5 Santorini island beaches that will blow your mind !

While Santorini island in Greece is a pretty famous place, many visitors just choose to only stay for a day or two. Is this time enough though to see everything? This unique Greek island has some of the most iconic villages in the Aegean sea, many of them offering breathtaking views over the volcanic islands, and the famous Santorini caldera . Who hasn't seen the famous blue domes, and the white cave houses built on the edge of the cliffs..These images are part of almost every campaign of the tourism ministry of Greece for decades. But Santorini has much more to offer. Some might tell you that this place is not ideal for simply relaxing on the beach, and its mostly about taking pictures of the sunset and the view over the cliffs. Sure, you definitely shouldn't miss all the famous places like Fira and Oia, but that's not everything. The island has a lot more to offer. Villages away from the noise, winerries that are centouries old, local people looking forward to sharing their stories over a cup of Greek coffee, and of course many places to enjoy the sun and the crystal clear waters. I would like to mention 5 of Santorini's beaches that might change your mind, and make you stay more on the island.

1. The red beach

Located on the south part of the island, in the area of Akrotiri, the colour of this beach will blow your mind! From the main road, you will need to walk down a small path for about 10 minutes, in order to get there. The red beach has a few sun beds and umbrellas that you can hire, but you’ll need to have your own drinks, and anything you might need during your visit here, as there are not any shops of any kind. You can get some really cool pictures here, and you can combine your visit here, with a stop at the archeological excavation site, which is quite near.

How to get here: a)By public bus from Fira ( every hour). b)By private transfer or taxi. c) by a rental car, scooter or atv

2. Kamari beach

Kamari beach is a volcanic black sand beach, that provides sunbeds and umbrellas, water sports, and plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, and beach bars along the beach. There is a pedestrian road from side to side, so it’s a great place for families. Not far away is the archeological site of Ancient Thera, which could also be included in your plans while in the area!

3. Mesa Pigadia beach

This hidden beach is not easy to find and it can be reached only via a dirt road or a private / hired boat. There is not any kind of public transport anywhere near. People usually come here with their own transport (car or four wheeler). The location is south, near the area of Akrotiri. Once you arrive, you’ll be able to enjoy the crystal clear waters and the privacy that comes with the remote location of this beach.. There is a small place nearby, where you can get coffee, snacks and lunch.

4. The White beach

This small beach, can be reached only by a boat, which you can take from Akrotiri beach ( near the excavation site ) . All you can hear in this beach is the sound of the waves. Just amazing . Make sure though that you have all you will need during your stay, ( water, hat, e.t.c.) , as there is not any shop of any kind nearby . There are not any umbrellas or sun beds either. Its just you and the nature!

5. Perissa beach

Perissa beach, is the first beach that Santorini visitors loved back in the 70s when people started to discover the island. The black volcanic sand, the deep blue sea, and the usually calm waters makes this place a must come, for anyone that wants to enjoy swimming and sunbathing. Very easy to access, Perissa and the nearby Perivolos can offer everything a visitor needs these days. Tavernas, restaurants, beach bars, water sports, diving centers, and as the beach front is quite long, you can choose your favorite spot.

To get around in Santorini, and explore everything (the beaches included), there are 3 ways. First is by a public bus. Then there are local taxis and private mini vans that you can book online, or with your host / hotel reception. And of course you can always rent a car ( my favorite solution ), or a bike or one of those 4wheelers that are so popular these days.

Author : Phil