With hundreds of sun-drenched islands and a beach-strewn mainland lapped by blindingly blue seas, Greece is the perfect destination for those who want to relax with a loved one or enjoy some fun in the sun with adult friends. From a tropical-inspired resort with overwater bungalows to seaside hideaways with cave suites, couples in love will find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the romantic Greek sunsets and get pampered.
For those planning a getaway with friends, Greece’s boho-chic beach resorts and dynamic boutique hotels with poolside DJ sets, live music – and even stand-up comedy nights – are sure to please. Whether you’re planning a romantic stay with that partner or longing to kick back and enjoy some quality time with your loved ones, here’s our pick of the best adults-only hotels in Greece.
How we assess
Each hotel on this curated list has been visited by one of our expert reviewers, usually hosted free of charge. They stay at least one night, test at least one meal and try other experiences the hotel may have to offer.
The best adults-only hotels in Greece at a glance
Soothing views of sparkling Vlycha Bay, dining at the highly regarded Smeraldo Restaurant and exemplary service make this sophisticated resort an excellent local vanguard of what five stars represent. The overall look is an elegant mix of native stone, steel, glass, dark wood and water channels on the exterior, while inside, abundant natural light streams in through floor-to-ceiling windows and shades of spirit-lifting azure blue dominate the modern rooms. . Guests can easily reach Lindos and the ancient acropolis from the doorstep, as well as explore the less visited and relatively undeveloped south of Rhodes. Back at base, the Blue Flag beach has a well-maintained area for guests.
With a soothing sense of privacy and tranquility, ocean view suites and several fine restaurants, this adults-only resort is ideal for honeymoons or a romantic getaway. A stylish aesthetic combines muted tones, modernist sculptures and water features, while a large waterfall-fed infinity pool and manicured lawns sloping down to a small pebble beach with cabanas surrounding a bar add to the beachy luxury factor. A deft massage with delicious Germaine de Capuccini products can be booked at the spa and the concierges are on hand for tips and trips. As for the rooms, they all have sea views, some have a private pool or an outdoor hot tub, and most are open plan and have a classic or modern look.
Dome Noruz is a sprawling beach resort, inspired in design by the Venetian shipyards of Chania. It features a series of domed rooms and suites, grouped around two large swimming pools. One of these pools offers panoramic sea views and its own swim-up bar, while the other is located in the quiet zone. The vibe is beach-hip, and with exercise rooms, a nice spa, bean bags and loose cushions scattered around, plus a restaurant that serves plenty of healthy food, there’s a casual, cool atmosphere in this adult-oriented hotel. The style of the resort’s rooms is ultra-modern and serene, coastal, with amenities such as plunge pools or Jacuzzis.
Cool sophistication is the vibe of this Luxury Collection hotel in Oia. Hidden behind tall studded doors, the cluster of cavernous suites and villas with Cycladic-white facades stretches over the rim of the caldera. Guests are welcomed with house-made lemon drinks before heading to their adobe-style enclave of cool colors and mineral textures (with sizable terraces and picture frame windows). Several villas have pools, but for the best views choose the two-bed Mystery Villa, which has its own gym and infinity pool. Elsewhere there is a spa and two shared pools; the Infinity is located just off the bar, so great for sunset cocktails. For seafood and sea views, head to Charisma Restaurant. Other sites include a 150-year-old wine cave
Located on a slope just outside the tranquil coastal town of Agios Ioannis, this luxury Mykonos pad offers guests stunning views of the Aegean Sea and access to a private beach. Guests can use the spa at sister hotel Bill and Coo Suites and Lounge (five minutes’ drive), which offers Valmont therapies as well as arranging VIP services such as private jet services, yacht and sailing excursions. There are 15 suites at Bill & Coo Coast Suites, all with balconies and sea views, including the island of Delos, and some with a private hot tub or swimming pool. Intimate dinners can be arranged on the beach, with on-site dining options including a gourmet restaurant, a more traditional Greek restaurant and an all-day beach bar.
Built around huge winding lagoon pools, this stylish resort near Hersonissos is an adults-only aquatic wonderland, where couples lounge in sunken seating areas and islands dotted with beds and hammocks. The tropical ‘Love Island’ vibe is accentuated by minimalist style (all white with blonde wood, canvas and bamboo) and a gleaming, light-filled spa, while the rooms are all about the tropical-inspired décor. Best for privacy are the South Pacific-inspired overwater bungalows with private terraces, or island villas with private pools. There are several restaurants and guests can use the beach and facilities of the neighboring sister hotel Stella Village.
Nothing was left to chance in the redesign of this legendary Miramare hotel, which opened in 1962 and quickly turned into a celebrity magnet. Centuries-old olive trees stand proud among palms and lawns on a 400-meter-long beach where it’s deceptively easy to spend a day relaxing on sun loungers and cooling off in the aquamarine blue Ionian Sea. A new panoramic wing has recently been added to the site, converting a 1980s building, providing the resort with additional accommodation and amenities. The Seafront Wing offers accommodation close to the beach and pool, while the Panoramic Wing offers a hillside location.
This romantic retreat is a Paxos utopia, with attentive service, a small collection of beautifully designed suites and excellent breakfasts served on a shaded terrace overlooking the pool. There’s a real Secret Garden atmosphere to the property, thanks to its concealment behind a high stone wall with elaborately carved wooden doors, but once inside, guests are met by the tranquil trickle of a fountain, spiky vegetation and dazzling sea views. The design aesthetic is an eclectic mix of Greek and Moroccan influences, with terracotta urns and plump floor cushions in striking prints, while suites feature cozy sofas, sturdy wooden furniture and tactile carpets. They all feature an outdoor area, a small kitchenette and Korres amenities.
Adults get a refreshing treat at this hip but understated hotel near Mykonos Town (10 minutes’ walk). There are just 18 luxury suites, all of which have a furnished sea-view terrace, huge four-poster beds and marble showers; 11 have their own infinity pool. The hotel itself is small, but there is an impressive spa next door, shared with sister hotels Korali and Kyma. Chances are you’ll spend much of the day on the round loveseats or on the thickly cushioned lounge chairs by the large pool. In the restaurant you can enjoy Japanese-inspired dishes, showcasing the island’s excellent produce. The sea-view pool bar offers light snacks and shareable small plates. Almost everywhere in this resort you have views of the sea and the famous windmills of Mykonos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Greek island for adults?
Mykonos is known as a glamorous party island, attracting celebrities to its glitzy bars and beach clubs. In terms of architecture, the Venetian capital of Corfu is perfect for a stroll or a drink at the Liston Colonnade, while the Old Town of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a medieval centre.
Contributions by Catherine Cooper, Helen Iatrou, Caroline Shearing and Marissa Tejada