivals. For most travelers, a prearranged car transfer will be the simplest option. We recommend coordinating transportation through the resort or concierge in advance, especially if you’re arriving during the busiest weeks of summer.
Rooms, Suites, and the Gemstone Villas
During our visit, we toured several accommodations, including the Luxury Sea View Suite and the Windmill. Our biggest takeaway is that room selection matters considerably at Santa Marina. The resort is built into a hillside, and the experience can vary depending on your view, outdoor space, proximity to the beach, and how much walking you want to do.
Accommodations range from sea view rooms and suites to two-bedroom accommodations and private pool categories. Families have several particularly useful options, including connecting rooms, the two-level Family Retreat, two-bedroom Luxury Sea View Suites with Private Pools, and the resort’s extensive villa collection. Most accommodations include a furnished balcony or terrace overlooking the Aegean.
Rooms and Suites
For travelers who want more space, the Luxury Sea View Suites offer approximately 538 square feet with a separate bedroom and living area. The sofa converts into an additional bed, making this a practical option for a small family or anyone who appreciates a separate place to unwind. Suites also include a furnished sea view balcony or terrace, walk-in shower, and whirlpool bathtub.
The Family Retreat is particularly useful for families, with a two-level layout that separates the sleeping areas. The primary bedroom is downstairs, while a twin bedroom is upstairs. With two bathrooms, a private balcony, and a sofa bed, it can accommodate up to five guests.
For guests who prioritize privacy, select Luxury Sea View Suites have private pools, including two-bedroom configurations that work especially well for families. The Mykonian Cottage is another distinctive option, offering a two-level layout, sea view terrace, and heated whirlpool.
The Windmill
One of Santa Marina’s most popular accommodations is the Windmill, a converted traditional windmill that offers a stay unlike the resort’s more conventional rooms and suites. Its unique architecture and character make it an interesting option for travelers who want something memorable and a little different from the standard luxury hotel experience. Rather than focusing solely on square footage or amenities, the appeal here is the opportunity to stay in one of the property’s most recognizable accommodations while still enjoying access to the resort’s full range of facilities.
We toured the Windmill, and it stood out as a particularly characterful option in Santa Marina’s accommodation collection. It’s worth considering for couples or travelers who value a distinctive setting and a strong sense of place. One important detail, however, is that the Windmill doesn’t have a private pool, unlike some of the resort’s other premium suites. If having your own pool is a priority, we recommend comparing it with the Luxury Sea View Suites with Private Pools before deciding.
For the right traveler, the Windmill offers something that a larger or more contemporary suite can’t quite replicate. It’s a memorable alternative within a resort that has plenty of more traditional accommodation options, and one we’d recommend discussing when choosing between Santa Marina’s room categories.
The Gemstone Villas
Santa Marina’s 12 private villas are a major part of what sets the property apart, particularly for larger families and groups. Ranging from two bedrooms upward, the villas combine the privacy of a standalone residence with access to the resort’s beach, restaurants, pools, spa, and other facilities. Each has a private pool, generous sea-view terraces, and outdoor lounge and dining areas, giving plenty of room to spend time together without feeling confined indoors.
The villas are also designed for longer or more independent stays, with fully equipped kitchens, full-size refrigerators, and Nespresso machines. ESPA bath amenities, daily housekeeping, and evening turndown service are included, while dedicated butler service and 24-hour room service add another layer of convenience. Guests can also arrange boat services through the resort’s private marina. Villa guests also receive complimentary airport and port transfers, a useful benefit for groups coordinating arrivals with luggage and multiple travelers. Villas also include VIP amenities, adding to the more personalized experience.
At the top end of the collection, the Presidential Villa is an expansive, multilevel residence designed for a more private and fully serviced stay. It features panoramic Aegean views, an infinity pool, and substantial indoor and outdoor living areas, including an outdoor bar and lounge, an outdoor dining area, and a separate dining room that seats ten. The villa also has a fully equipped kitchen, office, private spa room, gym, sauna, home cinema, and staff quarters. A dedicated butler, club car, 24-hour villa service, and 24-hour security are included. Depending on bedding arrangements, the Presidential Villa can accommodate approximately eight to ten guests.
For families traveling with grandparents, groups of friends celebrating a milestone, or anyone planning a longer stay with plenty of time at the property, the villas offer a very different experience from booking several hotel rooms. They give you a private home base while still offering the services and amenities of a full resort. The range of sizes also gives options for groups that don’t necessarily need the largest residence.
