Santorini, a picturesque Greek island known for its breathtaking caldera views and white-washed villages, is also home to some of the most unique and beautiful beaches in Greece. From the famous Red Beach to the lesser-known White Beach, the island’s shores offer a diverse range of experiences for beach lovers and adventurers alike. Whether you’re looking for a lively beach resort or a secluded spot to unwind, Santorini’s beaches have something for everyone.
Our pick of the best hotels in Santorini 🏩
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Phos The Boutique
- ✨ 5-Star: Suites of the Gods
- 🏨 4-Star: La Mer Deluxe Hotel & Spa
- 🛏️ 3-Star: RK Beach Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: Nissia Apartments
- 🏢 Apartment: Nikoli Apartments
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Samson's Village
- 🏩 For Couples: Santa Irina Luxury Suites
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey along the south coast of the island, exploring the top 10 beaches that showcase the island’s stunning natural beauty. We’ll also share insider tips on the best places to eat near each beach, from traditional Greek tavernas to trendy beach bars. Get ready to discover the best beaches Santorini has to offer and find your perfect spot!
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches in Santorini 📃
- 🌋 For Volcanic Landscapes: Red Beach
- 🖌️ For Colorful Cliffs: White Beach
- 🏊♂️ For Swimming & Amenities: Kamari Beach
- 🎉 For Lively Atmosphere: Perissa Beach
- 😎 For Beach Clubs: Perivolos Beach
- 🌙 For Lunar-Like Scenery: Vlychada Beach
- 💕 For Hidden Gem: Eros Beach
- 🏕️ For Remote Adventure: Cape Columbo Beach
- 🌊 For Deep Blue Waters: Caldera Beach
- 🕊️ For Quiet Escape: Baxedes Beach
1. Red Beach, Akrotiri – Best Santorini Beach for For Volcanic Landscapes 🌋
📸 Insta-Worthy: This beach is the most Instagrammable spot in Santorini. The striking red clifftop against the blue Aegean Sea create a stunning sight. The unique color comes from the iron-rich volcanic rock. You won’t find a more dramatic backdrop for your beach selfies anywhere else on the island.
🥾 Hike with a View: To reach this place, park near the church of Agios Nikolaos and follow a short, steep trail to the shore. Wear sturdy shoes. The view from the top is worth it! You’ll get a panoramic vista of the red clifftops and clear waters.
🍴 Local Eats: After a day here, indulge in the flavors of Santorini at nearby tavernas. Asterias offers traditional Greek dishes with a view of the cliffs. The Good Heart serves fresh seafood and local specialties in a cozy setting. For a quick bite, grab a souvlaki or gyro at Red Beach Santorini Michalis. Taverna Glaros is a hidden gem known for its authentic Santorini cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to sample the island’s unique white eggplant, cherry tomatoes, and fava beans.
📋 Info:
- Type: Pebbly beach with unique red sand
- Amenities: Limited, a few sun loungers and umbrellas for rent
- Location: Akrotiri, Santorini
- Access: Short hike down from nearby parking area
- Best for: Photography, unique landscapes, adventure seekers
Where to stay on Red Beach? 🏨
- Phos The Boutique This luxurious hotel offers elegant rooms and suites with stunning views of the Aegean Sea, along with a beautiful infinity pool, spa services, and fine dining at the on-site restaurant.
- Santonero The Philoxenia Project Located in the picturesque village of Pyrgos, this unique hotel features beautifully designed cave-style rooms and suites, a lovely outdoor pool, and warm hospitality that embodies the spirit of “philoxenia” (Greek for “guest-friendship”).
- Melidonia Suites These stylish suites offer modern amenities, private balconies or terraces with breathtaking views of the caldera and Aegean Sea, and a convenient location near popular attractions in Oia.
2. Kamari Beach – Best Beach for Swimming in Santorini 🏊♂️
🏖️ Beach Day: This place is one of the most popular beaches and longest black beaches in Santorini. This organized beach offers a wide array of amenities, including sun loungers, umbrellas, beach bars, and water sports, also it is the closest to the Santorini airport. The dark pebbles create a unique landscape, perfect for a fun-filled beach day. Take a stroll along the beach, soak up the sun, or enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.
