Santorini is renowned for its stunning sunsets, dramatic caldera views and volcanic landscape. But don’t forget about its beaches either – they deserve their own spotlight!
Vlychada Beach is one of Santorini’s most breathtaking beaches, boasting a lunarscape made up of naturally carved cliffs. This secluded haven draws nudists and adventurers alike with its enchanting setting.
1. Monolithos Beach
Monolithos Beach, situated on the east coast of Santorini, is one of the finest sandy beaches on the island. Here, guests can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and take in breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea from its turquoise waters.
This beach is distinguished by smooth black sand and shallow waters, making it an ideal choice for families. You’ll also find sun beds and umbrellas at this secluded spot where you can spend some quiet moments in complete serenity and relaxation.
Couples looking for a romantic holiday will love this sandy beach. It offers breathtaking shorelines and plenty of water activities like swimming or scuba diving.
You can book a cruise to experience the breathtaking caldera of Santorini. Most popular cruises depart from Ammoudi Bay, just 15 minutes away by car from Monolithos Beach.
If you’re traveling in a large group, “Le Blanc Resort Santorini – Two Luxury Houses” is an excellent vacation rental choice. Situated approximately two miles west of Monolithos, this vacation rental can accommodate up to 12 people with its 6 bedrooms and pool.
Another popular option is the “Impeccable Cycladic Home, A Secluded 980m2 Villa With Private Pool”. Situated approximately one mile southeast of central Monolithos, this property can comfortably accommodate up to 10 people.
Monolithos Beach offers a family-friendly area as well as some excellent surfing and kitesurfing spots when the weather permits. In addition, you can partake in other water sports and activities like sailing and snorkeling.
During the summer season, you can find a beach bar to enjoy your cocktail while admiring stunning views. You can also unwind to lounge music or take a dip in crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.
Monolithos’ fine and soft sand makes it the ideal spot for kids to build sand castles. You can rent umbrellas, sunbeds and take advantage of the playground at Monolithos; additionally there are several restaurants, cafes and fish tavernas close by as well.
2. Vlychada Beach
Vlychada Beach is one of Santorini’s most unique and stunning sandy beaches, boasting fine black volcanic sand and dark pebbles. It also tends to be quite quiet and tranquil, making it the ideal spot for relaxing.
Vlychada beach, situated in the south of the island, is long and lined with rocks. It’s ideal for couples or groups to soak up some sun and unwind.
If you’re planning a visit to this beautiful sandy beach, renting a car is highly recommended. That way, you can explore all of its length or just take a quick dip in the water for some fun.
At the southernmost portion of the beach, you’ll discover a small port where fishing boats and yachts can be boarded during summer. Additionally, there are plenty of restaurants and taverns nearby where you can sample some local cuisine.
Another great thing about this beach is that it is rarely overrun, making it ideal for a peaceful morning or romantic afternoon in solitude. There’s an organized section with sun beds and umbrellas at the beginning of the beach, while further up towards the end you will find more secluded areas where you can take in the sea without other people around.
Vlychada Beach boasts some spectacular rock formations created by the wind and sea, making it a favourite among photographers as well.
Vlychada Beach is just a short drive away from Oia, the iconic volcano. Additionally, you’ll be close to other island attractions like the tomato industrial museum and Santorini Arts Factory – two must-visits if you’re into history and culture!
For a more relaxed atmosphere, head over to Eros Beach extension of Vlychada beach – it’s worth visiting for its hidden gem status! You’ll need to hire a car here but will be rewarded with stunning views and the coziest little beach bar-restaurant.
Rent a bike to explore more of this stunning beach. There are some cafes and snack bars where you can grab a coffee or light bite, but most visitors prefer to sit back and take in the view as the waves lap against your shoreline.
3. Koloumpo Beach
On Santorini, there are plenty of beaches where you can relax and take in the stunning scenery. Unfortunately, some may be overrun with people or noisy, making it hard to find a peaceful spot for fun. The best sandy beaches are those that provide ample space, provide an secluded atmosphere, and may attract nudists.
Koloumpo Beach is one of Santorini’s longest and most private beaches, as well as being the only nudist-friendly option on the island. Perfect for those who want to spend some quality alone time, Koloumpo Beach provides plenty of amenities to enjoy.
This stunning beach is framed by cliffs and offers a tranquil, serene atmosphere. Take a dip and gaze upon nature’s black pebbles as well as the sparkling blue waters of the Aegean Sea for an unforgettable swim.
Santorini’s most beloved beach, Perissa, offers stunning views of the Caldera. Plus, it’s only a short trip away from Oia – another must-visit when visiting this picturesque island.
This beach’s sand and rocks are unique due to the volcanic material that formed it. This makes for one of the island’s most remarkable features, as these materials cannot be found elsewhere on earth.
Another reason this beach is so stunning is its idyllic and remote setting. Couples seeking an idyllic destination without being overwhelmed by tourists will find this to be one of Santorini’s best sandy beaches for relaxing holidays away from it all.
You can drive directly to the beach as there is a designated parking lot nearby. Alternatively, take either a taxi or bus from Fira or Oia and arrive in around 20 minutes.
On the southwest part of the island, after Red Beach and before Akrotiri, lies Red Beach. This small and tranquil beach offers coarse black sand with waters that deepen quickly. There are canteen sunbeds and umbrellas here for relaxation; further away offers solitary relaxation while admiring an amazing sunset.
4. Red Beach
Red Beach in Santorini’s Akrotiri region is an incredible natural feature and one of the best sandy beaches to visit. The dark sand is caused by volcanic rock that was deposited on the cliffs by eruptions and earthquakes, providing it with a vibrant color.
Being a popular tourist spot, it’s best to visit early or during the off-season to avoid crowds. Additionally, due to its rocky beach conditions, bring along shoes with good grip or sneakers for comfortable walking and swimming.
Travelers recommend visiting Red Beach early in the morning when it’s less crowded and windy. Plus, it makes for great sunset viewing!
Red Beach can be reached in several ways. You can rent a car or ATV, take the bus from Fira to Akrotiri and then walk the short distance down to the shoreline.
The sand of the Aegean Sea is especially unique and vibrant due to the reddish-orange hue created by iron in pulverized volcanic rocks. This reddish hue contrasts beautifully with the clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea.
Although the sand is stunning, it can be challenging to find places to sit down and unwind without getting sunburnt. Be sure to bring sunscreen, a towel, and water when visiting Red Beach.
Restaurants and shops abound in this area. It’s also an ideal spot for a picnic.
Most visitors to Red Beach arrive by rental car or ATV. If you don’t feel confident driving yourself, a bus service stops near the Akrotiri archaeological site and drops passengers off at a parking lot. From there, hike down an accessible path leading directly to the beach.
If you aren’t confident hiking down a steep path, consider taking a catamaran tour that stops at Red Beach and lets you view its stunning scenery from below. This is an increasingly popular way to enjoy Red Beach as well as other parts of the island that cannot be reached by land.
