There are many different beaches around Santorini where you can simply relax and unwind along the black, lava sand. Otherwise, you can either swim in the blue, turquoise waters or soak in some sun while relaxing amongst some majestic views. If you are wondering which are some of the best beaches to spend your day at, here are the top 5 most popular beaches in Santorini!
Red Beach
Known to be the most famous beach in Santorini, the Red Beach in Akrotiri Village is a rare sight. Just like what its name suggests, red is a dominant colour at this beach. The beach is enclosed by steep red hills and the main aim for most visitors is to photograph this beach.
Unwind on one of the many white sunbeds under the umbrella or snorkel in the waters and marvel at the rock formations and rich marine life. Due to the surrounding steep red hills, the beach is naturally sheltered from the wind so it can get quite hot.
Kamari Beach
Located at the base of the Mesa Vouno Mountain, the Kamari beach is one of the most popular beaches in Santorini. It’s part of the village of Kamari, a seaside village, making it one of the most visited beach resorts in Santorini. The beach has a stretch of 5 kilometres long, black volcanic sand and it’s among 3 of the longest beaches in Santorini.
There are many things you can do at this beach such as windsurfing, water skiing, surfing and paddle boating. Apart from this, there are amenities such as sunbeds, umbrellas and showers to make your afternoon easier and much more comfortable. If you are interested, you can visit the nearby diving centre to take some lessons or go snorkelling to explore the diverse marine life.
As you take a walk along the beach, there are also many bars, restaurants and nightclubs for you to grab a quick bite or head to after a day at the beach!
Perissa Beach
At the opposite side of the mountain lies Perissa Beach. Along the south coast of Santorini, Perissa beach is easily accessible by car or bus. With black lava sand and crystal clear waters, it’s one of the longest and most famous beaches in Santorini. Along with trying out various water sports such as windsurfing, parasailing, jet skiing and even banana boats, there’s even a designated diving spot if you love the thrill of diving.
What makes this beach even more special is that there’s a water park with 3 different water slides where you can have even more fun! At night, the beach comes to live with the many seaside cafes and beach bars.
Perivolos Beach
Interestingly, Perivolos Beach is known to be a famous location for wedding receptions. As such, it’s one of the most cosmopolitan and liveliest beaches in Santorini. Located just 3 kilometres away from Persissa beach, it lies between Perissa beach and Agios Georgios beach. They all form a single long beach and you can easily visit the other 2 beaches at the same time.
Something common amongst most Santorini beaches is black lava sand and with deep, blue clear waters, Perivolos beach is one of the most exciting beaches in Santorini. You can lay on one of the sun lounges or play a game of beach volleyball at one of the many courts. Otherwise, you can try out some common water sports such as jet-skiing, windsurfing or scuba diving. Another exciting thing you can watch here is a beach volleyball tournament as the sport is popular among youths.
For party people, some of the island’s best parties are held at this beach. Every day, there is a huge party on the beach with guest DJ appearances so it’s perfect for you to party the afternoon away. For a more chilled out atmosphere, you can sip on a cocktail as you relax at one of the many beach bars.
Vlychada Beach
Last on the list is one of the most unique beaches in Santorini. Vlychada is the most atmospheric beach you can find on the island due to its shallow waters and dark volcanic sand and pebbles. This beach is unique because of the overwhelming carved cliffs which were a natural process from the volcanos, wind and sea.
Despite having beautiful views, Vlychada beach isn’t too crowded so it’s perfect for you to soak in the peace and tranquillity on one of the sunbeds, under the straw umbrellas. As there is a small port close to the sea, there is also a sailing and yachting centre near this beach.
