Black Beach Santorini
Santorini's iconic black sand beaches, like Perivolos and Perissa, offer a unique volcanic landscape with vibrant beach bars and clear Aegean waters.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene sunrise views
Black Beach Santorini
Best Time
Serene sunrise views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Santorini's iconic black sand beaches, like Perivolos and Perissa, offer a unique volcanic landscape with vibrant beach bars and clear Aegean waters.
"The black sand beaches are a must-visit for their unique volcanic beauty and lively atmosphere!"
🩴 Pack Water Shoes
The black volcanic pebbles get very hot! Water shoes or flip-flops are a must for comfortable walking.
🚗 Easy Access from Fira
The black sand beaches are only about a 25-minute drive from Fira, making them easily accessible.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Perivolos Beach
Southern Santorini
Santorini's longest black sand beach, known for its sparkling waters and lively beach bars.

Perissa Beach
Southern Santorini
Famous for its striking black volcanic sand and clear blue waters, offering a vibrant atmosphere.

Seaside Beach Club
Perivolos Beach
Experience sushi and drinks right on the volcanic sand at this popular beach club.
Moti Beach Lounge
Perivolos Beach
Enjoy the beauty of Santorini's black sand beach at this stylish lounge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Volcanic Sands
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🩴 Pack Water Shoes
The black volcanic pebbles get very hot! Water shoes or flip-flops are a must for comfortable walking.
🚗 Easy Access from Fira
The black sand beaches are only about a 25-minute drive from Fira, making them easily accessible.
🌅 Catch the Sunrise
For a peaceful experience, head to Perissa Beach for stunning sunrise views.
🎶 Enjoy Beach Bars
Many beach clubs offer great music, drinks, and even sushi right on the sand.
Tips
from all over the internet
🩴 Pack Water Shoes
The black volcanic pebbles get very hot! Water shoes or flip-flops are a must for comfortable walking.
🚗 Easy Access from Fira
The black sand beaches are only about a 25-minute drive from Fira, making them easily accessible.
🌅 Catch the Sunrise
For a peaceful experience, head to Perissa Beach for stunning sunrise views.
🎶 Enjoy Beach Bars
Many beach clubs offer great music, drinks, and even sushi right on the sand.
🐴 Unique Activities
Consider horseback riding along the black sand for a memorable experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique volcanic black sand and the vibrant atmosphere of the beach bars on Santorini's southern coast. The long stretches of beach offer plenty of space, and many appreciate the convenience of amenities like sunbeds and restaurants. However, some find the pebbles hot underfoot and the beach clubs can be crowded and expensive during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The black sand beaches like Perivolos and Perissa are approximately a 25-minute drive from Fira. You can rent a car or scooter, take a local bus, or arrange a taxi for convenient access.
Yes, local buses frequently run from Fira and other main towns to Perissa and Perivolos beaches, making them accessible via public transport. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Most beach areas, especially around popular beach clubs and tavernas, offer parking facilities. However, during peak season, it can get busy, so arriving earlier is advisable.
Yes, Perissa and Perivolos beaches are contiguous and form the longest stretch of black sand on the island. You can easily walk along the coastline between them.
Walking is feasible between Perissa and Perivolos. For other black sand areas or to return to your accommodation, local buses, taxis, or rental vehicles are good options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the black sand beaches themselves is free. You only pay for services like sunbeds, umbrellas, or food and drinks at beach clubs and tavernas.
The beaches are open 24/7, but the facilities like beach bars and restaurants typically operate from morning until late evening, with hours varying by establishment.
While beach access is free, beach clubs often have a minimum spend or charge for sunbeds and umbrellas, especially during peak season. Some may offer free entry with a purchase of food or drinks.
For popular beach clubs, especially during peak season, it's advisable to reserve sunbeds in advance, particularly if you want a prime spot. You can usually do this by contacting the beach club directly.
Generally, you can bring your own snacks and drinks, but it's polite to patronize the local businesses, especially if you are using their facilities like sunbeds. Some beach clubs might have policies against outside food.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
The sand is actually small, dark volcanic pebbles. It's unique but can get extremely hot under the sun, so water shoes or flip-flops are highly recommended.
You can swim, sunbathe, enjoy water sports, relax at beach bars, dine at seaside restaurants, and even go horseback riding.
