Enorme Santanna Beach
New for Summer 2025 – contemporary feel and fresh facilities Just ~50m from the beach on Crete’s relaxed south coast Individual private-pool and swim-up rooms for a luxe upgrade Photogenic hillside setting with panoramic sea views Trio of freshwater pools including a cool rooftop plunge pool Free Wi-Fi throughout
Overview
Enorme Santanna Beach is a fresh, design-led bolthole on Crete’s sun-drenched south coast, terraced into a small hillside above the Libyan Sea. Think clean lines, whitewashed architecture and big sea views from many corners of the property. Three sleek freshwater pools – including a rooftop plunge pool – set the scene, while the beach waits just across the road. Half Board dining with themed buffet nights, a choice of chilled-out bars and a compact collection of only 69 rooms (many with either private or swim-up pools) make this a grown-up escape with a boutique feel.
Gallery
16 photos
Map & location
Ierapetra, Crete (Heraklion Area), Greece
Enorme Santanna Beach sits on the south coast of Crete, just outside Ierapetra – one of the sunniest spots in Greece and notably less developed than the island’s north. The hotel is built into a small hillside facing the Libyan Sea, so many public areas capture wide-open blue views.
Stroll about 50m down to the local beach for a dip, then wander a couple of kilometres into Ierapetra for seafront tavernas, flower-decked old-town streets and the small harbour where boats leave for Chrissi Island. This is a great base if you’re looking to combine pool time with low-key exploring, coastal drives and boat trips.
- Beach 50m (across the road)
- Ierapetra resort centre (harbour, tavernas, shops) 2.5km
- Approx. transfer time from airport 1 hour 30 minutes (from Heraklion – HER)
Facilities
Pool & outdoors
You’ll have three outdoor freshwater pools to flit between. Two are located at ground level with surrounding sunbathing areas, loungers and parasols, ideal for a lazy day of reading and dipping. Up top, a petite rooftop plunge pool creates a more exclusive, adults-leaning atmosphere with panoramic views over the sea and coastline. Pool towels are complimentary, so you can pack lighter.
The nearest beach is only around 50m away, accessed by crossing the road. This stretch of coast is typically more peaceful than the north, with clear water and a relaxed, local feel – perfect for unhurried swims and sunset strolls.
Spa, sports & wellness
Stay active in the compact but well-equipped, air-conditioned gym, fitted with cardio machines, a free-weights area and fixed strength equipment (minimum age 16 years; usually open 08:00–22:00).
When it’s time to slow the pace, head to the small spa for massage or beauty treatments (18+, extra charge; typical opening 09:30–18:00). Occasional evening entertainment, such as live music between April and September, brings a sociable but low-key ambience after dark.
A 24-hour-style reception team is on hand for luggage storage and local tips, and the whole property benefits from free Wi‑Fi so you can keep in touch or work remotely if needed.
Activities
? Air-conditioned gym with cardio and strength equipment (16+)
? Three freshwater pools, including rooftop plunge pool
? Occasional evening entertainment with live music (Apr–Sep)
? Sunset drinks by the rooftop pool or beach bar
? Easy access to boat trips from Ierapetra, including Chrissi Island (bookable locally)
Guest services
?️ Reception with luggage storage and local information
? Spa with massage and beauty treatments (18+, extra charge)
? Daily housekeeping in all rooms
? Free Wi‑Fi throughout hotel and rooms
?️ Bathrobes, slippers and in-room coffee facilities in most room types
? Assistance with local taxis and excursions (via reception; charges apply)
Food & drink
The heart of the food offering is the bright main restaurant, where Half Board guests enjoy buffet-style breakfast and dinner. Expect a mix of Mediterranean and international dishes, live show cooking and regular themed evenings, plus a pleasant terrace so you can dine with a sea breeze.
Three bars cover every mood: a relaxed beach bar for daytime refreshments by the sand, a casual lobby bar for a pre-dinner drink, and a rooftop pool bar serving drinks with far-reaching views. Smart-casual dress is usually requested at dinner (no beachwear in the restaurant or lobby bar).
Menus, opening hours, and how included items work with Half Board can change seasonally, so check the latest details in-resort. For reference on inclusions, see what All Inclusive typically includes.
Rooms
Double Room Sleeps 2
Sleeps: 2
Similar in style and amenities to the Single Room but with a double occupancy layout. Expect a balcony or terrace, modern shower room and all the essentials: Wi‑Fi, TV, air con, safe, bathrobe and slippers, kettle and coffee-making facilities.
Superior Room Sleeps 2–3
Sleeps: 2–3
More space for a longer stay, these rooms feature either a balcony or terrace and additional seating. Along with Wi‑Fi, TV, air conditioning and safe, you’ll have a fridge, kettle, coffee-making facilities, bathrobe and slippers, and a sleek shower bathroom.
Double Room with Private Pool Sleeps 2
Sleeps: 2
Step straight from your terrace into your own private pool. These rooms swap a standard balcony for a private terrace with sunbeds, creating a more secluded experience. Facilities include flat-screen TV, Wi‑Fi, air conditioning, safe, hairdryer, bathrobe and slippers, coffee-making facilities, kettle, fridge and a modern shower room.
Superior Room with Private Pool Sleeps 2–3
Sleeps: 2–3
All the extra space of a Superior plus a private swimming pool and furnished terrace with sunbeds. Great if you like the idea of lazy mornings by “your” pool before heading to the beach. In-room touches include fridge, TV, Wi‑Fi, air con, safe, kettle, coffee maker, bathrobe and slippers and daily cleaning.
Swim Up Double Room Sleeps 2
Sleeps: 2
Terrace rooms that open directly onto a semi-shared swim-up pool, usually shared with a handful of neighbouring rooms. Features include sunbeds on the terrace, Wi‑Fi, TV, air conditioning, safe, fridge, kettle, coffee-making facilities, bathrobe and slippers and a shower bathroom.
Swim Up Superior Room Sleeps 2–3
Sleeps: 2–3
The most spacious swim-up option, with a larger terrace leading onto a shared pool. Designed for couples or small groups looking for a sociable but upmarket pool experience. Facilities mirror the other upgraded categories: fridge, TV, Wi‑Fi, air con, safe, kettle, coffee-making facilities, bathrobe and slippers, hairdryer and walk-in shower.
*Images indicative; layouts/views may vary.
More info
Ierapetra offers a more authentic slice of Crete, with a flower-filled old town, a waterfront promenade and day trips to nearby Chrissi Island. The local language is Greek and the currency is the Euro (€). Crete is usually +2 hours ahead of the UK, and typical flight time from the UK to Heraklion is around 4.5 hours.
Seasonal facilities (such as entertainment, bar and pool opening times) may vary by month, weather or occupancy and some services incur local charges. Always check the most up-to-date information with the hotel on arrival.
For entry rules and health guidance see the UK FCDO Greece advice.
Prices & book
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Live availability and real-time offers. Low deposits, full ATOL protection.