Image courtesy of Cali Mykonos
Next to Santorini, Mykonos is one of the most famous islands for travelers to visit in Greece. As a part of the Cycladic chain of islands that stretches out into the Aegean Sea, Mykonos is known for being the more wild and party-centric cousin to Santorini. From its bumping beachfront clubs to its stylish luxury hotels, Mykonos is known for its paradisiacal white-sand beaches (something rocky Santorini lacks).
Thankfully, there is a way to enjoy Mykonos besides Paradise Beach’s nightlife or the all-night ragers unfolding in Mykonos Town. From beach resorts to boutique hotels to luxury villas, trendy accommodations marry serenity, wellness and privacy. Not to mention many rooms come equipped with a private infinity pool or hot tub.
Kalesma Mykonos
Image courtesy of Kalesma Mykonos
Overlooking Ornos Bay, Kalesma is a relatively new five-star luxury hotel with white-washed walls and views of the sparkling sea. Setting itself apart from the party-heavy hotels and thumping beaches that dot this popular Greek island, Kalesma is an intimate and private sanctuary that has hosted A-list celebrities such as Paris Hilton and Kendall Jenner.
There are 27 luxurious rooms, and you’ll be hard-pressed to leave. Imagine spacious villas with private (and heated) infinity pools, indoor and outdoor showers, king-size beds, Cycladic gardens and a design capturing that elusive Myconian minimalism. If you do manage to peel yourself away from your own personal paradise, make sure to book one of the experiences offered by the hotel. There are Mediterranean cooking classes and shopping trips that will whisk you away to the nearby Mykonos Town.
Fora Perks:
Hotel / resort credit.
Welcome amenity.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort
Image courtesy of Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort
This beachfront resort has it all: views of the Aegean Sea, miles of quiet white-sand beaches and a location just a short walk from the bustling Mykonos Town. As at other Greek hotels, rooms at Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort are the quintessential blue and white, with the option of having a private balcony, a garden-facing terrace or sea views.
Look no further than the luxury grand private pool suite for a true splurge. The suite has two lavish bedrooms and a private infinity pool overlooking the Aegean Sea. With its Bulgari bath amenities to sprawling terrace, the pool suite is the perfect option for families looking for a special getaway with the kids. In fact, the Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort is arguably one of the best family-friendly Mykonos hotels you’ll find. (Read more about the best Greek islands for families.)
While here, take advantage of the Althea Luxury Spa — named for the healing Greek goddess, Althea — that boasts an extensive list of soothing facials, relaxing massages and personalized wellness therapies. (Don't miss the Aegean body scrub.)
Fora Perks:
Hotel / resort credit.
Welcome amenity.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Santa Marina, a Luxury Collection Resort, Mykonos
Image courtesy of Santa Marina, a Luxury Collection Resort, Mykonos
This gorgeous five-star hotel sits on a private beach on the sought-after Ornos Bay, making it a true paradise and one of the best hotels on the island. Although the hotel is located in a relatively popular area, it manages to retain a sense of privacy, in large part because it can be found on a gated peninsula. Santa Marina is only a 15-minute drive from Mykonos Island Airport, although those looking for a splashier arrival can use the resort’s on-site helipad.
The beachfront resort has 114 rooms and villas, many of which come with private plunge pools. Rooms at Santa Marina are stylish and design-forward, which is a welcome change from the reigning minimalist style across other Mykonos hotels. Rather than being the eponymous blue and white, the rooms at Santa Maria are decorated with natural elements (think bamboo accents and wooden coffee tables), with crisp white bedding and black furniture.
Santa Marina also offers tennis courts for active travelers, an adults-only swimming pool for couples, a kids' club for parents and expansive Wi-Fi coverage for those working remotely.
Fora Perks:
Hotel / resort credit.
Welcome amenity.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Cali Mykonos
Image courtesy of Cali Mykonos
This luxury beach hotel offers a peaceful and private stay that contrasts with the rest of this party island’s vibe. This newcomer boasts a collection of 40 villas — designed to resemble Cycladic houses — tucked between mountains and sea views. Every villa has its own private pool, while the entire hotel design is built with continuity in mind, seamlessly flowing from indoors to outdoors.
This Mykonos hotel feels a bit like a private island, with its own stretch of beach and a saltwater infinity pool that stands in the center of the property, affording swimmers poolside views of the Aegean Sea. Don’t skip the on-site restaurant, which lovingly serves a menu inspired by local Greek produce.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit.
Welcome amenities.
One complimentary beach club boat transfer.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Blue Villas Mykonos
Blue Villas belongs in a category all its own. These privately owned villas combine the feel of having your own home with the ease of hotel services, such as a concierge and housekeeping. Choose from over 100 Greek-owned and operated properties from entry-level, signature and private levels.
You can't go wrong with the Psarou Delight villa, which stands right above the famous Psarou Beach. Considered one of the most stunning villas, the Psarou Delight has everything you’ll need for a true Myconian stay, including a heated jacuzzi, a massive infinity pool, a private gym and (of course) panoramic views of the sea. The villa is a stellar option for families, even offering highchairs and baby cots for those traveling with little ones.
And if you’re thinking that staying in a privately owned villa means cooking your own meals, think again. Blue Villas has a gastronomy team ready to cook and serve you fresh Mediterranean fare right in the comfort of your villa.