Santorini, an island for all - General information - The beaches

An island offering it's visitors unique natural beauties, magnificent settings, top quality accommodation, delicious local food and wine, spicy entertainment, and  a remarkable history.

Santorini is known worldwide for its surprising natural beauty. Santorini combines an amazing natural landscape and traditional architecture, while its sandy beaches are preferred by thousands of visitors every summer. Santorini also combines the height quality services of a modern touristic destination to its traditional image that the locals keep. Santorini hosts thousands of Greek and foreign visitors every year. The local community invites you to discover the clean and relaxing beaches, the unique view from the Caldera, the breathtaking sunset, the famous local tastes, the traditional architecture, the archaeological treasures, the stylish nightclubs and the modern state of hospitality services.
Santorini photos are recognized throughout the entire world.
The world’s most popular travel magazines recommend it as the most beautiful island all over the world.
Santorini is ranked every year as one of the "must go" destinations of the world.

Santorini has much to offer to her visitors. Breathtaking natural beauties, unique historical and archaeological sites, steadily improving hotel and touristic infrastructure and a tradition of hospitality in combination with competitive prices. Therefore, it is not surprising that this island has recently become one of the world's most popular tourism destinations. Due to Santorinis's geography, one can experience different climates in any one day. From the hot summer long lasting days (up to 8.30 p.m.) from May to September to the cold and windy nights that you need to wear a jacket. Santorini is surrounded by beautiful beaches, bays, coves, ports, smaller islands and peninsulas. The summers are long, lasting eight months from April to November. 

Santorini is also blessed with majestic mountains and valleys, farmlands, vineyards, beaches, grottoes, villages and houses perfect for winter and summer tourism, sports and activities of all kinds. Water skiing fans, mountain climbers, trekkers, hikers and hunters can enjoy new and unforgettable experiences on the island.

Santorini is, above anything else, a huge open-air museum, a repository of all the civilizations that crossed the soils of the Aegean Sea. The huge amount of historical and archaeological wealth in Santorini seems more appropriate for an entire country than a single island.


For centuries, Santorini has been a crossroad of civilizations and religions, not only of Christianity and Catholicism, but also of many others now forgotten by the history.
Santorini also offers the possibility to health tourism. The island and the deserted island of the volcano are rich in hot springs, healing waters and healing mud, which are recommended as remedies for many diseases.
In 1956 a major earthquake resulted in the demolishing of many buildings, leading to the beginning of the way the island is build up to now.


The expansion of tourism has resulted to the growth of the economy and population. The major settlements are the capital Fira, Oia, Eborio, Kamari, Perisa, Imerovigli, Pyrgos, Megalohori and the smaller island of Thirasia. The worldwide known "prehistoric town of Akrotiri" is a major archaeological site, with ruins from the Minoan era, destroyed by the 1700 B.C. volcanic eruption which is also responsible for the destruction of the Minoan civilization. It is believed and almost proved by many scientist and archaeologists that the ancient town "Allantis" that had reached a high state of culture, was in the centre of Santorini before the collapse of the whole central part of the island that created what we nowadays call "caldera". Santorini's caldera is the biggest volcanic island caldera on the world.
Santorini's primary industry is tourism, particularly in the summer months.
Santorini was ranked world's top island for 2011 in Travel and Leisure Magazine. Santorini was also named "the world's best island" by BBC in 2011.


Santorini lifestyle is a vivid mosaic juxtaposing the modern and the old.
Life in Santorini is a rich variety of cultures and traditions, some dating back centuries and others more recent heritage. Any visitor to the island will find a great deal that is exotic, and much that is reassuringly familiar. This intriguing blend that makes up the island lifestyle is one of the things attracting visitors over the years.
The official language on the island is Greek but you can hear spoken the rich in word and meanings local dialect which is a mixture of the Aegean island dialects and the Cretan ones. Still, many old according to the young people, speak it in the villages, which is something unique to hear.


