A Beach Lover’s Guide? Beach, please. On the hunt for the best beaches in Santorini? If you’re a self-proclaimed beach bum, then look no further. This is exactly where you need to be…

Santorini has got it going on; an active volcano, dramatic ocean views, stunning wineries, vibrant nightlife and flavour-packed Greek cuisine.

This Cycladic island is almost instantly recognisable around the globe. Illustrated by its multi-coloured cliffs and idyllic whitewashed villages, destinations such as Fira and Oia dominate the scene.

Santorini is one of Greece's most popular tourist hubs and more damn good reason. Even despite the bustling crowds, you’ll be able to uncover the island’s captivating charm.

Lain in the Aegean Sea, you can expect the beaches in Santorini to be a little different to what you’re typically used to. These volcanic-sand beaches come in various colours, from red and white to steaming hot black. That’s what makes it unique.

Here’s what we cover:

Exo Gialos Beach
Perissa Beach
Koloumbos
Perivolos Beach
Kamari Beach
Eros Beach
Akrotiri: The Red Beach
Vourvoulos Beach
Amoudi Bay
Vlychada Beach
Monolithos Beach
Cape Columbo
White Beach

Before you jet-set off for the trip of a lifetime, let’s check out what Santorini’s shoreline has to offer. Satisfy your soul at these 13 Best Beaches in Santorini. Ya sou!

13. Exo Gialos Beach

Location: 2km of Fira

If you’re looking for easy access to a beach near Fira, head down to this pebbled, black sand haven. Both sides of the Exo Gialos Beach offer something diverse, so if you’re coming here with a big group and want to split up, it’s a stellar spot. One side of Exo Gialos is decked out with sunbeds, bars and even a seafood restaurant. Those seeking serenity can pop over to the opposing untouched side, where they’ll find what they’re after.

This beach in Santorini offers a pristine opportunity to sunbathe within walking distance of Fira. Don’t forget to peek up at the plummeting clifftop above and take a few pictures too.

12. Perissa Beach

Location: 11.7km southeast of Fira

Perissa Beach boasts black sand that’s speckled with pebbles and crystal-clear water. Sounds simple, right? You’re mistaken. This is a hot spot equipped with an ample array of bars, restaurants, umbrella & sun-bed rentals, accommodation and beach clubs featuring international DJs.

If you’re looking to beach it with a party-loving, backpacker crowd, Perissa Beach is one of the best beaches in Santorini. Those seeking the party scene should be prepared for beach club style, not nightclub-wise.

This is a perfect spot for lounging around all day! Get ya cocktail sunglasses on.

Side note: This applies to all black sand beaches in Santorini. Wear sandals or thongs (flip flops) unless you fancy a nasty-ass burn from the scorching heat of the black sand.

11. Koloumbos

Location: 4km south of Oia

Hugging petite clifftops and hidden among the wilderness, Koloumbos is an off-the-grid beach from godsend. Covering a lengthy scope, this holidaymaker’s haven boasts the perfect escape from Fira and Oia’s tourist-taunted streets. As it’s only accessible by car, you can expect next to no one will be around. This is one of the best beaches in Santorini for seclusion and serenity.

There are no amenities, so pack plenty of sunscreen, water and food. On a side note, don’t be surprised if you see any bare bums. Koloumbus is a nude-friendly beach in Santorini, so come prepared, or at least bring a pair of sunglasses.

10. Perivolos Beach

Location: 11km south of Fira

As you move south, Perissa changes to Perivolos. The vibe is essentially the same; black sand, excellent tavernas, bars, beach clubs, pumping music… This is life!

But when compared to its picture-perfect next-door neighbour, there’s a lower density of commercialised space. Meaning you’ll get more peace and space to yourself. And that’s what we’re all about, right?

Perivolos Beach is one of the best beaches in Santorini for relaxation. If you’re still after some basic amenities, or if you’re heading to the beach with the kids, this is your best bet.

9. Kamari Beach

Location: 8.6km southeast of Fira

Kamari Beach is an upscale pebble beach with beach bars, cafes, restaurants and diving activities. Whether you want to sweat it out in the watersports end or simply lay back and relax, this Santorini beach is veritably vibey. Head out for an evening stroll along the coast, listen to the harmonies of the beach bar chatter and maybe even stop for a quick drink (or two!).

Kamari Beach is one of the most family-friendly beaches in Santorini, but it’s also ideal for the backpacking crowd too. Here you’ll find amenities and conveniences at every end, making it one of the most accessible beaches on the island.

Travel Tip: During the summer, you can enjoy a movie under the stars at the Kamari Open Air Cinema.

They show popular films in English, with Greek subtitles. Movies are usually from 9:30 pm and tickets typically cost around €8.00 in cash.

8. Eros Beach

Location: 9km southwest of Fira

Straddling the southern stretch of Santorini is the ever-elusive, secluded Eros Beach. With stunning cliffs painting the background, you’ll be gobsmacked by their wind-carved design. Follow the naturally-made lines with your eyes before heading down to the pebbly shoreline.

Step away from the buzz of the whitewashed villages as you drive down the dusty road by car. Drift off for a siesta under a straw umbrella, get refreshed with a quick dip in the ocean and say cheers over a cocktail at the bar in this pebble-shored paradise. If you’re looking for something lowkey but with few conveniences, Eros is one of the best beaches in Santorini.

7. Akrotiri: The Red Beach

Location: 12km southwest of Fira

A red-pebble beach with some seriously jaw-dropping scenery. Not only is Red Beach a must-see in Santorini, but it also makes an excellent spot for avid snorkellers to discover.

On your way through the car park, locals sell assorted fresh fruits and ice cream. I’d recommend buying from some to support the local community!

