Unique and unlike those of the other Cycladic islands, the beaches of Santorini possess that mysterious aura of the volcano that once created them.
Black, white and red sand, volcanic rocks, unique geological formations, sheer cliffs sculpted by salt and wind, deep blue waters. These are the "ingredients" of the truly exceptional beaches of Santorini. Cosmopolitan and organized or more secluded, all the island’s beaches have a peculiar, one-of-a-kind beauty thanks to the volcano.
Red Beach
Near the archaeological site of Akrotiri lies perhaps the most famous beach-attraction ofSantorini: the much-photographed Red Beach.The red of the rocks, the blue of the sea and an impressive blend of white, black and red sand create a striking palette of colors in this rare island landscape. You can reach the beach either on foot from the little harbor of Akrotiri or by boats departing from Kamari, Akrotiri and Perissa.
Vlychada
The beach of Vlychadais among the largest on Santorini and lies in the southern part of the island, 11 kilometers from Fira. The tall, white volcanic cliffs that surround it and reach almost to the sea resemble a scene from a science-fiction movie. Shaped by nature, they have been carved over the centuries by rain and wind. The beach has fine black sand and dark pebbles and is organized at its beginning.
White Beach
In contrast to neighboring Red Beach, here almost everything is white. From the pebbles to the impressive tall white cliff that dominates the backdrop. You will come via a path that starts from the adjacent Kambia beach or by small boat from Akrotiri or Red Beach.
Mesa Pigadia
Mesa Pigadia is a beautiful beach with fine pebbles and gorgeous rocks, known for its clear waters and for the protection it offers from strong winds. It is organized with umbrellas, sun loungers and little tavernas.
Perissa
The most popular beach on the island isPerissa.Its defining feature is the jet-black sand as well as its great length (5 km). The striking beach that lies in the shadow of Mesa Vouno is fully organized with restaurants, beach bars, restaurants, hotels, tourist shops and facilities for water sports.
Perivolos
Perivolos is locatedin the southeastern part of Santorini,between Agios Georgios andPerissa - essentially it is thecontinuation of Perissa beach. With many beach barsbut also quiet corners, cafes and restaurants, Perivolos is one of the island’s most popular and bustling beaches.
Kamari
Right next to Perivolos and Perissa, you will encounter thelong and cosmopolitan beach in Kamari. Ittoo has black sand with pebbles and is fully organized along its entire length. Here you will find everything you need for your holidays: from hotels, restaurants, beach bars and shops for every kind of shoppingto a diving center.
Koloumbos
This is the ideal beach if you want to avoid the crowds. It is lined with fine black pebbles, while at its edge a vertical sculpted rock offers natural shade to those who arrive early. You will find itin the northern part of the island, 4 km after Oia.
