One of the first things visitors seek when visiting Santorini is to swim in the cobalt waters of the volcanic sand beaches while gazing at the vast Aegean Sea taking over the horizon with endless shades of blue. And, of course, close the day with mind-blowing and soul-filling sunset panoramas as they stroll the cobbled streets of the island with the charming whitewashed houses and blue-dome churches.
To make your life easier (choosing the best Santorini beaches can be quite tricky!), we present to you five beaches that will tick all of your boxes and offer you unforgettable moments at the Queen of the Cyclades!
The magnificent Perivolos Beach
Perivolos is one of the longest and most impressive Santorini beaches, around 12km from the island’s capital. The picturesque stretch of black sand is considered an extension of another popular black-sand shore, Perissa Beach, and spoils sunbathers with great infrastructure. So, besides crystalline waters and umbrellas and sunbeds for hire, you will also be pampered with watersports facilities, showers, wooden paths, and even beach volley courts.
Fancy some Greek island beach fun? Perivolos is home to trendy beach clubs featuring special events, international DJs, and lots of music and dancing.
The idyllic Ammoudi Bay
Ammoudi Bay has perhaps the most crystal-clear waters in Santorini and the most dazzling selection of turquoise shades reflecting in them. You will find it sitting at Oia’s foothills in a tiny picturesque cove, surrounded by an awe-inspiring cliff that amazes with its fiery red color and the heart-stopping views of the glistering Mediterranean Sea.
There is a challenge, though. To access this pristine shore, you will need to climb down some 250 steps. However, if you do decide to give it a go, you will be rewarded with superb vistas and some of the most captivating sunsets ever seen by human eyes. There are also several restaurants and tavernas serving mouth-watering seafood and other local dishes to complete the picture!
The scenic White Beach
Unlike its other counterparts, White Beach is a white-cliffs-surrounded shore, 14km from Fira, in the historical Akrotiri village with the ancient ruins of a once-thriving Santorini settlement that makes many people associate the island with the lost Atlantis.
The beach welcomes you with an interesting mix of pebbles, grey volcanic sand, and pumice stones, and, of course, absolutely transparent and inviting waters. Don’t expect to find lots of space for sunbathing, though, as White Beach is not as long as other Santorini shores. However, it’s quite well organized, with some umbrellas and chairs for hire and a canteen sitting in a beachside cave selling some essential supplies.
To get here, you will need to either take the boat from Akrotiri Beach or walk from the neighboring Kambia and Red beaches. In the latter case, though, be prepared for a somewhat adrenaline-pumping path to walk. If you go with the boat taxi option, you could also opt for the full boat tour that includes stops at the Black and Red beaches as well.
The romantic Eros Beach
The coast of Vlychada hosts a fantastic secluded shore that has become one of the most favorite wedding background locations in Santorini due to its incredibly blissful surroundings and the spectacular beige cliffs.
Besides great infrastructure, classy Eros beach is also a popular spot for parties, meditation classes, and yoga sessions. Rightfully, so. The energy here is unbelievably soothing, calming, and, at the same time, revitalizing. Adorned with wind-carved cliffs and almost surreal panoramas of the island and the Mediterranean Sea, Eros Beach is, indeed, an atmospheric shore exuding romance.
For even more privacy, do head to the farthest section of Eros. And, don’t be surprised if you see horse riders galloping along the shore! Horse riding is one of the most popular activities around this part of Santorini.
Now, if you are longing for some more cosmopolitan vibes, the elegant beach bar at Eros beach will please you with a great ambiance, lounge music, and things like hammocks, swings, and sofas.
The utmost family-friendly Monolithos Beach
Dip your toes in the soft black sand of Monolithos beach or take a refreshing dive in the shallow waters of this beautiful shore and emerge totally re-energized. This well-organized beach satisfies all ages and requirements, from those loving water sports to families with kids.
Expect a wide range of amenities, including a football pitch, a children’s playground, basketball courts, showers, chairs and umbrellas for hire, wooden paths, stylish beach clubs, restaurants, cafes, and volleyball courts. There are even more isolated tree-lined sections that provide natural shade and lots of privacy and relaxation if that’s what you want.
Santorini Accommodation Options
Santorini’s seaside (and not only) charms are literally endless. What is an undeniable fact, though, is that you can enjoy holidays infused with ultimate luxury and style, sprinkled with outstanding views of the Aegean Sea and even amenities like a private pool at one of the many luxury hotels in Santorini that provide VIP facilities and services. Of course, there are other alternatives as well, such as more cost-effective B&Bs and studios. However, you won’t have the range of services and pampering of high-end resorts. In any case, the choice is yours! Enjoy!
Additional resources:
- Check out these Montenegro guides
- Benefits of going to the beach
- How to fully enjoy being at the beach
