The 12 Best Beaches in Santorini
Do you want to know which are the best beaches in Santorini? We already told you that few places in the world can compare with this island in terms of the beauty of its coastal landscapes. Finding an island where towns hang from imposing cliffs and black volcanic sand beaches is not easy.
It is important to know that although the beaches of Santorini do not reach the level of those of Naxos, Paros or Mykonos, we do believe that it is worth investing one or two days to enjoy some of them, such as the surprising Red Beach, Perissa or Playa Blanca, among many others, which are perfect to combine with visiting different towns.
In addition, it is also important to keep in mind that this island is famous for its caldera, the product of a volcanic eruption that occurred more than 10,000 years ago. In addition, it has a wide variety of beaches for all types of audiences: families with all services, virgin coves that are not very accessible to relax, beaches with discos and beach bars with chill-out music, and even nudists. So, no matter the traveler you are, you will find a beach to your liking.
In this article, we will share with you a list of what we believe are the 12 best beaches in Santorini. Let’s begin!
1. Red Beach
Red Beach, located 5 minutes by road from Akroriti and named for the red color of the sand on the cliffs that surround it, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Santorini.
This beach is quite popular among tourists and tends to be windy. In my opinion, it may not be the most comfortable spot to spend a whole morning. However, it’s definitely worth taking a short walk along a somewhat slippery dirt path (I suggest wearing closed shoes). This path leads from the spacious free parking area at the top of the cliff. Doing so allows you to enjoy incredible views of the ocher red color created by the high iron content in the volcanic earth. This striking color contrasts beautifully with the crystal-clear blue of the waters.
Once on the beach, you have an area with hammocks and umbrellas, although you must take your drink and food with you since the services are minimal.
2. Playa Blanca, One of the Best Beaches in Santorini
If you feel that Red Beach is too busy, I suggest taking a boat to reach White Beach in just a few minutes. White Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Santorini.
It features gray sand and is surrounded by stunning white cliffs, which is quite unique for the island. While the beach has large pebbles, it’s great for diving or snorkeling because of its diverse underwater life.
Although there aren’t many umbrellas or sun loungers, there is a small beach bar where you can purchase water, drinks, or a snack.
3. Perissa
Perissa, located on the southeast coast of Santorini, boasts a beach that stretches for more than 7 kilometers and is made of black volcanic sand. It’s an ideal spot for a fun-filled family day without worrying about finding a place for your towel.
At the heart of Perissa stands the white-walled Timiou Stavrou church with its striking blue dome. The beach offers a wide range of water activities, including diving, windsurfing, kayaking, parasailing, jet skiing, and even a water park with slides and pools just a short distance away. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from.
As night falls, the beach comes alive, with nightclubs and bars opening up for tourists to enjoy a final drink, listen to music, and dance. It’s a memorable experience if you want to extend the enjoyment of your day at the beach.
4. Vlychada Beach
Vlychada Beach, situated in the southern part of the island, is truly remarkable. Its steep cliffs, shaped by the passage of waves and winds over centuries, resemble sculpted artworks. This feature makes it one of Santorini’s best beaches.
Similar to White Beach, Vlychada also has gray sand and pebbles. Additionally, it offers amenities like renting hammocks and umbrellas. There’s also a restaurant near the port where you can savor fresh fish dishes.
5. Khataros
Khataros is a small beach with black volcanic sand, conveniently situated near Oía, about 2 kilometers away. With views of the island of Thirassia, it tends to be less crowded, making it an excellent choice for a few hours of beach relaxation following a visit to the town of Oía, one of the most beautiful places in Santorini.
At the top of the beach, you’ll come across a free dirt parking area where you can leave your car. From there, a short path leads you past a bar, taking you down to the beach.
6. Kamari, One of the Most Famous Santorini beaches
Kamari Beach is located about 13 kilometers away from Perissa by car since you can’t go around Mount Vouno, which separates the two beaches. Like Perissa, Kamari also features black sand and can be an excellent choice if you prefer a less crowded environment.
For the best views of the beach, head to Mesa Vouno Mountain, where you can also explore the ancient Thera ruins. However, it’s definitely worth descending to the beach with its inviting black volcanic sand and crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim.
This Santorini beach stretches for about 5 kilometers, offering a range of water sports activities provided by various companies. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants for dining and lively nightclubs for entertainment.
