Santorini's best beaches: black sand, Red Beach and family picks
Where to swim in Santorini, how the beaches differ and what to know about Red Beach.
- Most Santorini beaches are volcanic black sand that gets very hot.
- Kamari and Perissa are the easiest, Monolithos is best for kids.
- Red Beach was fenced off after 2020 rockfalls, and White Beach is boat-only.
Bring water shoes, go to the beach in the morning, and without a car focus on Kamari and Perissa.
How are Santorini's beaches different from the rest of Greece?
If you come to Santorini expecting white sand and turquoise water like Corfu or Zakynthos, you may be disappointed. Santorini is a volcanic island, so most of its beaches are black sand or dark pebbles. Dark sand gets very hot in the sun, so bring water shoes or sandals. On the other hand the water is clear, and the scenery of volcanic cliffs is like nowhere else.
The main beaches are on the east and south coasts, away from the famous caldera-edge villages of Fira and Oia.
The best beaches in Santorini
Kamari. A long beach of black sand and pebbles, with a promenade, restaurants, bars and sunbeds. Many buses run from Fira, so it is one of the easiest beaches without a car.
Perissa and Perivolos. A long strip of black sand in the southeast that continues to Agios Georgios. Plenty of beach bars and room for everyone. Good for couples and families.
Agios Georgios. The southern continuation of Perivolos, also black sand, a little quieter.
Monolithos. A beach near the airport, with shallow water and a relaxed feel. Considered one of the best beaches for families with children.
Vlychada. A southern beach with white cliffs shaped by the wind, like sculptures. Few buses go there, so a car is better.
Kambia and Mesa Pigadia. Smaller, quieter beaches in the southwest, with pebbles and cliffs.
What happened to Red Beach?
Red Beach, near the Akrotiri archaeological site, is one of the most photographed spots on the island thanks to its red cliffs. But after rockfalls in 2020 the area was cordoned off, and access to the beach is restricted because of the landslide risk. You can see it from a viewpoint or a boat. Do not cross the fences. About Akrotiri itself: Akrotiri reopened to visitors.
White Beach
White Beach, near Red Beach, is reachable only by boat. Boats leave from Akrotiri and other southern beaches, and it is usually combined with a half-day cruise.
Which Santorini beach suits kids?
Monolithos, with its shallow water, and Perissa, with its facilities and space, are the easy choices. Kamari is good without a car. Avoid beaches under cliffs with small children because of the rockfall risk. More tips: Santorini with kids.
When is the sea warm enough in Santorini?
Swimming season runs roughly from late May to October. In July–August the beaches are busy and the black sand is scorching at midday, so go in the morning or late afternoon. Check the Greece weather before you go.
How to get between beaches
Buses run from Fira to Kamari and Perissa, but small beaches like Vlychada have few lines. A car or quad gives freedom, especially to see several beaches in a day. Getting to the island: ferry from Athens to Santorini or flights to Santorini. More on the island: Santorini.
FAQ
Why is the sand in Santorini black? Because the island is volcanic. The dark sand and pebbles are worn volcanic rock.
Can you visit Red Beach? The area was fenced off after rockfalls in 2020, and access to the beach is restricted. You can see it from a viewpoint or a boat.
What is the best family beach in Santorini? Monolithos, for its shallow water and quiet feel. Perissa and Kamari are convenient for their facilities.
Do you need a car to reach the beaches? Kamari and Perissa are reachable by bus from Fira. For small beaches like Vlychada a car is better.