Yes, the waters are generally calm and shallow near the shore, making them suitable for families. However, the hot pebbles require supervision and appropriate footwear for little ones.
The Aegean Sea around Santorini is typically warm enough for swimming from late spring through early autumn. The volcanic sand can also help warm the shallow waters.
Most organized beaches and beach clubs provide facilities such as restrooms, showers, and changing rooms for visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a variety of options, from traditional Greek tavernas serving fresh seafood and local dishes to trendy beach clubs offering sushi, cocktails, and international cuisine.
Absolutely! The black sand beaches are lined with numerous restaurants and tavernas offering stunning sea views, perfect for a romantic dinner or a leisurely lunch.
Seaside Beach Club and Moti Beach Lounge are popular choices, known for their ambiance, food (including sushi), and drink selections right on the sand.
Prices can vary. While some tavernas offer reasonably priced traditional meals, beach clubs and more upscale restaurants can be on the pricier side, especially for cocktails and gourmet dishes.
Many Greek tavernas offer vegetarian options like Greek salads, vegetable dishes, and pasta. More modern beach clubs are also increasingly catering to diverse dietary needs, including vegan options.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for golden hour offer beautiful light and fewer crowds, making for stunning photos.
The striking contrast between the dark volcanic sand, the deep blue Aegean Sea, and the white architecture of Santorini creates unique and dramatic photographic opportunities.
The entire stretch of Perivolos and Perissa beaches offers great views. For elevated shots, consider finding a spot on a nearby cliff or a rooftop terrace overlooking the coast.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the beach and sea. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the blue of the water and sky. A tripod can be useful for sunrise/sunset shots.
Drone regulations can be strict in Greece. Always check the latest rules and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone over any beach or populated area in Santorini.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting earlier in the day before the sand reaches its peak temperature, or during late afternoon when it cools down. While the unique black sand is an attraction, ensure constant supervision and hydration for children. The accessibility from Fira makes it an easy day trip for families staying elsewhere on the island.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for more traditional tavernas along the beach promenade for more affordable meal options compared to the trendy beach clubs. Many tavernas offer delicious Greek staples at reasonable prices. Enjoying the sun, sea, and unique volcanic sand is a free activity that provides a quintessential Santorini experience.
couples
Consider booking a sunbed at a more upscale beach club for a pampered experience, or find a quieter spot along the extensive coastline for more privacy. The lively yet sophisticated atmosphere of places like Perivolos can be ideal for couples looking for both relaxation and a touch of nightlife.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Geology of Santorini's Black Sand
When visiting, it's crucial to remember that this volcanic sand absorbs and retains heat. Under the strong Mediterranean sun, the surface can become incredibly hot, making water shoes or flip-flops an essential item for comfort and safety. This is a recurring tip from visitors who learned the hard way!
The volcanic nature also contributes to the clarity and mineral richness of the surrounding waters, making swimming and snorkeling particularly enjoyable. The contrast between the dark sand and the vibrant blue of the Aegean Sea creates a visually stunning environment that photographers and beachgoers alike adore.
Experiencing Santorini's Beach Bars and Nightlife
Many of these establishments provide a full-service experience, allowing you to enjoy sushi, drinks, and even relax on comfortable loungings right on the sand. This creates a unique blend of beach relaxation and lively nightlife. Visitors often highlight the quality of the music and the overall ambiance as major draws.
While the beach bars offer a fantastic evening experience, it's worth noting that they can get quite busy, especially during peak season. For those seeking a more laid-back vibe, visiting earlier in the day or exploring smaller, less crowded spots along the coastline might be preferable. However, for those looking to party and enjoy the Santorini summer nights, the black sand beaches are the place to be.
Sunrise and Sunset Magic on the Black Sands
Late afternoons on the black sand beaches provide a different kind of magic. As the intense heat of the day subsides, the light softens, creating a beautiful golden hour perfect for photography and relaxed strolls along the shore. The atmosphere becomes more serene, a stark contrast to the bustling midday energy.
While not as dramatic as the caldera sunsets, the sunrises and the softer light of late afternoons on the black sand beaches offer a more intimate and less crowded way to experience Santorini's natural beauty. They provide a different perspective on the island's stunning coastal scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit