Santorini is a dream island with beaches like no other – think dramatic cliffs, black and red volcanic sand, and crystal-clear waters. It’s the kind of place that feels both wild and beautiful, perfect for every type of traveler.
In this guide, I’ll take you through my top 15 favorite beaches on the island – each one special in its own way. Whether you love relaxing in the sun, swimming in unique waters, or taking stunning photos, there’s something here for you.
1. Perissa Beach - A Haven for Families
Located on Santorini’s southeast coast, Perissa Beach is just 15 km from the airport and 10 km from Athinios port. It’s one of the island’s most popular beaches, especially for families, thanks to its long stretch of black volcanic sand and clear waters.
The beach sits below Meso Vouno mountain, which separates it from Kamari village. It also connects seamlessly with Perivolos Beach, making it one of the longest coastlines on the island.
Perissa is well-organized, with plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas. It’s a Blue Flag beach, which means it’s clean and safe. If you’re into water sports, you’ll find everything from jet skiing and parasailing to diving lessons and banana boat rides. There’s even a water park nearby for extra fun.
Along the beach promenade, you’ll find lots of cafes, bars, and restaurants – perfect for grabbing a snack, a drink, or a full meal with a sea view.
The nearby village of Perissa is great for shopping, dining, and booking tours. And when night falls, the area comes alive with bars, clubs, and a buzzing nightlife – second only to Fira.
2. Red Beach - A Photographer's Delight
Near the village of Akrotiri, Red Beach is one of Santorini’s most famous spots – known not for its sunbathing, but for its dramatic red cliffs and rocks, colored by iron-rich soil. The unique landscape makes it one of the most photographed beaches on the island.
There’s a small area with sunbeds and umbrellas, but they fill up fast in high season. You can also find quieter spots along the pebbled shore if you bring your own towel.
Facilities are limited, so it’s a good idea to bring water and snacks. You’ll find parking on the cliff above, where a couple of beach bars serve drinks and light food.
Red Beach gets busy, so try to arrive early for the best experience. Be aware of the rocky shoreline and wear sturdy shoes.
3. White Beach - An Adventurer's Paradise
Close to Akrotiri and next to Red Beach, White Beach is a small, hidden spot surrounded by tall white cliffs. Despite its name, the sand is actually gray with pebbles – but the dramatic scenery is stunning.
Getting there isn’t easy. You can hike over rocks from Red Beach or take a boat, which is the safer and easier option. But the effort pays off with a peaceful, less crowded vibe.
The beach is popular with divers and those looking for a quiet escape. There are just a few sunbeds and umbrellas, along with a small beach bar for drinks and snacks. Facilities are basic, which adds to the feeling of adventure.
Whether you want to swim, snorkel, or just relax in a quiet setting, White Beach is a hidden gem worth exploring.
4. Cape Columbo Beach - Secluded Serenity
Located on the northeast coast, just 9 km from Fira, Cape Columbo is one of Santorini’s most wild and quiet beaches. Surrounded by tall cliffs, black sand, and native trees, it offers a peaceful escape into nature.
There’s no public transport, so you’ll need a car or motorbike to get there. The beach has no facilities, so bring your own food, drinks, and anything else you need.
Its remote setting attracts visitors looking for solitude and even naturists. The water here is warmer than usual due to an underwater volcano nearby, making swimming feel extra special.
Be careful near the cliffs, especially after heavy rain, as small rockfalls can happen. For a quiet, natural beach day far from the crowds, Cape Columbo is a great choice.
5. Vlychada Beach - A Family-Friendly Beach with all the Comforts
Located on the southern coast, just 12 km from Fira and 3 km from Perivolos, Vlychada Beach is a peaceful yet popular spot, known for its unique landscape and relaxed vibe.
The beach features gray sand and pebbles, surrounded by tall, dark cliffs that give it a dramatic and wild look. There’s a serviced area with sunbeds, umbrellas, and a small beach bar offering drinks and snacks. Beyond that, you can find your own quiet spot along the shore.
Next to the beach is a small fishing port with a few great seafood tavernas – perfect for a fresh local meal. Nearby, you’ll also see two tall chimneys from an old tomato factory, now home to the Tomato Industrial Museum, which tells the story of Santorini’s agricultural past.
Vlychada is great for families and travelers looking for both comfort and natural beauty. It’s easy to reach and offers a calm, scenic beach experience away from the crowds.
6. Kamari Beach - Lively but also Family-Friendly
Kamari Beach lies on Santorini’s east coast, just 6 km from the airport and 8 km from Fira. It sits in front of Kamari village and is separated from Perissa by Mount Vouno, home to the ruins of ancient Thera and great views from the top.
This long, black-sand beach stretches over 5 km and is one of the most popular on the island. It’s well-organized, clean (Blue Flag certified), and great for families, older visitors, and anyone looking for comfort.
You’ll find sunbeds, umbrellas, lifeguards, and plenty of water sports – from surfing and diving to pedal boats. There’s also beach volleyball and a football field nearby.
The beachfront promenade is full of shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants, making it lively both day and night. Kamari village also has a relaxed vibe with more dining options and places to enjoy local food and drinks.
Getting to Kamari is easy, with clear roads, parking, and regular buses to Fira.
7. Ammoudi Bay - For Seafood Lovers
Just below Oia on Santorini’s northwest coast lies Ammoudi Bay – a small, scenic harbor surrounded by striking red cliffs and clear blue sea. While it’s not a typical beach, it’s perfect for a relaxing swim and an unforgettable seafood meal.