7. Monolithos Beach
Monolithos, situated on the east coast of the island, stands out as one of the best family-friendly beaches in Santorini. Its waters are calm and shallow, and it offers a range of services and dining options.
The beach boasts fine black sand and ample space, making it an ideal spot for water sports enthusiasts. Additionally, there’s a large sports complex in the center for activities like volleyball and basketball.
A beautiful time to visit this beach, along with others on the eastern coast, is at dawn to witness the spectacular sunrise that paints the sky in shades of red.
If you don’t have access to a car, reaching Monolithos is easy via bus from the city center of Fira.
8. Cape Columbo, One of Santorini’s Nudist Beaches
Besides Khataros Beach near Oia, you also have Cape Columbo, one of the beaches in Santorini where you can go without a swimsuit and where there is no type of service.
Tucked beneath a towering cliff shaped by the elements of wind and sea, this secluded beach offers a serene setting. It’s an ideal spot to lay your towel on the gray sand (but away from the cliff to avoid possible rock falls) and simply unwind with a good book while savoring the sea breeze.
Interestingly, Cape Columbo boasts the warmest water in Santorini, attributed to the presence of the submerged Columbo crater, which still experiences volcanic activity.
9. Baxedes Beach
Just a short distance from Cape Columbo and 2 kilometers away from Oia, you’ll find Baxedes, another of the best beaches in Santorini. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter, more authentic local experience.
Stretching over a kilometer, this beach is adorned with small black pebbles that beautifully contrast with the vibrant blue of the sea. It’s also enclosed by stunning cliffs, similar to those in Vlychada, which offer welcome shade in the afternoon.
Furthermore, Baxedes boasts ample amenities, including a spacious parking area, designated hammock zones, and several beach bars for your convenience.
10. Port of Aoundi
After exploring the charming town of Oia and want to wait to see the famous sunset, I suggest taking a little detour down 300 steps (or driving down) to the Port of Amoundi or Old Port. There, you can enjoy a refreshing swim or go snorkeling in the clear turquoise waters. It’s worth noting that while it’s not a typical Santorini beach with sand, it’s a common spot for bathing among the rocks.
Following your dip, why not treat yourself to some delicious sun-dried octopus and stuffed squid at Sunset Ammoudi? It’s considered one of the finest restaurants in the area.
Alternatively, you can opt for a less crowded sunset viewing experience at the port compared to Oia. You can even stay for a delightful dinner at Sunset Ammoudi afterward.
11. Exo Gialos, One of the Most Beautiful Beaches in Santorini
If you’re staying in the capital, Fira, one of Santorini’s best beaches, is Exo Gialos, approximately 4 kilometers away. It’s known for its clear and pristine waters. This tranquil beach is bordered by a small fishing port on one side and a striking cliff on the other. Additionally, there’s a designated area with umbrellas and a nearby restaurant for your convenience.
12. Santorini Caldera Beach
Caldera Beach is one of the best beaches in Santorini, located on the west side, on the edge of an enormous volcanic caldera that defines the landscape of this exceptional Greek island.
This beach, with its untamed allure, features black sand and pebbles. Its remote location keeps it from getting too crowded, making it an ideal spot for scuba diving enthusiasts due to its impressive depth.
The most enchanting time to visit is at sunset when the sun bathes the caldera and the sky in a warm orange glow. You can also treat yourself to a meal at one of the cliff-top restaurants, like Panorama, for a perfect end to the day.
Getting to Caldera Beach is easy by car. Just follow the route along the caldera’s edge and park in one of the lots at the top.
Where to stay in Santorini
One of the best tips for traveling to the Greek Islands and not emptying your wallet is to book accommodation several months in advance in the towns of Fira, Imerovigli or Firostefani, avoiding the high prices of Oia.
In Firestofani, you have several accommodations with an excellent quality/price ratio, such as the Hotel Mylos, the Sunset Hotel and the Cliff Side Suites.
If you prefer the village of Imerovigli, I advise you to book in advance at Artemisia Apartment, Abelonas Retreat or Merovigliosso.
If you decide to spend the nights in Fira, you have several accommodations that will exceed your expectations, such as the Symphony Suites Santorini or the May Seven Suites.
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