I prefer to warn you right away: Santorini is not a paradise for lovers of large white sandy beaches. But the black sand beaches, the caldera, and the magnificent clear waters of the Aegean Sea make them unique in the world. In Santorini, there is something for everyone: the tranquil ones, the crowded ones, the rugged ones, the long ones, the fine ones.
You will find in this list the beaches that suit you to spend a perfect day.
Kamari Beach, Santorini
Located 10 km from Fira, Kamari Beach is easily accessible and very popular among tourists for its black sand, blue waters, and the impressive Mesa Vouna mountain at its end. Family-friendly, it is well-organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, and many restaurants, bars, and cafes nearby.
There are also diving and water sports stands available. Plus, it’s a good place to stay because the village is charming, with multiple white buildings scattered along the waterfront. It’s generally cheaper, and you can find many viewpoints.
It’s also a great place for an evening stroll and to admire the view of the rock formation emerging from the sea, glistening in the moonlight.
Perissa Beach
Located on the other side of Mesa Vouno, Perissa Beach is easily accessible by bus. Like Kamari, it is well-organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, restaurants, taverns, and bars. You can also find water activities and diving here. In fact, we did our jet ski tour from this beach!
A very good place to enjoy a delicious cocktail while lying in the incredible black sand of Santorini. You can dive into the clean and clear waters of Perissa. In the evening, you can enjoy music from various DJs and parties.
The ruins of the ancient city of Thera are a few kilometers away at the top of Mesa Vouno. You can reach it by a trail through the mountain or go there directly by car/quad. It’s a very beautiful place to visit, and one of my favorites in Santorini.
Perivolos Beach, Santorini
Perivolos Beach is simply an extension of Perissa Beach and is equally beautiful. The black sand continues to glisten, but the atmosphere becomes more tranquil. It’s also the longest beach on the island, with azure waters and umbrellas.
There are fewer hotels and restaurants along the waterfront. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a peaceful swimming spot on Santorini. Nevertheless, you can still find some luxury hotels and bars for chilling in the afternoon. Inland from the beach, you’ll find a beautiful countryside that’s truly enjoyable to explore.
Red Beach – Santorini Beaches
If you’re looking for one of the most famous beaches in Santorini, it’s definitely Red Beach. As the name suggests, it’s a mixture of red pebbles, sand, and rocks that create an unreal gradient of red.
It looks like a place straight out of a painting. The contrast between the red cliffs and the azure blue sea in an isolated cove is incredible. Although it’s not very large, you’ll have a hard time finding a more unforgettable panorama.
Located near the old town of Akrotiri and its museum, you can reach it on foot or park nearby. Boat trips are also available and will take you directly to Red Beach.
If you go all the way to the beach, be sure to wear walking shoes. The winding path leading to the beach is steep and rocky. Although it’s somewhat challenging to reach, it’s very popular and for good reason.
Personally, I recommend stopping at the promontory, from where you’ll have a magnificent view of the beach. And I urge you to be extremely cautious if you decide to go all the way to the beach. It’s essential to understand that the beach is located at the foot of a cliff, and rockfalls are frequent. At the very least, consider getting international insurance like Chapka.
Monolithos Beach
Monolithos Beach is family-friendly and one of the best sandy beaches on the island. In fact, it’s one of the only ones where you can build a sandcastle.
Take off your shoes and sink your toes into one of the few real sandy beaches in Santorini. Bring your kids to have fun on the beach, build sandcastles, and play volleyball. Here, there are no cliffs or other dangerous elements: you can safely dive into the refreshing water.
This secluded corner of the island is beautifully calm, and you’ll find only a handful of hotels and restaurants. While some consider the beach too quiet, if you’re looking for a more private spot, you’ll love this beach.
However, Monolithos Beach is not devoid of activity – kite surfing and other water sports are available. There are also restrooms and sunbeds.
Vlychada Beach, Santorini
Vlychada Beach is partially organized with sunbeds and umbrellas. But you need to arrive early if you want a spot because there are far fewer than on other beaches. With black sand and pebbles, it’s a beautiful place to spend time. You’ll also find a picturesque harbor with fishing boats and moored yachts.
But the real point of interest on this beach is the white cliffs with stunning rock formations, eroded by the wind over the years. It stretches around the bay like a crescent moon. The undulating white facade stands as a work of art by the beach, creating a surreal atmosphere.
You’ll find a relaxing and peaceful place here, without noisy water sports or beach bars. Oh, and there’s the Tomato Museum. Yes, you read that right, the Tomato Museum.
Ammoudi Bay
Ammoudi Bay is potentially the best swimming spot on Santorini. It’s a beautiful bay that resembles a giant swimming pool. There’s no large beach, and the fun comes from jumping off the rocks along the shore into the azure water.
There are 250 steps to reach the bay, but it’s definitely worth it. To find the beach, follow the marked path that descends from Oia to the Ammoudi port, then take the path that winds along the waterfront. If you drive to the bay, be cautious, as parking can be quite challenging.
It’s an ideal spot for adventurous travelers looking for something different. You can also enjoy the restaurants at the Ammoudi port. Honestly, it’s a super romantic place to spend the evening, while witnessing a spectacular sunset.
Eros Beach in Santorini
Located on the south coast of the island, Eros is a charming and secluded beach, surrounded by breathtaking cliffs. Named after the Greek word for “love,” Eros is a romantic spot for couples looking to enjoy a beachside getaway.
The beach is pebbly, but the water is clear, and there’s a really nice beach bar at the back. Admire the indigo waves, then relax under one of the luxurious gazebos. However, sunbeds and umbrellas can be excessively expensive here due to a monopoly, so consider bringing your own towel.
The path to access the beach is a dirt trail, which can be somewhat chaotic in places. And no buses serve Eros, so you’ll need to find your own way there.
White Beach – Santorini Beaches
White Beach is a must-visit destination in Santorini and personally, my favorite on the island.
Only accessible from the sea by catamaran, the beach boasts beautiful black sand against striking white cliffs and faces the stunning cerulean waters of the Aegean Sea.
Visiting White Beach is an adventure in itself. Whether by catamaran or jet ski, the beach is an incredible spot for swimming and enjoying the water. It’s also where you’ll find the clearest and cleanest water in Santorini.
Discover the Best of Santorini
Article mis à jours le 5 September 2023 par Pierre Bouyer
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