Santorini Beaches
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What are the best beaches to visit in Santorini?
Santorini’s volcanic origins give its beaches striking red, black, and white shores. The five best to explore are Exo Gialos (Karterados), Red Beach, Perissa (Black Beach), Vlychada, and Monolithos — each with a distinct volcanic character, from iconic red cliffs to family-friendly black sand.
- Exo Gialos (Karterados Beach) — black sand and a calm mood; the closest beach to Emerald Collection Suites.
- Red Beach: dramatic red cliffs and sand beside Akrotiri; Santorini’s most iconic shore.
- Perissa (Black Beach): classic black sand beneath the Mesa Vouno rock.
- Vlychada: lunar white rock formations and grey sand; quieter and organized.
- Monolithos: shallow, family-friendly black sand near the airport.
Red, Black, and Volcanic Shores Worth Exploring
Santorini’s beaches look different because the island formed through a massive volcanic eruption. That same history created coves, sea caves, and dramatic coastlines, along with beaches shaped in red, white, and black tones.
Each beach offers its own atmosphere. Some feel iconic and dramatic, others feel calm and practical for an easy swim.
Beyond the sand, discover more things to do in Santorini, or find your base at our suites in Karterados.
Exo Gialos Beach (Karterados Beach)
A Volcanic Shore Close to Karterados
Exo Gialos Beach, also known as Karterados Beach, lies downhill from Karterados village. It features black sand and pebbles, clear waters, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Rock formations shaped by wind and rain surround the beach, creating a strong volcanic landscape that feels raw and natural.
What to Expect
Black sand and pebbles in a volcanic setting
Clear water and a calmer mood
A convenient beach choice when you want to stay close to Karterados
Red Beach
The Island’s Most Iconic Volcanic Setting
Red Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Santorini. The cliffs, sand, and pebbles carry deep red tones that feel unmistakably volcanic.
Located next to Akrotiri village, the beach contrasts striking red terrain with dark blue water.
What to Expect
A dramatic landscape shaped by red cliffs
Red sand and pebbles
A beach experience that feels like a natural landmark
Perissa Beach (Black Beach)
Black Sand and a Distinctive Landmark
On the southeastern side of Santorini, Perissa Beach stands out for its black sand and bold scenery. The large rock formation known as Mesa Vouno shapes the view and gives the beach a strong identity.
Perissa is one of the island’s best-known options for a classic black-sand beach day.
What to Expect
Black sand typical of volcanic beaches
Mesa Vouno rock as a defining feature
A lively, recognizable Santorini beach setting
Vlychada Beach
Lunar Landscape and a Quieter Atmosphere
Vlychada Beach combines volcanic white rocks with grey sand, creating a setting that feels sculpted by time. The landscape looks almost lunar, with textures and formations that change as light shifts across the shore.
It is an organized beach, ideal for travelers who want to relax and swim in a setting that feels less crowded.
What to Expect
Volcanic white rock formations and grey sand
An organized beach setup
A calmer choice for swimming and quiet time
Monolithos Beach
Family-Friendly and Close to the Airport
Monolithos Beach is an organized beach with shallow, clear waters and black sand. Its proximity to Santorini airport makes it a convenient option, especially for shorter stays or arrival-day beach time.
It is family-friendly and offers facilities that support a full day by the sea.
What to Expect
Shallow waters suitable for families
Black sand and an organized beach environment
Facilities including a football pitch, volleyball court, and nearby places to eat and drink