Where to Stay in Marmari, Kos: The Best Areas and 15 Hotels

Marmari is located approximately 14 km west of Kos Town and is one of the island's most popular seaside resorts, thanks to its long sandy beach and shallow waters which make it ideal for families with young children. It's a destination primarily designed for relaxation, without a vibrant nightlife, but with enough amenities to ensure you want for nothing during your holiday.

In the area, you'll find everything from large all-inclusive hotels and adults-only resorts to smaller family accommodations and rental apartments a little further from the beach. Getting to Kos Town is easy by car or bus, while to the west, Tingaki continues the same sandy coastline with a slightly calmer atmosphere.

Below, you'll discover what's worth seeing and doing in Marmari, which areas suit your trip, and 15 specific hotels, divided by area, with indicative prices and brief descriptions to help you choose more easily.

What to See and Do in Marmari, Kos

Marmari is primarily known for its beach, one of the largest and best-organised in Kos, with fine sand and shallow waters that extend for several metres before deepening. This characteristic makes it one of the safest options for families with small children, while sunbeds and umbrellas cover a large part of the coast during the summer months. Along the shore, there are plenty of spots with sunbeds and umbrellas, as well as free sections for those who prefer to lay their own towel, while the wind that often blows in the afternoons makes the area popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Dining in Marmari relies mainly on tavernas and restaurants within or near hotels, offering fresh fish, Greek cuisine, and several options for tourists with international tastes. For a livelier evening out, Kos Town with its many restaurants and beachfront bars is about a 20-minute drive away, while nearby Tingaki also has its own small market with tavernas.

Beyond the main beach, a stroll around Aliki Lagoon is worthwhile, known for the flamingos that appear there mainly in autumn and spring, as is the fishing village of Mastichari, from where daily boats depart for Kalymnos. Kos Racecourse is also nearby and hosts horse races during the summer months.

For excursions, Kos Town with its Knights' Castle, the Agora, and Hippocrates' Plane Tree is about a 20-minute drive or bus ride away. The Asklepieion, the ancient healing site dedicated to Asclepius where Hippocrates taught, is also near the town, while further south, the village of Zia at the foot of Mount Dikaios is popular for its sunsets and tavernas. A little further afield, the village of Antimachia with its Venetian castle and the old airport from World War II offers a different, quieter side of the island, away from the tourist beaches.

Getting around is relatively easy, as the main road connects Marmari with Kos Town and Hippocrates Airport, which is about 15 minutes away. Public buses serve the area several times a day in summer, but if you want to visit more villages or beaches on the western side of the island, hiring a car or scooter helps a great deal.

The best time for holidays in Marmari is from mid-May to mid-October, with June and September standing out for milder temperatures and fewer crowds compared to July and August. In winter, most hotels in the area remain closed, so if you're planning a trip outside of summer, it's a good idea to check availability first.

Marmari essentially functions as a quieter alternative to the busier Kos Town, with the advantage of a large, well-organised beach close to your accommodation. It suits those who want a relaxing holiday with easy access to sights and excursions, without needing to stay within the town itself.

The Best Areas to Stay in Marmari

1. Central Marmari (beachfront), The most popular base, with direct access to the large sandy beach

Central Marmari is built along the beach, with most large hotels and resorts situated right on the seafront. The area has plenty of shops, scooter rentals, and tavernas nearby, and access to Kos Town is easy within 20 minutes. It suits families and couples who want comfort and an organised beach without needing to travel, although in August the beach can get quite crowded. In the evenings, the central area fills with families strolling after dinner, while many accommodations have their own swimming pool for days when the wind blows stronger and the sea isn't as calm.

Pros:

• Direct access to the large beach
• Many all-inclusive accommodations
• Plenty of dining options nearby

Cons:

• Crowded beach in summer
• Limited nightlife

Recommended accommodations:

1. Atlantica Marmari Beach
A large beachfront hotel, with a comprehensive all-inclusive programme and several dining and entertainment options within the complex. A popular choice for families who want to stay close to the sea.

• Average cost: approximately 130€ per night

2. SANDY BEACH
A beachfront hotel with comfortable rooms and basic amenities, suitable for those who want to spend most of their time on the beach and in the sunshine.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

3. Hotel Esperia
A medium-sized hotel with a simple, friendly atmosphere and close proximity to the beach. A good choice for couples and families not seeking luxury but comfort.

• Average cost: approximately 75€ per night

4. Eurovillage Achilleas Hotel
A hotel with a pool and spacious common areas, popular with families with children. The beach is within very easy walking distance.

• Average cost: approximately 100€ per night

5. Achilleas Beach Hotel Adults Only
An adults-only hotel next to the beach, with a calm atmosphere and comfortable rooms, ideal for couples seeking relaxation without children's noise.

• Average cost: approximately 110€ per night

2. Western Marmari (towards Tingaki), Quieter side, with boutique and adults-only accommodations

To the west, as Marmari borders Tingaki, the atmosphere becomes calmer, with smaller boutique hotels and adults-only resorts. The beach remains sandy and shallow, while shops and restaurants are fewer than in the centre. This area suits couples seeking tranquillity and those looking for better value for money, with a small commute for essentials. The sunset from this side of the beach is one of the most beautiful in the area, as the sun dips almost perpendicularly into the sea, which many visitors prefer to enjoy with a drink at a nearby bar.