On the island are operating 20 schools, 10 elementary ones at almost each village, 3 secondary schools and a high school at the town Fira, all public ones, offering high standard education that satisfies the parents. Most of the young of the island (over the 90%) manage to enter universities.
Like all over Greece, the weekly holiday is Sunday but as a touristic location during the summer months all kind of stores are open from 9 to 9 every day.
People wear contemporary clothes like all over the country but especially during the summer months when the weather is hot, beach wear is very popular among the locals and visitors. Although a jacket will be needed in any case because of the great drop in temperature after the sunset, even during the summertime.





Religion, beliefs, religion feasts 

Religion matters and affairs
play a great role in the social life on the island, as each day an Orthodox saint is celebrated the traditional way. Religion on the island is enshrined at the conscience of the locals although the existence and ensuring of  freedom of belief in worshiping matters. Today there are more than 600 churches open for worship.

Tourists visiting Santorini are likely to see much evidence that they are in an area with strong religious beliefs, as the church bells calling to prayer can be heard many times a day. Most of the churches, even the small ones where you can ask the locals for the key, are open to visit during the summer months without requiring a special dress code.

The only time you need to be mindful about dress codes is when visiting a monastery of the two existing on the island. The “Prophet Elias” which is a male monastery on the top of the mountain of Pyrgos and the “Saint Nicolas” which is a female monastery at Imerovigli.  In that case everyone should wear clothing that covers his or her legs, so no shorts, much like in any temple. Women should also make sure that their shoulders are covered. Monasteries  are usually open to visitors during prayer times.
The great iconography (hagiography) of all churches on the island is a remarkable characteristic and the reason many visitors with that interest visit the island. Inside Santorini churches a visitor can found very old icons and iconography (wall paintings) made by famous and respected painters, from the 18th century to the recent days.

The major Orthodox celebration is the “Assumption of the Virgin” on August 15th when the churches of all villages celebrate.
One of the most famous celebrations takes place at Akrotiri where after the hymns chanted for the Virgin Mary, a big feast starts including food and wine for free for all  visitors, while the locals play and dance folk music.

Many churches are carved in the rocks (cave constructions) which is something interesting to see and some others are build on Caldera's cliffs with the view of the volcano. It is said that locals build churches on that area, in front of the volcano, as a gesture of gratitude for keeping them safe. Many churches under the name "Panagia" are dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The Cathedral is named "Panagia Ypapanti" and is located in the centre of Fira town, over the Caldera's cliffs. Many Greek as well as Orthodox visitors are getting married every summer at Santorini's Cathedral because of the majesty of the church according to it's beautiful view.
From the most beautiful churches to visit are the Cathedral at Fira, Agios Charalambos at Exo Gonia, Panagia Episkopi over the village of Kamari, Panagia Myrtidiotisa at Kamari, Xristos at Pyrgos, Panagia ton Isodion (Presentation of the Virgin Mary) at Megalohori, Agioi Anargyroi at Megalohori, Panagia Kimisi at Acrotiri, Agios Georgios at Ia, Agios Dimitrios at Mesaria, Agia Anna at Vothonas, Timios Stavros at Perisa, Agios Minas at Imerovigli e.t.c. A good idea is to visit the small private churches in very beautiful locations on the island.


Santorini's agriculture - Santorini, the green island 

It is very significant that over the last years, more and more people, mostly locals and young, have started cultivating the land, either in terms of traditional farming like the grapes, the cherry (small) tomato and fava, or either to all kinds of vegetable, or experimental cultivations such as organic, honey or snails.
According to the farmers as well as scientists who have studied for years the characteristics of the island's soil, they have came to the conclusion that it's richness in mineral elements as a result of the Volcano's vicinity  makes it perfect for the growing of all kinds of vegetables. In any case, according to specifications set by both the “Santo wines” (the union of cooperatives – producers of Santorini products) and the local market requirements, all products produced on the island are organic and chemical-drugs free.

This trend is been established in recent years and has given new impetus to tourism, as it gives all visitors the chance to taste the original local organic and biological products in most of Santorini restaurants. The white eggplants of Santorini are very sweet, with very few seeds, and can be eaten raw. The katsouni is a unique local variety of large cucumbers which, if left unpicked when green, turn yellow and acquire a sweet taste almost indistinguishable from that of melon.