🍽️ Beachside Eats: After a day of swimming and sunbathing, indulge in some delicious Greek cuisine at the numerous tavernas and restaurants along the beach. From fresh seafood to traditional Greek dishes, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your appetite. Don‘t miss the opportunity to try some local specialties like fava beans, cherry tomatoes, and white eggplant.
📋 Info:
- Type: Black pebble beach with full amenities
- Location: Kamari, east coast of Santorini
- Access: Easy access by car, bus, or foot from Kamari town
- Best for: Families, beach lovers, and those seeking a lively atmosphere
Where to stay Kamari Beach? 🏨
- La Mer Deluxe Hotel & Spa This elegant hotel is just 50 meters from Kamari Beach and features stylish rooms with modern amenities, a landscaped pool area, an on-site spa, and a restaurant serving international and regional cuisine.
- Nissia Apartments Located just 30 meters from the beach of Kamari, these self-catering apartments offer a peaceful stay with a lovely outdoor pool, beautiful garden, and convenient access to nearby shops and restaurants.
- RK Beach Hotel Situated right on Kamari Beach, this hotel offers modern rooms with sea or mountain views, an outdoor pool, a beachfront restaurant, and easy access to water sports and other activities.
3. Perissa Beach – Lively Black Sand Beach with Ancient Thera Nearby 🏛️
🏖️ Volcanic Vibes: Perissa Beach is another stunning beach on the southeastern side of Santorini. The beach is backed by the impressive Mesa Vouno mountain, which adds to its unique charm. Dive into the refreshing waters, sunbathe on the dark sand, or try your hand at various water sports like jet skiing or windsurfing.
🚶♂️ Explore Ancient Thera: Just a short hike up Mesa Vouno, you’ll find the fascinating archaeological site of Ancient Thera. These well-preserved ruins offer a glimpse into Santorini’s rich history and provide best views of the island’s southeastern coast. Combine your beach day with a cultural experience for an unforgettable adventure.
📋 Info:
- Type: Black sand beach with umbrellas, and water sports
- Location: Perissa
- Access: Easy access by car or bus from Fira or Emporio
- Best for: Beach enthusiasts, history buffs, and water sports lovers
Where to stay on Perissa Beach? 🏨
- Antoperla Luxury Hotel & Spa This luxurious adults-only hotel features elegant rooms and suites with private pools or hot tubs, a spa center with a variety of treatments, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant serving Greek and international cuisine.
- Veggera Hotel Located just steps from the beach of Perissa, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with balconies, an outdoor pool with a poolside bar, a restaurant serving traditional Greek cuisine, and a spa with a sauna and hot tub.
- Samson's Village This family-friendly hotel is just a short walk from Perissa Beach and features spacious rooms and apartments, a large outdoor pool with a children’s section, a restaurant serving Greek and international dishes, and a playground for kids.
4. Perivolos Beach – Best Part of Santorini for Beach Clubs 🍹
🍹 Beach Bars: Perivolos Beach is known for its trendy beach bars, where you can enjoy refreshing cocktails, delicious snacks, and chill music. Many of these bars offer comfortable sun loungers and umbrellas, creating the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the Mediterranean vibes. As the sun sets, the beach comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene.
🏄♂️ Water Sports: Perivolos Beach offers a variety of water sports activities for those seeking a bit of adventure. You can rent jet skis, go parasailing, or try your hand at windsurfing or stand-up paddleboarding. The beach’s long stretch of sand and clear waters make it an ideal spot for these activities, and there are several rental shops along the shore where you can get equipped with everything you need. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced water sports enthusiast, Perivolos Beach has something to offer.
🏛️ Nearby Attractions: Perivolos Beach is conveniently located near several interesting attractions. Just a short drive away, you can visit the ancient ruins of Thera, a fascinating archaeological site that offers insight into the island’s rich history. The nearby village of Emporio is also worth exploring, with its charming traditional houses, narrow streets, and stunning medieval castle. For a unique experience, consider visiting the Tomato Industrial Museum, which showcases the history of Santorini’s famous tomato production and offers tastings of local tomato-based products.
