Explore 8 of Santorini's Finest Beaches in 2024

Santorini’s breathtaking beauty, defined by its strikingly colored cliffs encircling the ancient caldera, captivates all who visit. Beyond its stunning scenery, the island's beaches provide endless opportunities for enjoyment. Whether you seek vibrant parties, serene relaxation, sunbathing, swimming, delicious seaside dining, solitude, or even a little nudity, Santorini has a beach tailored to your desires.

The island's beaches are composed of volcanic sand and pebbles, showcasing hues from burnt brown to deep charcoal. The east and south coasts feature the softest sandy shores and calm waters ideal for swimming. Here are the top beaches in Santorini.

1. Red Beach

Also known as Kokkini Beach, the iconic Red Beach is a favorite on Instagram, famed for its dramatic red cliffs that tower above the earthy sands. Sheltered from the wind, it’s a popular spot to spend an entire day, despite the crowds. Several beachside tavernas offer loungers for rent. The beach is particularly enchanting in the late afternoon as the sun casts a golden hue over the sands.

Getting There: There’s a small parking area with a bus stop situated above Red Beach, but be ready for a somewhat challenging walk down. A more convenient option is to take a quick boat ride from nearby Akrotiri Beach, famous for its archaeological ruins.

2. Kamari

Kamari, Santorini’s primary resort town, boasts a lengthy stretch of brown sand and crystal-clear, calm waters inviting you to dive right in! The beach is lined with cafes, bars, and clubs, ensuring food, drinks, and music are always within reach. It gets quite busy during the summer, but securing a sun lounger for the day is easy if you arrive early. You can also engage in various family-friendly water sports. For diving enthusiasts, check out Navy's Waterworld Dive Centre, a PADI-certified facility offering thrilling underwater adventures through lava caves and more.

Getting There: Kamari is conveniently accessible via frequent buses or by car from Fira, and it serves as a departure point for small boats (caïques) that offer quick and affordable trips to more secluded beaches.

3. White Beach

A perfect getaway from the bustling Red Beach, White (Aspri) Beach is a serene cove just a few hundred meters west along the southern coast. Don't let the name fool you; the sand is volcanic and dark, while the name refers to the brilliant cliffs that rise behind the cove. There are only a couple of vendors offering refreshments (and loungers), so make sure to bring everything you need for a delightful escape during the peak of summer.

Getting There: The best way to reach it is by small boat from Red or Akrotiri Beaches.

4. Black Beach

Situated near the White and Red beaches, Mesa Pigadia is commonly known as Black Beach. It's a quieter alternative to the other two and is well-equipped with sun loungers and parasols for rent. You'll also find a few taverns and picturesque villas nestled among the rock formations. The crystal-clear waters here are rich in marine life and sheltered from northern winds, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving.

Getting There: Access this beach by small boat from Akrotiri or take the bus along the Fira to Akrotiri route.

5. Armeni Beach

Often missed by visitors, this cozy beach sits just below the village of Oia at the northern tip of the island. It offers some of the finest views of Santorini’s caldera from a beach setting. The shoreline is rocky and pebbly, so wearing appropriate footwear is advised. However, the laid-back atmosphere, along with refreshments from nearby tavernas, makes for a delightful experience. The water here is among the clearest on the island, and the rugged rocks along the sometimes tricky coastline (notably at Ammoudi) are perfect for a refreshing dip.

Getting There: You can make the 980ft (300m) trek down to the beach from the Oia bus stop or drive along the small dirt road.

6. Baxedes Beach

Situated on the northern coast of Santorini, Baxedes Beach offers a tranquil escape during the bustling summer season. Surrounded by steep cliffs that provide some afternoon shade, it features a blend of dark rocks, pebbles, and coarse sand, often met with significant waves. This isn’t a family-friendly beach; instead, it’s perfect for those looking to unwind away from the masses. Just to the east lies Paradisos Beach, which is quite similar. Amenities are limited to a couple of basic tavernas, so make sure to bring your essentials.

Getting There: Baxedes is accessible via the Oia to Fira bus route.

7. Vlihada Beach

A perfect spot for groups with diverse preferences, Vlihada Beach (or Vlychada) gains popularity each year. This long expanse of coarse dark sand, mixed with small pebbles, faces south and is lined with numerous tavernas and bars, offering plenty of loungers for rent. The sheltered area makes swimming a breeze.

In addition to popular water activities like snorkeling and diving, you can enjoy beachside hikes that meander past unique sandstone rock formations, characterized by countless sinuous holes. Alternatively, delve into Santorini's past when tomatoes were the main harvest rather than tourists. A former cannery located right on the beach has been transformed into the Tomato Industrial Museum.

Getting There: Vlihada Beach is easily accessible by road. You can reach it by car or bus from Fira.

8. Perissa Beach

This expansive grey-sand beach on the southeast coast transforms its name as you head south, starting with Perissa Beach, then becoming Perivolos Beach, and finally Agios Georgios Beach. The sand becomes finer further down, and the range of accommodations grows more upscale. This lengthy stretch is ideal if you prefer a hotel right on the beach instead of the lively atmosphere of hilltop Fira. It’s also a great spot for partying, as Perissa features a beach bar that offers live music and DJ sets during summer evenings.

However, the selection of beach clubs, tavernas, hotels, and apartments is diverse, catering to various tastes and budgets. A long, tree-lined promenade provides a lovely path for leisurely strolls along the over 2 miles (3km) of shoreline.

Getting There: All three beaches are easily accessible from parking areas, with regular buses running from Fira.