The mid-range Solimar Aquamarine Hotel is five minutes by foot to the beach in Platanias, with little to do nearby. Most of the 104 rooms are bland but comfortable, outfitted with sofa beds, mini-fridges, and bathtubs; upgraded rooms have nicer decor. Wi-Fi is available with a fee. On-site features are limited for an all-inclusive hotel: There is one restaurant, one large pool, and no spa. Kids have access to a large outdoor playground, indoor club, and kiddy section at the pool. Guests looking for a more central location might check out Amalthia Beach Resort, which has direct beach access and more to do in its immediate vicinity.

Budget leisure travelers looking for clean, basic accommodations may enjoy the 65 studio and one-bedroom apartment-style rooms at the Camari Garden Apartments. A two-pearl property, it's an ideal place for couples seeking an affordable home base for exploring the surrounding area. It doesn't have many luxuries, though the outdoor, mountaintop pool with views of the Cretan Sea is a popular place for guest gathering. An on-site restaurant serves excellent, local cuisine.