📋 Info:
- Type: Black sand beach with sun loungers, umbrellas, and beach bars
- Location: Perivolos
- Access: Easy access by car or bus from Fira or Perissa
- Best for: Couples, beach bar enthusiasts, and those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere
Where to stay on Perivolos Beach ? 🏨
- Smaragdi Hotel Situated in the heart of Perissa, just 100 meters from the beach, this hotel offers modern rooms with balconies, an outdoor pool with a poolside bar, a restaurant serving Greek and international cuisine, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
- Villa Atlantis Beach Located right on the beach, this villa complex offers spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens, a large outdoor pool, a beachfront restaurant, and free Wi-Fi in all areas.
- Santa Irina Luxury Suites These luxurious suites are located in the picturesque village of Pyrgos and feature private pools or hot tubs, stunning views of the Aegean Sea, a spa with a variety of treatments, and a restaurant serving gourmet Greek cuisine.
5. Vlychada Beach – Best Beach on Santorini for White Cliffs ☽
🌙 Lunar Landscapes: This beach is a secluded gem on the southern end of Santorini, known for its stunning white cliffs and unique rock formations. The beach itself is a mix of dark sand and pebbles, creating a lunar-like landscape that will take your breath away. This unspoiled stretch of coast is perfect for those seeking a more intimate and peaceful beach experience.
🍴 Seaside Dining: After a day of relaxing on the beach, indulge in the flavors of Santorini at the nearby tavernas and restaurants. Many of these eateries offer stunning views of the Aegean Sea and specialize in fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes.
🐟 Must-Try Restaurants:
- To Psaraki: This traditional restaurant is located right on the beach and is known for its excellent seafood. Enjoy the catch of the day, prepared with local flavors and ingredients, while taking in the beautiful sea views.
- Meroula: A charming taverna serving authentic Greek cuisine at affordable prices. Don’t miss their delicious grilled meats and fresh salads.
- Taverna Dimitris: Situated near the marina, this taverna offers a perfect spot to watch the yachts while savoring impeccable wine from local vineyards and tasty Greek dishes.
📋 Info:
- Type: Dark sand and pebbly sand with unique white cliffs
- Location: Vlychada
- Access: Easily accessible by car or bus from Fira or Emporio
- Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful escape
Where to stay on Vlychada Beach ? 🏨
- Family Village Santorini This family-friendly hotel is located in the peaceful village of Karterados and features spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens, a large outdoor pool with a children’s section, a playground, and a restaurant serving Greek and international dishes.
- Prana Thera Situated in the heart of Fira, this boutique hotel offers stylish rooms and suites with private balconies or terraces, an outdoor pool with stunning views, a spa with a variety of treatments, and a restaurant serving Greek and international cuisine.
6. White Beach – Secluded Cove of Black and White 🖌️
🎨 Colorful Contrasts: White Beach is a small, secluded cove located near the famous Red Beach. As its name suggests, this beach features a striking contrast of white cliffs and black beach, creating a unique and picturesque landscape. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while the beach’s remote location ensures a more intimate experience.
🌊 Exploring the Aegean: While visiting White Beach, consider taking a boat tour to explore more of Santorini’s stunning coastline and nearby islands. Many tours depart from the port of Akrotiri or the nearby Red Beach and offer a variety of experiences, from snorkeling and swimming to visiting hidden coves and hot springs. Some popular options include:
- Sunset Cruises: Watch the famous Santorini sunset from the water, with a glass of local wine in hand.
- Caldera Tours: Explore the volcanic caldera and its hot springs, with stops for swimming and snorkeling.
- Island-Hopping: Visit nearby islands like Thirassia or Nea Kameni, each with their own unique character and attractions.
