Santorini Beaches: Where to Swim & Relax
Santorini isn’t known for typical sandy beaches—and that’s exactly what makes its coastline so unique.
The island’s volcanic past created dramatic black and red sand beaches, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters that look nothing like the typical Greek island beach. Some are wild and rugged, others have beach bars and sunbeds, but all offer something you won’t find anywhere else.
We’ve explored every beach on Santorini to bring you this complete guide. You’ll discover which beaches are worth visiting, how to get there, what to expect, and which ones match your travel style—whether you’re looking for photo ops, swimming, or a quiet escape.
What Makes Santorini Beaches Different
Santorini’s beaches are unlike anywhere else in Greece—or the world—thanks to the island’s volcanic origins.
Volcanic sand: Most beaches have black or red volcanic sand and pebbles. The sand absorbs heat, so bring water shoes or sandals.
Dramatic cliffs: Many beaches are backed by striking volcanic cliffs in shades of red, white, and black.
Crystal-clear water: The volcanic seabed keeps the water incredibly clear—perfect for snorkeling.
No golden sand: If you’re expecting Caribbean-style white sand beaches, Santorini isn’t the place. Come for the unique volcanic landscape instead.
Best Santorini Beaches at a Glance
Here’s a quick overview to help you choose:
- Most Photogenic: Red Beach (dramatic red cliffs)
- Best for Swimming: Perissa Beach (long, organized, safe)
- Best for Families: Kamari Beach (shallow water, facilities)
- Best Beach Bars: Perivolos Beach (party vibe)
- Most Unique: Vlychada Beach (lunar-like landscape)
- Hidden Gem: White Beach (accessible only by boat)
- Best Sunset: None—beaches face east/south, not west. Watch sunset from Oia instead.
1. Red Beach (Kokkini Paralia) — The Most Iconic
Location: Near Akrotiri, southwest Santorini
Best for: Photography, Instagram, short visits
Sand type: Red/black pebbles and sand
Red Beach is Santorini’s most famous beach, known for its striking red volcanic cliffs that tower over dark red sand and turquoise water. It’s more of a geological wonder than a traditional beach.
What we love:
- Dramatic red and black cliffs (stunning photos)
- Crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling
- Unique landscape unlike anywhere else
- Close to Akrotiri archaeological site
Keep in mind:
- Very crowded in summer (arrive before 10 AM)
- Rocky path from parking lot (5-10 minute walk downhill)
- Sharp pebbles—water shoes essential
- Small beach, limited space
- Risk of rockfall from cliffs (stay alert)
- No shade, bring umbrella
How to get there: Drive to Red Beach parking area near Akrotiri. Follow signs down the rocky path (10 min walk). Or take a boat tour from other beaches.
Our verdict: Worth seeing for the views and photos, but not ideal for a full beach day. Visit early, take photos, swim briefly, then move on.
2. Perissa Beach — Best for Swimming & Beach Clubs
Location: Southeast coast
Best for: Swimming, water sports, beach clubs, long beach days
Sand type: Black volcanic sand
Perissa is Santorini’s longest and most popular beach for swimming. It’s well-organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, restaurants, and water sports—perfect for a full day at the beach.
What we love:
- 7 km of black sand beach (plenty of space)
- Organized sections with sunbeds and umbrellas
- Many beach bars and tavernas
- Water sports: jet skis, paddleboards, diving
- Safe for swimming (gentle slope into water)
- Backed by Mesa Vouno mountain (striking backdrop)
Keep in mind:
- Black sand gets very hot—wear sandals
- Can be crowded in July-August
- 20-minute drive from Fira/Oia
- Sunbed rental: €8-15/day
Where to eat: Try Dorians Bar, Tranquilo, or Chilli Beach Bar for food and drinks right on the sand.
Our verdict: The best all-around beach in Santorini for swimming and spending the day. Great for families, couples, and anyone who wants a proper beach experience.
3. Kamari Beach — Best for Families
Location: East coast
Best for: Families, water sports, convenience
Sand type: Black volcanic sand and pebbles
Kamari is Santorini’s most organized and family-friendly beach with a long promenade lined with restaurants, shops, and hotels. It’s the most accessible beach on the island.