Pros:

• Quieter environment
• Good choice for couples
• Access to a peaceful sandy beach

Cons:

• Fewer shops nearby
• Often requires a car or scooter

Recommended accommodations:

6. KOIA All - Suite Well Being Resort - Adults Only
An adults-only resort with suites and a calm atmosphere, designed for couples seeking comfort and rest away from the hustle and bustle. The common areas are well-maintained and quiet.

• Average cost: approximately 180€ per night

7. Nicolas Grand Suites, Adults Only
An adults-only suite hotel, with spacious rooms and a quiet environment, suitable for couples who prefer a little more space than a standard room.

• Average cost: approximately 150€ per night

8. Summer Village of Hippokrates - Adults only
An adults-only hotel with a simple, relaxed atmosphere and close access to the beach. A good choice for couples who want peaceful holidays without large crowds.

• Average cost: approximately 120€ per night

9. D' Andrea Lagoon All Suites - Adults Only
An adults-only suite complex, with a swimming pool and quiet common areas. It suits couples seeking upgraded accommodation without much commotion.

• Average cost: approximately 190€ per night

3. Quiet corners and small hotels in Marmari, Smaller accommodations and rentals, ideal for budget holidays

Inland Marmari, a few minutes from the beach, you'll find smaller hotels, rented rooms, and studios that offer good value for money. The area is quieter, without large complexes, and suits those who want simple accommodation with basic amenities, spending most of their time on the beach and on excursions. Travel to the coast is usually on foot or by scooter. Many visitors staying here prefer to rent bicycles for short distances, as the distances within Marmari are small and the road to the beach is easy and flat.

Pros:

• More affordable prices
• Quiet environment
• Good base for small families

Cons:

• Not always direct sea views
• Fewer amenities compared to large resorts

Recommended accommodations:

10. Kamara Apartments Marmari
Simple apartments with a kitchen, ideal for families who want to cook some of their own meals and have more freedom in their schedule.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

11. Cirillo Family Hotel-Christinas Studios
Family accommodation with studios and friendly service, close to the beach. A good choice for those who want personal contact with the owners and economical lodging.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

12. STUDIO ZOE Marmari
Small studios with basic amenities, suitable for couples or small families looking for a simple, affordable base for their holidays in Marmari.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

13. Bouradanis Art Hotel Marmari
A small hotel with a refined atmosphere and comfortable rooms, a reasonable distance from the beach. It suits couples who want peaceful accommodation in a human-sized establishment.

• Average cost: approximately 80€ per night

14. E-GEO Easy Living Resort Marmari
A small complex with simple rooms or apartments, close to Marmari's main shops. A good choice for those who want functional accommodation without high demands.

• Average cost: approximately 70€ per night

Practical Tips Before Booking

• Book early for August. Popular all-inclusive beachfront hotels fill up quickly, so if you're travelling in mid-summer, book your accommodation several months in advance.
• Consider renting a car or scooter. If you're staying further from the beach or want to visit Kos Town and other villages, having your own transport gives you more freedom.
• Choose adults-only if you seek tranquillity. Marmari has several adults-only hotels, ideal if you're travelling as a couple and want to avoid the hustle and bustle of family resorts.
• Ask about views or distance from the sea. Some accommodations advertise as being close to the beach but are a few minutes' walk away, so it's good to check the exact distance before booking.
• Go to the beach early in July and August. The best sunbeds and quietest spots on the beach are claimed early in the morning, especially during the busiest months. Also, in Marmari, the Meltemi wind blows quite strongly on some summer afternoons, which delights watersports enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Marmari from Kos Town?

Marmari is approximately 14 km from Kos Town, a journey that takes around 20 minutes by car or bus, depending on traffic in summer.

Is Marmari a good choice for families with children?

Yes, thanks to its long sandy beach with shallow waters, Marmari is considered one of the best choices in Kos for families with small children, with several hotels geared towards this audience.

Is there nightlife in Marmari?

Nightlife is limited, with some bars and restaurants near the hotels. For more lively entertainment, most visitors go to Kos Town.

What is the best time to holiday in Marmari?

June and September are considered ideal months, with good weather and fewer crowds compared to July and August, when the area is busier.

Do you need a car in Marmari?

If you stay in accommodation close to the beach and don't plan many excursions, it's not essential. However, if you want to explore other parts of the island, a car or scooter helps significantly.

How far is Kos Airport from Marmari?

Hippocrates Airport is about a 15-minute drive from Marmari, making it a convenient option for both arrival and departure.

Conclusion

Marmari mainly suits families with children and couples who want a peaceful holiday with direct access to a large, organised beach. If you're looking for a full all-inclusive programme, the beachfront hotels are the best base, while if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, the adults-only accommodations towards Tingaki are an ideal choice. For more affordable lodging, the smaller hotels and studios inland offer good value for money, with the beach always within easy reach.

See also our guides for where to stay in the Possidi Kassandra area and accommodation in Limenaria.