📋 Info:
- Type: Black pebble beach with white rocks
- Location: Near Akrotiri
- Access: Best accessed by boat from Red Beach or Akrotiri port
- Best for: Adventure seekers, snorkelers, and those looking for a secluded beach experience
Where to stay on White Beach? 🏨
- Alleys Boutique & Spa Hotel This charming hotel is located in the picturesque village of Pyrgos and features elegantly decorated rooms and suites, some with private hot tubs, a spa with a variety of treatments, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant serving traditional Greek cuisine.
- Suites of the Gods Cave Spa Hotel Perched on the cliffs of Megalochori, this unique hotel offers cave-style suites with private pools or hot tubs, stunning views, a spa with a variety of treatments, and a restaurant serving gourmet Greek cuisine.
- Volcano View Hotel Located on the edge of the caldera in Fira, this hotel offers rooms and suites with stunning views of the volcano and the Aegean Sea, three outdoor pools, a spa with a variety of treatments, and a restaurant serving Greek and international cuisine.
7. Eros Beach – Hidden Gem with Impressive Cliffs 💕
💘 Romantic Retreat: This is a hidden gem located on the southern side of Santorini, near the village of Vlychada. To reach it, you’ll need to drive to the nearby village of Vlychada. From there, follow the signs to the beach, where you can park your car. The beach itself is accessible via a short but steep path, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and take care when descending. If you’re not renting a car, you can also take a bus from Fira or Perissa to Vlychada and then walk or take a taxi to the beach.
🍽️ Nearby Dining: While there is a small taverna at here serving light snacks and refreshments, you may want to explore some of the nearby dining options for a full meal. In the village of Vlychada, you’ll find several traditional Greek tavernas, as Lava Tavern, serving fresh seafood, grilled meats, and local specialties.
📋 Info:
- Type: Black pebble beach with impressive cliffs
- Location: Near Vlychada
- Access: Accessible by car, followed by a short walk down to the beach
- Best for: Couples, nature lovers, and those seeking a romantic and secluded atmosphere
Where to stay on Eros Beach? 🏨
- Eros Hotel Situated in the heart of Fira, this hotel offers modern rooms with balconies overlooking the town or the Aegean Sea, an outdoor pool with a poolside bar, a restaurant serving Greek and international dishes, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property[1].
- Angsana Corfu This luxurious resort is located on the stunning island of Corfu and features elegant rooms and suites with private balconies or terraces, a spa with a variety of treatments, several outdoor pools, and multiple dining options serving Greek and international cuisine[2].
- Nikoli Apartments Located in the picturesque village of Oia, these self-catering apartments offer stunning views, fully equipped kitchens, a shared outdoor pool, and a convenient location near shops and restaurants[3].
8. Cape Columbo Beach – Best Beach of Santorini for Wild Adventure 🏕️
🥾 Hiking Adventure: Getting here involves a short but scenic hike, making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy a bit of adventure. From the parking area, follow the trail that leads down to the beach. The path can be steep and rocky in some places, so wear sturdy shoes and take your time. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the rugged coastline and the Aegean Sea. The hike itself is part of the experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Santorini’s natural landscape.
🧺 Pack a Picnic: As there are no facilities or amenities here, it’s essential to come prepared. Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a picnic lunch to enjoy on the beach. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and any other necessities you might need for a day in the sun. Keep in mind that there are no trash cans on the beach, so be sure to pack out any waste and help keep this pristine environment clean for future visitors.
📋 Info:
- Type: Dark sand, pebble, and volcanic rock beach
- Location: Near Oia
- Access: Accessible by car, followed by a short hike down to the beach
- Best for: Adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and those looking for a secluded and untamed beach
Where to stay on Cape Columbo Beach? 🏨
- Almyra Studios Oia These charming studios are located in the heart of Oia and feature traditional Cycladic architecture, fully equipped kitchenettes, private balconies with stunning views, and a convenient location near shops and restaurants.
- En Plo Boutique Suites Situated in the picturesque village of Oia, these luxurious suites offer stunning views, private pools or hot tubs, a spa with a variety of treatments, and personalized service to ensure a memorable stay.
- Nimbus Santorini This boutique hotel is located in the peaceful village of Karterados and features stylish rooms and suites with private balconies or terraces, an outdoor pool with stunning views of the Aegean Sea, a spa with a variety of treatments, and a restaurant serving Greek and international cuisine.