With so many room and villa categories, we recommend looking beyond the headline room names and considering how you’ll actually use the space. A private pool, a separate living area, connecting rooms, or a location closer to the beach can all influence the experience. Santa Marina’s hillside layout is another consideration, as some accommodations involve more stairs or walking than others. If you’re traveling with young children, older family members, or anyone with mobility concerns, it’s worth discussing room placement before confirming your reservation. We can help narrow down the options based on your group size, preferred layout, and priorities, rather than choosing a category based on its name alone.
View each villa’s details here:
The Private Beach and Pools
Our Take: The private beach is the strongest reason to choose Santa Marina over many other luxury hotels in Mykonos. Seeing it in person reinforced how unusual it is to have a calm, sandy beach that feels integrated into the resort rather than having to leave the property for a beach club. For families especially, this is one of Santa Marina’s biggest advantages.
One of Santa Marina’s biggest draws is its private sandy beach, and it is a major part of what makes the resort feel distinct from many other hotels in Mykonos. Set along a protected stretch of Ornos Bay, the beach offers calm water, a beautiful setting, and the convenience of having the Aegean just steps from your room. Instead of visiting a separate beach club or navigating one of the island’s busier public beaches, guests can spend the day on the resort’s own stretch of sand.
The beach has a relaxed atmosphere, with food and drinks available through Santa Marina Beach Lounge. Beach cabanas and lounging setups are also offered for guests who want a more comfortable place to settle in for the day. For a livelier experience, Buddha-Bar Beach Mykonos sits directly along the beach, bringing Asian-fusion dining, cocktails, and music to the waterfront. This gives Santa Marina a nice balance between quieter beach days and a more social atmosphere when you want it.
In addition to the private beach, Santa Marina has two principal resort pools, each with a different atmosphere. Select suites and villas also have private pools, adding an extra layer of privacy.
Oasis Pool & Lounge
Oasis Pool & Lounge is the resort’s adults-only pool, with an infinity-edge seawater pool and views across the Aegean. It offers a quieter alternative to the beach and family pool, particularly for couples or guests looking for a more peaceful place to spend the afternoon.
Oasis offers four private cabanas, along with poolside food and drinks. The infinity-edge pool, open sea views, and dedicated cabanas make this one of the resort’s more relaxed spaces for spending a full day outdoors.
Elais Pool
Elais Pool is the family-friendly option, with an infinity-edge design and an adjacent temperature-controlled whirlpool. Children are permitted, making it a convenient choice for families who want to spend time by the pool and the beach.
Along with the protected beach and gradual water entry, the family pool gives guests with children several ways to enjoy the water without leaving the property. Families can also choose from connecting rooms, multi-bedroom suites, and villas, depending on the space and privacy they need.
Private Pools and Cabanas
For guests who want more privacy, select suites and villas include private pools. This can be particularly appealing for couples or families who prefer to spend time outside their room without sharing a pool area with other guests.
Cabanas are available at Oasis Pool, while beach cabanas and dedicated lounging setups offer another option along the sand. Pricing and the exact inclusions for cabana reservations were not publicly confirmed, so we recommend checking with the resort directly when planning your stay.
Between the private beach, two principal pools, and private pools attached to select accommodations, Santa Marina offers several ways to enjoy the water. The adults-only Oasis Pool and family-friendly Elais Pool make the distinction between the resort’s spaces especially useful, while the beachfront setting remains one of its most appealing features.
Dining at Santa Marina
Santa Marina has four main dining and drinks concepts, each with a different atmosphere and setting. From the lively, beachfront experience at Buddha-Bar Beach Mykonos to the more relaxed Greek and Mediterranean dining at Elais, the options give guests several ways to enjoy the resort without leaving the property.
Buddha-Bar Beach Mykonos
Set directly along Santa Marina’s private beach, Buddha-Bar Beach Mykonos is the resort’s liveliest dining option. The restaurant blends the brand’s signature Asian-fusion cuisine with Mediterranean and Greek influences, plus a cocktail menu and a social atmosphere shaped by music and its beachfront setting.
It is a natural choice for a long lunch that turns into an afternoon by the water, or an evening when you want a more energetic dining experience. Buddha-Bar Beach has traditionally operated into the night, with published hours previously listed at approximately 1 PM to 1 AM. Hours can change seasonally, so we recommend confirming the schedule ahead of your visit.