From a distance, the walk down to the beach looks quite steep and a little bit sketchy. However, it is relatively safe. A visit to Red Beach is worth your time, and ancient Akrotiri is only 5 minutes away. Despite the questionable stroll down the cliff face, this is one of the top beaches in Santorini.

Travel Tip: If you plan on visiting during July or August, expect big crowds. You can get some extra space to yourself by arriving in the early morning. Save your twinkle toes from blistering up, and don’t forget to wear proper shoes for the walk down to the beach!

6. Vourvoulos Beach

Location: 4.7km from Fira

Encircled by towering white rocks, Vourvoulos Beach proffers pristine panoramic backdrops and cobalt blue water. Spanning a lengthy stretch, you can unwind and recharge your batteries without feeling overwhelmed by the masses. Spend the day watching the clouds go by, catch some sun on the sunbeds or bury your head into a new novel under the umbrella.

If you’re looking for the best beaches in Santorini, Vourvoulos can offer you both serenity and sublime scenery. For an authentic taste of the locals' lives, trot over to the nearby fishing port. Take your pick between the traditional taverns and relish your taste buds in classic cuisine.

5. Amoudi Bay

Location: 13km from Fira

While Amoudi Bay is not technically considered a beach, it is a great spot to jump off the rocks for a refreshing dip in the cool, turquoise water.

If you’re coming from Oia, you can walk down the winding path to the Ammoudi Port.

There are plenty of tavernas and places to get a cheeky cocktail, making it one of the best beaches in Santorini to spend an entire day!

Side note: The path from Oia to Amoudi is pretty tiring under the scorching summer sun, however, please do not ride the donkeys. By contributing to this service you are exploiting these animals, as they are treated cruelly.

4. Vlychada Beach

Location: 10km south of Fira

Vlychada Beach is a peaceful, black-pebble beach with sun-bed & umbrella rentals, volcanic cliffs, unusual rock formations, a few tavernas and some superb sunset views. A relaxing atmosphere that hardly ever gets inundated with sun-seekers.

Characterized by its wealth of white rock formations and tranquil turquoise waters, this beach’s seclusion poses the perfect opportunity for those looking for a peaceful day by the water. Next to the beach is a petite fishing port with a handful of restaurants that serve freshly caught fish. If you’re looking for a local vibe, this hot spot poses as one of the best beaches in Santorini.

3. Monolithos Beach

Location: 7,1km from Fira

Hugging Santorini’s eastern coast, this tranquil and tantalisingly blue water beach makes for a fantastic foray. Monolithos Beach is home to an abundance of adrenaline-filled outdoor activities.

Whether you want to hit the wind kitesurfing, shoot some hoops playing basketball, or get rowdy over a game of beach volleyball, I can assure you that this is the spot. Kick back on a sunbed, pop in for a midday Greek coffee and enjoy the spacious sandy oasis.

This black sand beach hosts a collection of hotels & restaurants and a playground. If you’re looking for the best beaches in Santorini, this hot spot is perfect for families with children. Thanks to the shallow slope of the water, you can splish, splash, and doggy paddle the afternoon away.

2. Cape Columbo

Location: 8.5km northeast of Fira

water and rocks at the best beach in santorini

Cape Columbo is one of the longest, quietest black-pebble beaches in Santorini. With blue water and wind-sculpted rocks, you’ll have plenty of room. This stunning nature-carved beach is the perfect escape for those seeking serenity away from the masses of tourists.

This beach in Santorini is nude-friendly, but just keep in mind that it can get pretty windy. So, if you want to avoid having your junk in the trunk fly all over the place, be sure to check the weather well beforehand.

1. White Beach

Location: 13.8km northeast of Fira

White Beach is a wonder, encapsulated by ethereal white cliffs that drop precipitously into the ocean. The undulating clifftops and downright dramatic landscape make it one of the best beaches to visit in Santorini.

Go for a splash in the calm cove, soak up the sunshine on the sand, and be sure to take a mental picture of this pristine paradise. Apart from a little canteen, there are no restaurants or extra facilities, so stock up before you go. Situated near Red Beach, you can only access White Beach via a taxi boat. Your best bet is to arrive as early as possible because, like all hot spots, it can fill up quickly.

Hidden Beaches in Santorini:

Baxedes Beach – Nudism friendly
Armeni Beach – Near Ammoudi Beach
Agios Georgios – Near Perissa and Perivolos
Katharos Beach
Paradisos – Near Baxedes Beach
Pyrgos Kallistis
Palea Kameni (Old Volcano) – Hot Springs
Nea Kameni (New Volcano) – Hot Springs
Agia Paraskevi
Exomitis
Kambia Beach
Caldera Beach
White Beach

FAQS

What part of Santorini has the best beaches?

The best beaches for swimming are Perissa and Perivolos Beach. With fine black sand and blue waters, enjoying a day at the beach in Santorini is easy.

What beach do the locals go to in Santorini?

Baxedes Beach is just 3 km from Oia and is a crowd favourite for locals. This beach is secluded, sandy and harbours shallow waters.

Where are the white sand beaches in Santorini?

There is only one white, sandy beach in Santorini. Known as ‘White Beach’ or ‘Lefki Ammos’, this beach is surrounded by soaring cliffs and is well worth a visit.

Need more sun on your buns?

Are you planning the ultimate European vacation? Don’t miss the insider scoop on top travel destinations like Ibiza, Madrid, Algarve, Lisbon, Alicante, Barcelona and Croatia.

These are just a handful of the stunning splendour of beaches in Santorini. Whether you're after a lively, action-packed day by the water or a serene spot to bury your head in the sand, Santorini has got it all.

Save these 13 Best Beaches in Santorini for your upcoming trip to Greece!

If you want to dive into the inundating inventory of possibilities, don’t miss this Santorini Travel Guide.