What we love:
- Long promenade with restaurants and shops
- Shallow, calm water (safe for kids)
- Well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas
- Water sports center
- Easy parking
- Many budget hotels nearby
- Blue Flag beach (clean and safe)
Keep in mind:
- Very touristy and developed
- Can feel crowded in peak season
- Less dramatic scenery than other beaches
- 15-minute drive from Fira
Nearby attraction: Hike up to Ancient Thera ruins (15-20 min climb, stunning views).
Our verdict: Best choice for families with young children or anyone wanting easy beach access with full amenities. Less scenic but more convenient.
4. Perivolos Beach — Best Beach Bars & Party Vibe
Location: South of Perissa (connected beach)
Best for: Beach clubs, music, younger crowds
Sand type: Black volcanic sand
Perivolos is the livelier extension of Perissa Beach, known for its beach clubs with music, cocktails, and a more party-friendly atmosphere.
What we love:
- Trendy beach bars and clubs
- DJ sets and music during the day
- Great cocktails and food
- Stylish sunbed setups
- Younger, social atmosphere
Popular beach clubs:
- Jojo Beach Bar (most famous)
- Seaside by Notos
- Wet Stories
Keep in mind:
- Can be loud (music all day)
- Sunbeds more expensive (€15-25 with minimum spend)
- Not ideal for families with young kids
Our verdict: If you want a beach club vibe with music and cocktails, this is your spot. Skip if you prefer peace and quiet.
5. White Beach (Aspri Paralia) — The Hidden Gem
Location: Near Red Beach, southwest coast
Best for: Escaping crowds, boat trips, snorkeling
Sand type: White/grey pebbles
White Beach is a small, secluded cove with striking white cliffs. It’s only accessible by boat, which keeps it quieter than other beaches.
What we love:
- Dramatic white cliffs contrasting with black sand
- Less crowded (only accessible by boat)
- Crystal-clear water for snorkeling
- Peaceful atmosphere
Keep in mind:
- Accessible ONLY by boat (no land access)
- Small beach, limited space
- No facilities (no umbrellas, restaurants)
- Bring everything you need
How to get there: Take a water taxi from Red Beach or book a boat tour that includes White Beach. Cost: €5-10 per person.
Our verdict: Worth the boat ride if you want to escape the crowds and experience a more secluded beach. Great for a few hours, not a full day.
6. Vlychada Beach — The Lunar Landscape
Location: South coast, near the marina
Best for: Unique scenery, photography, escaping crowds
Sand type: Black/grey sand
Vlychada is Santorini’s most unique beach, backed by towering white cliffs sculpted by wind into otherworldly shapes. It feels like you’re on the moon.
What we love:
- Stunning lunar-like white cliffs
- Much quieter than Perissa/Kamari
- Natural shade under the cliffs
- One excellent taverna (Taverna Akrotiri)
- Dramatic landscape unlike anywhere else
Keep in mind:
- Far from main towns (20-min drive from Fira)
- Limited sunbeds
- Can be windy
- Not ideal for swimming (rocky seabed)
Our verdict: Best beach for those seeking unique scenery and fewer crowds. Come for the views and atmosphere, not for swimming.
Other Notable Santorini Beaches
Monolithos Beach
Best for: Locals, families, avoiding tourists
Monolithos is where locals go to swim. It’s less scenic than other beaches but peaceful, organized, and has shallow water perfect for kids. Located close to the airport.
Amoudi Bay
Best for: Swimming after dinner, cliff jumping
Not technically a beach—it’s a small rocky bay below Oia with crystal-clear water. Great for a quick swim and famous for its seafood tavernas. Brave swimmers can cliff jump here.
Caldera Beaches (Oia/Fira)
Best for: Quick dips, hotel pools
The caldera side (west coast) has no real beaches—just small rocky areas accessed via steps from hotels. Most people use their hotel pools instead.
Baxedes Beach
Best for: Locals, quiet swimming
A small, quiet black sand beach near Kamari. Rarely crowded, minimal facilities. Good for escaping the tourist beaches.
Exo Gialos Beach
Best for: Very small, secluded visits
Tiny pebbly beach near the port. Not worth a special trip, but fine for a quick swim if you’re nearby.
Mesa Pigadia Beach
Best for: Naturists, privacy
A remote beach on the east side, known as Santorini’s unofficial nudist beach. Requires a hike down a steep path. Very secluded.