Elais Restaurant
For a more relaxed meal, Elais offers a Greek and Mediterranean concept in a setting surrounded by the resort’s sea and garden views. The menu draws on Greek flavors while also including international influences, and the wine selection features both Greek and international labels.
Compared with the more social atmosphere at Buddha-Bar Beach, Elais is a quieter option for guests looking for a refined meal without a particularly lively scene. It is a good fit for a leisurely lunch or dinner, depending on the season and current service schedule.
Santa Marina Beach Lounge
Santa Marina Beach Lounge keeps things casual, with food and drinks served right by the water. It is designed for guests who want to spend the day on the private beach without stepping away for a meal or refreshments.
The convenience is part of the appeal. You can settle into a beach lounger, enjoy the setting, and order food or drinks without interrupting a day by the sea.
Oasis Pool & Lounge
Oasis Pool & Lounge offers another place to spend the day outdoors, this time in an adults-only pool setting. With an infinity pool overlooking the Aegean, it provides a quieter alternative to the beach and a dedicated space for guests to enjoy food and drinks poolside.
The adults-only atmosphere is a useful distinction for couples or anyone looking for a more peaceful pool experience. Between Oasis and the private beach, Santa Marina offers two ways to enjoy the water, each with its own atmosphere.
Breakfast and In-Room Dining
Daily breakfast is available at Santa Marina, but confirm with the resort which restaurant serves it before your stay. If you are booking a breakfast-inclusive rate, check whether in-room breakfast is included or available at an additional cost.
For guests staying in the villas, 24-hour room service is confirmed, offering added flexibility for meals and snacks throughout the day. If you are staying in a standard room or suite, we recommend confirming the current room-service hours directly with the hotel.
With four distinct dining and drinks concepts, Santa Marina offers a good variety for a resort of its size. The choice ranges from lively beachfront dining to a quieter adults-only pool setting, making it easy to find a different atmosphere depending on how you want to spend the day. Restaurant hours and seasonal operations can change, so check the current schedule before arrival.
Spa, Wellness, Fitness, and Activities at Santa Marina
Santa Marina offers a mix of wellness facilities, fitness options, and on- and around-the-water experiences. Whether you want to spend an afternoon at the spa, keep up with your usual workout routine, or explore more of the Cyclades by boat, there are several ways to make your stay about more than just the beach.
Ginkgo Spa
Ginkgo Spa is Santa Marina’s dedicated wellness space, with four treatment rooms and a range of facilities designed for a relaxing break from the sun. Guests have access to a traditional hammam, sauna, and steam room, along with a hair and nail salon. The spa features treatments and products from ESPA and 111SKIN, as well as HydraFacial treatments.
The combination of traditional thermal facilities and more specialized skincare treatments gives the spa a range of options, whether you are looking for a massage, a facial, or time to unwind between days exploring the island. For specific treatments and current pricing, we recommend reviewing the spa menu or confirming directly with the hotel before your visit.
Fitness Center and Recreation
For guests who want to stay active during their trip, Santa Marina has a fitness center equipped with Technogym equipment, including cardio machines, strength-training equipment, and free weights. Hotel guests can access the gym at no extra cost, making it easy to fit in a workout without leaving the property.
The resort also has a tennis court for guests who prefer to spend some of their activity time outdoors. We could not confirm a dedicated pickleball court, so guests interested in playing should check with the hotel about current facilities and equipment availability.
Boating and Island Excursions
Santa Marina’s private marina is one of its most distinctive features, giving guests convenient access to on-the-water experiences. The hotel operates private boat experiences and can arrange boat transfers, including trips to Mykonos Town and some of the island’s beach clubs. For guests who want to explore beyond Mykonos, the hotel can also arrange tailor-made excursions throughout the Cyclades.
Popular options include swimming and snorkeling excursions, beach picnics, and dining aboard a traditional Kaiki. Guests can also arrange trips to nearby islands and destinations, including Delos, Rhenia, Tinos, and Antiparos.
Delos is particularly convenient to visit by boat, with the journey taking approximately 15 minutes by speedboat or around 50 minutes aboard a traditional Kaiki. It is a worthwhile excursion for guests interested in the island’s archaeological sites and history, while Rhenia offers a different kind of day out, with opportunities to swim and enjoy the surrounding water.
Arranging private transfers and tailor-made excursions directly through the resort is especially useful for guests who want to explore the area without coordinating every detail themselves. We recommend discussing your plans with the hotel in advance, particularly during the busier summer months.
