Situated on the northern coast of Crete, Malia wears its most obvious attractions very proudly on its sun-kissed sleeves. The stunning main beach stretches out in front of the town, with several other smaller ones to the east and west, offering gorgeous stretches of golden sand and warm, inviting water. It’s become one of the island’s most well-liked resorts, hosting everyone from families to energetic groups of friends.
Being so popular means you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation, but if you really want to get a taste of local hospitality I recommend booking a stay in one of the smaller, boutique hotels. I’ve chosen the ones below as my top picks because of their excellent facilities and proximity to a host of surrounding attractions. So say ‘yassou’ to these Creatan gems – you’ll be very happy you did.
Ammos Boutique Apartments & Suites
In a superb setting just a few metres from the ocean and a short, easy walk to the town centre, the elegant Ammos Boutique Apartments & Suites is perfectly situated to take advantage of the beach and all the other surrounding highlights of the region. Offering beautiful suites and apartments with a terrace or balcony, there’s plenty of time to relax when you’re there. However, if you want to do something there’s plenty to keep you occupied – you can even hire a bike from reception and go exploring!
Out and About
Ammos is just 2km from the important archaeological site of Malia, which includes the remains of a Minoan Palace. These fascinating ruins are a must-see for history lovers and are super easy to access (from all my recommended hotels actually). Two of the best beaches in the region – Aeolos Beach and Akrogiali Beach – are just 200 metres away.
Eat, Drink and Eat and Drink Some More!
You won’t go hungry while staying in this wonderful location and there’s a superb selection of restaurants within strolling distance (under 1km away), including:
- Odas Taverna (very traditional Greek cuisine)
- Philoxenia (cocktails and more)
- Kalispera (homely and cosy)
- Revolution Café Bar (fabulous coffee)
- The Brasserie (a busy and sociable sports bar)
Sunvillage Malia
With the beach on its doorstep, Sunvillage Malia Boutique Hotel & Suites is in one of the best locations you can imagine. The tastefully renovated hotel is nestled amongst lush gardens, and you can take in views of the mountains and ocean as you have a massage or laze on the sun terrace around the pool. Sounds wonderful, doesn’t it? It definitely is, but there are also plenty of other things to do nearby if you can manage to drag yourself away.
Beaches and Dining Within Walking Distance
The hotel can organise excursions for you further afield, but there is also so much to do within walking distance, including a change of beach scenery at Malia, Akrogiali and Nisos Beaches (you can try a new one every day).
Looking for variety when it comes to sampling the cuisine? You’ll get as much as you like in these nearby establishments, with none of them any more than 1.4km away (and most of them far less):
- Malia Port (great views and a fun, family atmosphere)
- Taverna Eva (traditional food, casual ambience)
- Drossia (great service, delicious fusion food)
- Candy Club (for the partygoers)
- Efcharisto (classic Greek food and music)
Alexander Beach Hotel
With a dream location in a magical 50,000m2 garden setting, and boasting superior, friendly service, the Alexander Beach Hotel & Village provides a tranquil base with everything at your fingertips. Set right next to the beach (yes, again, but why wouldn’t you be on an island?), you’ll also be spoilt onsite with tennis courts, five pools, two restaurants, five bars and a spa.
The hotel is also situated in a fantastic spot to enjoy some of the region’s best attractions, included the delightful villages of Malia and Stalis. You’re within easy reach of the Ammos archaeological site and the charming beaches (with Malia Beach right at your fingertips). When it comes to eating, drinking and enjoying some of the local hospitality, take a short walk to:
- Camelot (delicious seafood)
- Sergiani (more delicious seafood – bring an appetite)
- Mesoyiako (cocktails and beers right on the beach)
- Kotsos Fellas (just like the Greek mamas make!)
- San Giorgio (traditional cuisine, with authentic moussaka to die for)
How to Get There
Getting to Malia is easy as pie! With a flight time of around four hours from the UK, there are multiple carriers to get you directly to Heraklion N. Kazantzakis Airport.
The last thing you want to do is start your holiday off with a hassle, so I highly recommend you enlist the help of Shuttle Direct. They’ll get you straight from the airport to the door of your accommodation. If you pre-book before you leave home you can have a friendly driver waiting at the airport to transport you the short 30-minute drive to Malia.
About Shuttle Direct
If you’re looking for the most comfortable and convenient door-to-door ride from the airport to your chosen hotel in Malia, Shuttle Direct has you covered. We’re one of the most trusted names in airport transfers throughout Europe and North Africa, because we know how to keep your holiday travel hassle free. Just book online and one of our local drivers will meet you at the airport and deliver you straight to your accomodation. Start relaxing right away!
