9 Best Hotels in The Saronic Gulf Islands, Greece

An 1860 sponge factory was transformed into this charming character hotel (doors made out of old packing crates still bearing the "Piraeus sponge" stamp, etc.), which has a bevy of alluring delights, including guest-room decor accented with framed portraits, old engravings, four-poster ironwork beds, and cozy natural wood lofts, and the hotel restaurant—considered one of the island's best—which is set in the oleander-and-bougainvillea-graced courtyard. Refreshed in 2024, hints of the building's rustic past are visible in the Hydriot gray stonework, exposed-timber ceilings, and wide-plank floors. The bar-restaurant tables spill out poolside, dishing out mouth-watering gourmet Mediterranean fare. Not surprisingly, regulars return year after year.

Built in the 1970s and gradually expanded into a full-service resort, Apollo occupies a pine-covered hillside 10 minutes' walk above Agia Marina and its own rock-rimmed private cove. All rooms face either forest or the glittering Saronic Gulf, and a 2023 makeover freshened furnishings, bathrooms and balconies. The four-star property adds a saltwater pool, all-day restaurant and sunset bar.

Right in the middle of Hydra Town, this small upscale hotel has sparkling interiors with an elegant "old Greece" touch provided by an array of antique Hydriot rugs, mirrors, and lanterns—and some modern artworks by well-known Greek painters (Papanikolaou and Akrithakis to name two) thrown in to liven things up. Guest rooms are spacious and cool, with hardwood floors, classic wood furniture, and wonderful marble bathrooms; downstairs, look for a tiny patio and a comfortable breakfast room (where a buffet breakfast is served until 11 am daily). A spa facility is available.

A three-minute walk from Hydra's bustling port, this alluring place is composed of two villas in Hydra stone, with red barrel-tile roofs and garden areas; both have been restored and renovated to a high standard. Streamlined wood furniture and soft neutral colors predominate in the spacious guest rooms, with names like Sappho and Amazon, each with unique decor. Perks include hot tubs, flat-screen TVs, a wonderful terrace overlooking the street, perfect for relaxation, and Korres beauty products.

In an idyllic setting, this boutique hotel with eight relaxing, modern, and beautifully decorated suites offers panoramic views of the port and separate living-and-bedroom areas, plus a handy kitchenette. Serene white-washed interiors dominate, the pale palette punctuated by striped rugs and bright cushions designed by Greek artist Diamantis Aidinis. Many rooms gaze straight over the harbor; luggage can be whisked up the 150-step climb by the hotel’s porter (or a donkey, if you prefer). The two-level Maisonette is the most spacious option, sleeping up to four. Clean beach towels appear daily, and bathrooms are stocked with Apivita’s eco-friendly Greek toiletries.

Enjoy privacy, surrounded by greenery and the beach, at this spot, which dates back to the 1970s. Waiters can bring drinks to your lounge chair on the small private beach, and breakfast can be taken in bed, on your balcony, or in the terrace Maris restaurant. Blue-carpeted rooms have wood-veneer beds covered in plaid spreads, and balconies with either a stunning sea or a town view. The helpful staff can help you arrange excursions to mainland sights, and the hotel provides transportation on arrival and departure. The hotel also offers private villas.