Visiting Santa Marina with Kids
Santa Marina has several features that make it suitable for families, including family-friendly accommodations, connecting rooms, and multi-bedroom suites and villas. The protected beach, with its gradual water entry, is another advantage for families with younger children, while the family-friendly Elais Pool offers an additional place to enjoy the water. There is also a large children’s playground on the property, giving younger guests space to play.
However, Santa Marina does not offer a traditional kids’ club with supervised programming where parents can leave their children in someone else’s care. Families should keep this distinction in mind when comparing resorts, particularly if organized children’s activities are a priority. Babysitting may be available, but arrangements and availability should be confirmed directly with the hotel before booking.
Overall, Santa Marina offers a good mix of family-friendly amenities, wellness, and recreation, with the spa and fitness center providing on-property options and the private marina opening up opportunities to explore the surrounding islands. It is a strong option for families who value spacious accommodations, beach and pool access, and independent activities, rather than relying on a dedicated kids’ club.
Planning Your Stay at Santa Marina
Before booking Santa Marina, consider a few practical details, from the best time to visit to how long to stay and where the resort sits compared with other luxury hotels on Mykonos. Santa Marina is particularly well suited to travelers who want a full resort experience, with a private beach, multiple pools, dining, wellness facilities, and easy access to the island’s social scene without staying right in the middle of it.
Best Time to Visit
Mykonos’ peak season is July and August, when the island is at its busiest. These months suit travelers who want to experience the height of the island’s social season, with its beach clubs, nightlife, and lively atmosphere. They also bring the greatest demand for hotels and transportation, so planning ahead is especially important.
May and June, along with September and October, are the shoulder-season months. June and September can be particularly appealing, with warm weather and somewhat less peak-season intensity than the height of summer. These months offer a balance for travelers who want to enjoy the beach and explore the island while avoiding some of the busiest weeks.
How Long to Stay
We recommend about three to five nights at Santa Marina, depending on how much of Mykonos you want to explore and how much of your trip you want to spend at the resort.
Three nights works well if Mykonos is one stop on a larger Greece itinerary. It gives you time to enjoy the beach and pools, have a few meals at the resort, and explore the island. For guests who want to make more use of the spa, take a private boat excursion, and enjoy a slower pace alongside time in Mykonos Town, four or five nights is a better fit.
If Santa Marina is part of a larger Greece itinerary, our Destination Spotlight: Greece can help you compare Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and other stops. If Athens is on your itinerary, explore our Four Seasons Astir Palace Athens review and One&Only Aesthesis review for another luxury stay to pair with Mykonos.
Who Santa Marina Is Best For
Santa Marina is a strong fit for travelers who want the convenience and amenities of a full-service luxury resort rather than a hotel that functions primarily as a place to sleep between outings. Its private sandy beach, multiple pools, dining options, spa, and private marina make it particularly appealing to beach-focused travelers and guests who want plenty to do without leaving the property.
The resort also suits couples and honeymooners who want a mix of relaxation and access to Mykonos’ restaurants and nightlife. Families benefit from the protected beach, family-friendly pool, and range of connecting rooms, suites, and villas. For multigenerational groups or larger parties, the private villas offer additional space and privacy.
It is also a good option for travelers who want to enjoy Mykonos Town and the island’s social scene without staying in the middle of the action. Santa Marina provides a more contained resort environment while keeping the island’s main attractions within reach by car or boat.
Things to Consider Before Booking
Santa Marina is set on a hilly property, with stairs and changes in elevation throughout the resort. Room placement can make a meaningful difference, particularly for guests with mobility concerns or anyone who would prefer to minimize walking between their accommodation, the beach, and the restaurants. Room layouts can also vary even within the same category, so it is worth discussing your preferences with the hotel before confirming a booking.
The resort is not directly in Mykonos Town, which means most off-property dining and nightlife plans require transportation. During peak season, getting around Mykonos can be challenging, especially at popular times of day and evening. We recommend arranging transportation through the concierge in advance and sharing any specific needs around mobility, room location, views, or privacy when booking.
We did not identify any major current guest-facing renovation or closure during our research. However, seasonal work and room renovations can change, so it is always worth confirming directly with the hotel before your stay.
Santa Marina vs Four Seasons, Kalesma, and Fouquet’s Mykonos
Our Take: Choose Santa Marina for a private sandy beach, families, villas, and a traditional full-service resort experience. Choose Four Seasons Mykonos for the most polished overall beach resort experience, Kalesma for privacy and a more intimate boutique atmosphere, and Fouquet’s for travelers prioritizing Mykonos nightlife and beach clubs.