The same time, livestock is becoming an upward trend the last years, so visitors will find many farms on the island and as well ask for fresh local goat milk and cheese. Local milk products have an increasing demand on the island, witch is what encourages mostly the young to create farms.

With the sense of the environmental responsibility and with the aim to improve the living conditions of the residents and the visitors of the island, Santorini’s municipality has organized a recycling program which goes very well. All over the island have been placed recycling bins, helping the locals and the visitors to keep the island clean.


Hospitality

Visitors to Santorini are often pleasantly surprised by the friendliness of the Greek people according to people from other countries who are working in tourism business, and will go out of their way to assist and happily spend time chatting. Hospitality is a cornerstone of local Santorini culture, and locals believe that visitors should be treated uniquely and with his/her own needs each. This attitude has become aware in the end of 60's and does not appear to have been diminished by mass tourism. In fact, quite the reverse, most people on the island welcome the opportunity to meet foreign visitors, learn about different cultures and practice their language skills.



The Beaches

The most popular beaches with modern hotel facilities, beach bars, taverns and water sports are Perissa and Kamari. At Vlihada Beach you can view the unique geological formations created by the ancient volcanic eruption, while at Red Beach you can see the red mountain above it, created by the volcanic materials thrown by the eruption. The beach at Monolithos is more of a family centered beach where you can take advantage of the shallow waters. Columbo Beach, on the way to Oia, is one of the less known ones and is mostly frequented by the youngs as it has deep waters although the scenery of the beach is something to remember..
Amoudi Beach, located at the village of Oia, even though is a small one, is one of the most famous over the world, known for its caldera and volcano scenery.


Santorini's beaches
Agia Paraskevi is on the way below the airport, close to Monolithos. It's a quiet black sand and small stoned beach with deep blue waters. Beds and umbrellas are available from the nearby taverns. Access and parking is easy. 

Amoudi is a small and beautiful beach at Oia, located under the caldera cliffs. However is small, hundredth of people pass from that area to visit the fish taverns or to take the boats to Thirasia. Amoudi has a wonderful view to the caldera and Thirasia island, and it's one of the most photographed places on the island. There are no beds and umbrellas for the prevention of the natural environment.

Armeni beach is located at Oia, at the entrance to the village and it's of of the most beautiful places on the island. The beauty of the beach is unique as it's been under caldera with a great view of the caldera and Thirasia. The beach is quiet as it is accessible by foot, on mules or by boat. There are no beds and umbrellas for the prevention of the natural environment. The mountain over the beach is made of volcanic materials, mostly of big black stones and ash.

Athermi is a beach at Megalohori you can reach only if you are decided to walk down the caldera cliffs, at about 20 min. The scenery of the beach is wonderful but the most important thing is that it has natural hot springs. That means that there are natural funnels made of stones across the beach, in which hot water runs. In case you are decided to walk down the caldera path, mind your way back to the top, since it's better to avoid the hot hours of the day. Sport shoes are required in case you decide to walk the path. The experience will be unforgettable. Mind to take water and food with you. There is an alternative way to reach the beach by boat, but since there aren't scheduled routes, you have to arrange it with a travel agency you can find at Fira.

Apothikes is a fairly long and quiet beach on the way to Akrotiri, from caldera's side. The beach has wonderfull view to the caldera and it's stratigraphy of the volcanic matterials that were placed from the eruption. The beach is ideal for relaxation as the pure nature can calm you down. The beach views the caldera, volcano and Thirasia island, as well as Fira and Oia, making the swimming an unforgettable experience. There are available beds and umbrellas on the beach from the nearby tavern. Access and parking are easy using your car.

Avis beach is close to Kamari. It's a quiet beach preferred by the locals. You can find beds and umbrellas and the parking is easy. The beach has nice view to the Aegean sea and when the horizon is clear you can see the islands of Ios and Anafi.

Baxedes  is quiet beach on the way to Oia. Suitable to relax and the enjoy the quietness of the nature. Northern winds create big waves suitable for surfing.