Beach Tips & What to Know Before You Go
Essential Beach Gear
- Water shoes: Essential! Volcanic sand/pebbles get very hot and can be sharp.
- Umbrella or shade: Many beaches have limited natural shade. Rent an umbrella or bring your own.
- Plenty of water: It gets hot. Bring more water than you think you need.
- Sunscreen: High SPF. The sun is intense, especially on black sand.
- Snorkel gear: Great visibility at most beaches.
Best Time to Visit Beaches
- Early morning (8-10 AM): Fewer crowds, cooler sand, better photos
- Midday (11 AM-4 PM): Hottest, most crowded, hardest on the sand
- Late afternoon (4-7 PM): Sand cools down, fewer people, nice light
Getting to the Beaches
- Rental car/ATV: Best option for flexibility and visiting multiple beaches
- Bus: Connects Fira to Perissa, Kamari, and Akrotiri. Limited schedules.
- Taxi: €20-35 from Fira/Oia to beaches. Hard to find for return trips.
- Boat tours: Great way to visit Red, White, and hidden beaches in one trip
Beach Safety
- Watch for rocks and pebbles when entering the water
- Red Beach: Risk of rockfall—don’t sit directly under cliffs
- Strong winds can kick up sand—bring goggles/sunglasses
- Few beaches have lifeguards—swim cautiously
Beach Costs
- Sunbed + umbrella: €8-15/day (standard beaches)
- Beach clubs: €15-25 with minimum spend (Perivolos)
- Free areas: Most beaches have free zones—bring your own towel/umbrella
- Water taxis: €5-10 to White Beach from Red Beach
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Santorini have good beaches?
Santorini has unique volcanic beaches, but they’re different from typical sandy beaches. The black and red sand beaches are dramatic and photogenic, but the sand gets very hot and can be pebbly. If you’re looking for soft white sand, you’ll be disappointed—but if you want unique, striking landscapes, Santorini’s beaches are incredible.
What is the best beach in Santorini?
It depends on what you want. For swimming and facilities: Perissa Beach. For photos: Red Beach. For families: Kamari Beach. For beach clubs: Perivolos. For unique scenery: Vlychada Beach. Most visitors enjoy Perissa or Kamari for a full beach day.
Can you swim in Santorini beaches?
Yes! The water is clean, clear, and safe for swimming. Perissa, Kamari, and Perivolos are the best beaches for swimming with gentle slopes into the water. Red Beach is swimmable but rocky. The caldera side (Oia/Fira) has limited swimming access.
Do you need water shoes in Santorini?
Yes, absolutely! The volcanic sand and pebbles get extremely hot under the sun, and many beaches are rocky. Water shoes make walking on the beach much more comfortable and protect your feet when entering the water.
How do I get to Red Beach?
Drive to the Red Beach parking area near Akrotiri village (follow signs). From the parking lot, walk down a rocky path for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, take a water taxi or boat tour from Perissa or Kamari beaches.
Are Santorini beaches crowded?
Red Beach and Perissa can be very crowded in July-August, especially midday. Kamari is busy but large enough to find space. Vlychada, Monolithos, and White Beach are much quieter. Visit early morning (before 10 AM) to avoid the worst crowds.
Can you watch sunset from Santorini beaches?
No, Santorini’s beaches face east and south, so you won’t see the sunset from them. The famous Santorini sunset is viewed from the west-facing caldera side in Oia, Fira, or Imerovigli—not from the beaches.
Which beach is closest to Fira?
Monolithos Beach is closest (10-minute drive), followed by Kamari Beach (15 minutes). Perissa is about 20 minutes from Fira. Red Beach is about 20-25 minutes.
Plan Your Perfect Santorini Beach Day
Now that you know Santorini’s best beaches, it’s time to plan your trip.
Most beaches are on the east and south coasts—15 to 25 minutes from Fira and Oia. Renting a car or ATV gives you the freedom to explore multiple beaches at your own pace.
Explore More About Santorini
Planning your Santorini trip? Check out these guides:
– Santorini Itinerary: 3-5 Days
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If you’re staying near the beach, check out our guide to the best hotels in Perissa, Kamari, and other beach areas—perfect for beach lovers on a budget.
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