Hotels near Santa Maria Beach

Santa Maria is the sociable counterpoint to the more sculptural Kolymbithres. An 800-metre arc of fine white sand, warm shallow water and organised beach clubs, it is the best place on the island to combine a proper swim with a full-service day club without heading into Mykonos-style intensity. Cabana Beach Club, Punda Coast (technically on the neighbouring stretch) and the more chill Santa Maria Surf Club all operate on this coastline in 2026, with sun-lounger sets from EUR 30 to EUR 80 per pair depending on location.

Access to the public sand is free, and the northern end of the bay is far quieter than the club section. Facilities include showers, water-sports rentals (SUPs, sailing dinghies, windsurf gear) and a scattering of tavernas back from the beach. The water is calm on most days and shelves gently, which makes it a favourite with families.

Pro Tip: Book beach club sun-loungers online at least 48 hours ahead in July and August - the front rows at Cabana and Punda Coast routinely sell out by breakfast on peak-summer days, and walking in on spec after 11:00 usually means the back row or nothing.