The beach is easy reaching by car. There are no beds or umbrellas, neither a canteen, so make sure you take water or food with you. The beach has nice view of the Aegean sea and the island of Anafi.

Exo Gialos is a beach close to Fira and Karterados and it's mostly preferred by the ones living in the area around. Exo Gialos is a quiet beach with a few beds and umbrellas from the nearby canteen. Easy access by car. Northern winds create waves. When the horizon is clear you can see Anafi and Ios islands.

Kamari beach one of the most famous and popular, stretches 5 miles on the eastern coast of the island. Kamari beach is the heart of the settlement organised for the visitors. Along the beach you can find all types of restaurants, beach bars, touristic shops, hotels, etc Water sports and windsurfing available. Access and parking is easy by car or public transportation.

Kambia is a small and quiet beach on the way to the lighthouse at Akrotiri. The pure nature can calm the visitor down. The beach has a very nice view to the "outside caldera" of the island, where the stratigraphy of the volcanic matterials that were hurled by the volcano is characteristic. Geologist have studied thoroughly the area while trying to investigate the circumstances under which the volcano erupted. On the beach you can find some beds and umbrellas by the small tavern close to the beach. You can access the beach using car through a 15 min dirt road.

Karterados beach is close to Monolithos. It's a long beach not well organised, but because of it's beauty and quietness it's well preferred. Along the entire beach you will see a volcanic ash mountain covering it. Easy parking. Northern winds create big waves.

Katharos is a small and quiet beach close to the busy Oia. The pure nature can calm the visitor down. The beach has a nice view to the edging of Thirasia island. If you are lucky and depending on the season you will see wild birds crossing the air. The beach is coated by caldera's rocks. No beds or umbrellas available for the prevention of the natural environment. Access is very easy and parking is available, however to reach the beach you have to walk down an easy 5 min. caldera path.

Koloumbos is on the way to Oia, close to the Baxedes beach. The beach is unique because of the mountain above it, covering a big part of it. It's a quiet beach, ideal for relaxation. There are no beds or umbrellas, neither a canteen, so make sure you have taken some water or food with you. Northern winds create big waves.

Marmari beach is at Megalohori, accessible by car through a dirt road. The beach is quiet so you can privately relax. There are no beds, umbrellas or canteen so it's better to go well prepared. The whole setting is beautiful.

Mesa Pigadia is a small and quiet beach on the way to the lighthouse at Akrotiri, ideal for relaxation. The pure nature can calm the visitor down. On the beach you can find some beds and umbrellas by the small tavern close to the beach. The beach has a very nice view to the "outside caldera" of the island, where the stratigraphy of the volcanic matterials that were hurled by the volcano is characteristic. Geologist have studied thoroughly the area while trying to investigate the circumstances under which the volcano erupted.

Monolithos is a long and popular beach close to Kamari, on the northern part of the island, preferred by families for it's shallow waters suitable for children and surfers when the winds are northern and create waves. Monolithos is a growing touristic settlement however the last years counts many locals. Monolithos is an organised beach with beds and umbrellas with beach volley facilities free to the public. Across the coastal road there are taverns and mini markets. During the winter time the coastal road is preferred by the locals for walking or jogging. The access to the beach and parking are very easy.

Palos (Panagia toy palou) is a small and quiet beach on the way to the lighthouse at Akrotiri from caldera's side. The beach has wonderfull view to the caldera and it's stratigraphy of the volcanic matterials that were placed from the eruption. The beach is ideal for relaxation as the pure nature can calm you down. The beach views the caldera, volcano and Thirasia island, as well as Fira and Oia, making the swimming an unforgettable experience. There are no beds or umbrellas on the beach for the prevention of the natural environment. On the rocks over the beach there are 2 small churches, the St. Nikolas and Panagia. To access the beach you need to walk down a 10 min caldera path.

Paradisos (paradise) beach is a quiet one on the east side of the island on the way to Oia, close to Koloumbos and Pori. Paradisos is preferred by the locals living at the area for it's quiet beach and clear waters. The access and parking are easy. Northern winds create waves suitable for surfing.

