Anastasia Princess Hotel & Suites

The hotel's turquoise-and-whites color scheme is first visible in its simple, attractive exteriors. Whitewashed stone with turquoise trim dazzles against mountain backdrops, while potted red geraniums, cascading bougainvillea, white dolphin decor, and lanterns decorate the spaces. A narrow street divides the property's two wings, and while one is more modern than the other, both tote the same quirky and cheerful charm. The likewise upbeat welcome from brother owners (who named the hotel after their mother) is well-received, as is their attention to detail and helpful attitudes. Echoing sunny terraces outside, the nautical palette extends into the simple breakfast room and small, fun lobby with sail boats, a pebbled front desk, and seashell-filled wicker baskets. You'll see the odd family, but tranquility here is best-suited to relax-minded adults. Note, steps stagger levels throughout, though that's common in Santorini.

The hotel is around the block from Perissa Beach, making it just a few minutes' walk away. Black sands bordering blue waters here stretch for miles, and nearby mountains are dramatic. Tiki umbrellas and loungers can be hired, and some good beach bars and restaurants line a peaceful seafront promenade. Supermarkets are within a five-minute walk, as are busses running to capital, Fira (for breathtaking caldera views), and Oia (for spectacular sunsets). They are 22 and 45 minutes by car, respectively. Santorini Water Park and the Museum of Minerals and Fossils are five minutes away on foot. Many guests hire quad bikes or cars, although taxis are available. Santorini Airport is a 24-minute drive.

Fresh- and cheerful-looking studios in aquas, teals, and whites are outfitted in a mix of traditional Cycladic and contemporary decor. White walls and hardwood or stone floors are accented by colorful trim around cottage-like windows, and teal or aqua linens, painted wood furniture, and artwork. Backlighting, hanging lamps, succulents, and striped curtains add more appeal. Small dining areas have two chairs and adjacent basic kitchenettes have electric hot plates, kettles, coffeemakers, mini-fridges, and sinks, plus utensils and dishes, but they lack microwaves. Flat-screen TVs, desks, cushioned seating areas, AC, free Wi-Fi, and wardrobes with safes come standard. Modern, zen-like bathrooms have rainfall showers, hairdryers, and toiletries. All have furnished balconies or terraces overlooking the garden or pool, but some of the former are uninspired and face a wall. Upgraded Studios have separate living areas, and Apartments sleeping three have sofa beds, plus larger outdoor spaces. Rooms can be fitted with cribs.

Wrapped by flower-filled paths and exposed stone, two pools (one in each wing) are sun-drenched and spotless. The main pool is larger, but both offer charming views of colorful-painted stone, padded loungers, umbrellas, dining furniture, and sofas for lounging space. Each has a small adjacent bar serving well-priced and popular drinks, plus light lunches in the summer. Adjacent to the lobby, the small breakfast room offers buffet spreads of homemade cakes, pastries, cereals, Greek yogurts, and fresh fruits, alongside a changing array of cooked dishes. There's no full restaurant, however. The property also lacks a spa and gym, but most guests head to the lovely sandy beach a few minutes' walk away. At a fee, intimate boat trips are popular, and port/airport transfers are available. Pets are not permitted. On-site parking and Wi-Fi throughout are free.