Top beaches in Santorini

Kamari beach is a haven of dark sand and pebbles, with a brilliant blue sea. The friendly atmosphere and promenade of facilities along the bay make it a spectacular choice for families. Sunbathe on a sun lounger, admire the mystical view and enjoy delicious grilled prawns under a thatched umbrella at the Alismari restaurant, overlooking the sparkling coastline.

Perissa, renowned for its volcanic black sand, is Santorini's hotspot for sun, sea, and nightlife. This vibrant stretch of coastline offers a range of water sports, from jet skiing to windsurfing, alongside a lively array of beach clubs, bars, and restaurants.

Imagine Perissa beach in a serene setting, without the drawbacks of large crowds and less eccentric beach clubs: welcome to Perivolos Bay. It's essentially an extension of Perissa beach, with a relaxed atmosphere downstream and islands of energy in the main thoroughfare. Near Perivolos, stay in one of Santorini's best all-inclusive villas.

The magnificent beach of Vlychada is nestled in the south of the island and is one of Santorini's best beaches. It owes its name to its pale, towering cliffs, which resemble a sculptor's work of art, framing deep turquoise waters. Unlike neighbouring Perissa, Vlychada offers a relaxing atmosphere as it is relatively untouched by tourism. You can spend hours soaking up the atmosphere here, then head into the town of Vlychada to visit the Tomato Industrial Museum and an eclectic range of enchanting restaurants.

Named after the Greek god of love and sensual desire, Eros beach is Santorini's most romantic beach. Isolated by cascading white cliffs that reinforce the heavenly image, this magnificent bay is a continuation of the long Vlychada Beach. Known for its warm, calm waters and spacious pebbly beach, it offers intimacy, leafy palms and swings. 

Red Beach is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful stretches of shoreline on Santorini. Its bright blue waters are surrounded by rust-red rock formations and pink sand and pebbles, making this beach a unique peninsula in the world. Nestling to the south, near the ancient village of Akrotiri, once you've tired of paddling, you can explore the famous Minoan archaeological site of Akrotiri, just 10 minutes walk away off the bay.

The jewel in Santorini's western crown, Caldera beach, or Balos beach, is a small beach set against the backdrop of the Caldera mountains. This hidden cove north of Akrotiri, near Gialos beach is renowned for its coral-rich seabed in sparkling waters. So grab your snorkelling gear and set off to discover Caldera's rainbow-coloured flora and fauna, and create unique memories that will stay with you forever.

An incredibly small bay surrounded by rocks below Oia, Ammoudi is not quite a beach, but something pretty and different, with clear waters so clear you can see the tiniest shellfish. Last time we checked, the Ammoudi Fish Tavern was serving sumptuous bowls of spaghetti and clams on its terrace, facing the docks that give access to the mint-green cove.