Perisa beach is one of the most famous and busy beaches that stretches 10 miles on the south-eastern part of the island. Perisa was the most famous beach during the '80's as it was busy all day and night long, with many beach parties taking place. Perisa is popular for it's black sand and comforts provided to it's visitors. Across the coastal road there are many restaurants of all types of food, taverns, beach bars, mini markets, sea sports and diving companies as well as hotels. Perisa is one of the most populated areas of the island during the summer time. Perisa beach is fully organised with beds and umbrellas while all beach bars serve on the beach. Beach volley tournaments are often organised on the beach. Perisa also has a water park for the children and diving centres in case you are interested to make a dive or taking some lessons. At Perisa you have the chance of horseback riding with the help of local horses owners. Access and parking are very easy.

Perivolos is the continuity of Perisa beach, laying on the southern coast of the island. Perivolos is full of beach bars, restaurants and taverns by the sea, offering full service on the beach. Perivolos is mostly preferred by the youngest. During the summer time many people play volleyball on the beach and many tournaments are organised. Water sports are also available in full safety. Perivolos is popular for it's black sand and comforts provided to it's visitors. Across the coastal road there are many restaurants of all types of food, taverns, beach bars, mini markets, sea sports and diving companies as well as hotels. Perivolos is one of the most populated areas of the island during the summer time. Perivolos beach is fully organised with beds and umbrellas while all beach bars serve on the beach. Access and parking are very easy. .

Plaka, just like Athermi, is a beach at Megalohori you can reach only if you decide to walk down the caldera cliffs, at about 20 min. The scenery of that beach is wonderful but the most important thing is that (as well as Athermi) you can find natural hot springs. If you decide to walk down the caldera path, mind your way back to the top. Sport shoes are needed if you decide to walk. The experience will be unforgettable. Mind to take water and food with you. There is an alternative way to reach the beach by boat, but since there aren't scheduled routes, you have to arrange it with a travel agency you can find at Fira. Plaka beach is much bigger than Athermi and almost at the end of the path you will be able to visit two small churches. The locals use to walk down the path day by day to keep the candles lighted.

Pori is a small and quiet beach close to Koloumbo on the way to Oia, prefered by people living in the area. Close to the beach is a fish harbour. There are no beds or umbrellas, neither a canteen. The sand is black and the waters deep blue. Northern winds create waves.

Red Beach at Akrotiri is exactly what it's name says. The mountain over the beach is red coloured because of the lava of the volcanic eruption. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking, swimming in the deep blue sea in front of the red lava cliffs and the black sand. To go to the beach you need to walk a 10 min. path.
There are no beds or umbrellas on the beach for the prevention of the landscape, neither canteens, so take water and food with you. From the Red beach you can take the boat to the White beach which is accessible only by boat. You will never forget the wild beauty of the area.

White beach close to the Red beach, at Akrotiri. The only access is by boat from the red beach, otherwise you have to walk a 15 min path. White beach is almost private. The scenery is wonderful, swimming in the deep blue water in front of a white mountain and an almost deserted beach. The wild beauty of the place is worth the desicion to visit it.

Theros (Hanades) beach is close to Marmari beach at Megalohori but the access is much easier by car. At Theros beach you will find a beach bar open at the summer time serving cocktails and food all day long. Most of the days there are bands playing live music for beach parties that often take place. The beach bar offers to possibility for canoeing.

Vlyhada is a long beach at about 10 km, accessible from it's one side. Access is easy by car. The scenery of the area is unique since along the entire beach there is a mountain covering it. This mountain is made by white volcanic ash mixed up with other volcanic rocks that have create a very strong material. The mountain is grounded by the winds resulting in an exceptional natural beauty. You can find beds and umbrellas as well as restaurants and canteens at the entering side of the beach. Close to the beach is the fishermen and yachts harbour.

Vourvoulos beach is at Vourvoulos village on the northeast side of the island. It is a quiet beach with no beds, umbrellas or a canteen, so go well prepared.
The beach is mostly preferred by the locals living at the nearby area. Close to the beach is a fishermen port. Access is easy and parking available.