Mykonos has several luxury hotels with very different settings and personalities. Santa Marina, Four Seasons Mykonos, Kalesma, and Fouquet’s Mykonos can all appeal to luxury travelers, but each property’s location, atmosphere, and approach to the resort experience shape the stay.
Our Take
| Category | Four Seasons | Kalesma | Santa Marina | Fouquet’s |
| Best for families | ⭐ | ⭐ | ||
| Best beach | ⭐ | ⭐ | ||
| Best location | ⭐ | |||
| Best views | ⭐ | ⭐ | ||
| Best privacy and couples | ⭐ | ⭐ | ||
| Best for nightlife | ⭐ | |||
| Best for returning visitors | ⭐ | ⭐ |
Santa Marina’s biggest distinction is its combination of a private sandy beach, established resort infrastructure, and relatively convenient access to Mykonos Town. The private peninsula setting gives the property a sense of separation from the island’s busier areas, while its marina and boat experiences make it easy to explore beyond the resort.
Santa Marina vs Four Seasons Mykonos: Santa Marina is less about seclusion and more about combining a beachfront resort stay with easy access to the island. Four Seasons is located farther east and offers a newer, more tucked-away resort environment. Your choice depends partly on whether you want Santa Marina’s private beach and proximity to town or prefer a more secluded setting.
Santa Marina vs Kalesma: Santa Marina offers a more traditional full-service resort experience. Kalesma is smaller and more intimate, with a stronger emphasis on design and a boutique atmosphere. It lacks a comparable private sandy beach, which matters for travelers who expect to spend much of their stay by the water. Santa Marina is a better fit for guests who want the beach and resort amenities central to their trip, while Kalesma may appeal to those drawn to a quieter, more intimate hotel experience.
Santa Marina vs Fouquet’s Mykonos: Santa Marina offers a different balance between relaxation and social access. Fouquet’s is closer to Paraga and Scorpios, making it particularly convenient for travelers whose plans revolve around beach clubs and nightlife. Santa Marina has its own lively option at Buddha-Bar Beach, but its private beach, multiple pools, and broader resort facilities create a more varied atmosphere. This distinction matters for travelers who want to enjoy Mykonos’ social scene without making it the focus of every day.
Ultimately, Santa Marina’s defining combination is its private sandy beach, protected swimming cove, private marina, full-service amenities, and access to Mykonos Town. It offers a resort experience that accommodates couples, families, and larger groups while keeping the island’s restaurants, beach clubs, and nightlife within reach.
Santa Marina Mykonos: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Santa Marina Mykonos worth staying at?
Yes, particularly for travelers who want a full-service luxury resort with a private sandy beach, multiple pools, villas, dining, and easy access to Mykonos Town. It is especially well suited to families and travelers who plan to spend meaningful time at the resort.
Does Santa Marina Mykonos have a private beach?
Yes. Santa Marina has a private sandy beach along a protected section of Ornos Bay, with calm water and beachside food and drink service.
How many pools does Santa Marina Mykonos have?
Santa Marina has two principal resort pools: the adults-only Oasis Pool and the family-friendly Elais Pool. Select suites and villas also have private pools.
Is Santa Marina Mykonos family friendly?
Yes. Santa Marina is one of our top choices for families in Mykonos, with a protected beach, family pool, connecting rooms, multi-bedroom accommodations, villas, and a playground. It does not offer a traditional supervised kids’ club.
How far is Santa Marina from Mykonos Town?
Santa Marina is located on Ornos Bay, approximately 10 minutes from Mykonos Town by car, depending on traffic. We recommend arranging transportation in advance during peak season.
What is the best time to visit Santa Marina Mykonos?
June and September are particularly appealing for warm weather with somewhat less intensity than peak season. July and August are best for travelers who want Mykonos at its liveliest.
How many nights should you stay at Santa Marina?
We recommend three to five nights. Three nights works well as part of a larger Greece itinerary, while four or five nights allows more time to enjoy the resort, spa, beach, and private boat excursions.
What restaurants are at Santa Marina Mykonos?
The resort’s main dining and drinks concepts include Buddha Bar Beach Mykonos, Elais Restaurant, Santa Marina Beach Lounge, and Oasis Pool & Lounge.
Does Santa Marina Mykonos have a spa and gym?
Yes. Ginkgo Spa offers treatment rooms, a hammam, sauna, steam room, and salon. The resort also has a fitness center with Technogym equipment.
Can you take a boat trip from Santa Marina Mykonos?
