Imagine Santorini, and you probably think of whitewashed houses cascading down dark cliffs or the blue fishbowl of the island’s submerged caldera. However, the beaches? Not so much. Unlike the sandy bays and glistening coves of other Greek Islands, Santorini’s volcanic landscape has created a kaleidoscope of black, red, grey, and white beaches. Generally, they are long stretches of grainy pebbles with slightly murky water; they appear better from a distance than close up. Therefore, it’s little wonder that many hoteliers have carved hundreds of hot tubs out of the cliffside – it’s hard to tear yourself away from those mesmerizing caldera vistas. That said, it is well worth leaving the sun lounger to explore the best beaches on Santorini.
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Agios Nikolaos
After descending roughly 250 steps whittled out of the rust-red cliffs below Oia, you will find the once dozy fishing port of Ammoudi Bay. This port has become packed with flashy catamarans waiting to whisk visitors off on sunset cruises. Walk past the strip of seaside tavernas and navigate over the black volcanic boulders until you arrive at a rocky outcrop just offshore. Dive off the rocks into the deep-blue caldera and swim over to the floating chapel of Agios Nikolaos. On your way back, treat yourself to delicious tomato fritters, fried calamari, and lobster linguine at Dimitris Taverna – a local classic since 1989.
Where to stay: With blissfully private villas and suites complimented by a delightful restaurant, this venue is the perfect haven after a day at the beach.
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Koloumbos
Ask a Santorini resident where they prefer to swim, and they’ll likely mention Koloumbos. This beach, one of the string of pleasingly undeveloped black pebble beaches on the island’s northeast coast, is a local favorite that’s rarely crowded. Striated lava cliffs provide shade at the southern end of the beach, although bringing your own umbrella is advisable. Moreover, the sea here is relatively warm due to an active underwater volcano nearby. On clear days, the islands of Ios, Amorgos, and Anafi can be seen silhouetted on the horizon. To enhance your beach experience, two renowned wineries, Vassaltis Vineyards and Sigalas, are in the vicinity, perfect for sunset drinks.
Where to stay: Nestled on a low hill with stunning sea views on either side, this adults-only retreat featuring cave-like villas around an infinity pool is within easy walking distance of Koloumbos beach.
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Katharos
As cruise ship visitors flood the narrow streets leading to Oia, a peaceful retreat can be found at Katharos Beach. Just a 15-minute hike leads you to this black pebble beach, backed by porous limestone cliffs shaped by the coastal elements. Its tranquil atmosphere and magical views across the straits to Thirasia Island make it an ideal spot for sunset watching, though it can get gusty when the meltemi wind picks up. In addition, Katharos Lounge, a cozy vegan café and bar nestled into the cliffs, often features live music in the evenings that complements its feel-good food.
Where to stay: Hidden along Oia’s cobbled calderimi path, this adults-only sanctuary offers spacious suites housed in white-domed buildings, each centered around its own infinity pool, all within a convenient hiking distance from Katharos Beach.
