Unique Santorini Beaches – Nobody can deny Santorini’s irresistible and unsurpassable draw and magnetism. Being rightfully regarded as the Queen of the Cyclades, it is, indeed, one of the most idyllic islands in the Mediterranean (if not the entire world). So, it comes as no surprise that it receives so much attention from thousands of people visiting Santorini to get a taste of its uniqueness, stunning scenery, romantic sunsets, and picture-perfect villages with the blue-domed chapels and the whitewashed houses with the flower-filled balconies.
One of the island’s main attractions is the beaches that are like no other shore you have seen so far. With heart-stopping panoramas, volcanic formations, and black, red, or white sand, they are definitely a sight on their own. Here are six of them you MUST include in your next itinerary at all costs. You can thank us later!
Unique Santorini Beaches
The Impressive Red Beach
Despite its relatively small size, the Red Beach is a jaw-dropping beach near the ancient Akrotiri settlement, just 12km from Fira, the island’s capital. Access to this beautiful local attraction is easy, and there are plenty of parking spaces to leave your car. Be prepared for a 10-minute downhill walk through rocky terrain and uneven surface. Once you are past these, though, you will be greatly rewarded with the beauty your eyes will see. Enveloped by huge red cliffs, the beach features soft sand mixed with crystal blue waters and seaweed.
If making the way down to the shore is not your cup of tea, you can certainly take a glance and admire the unbelievable views from the headland. However, if you do reach the beach, expect just a few people and some umbrellas and chairs for hire to sunbathe and enjoy the warm Aegean Sea. There is also a small taverna nearby to grab a bite if you feel that having delicious seafood while gazing at the endless blue of the Mediterranean caresses your senses!
The Glamorous Perissa Black Sand Beach
At the foothill of Mesa Vouno mountain lies one of the longest and most organised beaches in Santorini – Perissa Beach. Also referred to as Black Sand Beach (you guessed it, it has black volcanic sand), this outstanding shore has exceptional infrastructure. Plus, it also bears a Blue Flag certification for its crystalline waters.
Located some 12km from Fira, it stands out with the tree-lined shore that provides ample shade to sunbathers and comfy lounge chairs and umbrellas for hire. It also pampers with a public playground (so, ideal for families with children), watersports facilities, wooden paths, changing cabins, and showers.
A relaxing and unwinding beach in Santorini with lots of character to it, as well as plenty of seaside restaurants, boutiques, beach bars, and hotels worth checking out. Note: Within an arm’s reach is Kamari Beach, another black sand shore very similar to Perissa. Not as quiet or organised as its other counterpart, Kamari occupies the stretch of sand on the other side of Mesa Vouno mountain. Also featuring black pebbles and thick black sand, it welcomes visitors to crystal-clear waters and pampers them with equally excellent infrastructure and some trees.
The Imposing Rock Formations of Vlychada Beach
If you decide to head to the island’s south coast, you will come across a long stretch of volcanic black sand. Besides its peculiar shore, though, Vlychada turns heads with its amazing rock formations and the odd (eerie-like) moon-shaped landscape. Being the outcome of the northern winds that blow on the island, the scenery reminds of a sci-fi movie while also exuding a strange exotic appeal.
Situated 13km from the Santorini capital, Vlychada beach is semi-organised with some umbrellas and sun loungers for hire during the high season. If you prefer walking around on the beach naked, then this is a great option. Vlychada is one of the few gay and nudism-friendly Santorini beaches where clothing is totally optional!
The Unspoiled Cape Columbo Beach
Cape Columbo is a secluded shore enveloped by a dramatic headland less than 9km from Fira. Probably one of the wildest beaches in Santorini, it dazzles with the beautiful wind-shaped promontory and the fine black-grey sand. In fact, it is potentially the only shore covered in powder sand, although you will also find some pebbles along your way to the absolutely transparent sea.
Due to its location, it is not as organised as the other shores on the island, which is part of its allure. Perfect for those seeking some peace and quiet and privacy away from the crowds. Just don’t forget to bring some beach essentials (i.e., your towel and refreshments or water) as there aren’t any amenities to cater to your needs, even the most basic ones. Also worth noting, Columbo is another nudism-friendly beach, so feel free to get rid of those tan lines! And, if you love scuba diving, the active underwater crater will certainly keep you occupied for many long hours!
Note: In close distance to Columbo Cape and its charming beach lies another quiet shore, Pori Beach, which belongs to Imerovigli village. It is primarily preferred by local families, it is another superb option if you want isolation, tranquillity, and a beach within walking distance from your luxury resort in Santorini island.
If a visit to Santorini feels like a dream just by reading these lines, rest assured the reality will be even more dreamy!
Enjoy!
*Collaborative post
Debz Louise is a plus-size blogger based in Yorkshire. Behind many nationwide campaigns such as #WeaAreTheThey & winner of Best Blogger at the UK Plus Size Awards, she talkas about life as a plus-size 40-something woman in South Yorkshire.
Leave a Reply