Yes. Santa Marina has a private marina and can arrange private boat experiences, transfers, and excursions throughout the Cyclades, including Delos and Rhenia.
How does Santa Marina compare with Four Seasons Mykonos?
Choose Santa Marina for its private sandy beach, proximity to Mykonos Town, villas, and established resort setting. Four Seasons Mykonos offers a newer, more secluded resort experience.
How does Santa Marina compare with Kalesma?
Santa Marina is better suited to travelers wanting a full-service beachfront resort, while Kalesma offers a smaller, more intimate and design-focused experience.
How does Santa Marina compare with Fouquet’s Mykonos?
Santa Marina offers a broader resort experience with a private beach, pools, spa, and marina. Fouquet’s is better positioned for travelers prioritizing proximity to Paraga, Scorpios, and the island’s nightlife.
Does Santa Marina Mykonos have private villas?
Yes. Santa Marina has 12 private villas, making it particularly appealing for families, multigenerational groups, and larger parties.
Is Santa Marina Mykonos suitable for guests with mobility concerns?
The property is hilly, with stairs and elevation changes throughout the resort. Room placement matters, so we recommend discussing mobility needs before booking.
Booking Santa Marina Mykonos Through Ourisman Travel
Booking Santa Marina Mykonos through Ourisman Travel means having an advisor who can help you navigate the resort’s room and villa categories, communicate your preferences directly with the hotel, and coordinate the details of your stay. Whether you’re deciding between a sea-view suite and a private villa, planning a special occasion, or arranging boat excursions and transportation around the island, we can help make the process easier from the start.
Our Hotel Only service is completely complimentary, while our Tailored Luxury planning service can coordinate a more complex Greece itinerary, including multiple islands, private transfers, ferries and flights, yacht charters, restaurants, beach clubs, and personalized experiences.
Santa Marina STARS Benefits
As a member of Marriott’s STARS program, Santa Marina offers exclusive benefits when you book through our advisory. Eligible reservations include:
- Priority for complimentary room upgrades, based on availability upon arrival
- A welcome amenity featuring a bottle of wine and a local delicacy, or a bottle of Champagne and a local delicacy for villa reservations
- Complimentary daily breakfast for two
- A $100 USD hotel credit, or local currency equivalent, valid at Oasis Pool & Lounge, Elais Restaurant, and Ginkgo Spa
- Early check-in and late check-out, based on availability
- First priority for requested room categories, bed types, rollaways, and connecting rooms
- First priority on waitlists when the hotel is sold out
These benefits can add meaningful value to your stay, particularly if you plan to enjoy the resort’s restaurants, spa, or other on-property experiences. We can review the available rates and benefits with you before booking.
Current Promotions at Santa Marina
Santa Marina also offers seasonal promotions that may combine with STARS amenities, depending on the booking terms and dates.
Stay Longer On Us
For stays of three nights or more, Santa Marina’s Stay Longer On Us offer provides savings off the Best Available Rate:
- 3 nights: 10% off
- 4 nights: 15% off
- 7 nights: 20% off
The offer includes STARS amenities and is listed as valid for stays from May 6 through October 18, 2026.
Exclusive Romantic Stay
For couples planning a romantic escape, Santa Marina’s Exclusive Romantic Stay offer includes:
- Daily breakfast at Elais Restaurant
- A welcome bottle of Champagne in the room upon arrival
- A complimentary Ginkgo Harmonia Couples Massage
- STARS program amenities
A minimum two-night stay is required. This offer is particularly appealing for honeymoons, anniversaries, or a special getaway for two.
Promotions, rates, and availability can change, and some offers may have additional terms or restrictions. We can check which promotions apply to your dates and help you compare the available options.
Book Santa Marina Mykonos
Ready to book Santa Marina Mykonos? Email us at [email protected] or submit our Travel Request Form to check current rates, availability, promotions, and Marriott STARS benefits and start planning your stay.
If you’re still exploring your options, we have several resources to help you, including our complimentary booking tool, a Preferred Hotels Map, and detailed blog posts. We look forward to helping you plan your trip to Mykonos.
Continue Planning Your Greece Trip
Whether you’re planning a single destination or a multi-stop itinerary, these guides may be helpful:
Planning Your Trip
Athens & Mainland Greece
Greek Islands
- Andronis Boutique Hotel (Santorini)
- Naxian Collection (Naxos)
- Four Seasons Mykonos
- Fouquet’s Mykonos
- Kalesma Mykonos
