Santorini's Best Volcanic Beaches

Santorini is unique for many reasons and its beaches are no exception. Santorini’s volcano is responsible for coasts of otherworldly beauty with deep, dark waters, jagged red cliffs and black sanded beaches. As for Santorini’s beachlife, whether you’re a fan of upscale beach bars, cocktails and loud beats or you’re looking for a somewhat secluded waterfront setting, here are some must-visit beaches:

Red Beach

Probably the most famous beach of Santorini, named after the characteristic colour of its rocky cliffs. Its beauty is unparalleled, so make sure to include it in your holiday itinerary. Keep in mind though, especially during the peak months, this beach can become really crowded, but we can suggest private cruise or excursion options to make your visit all the more perfect!

White Beach

Probably the most famous beach of Santorini, named after the characteristic colour of its rocky cliffs. Its beauty is unparalleled, so make sure to include it in your holiday itinerary. Keep in mind though, especially during the peak months, this beach can become really crowded, but we can suggest private cruise or excursion options to make your visit all the more perfect!

Kamari

A beachgoers favourite, this is the spot for those who love exhilarating moments by the sea. Sunbeds, beach bars and watersports abound in a setting of fine black sand and deep, dark blue waters. Sunbathe, splash around or get a massage, enjoy a relaxing cocktail and even do a little shopping in of the many shops in the area.

Perissa

Next to Kamari, Perissa Beach is also a popular spot among visitors and locals alike, promising fun days and nights by the sea. Work on your tan, lounge and savour the good side of life, take a dip or watch the sunset in the most “Mykonos” side of Santorini.

Perivolos

We finish our tour of the trendy beaches of Santorini with Perivolos. Quite close to Perissa, Perivolos also boasts black sand and deep, crystalline waters to go with watersports, great food and drinks and everything one should expect from a fun day at the beach.

Bexedes

Looking for a hidden coastal gem? Baxedes is a quiet pebble beach with volcanic sands, close to Oia, popular among locals yet not overly crowded, an ideal destination for casual, peaceful beach days. Whilst most beaches in Santorini have deep waters, the waters of this little cove are shallow, which makes it a good choice for families – or even surfers when the winds blow from the north.

Vlychada

One of the largest Santorini beaches and the easiest to get to, Vlychada is a crowd pleaser: a safe option for everyone. Not to mention its breath-taking landscape, which never ceases to amaze with its otherworldly grandeur. Equipped with sunbeds and a beach bar on one side and a more secluded spot on the other, Vlychada is perfect for everyone. For even more privacy, check out the beach of Mesa Pigadia, a tiny beach just a few steps away from Vlychada.

Cape Columbo

If you are keeping away from the crowds, the sandy Cape Columbo offers an idyllic setting with warm waters, due to its proximity to a nearby underwater volcano. Enjoy your swim undisturbed but be advised: there are no beach bars here so make sure you bring along some essential supplies.

Monolithos

Things can’t get more romantic than this: a secluded beach with Santorini’s signature dark sand and a quaint little fishing harbour with family-owned fish tavernas to complete the scene. We’re swooning already. The locals keep Monolithos high on their list and so should you!

Bonus Option !

Explore every hidden coastal gem of Santorini and create your own paradise by renting a private yacht. Choose Yafy’s network of partners will make sure to find the perfect one for your needs so you can leave no beach unexplored. Want to know more? Simply ask!