Palea Kameni Hot Springs Santorini
Swim in unique, sulfur-rich volcanic hot springs near Palea Kameni, a must-do caldera experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Warmer waters, less wind
Palea Kameni Hot Springs Santorini
Best Time
Warmer waters, less wind

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Swim in unique, sulfur-rich volcanic hot springs near Palea Kameni, a must-do caldera experience.
"Swim in unique, sulfur-rich volcanic hot springs near Palea Kameni, a must-do caldera experience."
Dark Swimsuit is Key
Sulfur in the water can stain white or light-colored swimsuits. Opt for dark colors!
Swim to the Springs
Tours often stop offshore; you'll need to swim about 50-100m to reach the springs .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Palea Kameni Hot Springs
Near Palea Kameni Island
Swim in unique, sulfur-rich waters believed to have therapeutic properties. A truly volcanic spa experience!

Nea Kameni Volcano Hike
Nea Kameni Island
Hike to the crater of an active volcano for breathtaking panoramic views of the caldera.

Caldera Views from the Water
Caldera
Experience the stunning Santorini caldera from a unique perspective on a boat tour.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Hot Springs
What to Wear & Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dark Swimsuit is Key
Sulfur in the water can stain white or light-colored swimsuits. Opt for dark colors!
Swim to the Springs
Tours often stop offshore; you'll need to swim about 50-100m to reach the springs.
Bring Hiking Shoes
Essential for the rocky terrain if hiking Nea Kameni volcano.
Hydration is Crucial
Carry plenty of water, especially for the volcano hike in the sun.
Tips
from all over the internet
Dark Swimsuit is Key
Sulfur in the water can stain white or light-colored swimsuits. Opt for dark colors!
Swim to the Springs
Tours often stop offshore; you'll need to swim about 50-100m to reach the springs.
Bring Hiking Shoes
Essential for the rocky terrain if hiking Nea Kameni volcano.
Hydration is Crucial
Carry plenty of water, especially for the volcano hike in the sun.
Consider a Catamaran Tour
Offers a comfortable way to visit the springs and volcano, often with food and drinks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Palea Kameni hot springs to be a unique and worthwhile experience, especially when combined with a caldera boat tour. While the 'hot' aspect is often debated, with many describing the water as lukewarm, the mineral-rich, colorful waters and the volcanic setting are consistently praised. Some find the swim to the springs challenging, and the potential for staining swimsuits is a common caution.
"We did the tour in late Nov, it is too cold to swim there. In theory, the souffre hot spring is 5 degrees more than the normal templerature but it is still cold, especially with the srrong wind. The travel agency recommends to wear dark color swimming suit to prevent souffre stains stay on the swimming suit, but in fact the color is not obvious at all, as long as the swimming suit is not in white, it should be okay."
Isobel Zhang
"We were told that they were hot springs but in reality it isn’t much warmer than the sea in mid Summer. Beautiful though, great experience in the end."
mia delalic
"so cold in April. Yes, the color will be on white swim suite, but if you don’t touch anything, it will not and it could be washed off"
zhan lin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to visit the Palea Kameni hot springs is by taking a boat tour from the old port of Fira or Amoudi Bay. These tours often include a visit to the Nea Kameni volcano as well.
Some catamaran cruises also stop at the hot springs.While there might be local ferry services, booking an organized tour is generally more reliable and convenient for visiting Nea Kameni and the hot springs. Some travelers have found it difficult to find on-the-spot ferry information, especially early in the season.
No, the hot springs are only accessible by boat. You'll need to join a tour or hire a private boat from one of the island's ports.
Many visitors find renting an ATV or car convenient, but the bus system is also efficient and can be a more budget-friendly option, especially if you stay near a bus station.
This varies by tour operator. Some may offer pick-up services, while others expect you to make your own way to the port. It's best to check with your tour provider in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the hot springs themselves is usually included in the price of a boat tour or cruise. You'll pay for the tour, not a separate entrance fee for the springs.
Prices vary depending on the type of tour (group vs. semi-private, duration, inclusions). Expect to pay anywhere from €30 to €100+ per person for a caldera cruise that includes the hot springs.
Tours typically run throughout the day, with many offering morning, afternoon, and sunset options. Sunset tours are very popular but can be more crowded.
While theoretically possible to hire a private boat, most visitors opt for organized tours for convenience and to access the volcano hike as well.
Generally, there are no strict age restrictions, but tours involve swimming and hiking, so participants should be reasonably fit. Young children may need supervision.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Many visitors report the springs are more lukewarm than hot, especially in cooler weather or with strong winds. The water temperature can be only slightly warmer than the sea
[^review_1].The water is rich in sulfur, iron, and manganese, giving it an orange-brown color. It's believed to have therapeutic properties for skin conditions.
It's highly recommended to wear a dark-colored swimsuit as the sulfur can stain white or light-colored swimwear.
The hike is uphill on rocky, volcanic terrain. It's moderately challenging and requires sturdy footwear. Bring water and sun protection.
Often, boats stop offshore, and you'll need to swim about 50-100 meters to reach the springs. Good swimming skills are recommended.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The hot springs are located on an uninhabited volcanic island. Food is typically not available directly at the springs. Most boat tours include snacks or a meal, or you can find restaurants in Fira or Amoudi Bay before or after your tour.
Many catamaran tours offer Greek specialties like souvlaki, Greek salads, and grilled seafood, along with drinks.
It's best to inquire with the tour operator in advance. Many tours can accommodate dietary restrictions if notified beforehand.
Yes, there are usually small tavernas or kiosks at the port where tours depart or return, offering snacks and drinks.
Fanari Restaurant in Fira is mentioned for its affordable prices and amazing caldera views, especially during sunset.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique orange-hued water against the volcanic landscape. Photos of people swimming and the boat tours themselves are also popular.
Yes, but be cautious. The sulfurous water can potentially damage electronics. Consider a waterproof case or a dedicated waterproof camera.
Late afternoon and sunset tours offer dramatic lighting, but can be crowded. Morning tours might offer clearer shots with fewer people.
The summit of Nea Kameni offers panoramic views of the caldera and surrounding islands, making for spectacular landscape photography.
Focus on the dramatic cliffs, the blue Aegean Sea, the volcanic islands, and the iconic Santorini coastline from the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ Couples & Honeymooners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Volcanic Experience: Nea Kameni & Palea Kameni
Adjacent to Nea Kameni lies Palea Kameni, home to the famous hot springs. Unlike the dramatic landscape of its neighbor, Palea Kameni is known for its therapeutic waters. These springs are heated by volcanic activity beneath the sea, infusing the water with sulfur, iron, and manganese. While often described as lukewarm rather than hot, the unique mineral composition is believed to offer health benefits and a distinctive swimming experience. The color of the water, a result of the minerals, can stain light-colored swimsuits, so wearing darker attire is highly recommended.
Navigating the Hot Springs: What to Expect
Upon reaching the springs, visitors will notice the distinct color and smell of the sulfurous water. The temperature can vary, and many find it to be more of a refreshing dip than a hot soak, especially if the sea is already warm or if there's a strong wind [^review_1]. The seabed can be muddy in shallower areas, and the minerals can leave a slight residue on skin and swimwear. Despite these nuances, the overall experience is widely considered unique and memorable, offering a chance to connect with Santorini's volcanic heart in a very tangible way.
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