Akrotiri Beaches

Overview

Akrotiri offers a distinct beach experience on Santorini, ideal for travelers seeking tranquility and dramatic scenery over bustling resort towns. The coastline here is defined by its volcanic origins, creating unique landscapes with colorful pebbles and cliffs rather than fine white sand. It is a perfect choice for those who value a more rugged and authentic coastal escape, away from the island's main tourist hubs.

Among the highlights is the world-famous Red Beach, a must-see for its iconic, rust-colored cliffs. For a more serene experience, Caldera Beach provides a quiet spot with stunning views of the volcano. Nearby, you can find a more traditional beach day on the long, black sands of Paralia Perissa, which is great for families, or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at the stylish clubs of Paralia Perivolos.

The region is also known for the stunning White Beach, a secluded cove framed by white cliffs that is reachable only by boat. Akrotiri's beaches are celebrated more for this kind of raw, natural beauty than for extensive organization. From famous shores to hidden gems, the area offers a variety of unique coastal spots. Discover more in our complete guide to the area's beaches.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Akrotiri a good place for a beach holiday?

Akrotiri is an excellent choice for a quieter, more authentic Greek island experience focused on unique volcanic beaches. It's less crowded than popular towns like Oia and Fira, offering a tranquil retreat. The area is famous for its colorful beaches like the Red Beach and the secluded White Beach, alongside several quieter, pebbly coves. It's ideal for travelers interested in dramatic landscapes, history (with the nearby Akrotiri archaeological site), and relaxation away from the main tourist hubs.

Red Beach

White Beach

What are the beaches in Akrotiri like?

The beaches in Akrotiri are known for their dramatic volcanic landscapes rather than fine white sand. You'll find unique coastlines with black, red, and white pebbles and cliffs. Key beaches include the famous Red Beach with its rust-colored cliffs, the boat-accessible White Beach, and quieter spots like Caldera Beach, which offers stunning views of the volcano. The water is generally crystal clear and deep, making it great for swimming and snorkeling.

Red Beach

White Beach

Caldera Beach

Can you swim at Red Beach?

Yes, you can swim at Red Beach, and its clear waters are popular for swimming and snorkeling. However, visitors should be cautious as the cliffs are prone to rockfalls and landslides, and access to the main beach area is sometimes restricted for safety reasons. Many visitors choose to admire the beach from the headland or visit via a boat tour, which allows for swimming in the bay without having to sit directly under the cliffs.

Red Beach

How do you get to White Beach?

White Beach is only accessible by boat. You can take a water taxi from the small port at Akrotiri or from the nearby Red Beach. Many catamaran and boat tours around the island also include a swimming stop at White Beach. There is no road access, and attempting to climb down the cliffs is not recommended.

White Beach

Red Beach

Are there hotels with direct beach access in Akrotiri?

Yes, there are some hotels located directly on or very close to the smaller, quieter beaches in Akrotiri, such as Akrotiri Beach itself (near the port). These accommodations offer a more secluded, waterfront experience away from the main caldera-view hotels. For instance, Hotel Akrotiri is situated right on the waterfront. However, most of the famous luxury hotels in the wider Akrotiri area are perched on the caldera cliffs for the views, not for direct beach access.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Akrotiri Beach

Are the beaches in Akrotiri family-friendly?

While Akrotiri offers a quieter atmosphere, some of its famous beaches, like Red Beach and White Beach, can be challenging for families with small children due to rocky paths and boat-only access. However, beaches like Caldera Beach are more accessible and have calmer, shallower waters. Nearby, Vlychada Beach also offers a more relaxed environment with unique rock formations that can be fun for older children to explore.

Which is better, the beaches in Akrotiri or Perissa/Perivolos?

It depends on your preference. Akrotiri's beaches, like Red and White Beach, offer dramatic, unique scenery and a quieter vibe, but are pebbly and less organized. Perissa and Perivolos beaches, on the south-east coast, form a long stretch of black volcanic sand and are highly organized with numerous beach bars, restaurants, sunbeds, and water sports facilities. If you want a lively atmosphere with full amenities, Perissa/Perivolos is better. For stunning landscapes and a more rugged, natural experience, choose Akrotiri.

What is the best way to get to the beaches in Akrotiri from Fira or Oia?

The most convenient way is to rent a car, ATV, or scooter, which gives you the flexibility to explore the various beaches at your own pace. Alternatively, you can take a public bus from the main bus station in Fira towards Akrotiri. The bus stops near the archaeological site, from which you can walk to Red Beach. To get from Oia, you must first take a bus to Fira and then change to the Akrotiri line.

Red Beach

People Also Ask

What's the best time of year to visit Akrotiri's beaches?

The best time to enjoy the beaches in Akrotiri is during the shoulder seasons, from late April to June and from September to October. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant for swimming, but the crowds are smaller than in the peak months of July and August. This allows for a more relaxed experience at popular spots like Red Beach.

Red Beach

Are there any hidden gem beaches in Akrotiri?

Yes, beyond the famous Red and White beaches, Akrotiri has several quieter spots. Kambia Beach and Mesa Pigadia Beach (also known as Black Beach) are more secluded, accessible via dirt roads, and offer a peaceful escape with a couple of traditional tavernas. Caldera Beach, on the caldera side, is another less-crowded option with unique views of the volcano.

Do I need water shoes for the beaches in Akrotiri?

It is highly recommended to bring water shoes. Most beaches in Akrotiri are pebbly or have coarse volcanic sand that can get very hot. The seabed can also be rocky, so water shoes will make your experience much more comfortable for both walking on the beach and entering the water.

What facilities are available at Akrotiri's beaches?

Facilities vary greatly. The famous Red Beach has limited organization, with only a few sunbeds and no beach bars directly on the sand, though there are canteens near the car park. Quieter beaches like White Beach, Kambia, and Mesa Pigadia have minimal facilities, often just a small taverna and a few sun loungers. They are not highly commercialized, so it's wise to bring your own water and snacks.