Plaza Beach Hotel

Expansive stretches of white sands fronting crystalline waters are a big draw here, as is the peaceful setting a half-hour bus ride from Naxos. Travelers come here to get away from it all, and a huge freeform pool with separate hot tub, snack bar, kiddy pool, and tiki-shaded loungers are lovely amid palm-flanked lawns. The thatched look continues on the beach (which is across the street), where service from the pool bar feels exclusive, but loungers and umbrellas here incur fees. Neat stone paths divide the property's low-rise structures, where whitewashed or exposed stone is traditionally Cycladic, and frieze details at the front desk continue the look indoors. Plants and marble pillars are presentable in the spacious lobby, but fabric sofas and wood trim are underwhelming, as is the cafeteria feel during poorly rated breakfasts. Plenty of seating next to the pool -- the property's focal point -- provides a lovely al fresco experience, and lack of any animation of entertainment keeps things quiet.

It's more dusty roads and fields than organized infrastructure here, although the hotel is across the street from Plaka Beach (arguably the island's prettiest). White sands and turquoise waters stretch for miles here, although families may want to head east, as western stretches attract nude sunbathers (common in Greece). With the pool bar's service extending here, tidy rows of straw umbrellas and loungers look swanky, although they're at a fee. Naxos' town, port, restaurants, and Venetian Castle are a 16-minute drive, or half-hour bus ride, and the hotel sells bus tickets -- of which the stop is right outside. The route also runs to Agia Anna. Naxos Port transfers are free. Naxos National Island Airport is seven minutes away by car.

All with furnished balconies or terraces, rooms are outfitted in traditional, underwhelming decor, which can be dark and dated, or bright and pleasant. Light-tiled floors and walls with simple artwork have character, as do Cycladic archways or exposed brick. Faded striped-russet or earth-toned bedspreads and tube TVs are in need of a refresh, although some smarter-looking rooms have cream-hued bedding and flat-screen TVs. Family Rooms have sofa beds, and Deluxe Rooms offer romantic canopied poster beds and more living space. Garden View rooms can include unattractive buildings or pipework, while upgraded units have lateral or full sea views.

Wardrobes with mini-fridges and electronic safes come standard, alongside phones, hairdryers, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Tea- and coffee-making facilities are not provided. Note, beds can be twins pushed together, and past guests have found beds too firm, although both are common throughout Greece.

Outdoor features here are more impressive than the restaurant's buffet breakfasts and Greek or Mediterranean meals, and guests spend most of their time poolside or at the beach. Straw umbrellas shade multiple areas, from the huge freeform pool's adjacent loungers, to those at the beach, as well as the pool's snack bar. Wood or white-wicker dining offers sunny or shaded seating, and all-day light bites and drinks are well-priced. The pool area also houses a large whirlpool, kids' pool, and lawn space, where a small play area with colorful slides offers family fun. Spa facilities are limited, but decent for the value rate, with a sauna, steam room, and massage treatments available. There's also an indoor gym with a handful of cardio, resistance, and free weights equipment, although they're outdated. The lobby provides lounge space indoors, where the on-site convenience store sells essentials and bus tickets. Pets are not permitted. Naxos Port transfers, on-site parking, and property-wide Wi-Fi are all free.