9. Caldera Beach – Small Hideaway with Deep Blue Waters 🌊
🌋 Volcanic Setting: Caldera Beach is a small, hidden beach located on the southern coast, near the village of Akrotiri. As its name suggests, this beach offers stunning views of the island’s famous caldera (10 km in diameter), making it a unique spot to enjoy the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea.
📋 Info:
- Type: Dark volcanic sand and pebble beach with caldera views
- Location: Near Akrotiri
- Access: Accessible by car, followed by a short hike down to the beach
- Best for: Snorkelers, nature lovers, and those seeking a quiet and secluded beach with stunning views
Where to stay on Caldera Beach? 🏨
- Porto Platanias Beach Located on the beautiful beach of Platanias in Crete, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with balconies overlooking the sea or the mountains, an outdoor pool with a poolside bar, a restaurant serving Greek and international dishes, and easy access to water sports and other activities.
- Porto Platanias Beach Resort This beachfront resort in Crete features spacious rooms and suites with balconies or terraces, multiple outdoor pools, a spa with a variety of treatments, several dining options serving Greek and international cuisine, and a convenient location near shops and restaurants.
- Porto Platanias Village Resort Situated in the lively resort town of Platanias in Crete, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and apartments with balconies or terraces, an outdoor pool with a poolside bar, a restaurant serving Greek and international dishes, and a convenient location near the beach and local attractions.
10. Baxedes Beach – Quiet Escape Near Oia 🕊️
🚶♂️ Scenic Walk: One of the best ways to reach this beach is by taking a scenic walk from the village of Oia. The path to the beach starts near the Oia Castle and winds through picturesque streets and charming houses before descending towards the coast. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding landscape. The walk takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on your pace, and can be a bit steep in some sections. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months.
🌊 Swimming and Snorkeling: The clear, calm waters of the beach make it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. The beach’s secluded location means that the underwater world is relatively untouched, offering a chance to explore the diverse marine life of the Aegean Sea. Bring your own snorkeling gear and take some time to discover the colorful fish and fascinating rock formations beneath the surface. Keep in mind that there are no lifeguards on duty, so always exercise caution when swimming and never venture too far from the shore.
📋 Info:
- Type: Black sand and black pebble beach with rocky outcrops
- Location: Near Oia
- Access: Accessible by car, followed by a short walk down to the beach
- Best for: Those seeking a quiet, secluded beach experience away from the crowds
Where to stay on Baxedes Beach? 🏨
- Almyra Studios Oia These charming studios are located in the heart of Oia and feature traditional Cycladic architecture, fully equipped kitchenettes, private balconies with stunning views, and a convenient location near shops and restaurants.
- En Plo Boutique Suites Situated in the picturesque village of Oia, these luxurious suites offer stunning views, private pools or hot tubs, a spa with a variety of treatments, and personalized service to ensure a memorable stay.
- Georgis Apartments Located in the picturesque village of Oia, these self-catering apartments offer stunning views, fully equipped kitchens, a shared outdoor pool, and a convenient location near shops and restaurants.
FAQs about Santorini Beaches ❔
What is the prettiest beach in Santorini?
Red Beach, with its stunning red cliffs and clear waters, is considered one of the most picturesque beaches in Santorini.
Does Santorini have swimmable beaches?
Yes, Santorini has several swimmable beaches, such as Kamari Beach, Perissa Beach, and Perivolos Beach, which offer crystal-clear waters and amenities for swimmers.
Are there white sand beaches in Santorini?
No, Santorini does not have typical white sandy beaches; instead, it features unique black, red, and white pebble or volcanic sand beaches due to its volcanic origin.
Is Oia or Fira prettier?
Both Oia and Fira are stunning, but Oia is often considered more picturesque and luxurious, with its iconic white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and romantic atmosphere.
Where to avoid staying in Santorini?
Avoid staying in overcrowded areas like central Fira or Oia during peak season, and opt for quieter villages like Finikia, Pyrgos, or Emborio to escape the crowds.