Instead of sand, you’ll find rocky spots for sunbathing and swimming. At the far end of the bay, there’s a popular area for diving into the water, and a small islet about 100 meters out draws adventurous swimmers.
The harbor is lined with charming tavernas and seafood restaurants. It’s one of the best places on the island for fresh fish. Look for “Dimitris” tavern for authentic Greek food and friendly service – it’s been a local favorite since 1989.
You can reach Ammoudi Bay by walking down the steep steps from Oia (about 15 minutes), by taxi, or by car – just note that parking is limited. Despite the effort, the peaceful setting and delicious food make it well worth the visit.
8. Katharos Beach - A Secluded Retreat, Not Ideal for Young Children
Just a 20-minute walk from Oia, Katharos Beach offers peace and quiet, far from the crowds. Surrounded by dark cliffs and covered in black sand and pebbles, it feels remote despite being so close to town.
There are no sunbeds or umbrellas, but a nearby taverna serves tasty vegan food and stays open 24/7 – often hosting full moon beach parties.
If you’re driving, there’s parking above the beach, with a short walk down to the shore.
Katharos is popular with naturists and anyone looking for a quiet, natural spot to relax. It’s also one of the best places on the island to watch the sunset.
9. Perivolos Beach - The Ultimate Beach Experience, Day and Night
Located on Santorini’s southeast coast, Perivolos is known for its smooth black sand and lively vibe. It’s just 12 km from Fira and 14 km from the airport, stretching between Perissa and Agios Georgios to form one of the island’s longest beaches.
The beach is lined with sunbeds, umbrellas, and a wide range of bars, cafes, restaurants, shops, and places to stay. It’s especially popular with younger travelers but also attracts families looking for a fun, energetic beach day.
Water sports, boat trips, and beach parties keep the atmosphere lively, while lifeguards ensure safety.
Perivolos is perfect if you’re looking for sun, sea, and non-stop beachside fun.
10. Agios Georgios - A Beach for All Ages
Located on the southeast coast, Agios Georgios is the last stretch of the long beach shared with Perissa and Perivolos. It’s a spacious, gray-sand beach with plenty of room for everyone.
The beach offers sunbeds, water sports, and a relaxed vibe for visitors of all ages. Wooden walkways make it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, and the shallow waters are great for kids, with lifeguards on duty.
Along the shore, you’ll find shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants. Agios Georgios is also a great starting point for exploring more of what Santorini has to offer.
11. Monolithos Beach - Family-Friendly
On Santorini’s east coast, Monolithos is a wide beach with soft gray sand and clear, shallow waters – perfect for families with young children. Lifeguards are on duty, and there’s even a playground nearby.
The beach is divided into zones: the north side offers water sports, the center has courts for volleyball, basketball, football, and table tennis, and the south side is ideal for relaxing with sunbeds and umbrellas.
Along the promenade, you’ll find cafes, shops, bars, and restaurants to complete your beach day.
12. Exo Gialos - A Local Beach with a Popular Restaurant
Just 4 km east of Fira on Santorini’s west coast, Exo Gialos is a quiet, uncrowded beach perfect for relaxing. With black sand, pebbles, and dramatic cliffs on one end, it offers a peaceful setting by the sea.
The beach has a few sunbeds and umbrellas, plus a small beach bar. Near the fishing port, a well-known local restaurant serves fresh seafood and hosts weddings and events in a beautiful setting.
It’s easy to reach by car, with a direct road leading to the beach.
13. Baxedes Beach (Paradisos) - A Serene Escape
Just 3 km from Oia at the northern tip of Santorini, Baxedes – also called Paradisos Beach – is a quiet spot known for its dark sand, pebbles, and tall cliffs. It’s ideal for those looking to relax away from the crowds.
The beach slopes gently into the sea, making it safe for kids, though strong waves can occur on windy days, so caution is needed.
There are a few sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach cafes at one end. It’s easy to reach by car, with parking nearby.
14. Pori - A Natural Beach with a Traditional Greek Village
Pori Beach is on Santorini’s northeast coast, just over 6 km from the island’s capital. It’s a quiet, natural spot surrounded by farms, vineyards, and windmills.
This beach hasn’t been touched by mass tourism, so it has no facilities. Its small, pebbled shore is popular with locals and a few visitors looking for peace and uncrowded beauty.
It’s easy to reach by car from nearby resorts, with plenty of parking along the beach.
15. Mesa Pigadia - A Tranquil Beach for Escape Seekers
Located on Santorini’s southwest coast near White Beach, Mesa Pigadia is a quiet, 200-meter-long beach with black pebbles and dramatic cliffs.
There are few facilities, but a well-known seafood restaurant on the beach offers drinks, meals, sunbeds, and umbrellas.
Along the cliffs, you’ll see colorful doors – these are varkadies, old boat storage caves once used by local fishermen.
Mesa Pigadia is about 4 km from Akrotiri, with parking available after a short dirt road. You can also get there by water taxi from Akrotiri.
It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for a relaxing beach visit.
And while you’re planning your beach days, it’s also a good idea to look at the best places to stay in Santorini. To make the most of your trip, try local dishes, take a boat tour around the caldera, visit ancient ruins, and soak in the island’s incredible views and culture.
