Top 10 beaches in Santorini

By Faye J. Vasiliadis

The unique unearthly beauty of Santorini continues to bedazzle visitors, who keep voting it as a lifetime must-see destination. This volcanic jewel surely has some peculiar beaches that do not fall in the white-sand-emerald-waters category, though. The shades of black, grey and red prevail, giving the crystal clear waters a magical deep blue color. Let’s see the top ten beaches of the island:

Baxedes: Covered by black volcanic coarse sand and surrounded by black rocky cliffs, Baxedes is one of the most known beaches in Oia. It is located on the northern part of the island, about 11 kilometers from Fira. It rarely attracts big crowds, which makes it ideal for relaxation. 

Armenis: A small scenic seaside settlement on the northwestern part of the island, directly below Oia. Access is feasible by boat, by foot from Ammoudi, or by donkey from Oia, by descending the steep 286 steps. The beach is small, with red and black rocks popping out of the very deep, yet inviting waters. There is a diving center there, along with many small fish taverns, right by the sea.

Red Beach: A beach, famous for the red color of the sand, pebbles, and the cliffs surrounding it. It is located on the southwestern part of the island, near Akrotiri. Access is difficult, but it is definitely worth a visit. 

Vourvoulos: A quiet cove on the northeastern part of the island, with black pebbles and an impressive surrounding landscape. A handful of umbrellas provide much-needed shade, and the fish tavern serves fresh fish and seafood. 

Monolithos: This long beach, with the shallow waters and the black sand, is located on the eastern part of the island, between Vourvoulos and Kamari. It never gets too crowded, but it’s popular for families with young children. 

Perissa: A very popular beach, mostly attracting the younger crowds. It is one of the longest and most well-organized on the island, with umbrellas, sunbeds, a diving school, a waterpark, camping, beach bars, taverns, and grocery stores. 

Kamari: Kamari is a popular seaside settlement on the southeastern part of the island. The beach is long and wide, very well organized, with thin black sand, pebbles and abruptly deepening waters. There are many taverns, shops, and hotels in the area. 

Perivolos: Another well-organized beach on the island, long, wide with thin black sand and crystal clear, deep waters. It is located on the southeastern part of Santorini. The younger crowds love the beach bars, while families enjoy its quieter parts, the all-day taverns, as well as the beach games and activities. 

Vlychada: The most exotic, lunar-like beach of the island, located on its southern part. It’s long, with black coarse sand and crystal clear, deep blue waters, and is surrounded by steep, grandiose, sky-high cliffs. Access is easy, and you will definitely enjoy the magnificent sunset, should you decide to stay until late. 

Palaia Kammeni: A small beach on the scenic cove of Agios Nikolaos, on the northeastern part of the islet of Palaia Kammeni, which can only be accessed by boat. This lava islet impresses visitors with its wild, magical landscape, and its warm yellow-reddish waters.