Santorini, a Greek island renowned for its picturesque towns and majestic cliffs, is often overlooked for its impressive array of beaches. This underrated gem boasts an eclectic mix of coastline styles, from the thin white sand and lava cliffs to black and red beaches that will leave you in awe. With several Santorini beaches deserving of attention, this travel blog post aims to shed light on the best beaches the island has to offer.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled escapade, Santorini’s diverse beaches have something for everyone. While Santorini is easily accessible by ferry, it’s worth noting that other Greek islands like Paros offer a quieter and more affordable alternative. For a comprehensive guide on exploring Santorini, don’t forget to check out my travel guides, including the Ultimate Travel Guide to Santorini and Best Beaches in Santorini.
If you’re interested in discovering more hidden gems like Pyrgos village, be sure to read my blog post on this charming destination.
What you need to know about Santorini best beaches
The peak summer season in Santorini, spanning from June to September, is undoubtedly the best time to visit if you’re looking to make the most of the island’s stunning beaches. During this period, the water temperature averages around 24° Celsius, while the weather remains warm and sunny with a guarantee of blue skies. Temperatures can soar as high as 35°C, making it essential to take necessary precautions.
Beachside amenities such as restaurants, sunbeds, and watersports are plentiful during peak season. Sunbed rentals typically cost around €15, although you may prefer to bring your own umbrella, which can be purchased at a local store. For those looking for alternatives, consider investing in a portable beach umbrella that meets your needs. It’s crucial to prioritize sun protection when visiting Santorini beaches, as the scorching Greek sun offers little shade.
Be sure to pack sunscreen and a hat, and consider bringing a parasol or other forms of shade. Locals may attempt to persuade you to pay for parking near their restaurants, but it’s generally possible to find free parking within walking distance. In fact, most beach access and parking spots are complimentary, making it easy to enjoy the island’s beautiful shores without incurring unnecessary expenses.
Kamari beach
If you’re looking to experience Santorini’s vibrant nightlife, Kamari beach is an excellent choice. This charming town boasts a plethora of restaurants, stylish hotels, and tavernas lining the beachfront, making it an ideal spot to spend the day soaking up the sun and then enjoying the island’s evening entertainment options. In fact, Kamari’s unique blend of relaxation and revelry makes it the perfect destination for those seeking a well-rounded Santorini getaway.
One of Kamari’s most distinctive features is its striking black sand beach, composed of volcanic grit and pebbles that give the shore its signature dark hue. With an impressive stretch of coastline, there’s ample space for everyone to unwind and enjoy the sun, sea, and surf. Additionally, the beach’s accessibility is a major plus, with a spacious parking lot conveniently located behind the promenade.
Located just a few minutes’ drive from Santorini airport and approximately 30 minutes from Oia, Kamari beach offers easy access to this beautiful Greek island’s many attractions.
Koloumbos beach, one of Santorini best beaches
Located on Santorini’s north east coast, Koloumbos beach is a convenient destination, just a 12-minute drive from Oia. While there isn’t an official parking lot, you can park along the roadside and walk down to the beach for around 15 minutes. This trek is easily manageable in sandals. As an added note, this beach is also known for its nudist culture.
Koloumbos beach, with its various names such as Koloumpos, Colombo, Columbo, Coloumbo or Culumbus, is truly impressive.
The surrounding lava cliffs, standing at 47 meters tall, not only provide natural shade but also create a dramatic landscape that ends abruptly at the sea’s edge. However, it’s essential to maintain a safe distance from these cliffs to avoid potential rockfalls. In terms of the beach itself, Koloumbos is characterized by its black sand, albeit quite thin.
As I’ve experienced firsthand, small and harmless lizards inhabit the area, drawn to food sources.
It’s crucial to be prepared with your own provisions as this is a wild beach with no nearby shops. Bringing food and drinks will ensure you’re well-stocked for your visit.
Red beach
Santorini’s Red Beach, while popular among tourists, didn’t quite live up to its hype for me. Located on the south side of the island, about 50 minutes from Oia, this beach gets its name from the red-hued cliffs that surround it. While impressive, I found other beaches like Koloumbos and Vlychada more breathtaking. Getting to Red Beach is moderately accessible. There’s a small parking lot nearby, but be prepared to arrive early as spaces fill up quickly.
The path to the beach can be sketchy in sandals, so wear comfortable shoes or take your time and hold onto the rope provided for added safety. When you finally reach the beach, be prepared for crowds. The narrow stretch of sand doesn’t allow many people to sit comfortably. We opted to explore further along the shore, where we found a less crowded section with stunning views of the white cliffs. This vantage point offered a more peaceful experience than sitting directly beneath the red cliffs.
As an added bonus, Red Beach is an excellent spot for snorkeling, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand.
Perivolos beach
Perivolos Beach, situated in the southeastern part of Santorini Island, is a 40-minute drive from Oia. Visitors should be aware that locals might attempt to charge them for parking at their restaurants, but a large parking lot lies just behind the beach, offering ample space to park. This black sand beach stretches for miles and offers plenty of room for everyone.
Additionally, there are nearby restaurants where visitors can enjoy food and drink, as well as opportunities to rent jet skis and other water activities. With its unique features and amenities, Perivolos Beach is an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxing day at the shore.
As we’ve explored the best beaches in Santorini, I recommend considering the following options by category:
For couples seeking a romantic getaway: Vlychada Beach is highly recommended.
For those looking to indulge in a nudist experience: Koloumbos is an excellent choice.
For those fascinated by red cliffs: Red Beach is a must-visit destination.
For watersports enthusiasts and those seeking to enjoy a drink or two: Kamari Beach is the way to go.
For those with a taste for food: Perivolos Beach offers several dining options.
For snorkeling enthusiasts: Red Beach is an excellent spot to explore.
If you have any further questions regarding Santorini’s best beaches, feel free to drop them in the comments or share them on Instagram. We’ll be happy to respond as soon as possible.
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