Perivolos Beaches

Overview

Welcome to Perivolos, a premier beach destination on the southern coast of Santorini, renowned for its unique black volcanic sand and crystal-clear Aegean waters. It forms one very long, continuous stretch of shoreline with its northern neighbor, Perissa, but offers a more relaxed and upscale atmosphere. This makes Perivolos an ideal base for a holiday that perfectly blends serene days on the sand with a sophisticated, lively ambiance.

The coastline here is wonderfully diverse, offering a beach for every taste. The main beach, Paralia Perivolos, is the heart of the action, famous for its energetic beach clubs and wide array of water sports. For a truly iconic photo opportunity, the dramatic, fiery cliffs of Red Beach are an unforgettable landmark. Nearby, you can escape to another world at Vlychada Beach, where the wind has carved the white cliffs into a spectacular lunar landscape. Families often prefer the calmer, shallower waters and soft black sand at Paralia Monolithos, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed day with children.

Beyond the main stretches, Perivolos is celebrated for its stylish beach club scene, which provides a vibrant soundtrack from day into night. The area serves as a fantastic gateway to exploring other coastal gems, from the secluded coves dotted along the south to the bustling, self-contained resort of Kamari Beach just on the other side of the Mesa Vouno mountain. To discover all the shores this unique volcanic island has to offer, be sure to explore our full guide to the best beaches in the area.

Top Beaches

FAQ

What's the difference between Perivolos and Perissa beach?

Perivolos and Perissa are essentially one very long black sand beach. Perissa is the northern part, which tends to be busier with more restaurants and amenities. Perivolos is the southern, more upscale section known for its stylish beach clubs, more relaxed atmosphere, and slightly finer sand. You can easily walk between the two in about 25 minutes.

Paralia Perissa

Paralia Perivolos

Is the black sand at Perivolos beach too hot to walk on?

Yes, the black volcanic sand at Perivolos can get extremely hot, especially during the peak summer months. It's highly recommended to wear flip-flops or water shoes to walk along the beach and to the sea to avoid burning your feet.

Paralia Perivolos

Can you swim at Perivolos Beach and what is the water like?

Absolutely. The water at Perivolos Beach is known for being crystal clear and deep blue, making it great for swimming. The beach has been awarded a Blue Flag for its water quality. The seabed can be pebbly at the entry point, and the water gets deep relatively quickly, so caution is advised.

What's the vibe at the beach clubs in Perivolos?

Perivolos is famous for its stylish and vibrant beach club scene. The atmosphere ranges from chic and relaxed with high-end restaurants and plush sunbeds, like at Seaside or FortyOne, to more energetic party spots with DJs and cocktails, such as Wet Stories or Jojo. Many clubs offer full service to your sun lounger.

Is Perivolos a good base for a holiday in Santorini?

Perivolos is an excellent base for a beach-focused holiday offering a more relaxed atmosphere than the caldera towns. It's well-suited for couples and groups who enjoy a mix of relaxation and lively beach bars. While it provides easy access to the southern part of the island, you will need to travel by bus or car to visit Fira (about 25-30 minutes) and Oia.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Paralia Perivolos

How do you get to Perivolos from Fira?

The easiest and most affordable way is by public bus from the main station in Fira. Take the bus heading to Perissa; the journey takes about 25-30 minutes. Perivolos is the stop after Perissa. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or rent a car or ATV for more flexibility, which is about a 15-20 minute drive.

Is Perivolos or Kamari better for a beach holiday?

It depends on your preference. Perivolos is part of a longer, more expansive beach that continues from Perissa, often feeling less crowded and having a more upscale, party-oriented beach club scene. Kamari is a more self-contained resort town with a family-friendly promenade and is separated from Perissa/Perivolos by the Mesa Vouno mountain. Kamari can feel more resort-like, while Perivolos offers a slightly more traditional, yet trendy, feel.

Paralia Perivolos

Kamari Beach

Is Perivolos beach good for families?

Yes, Perivolos can be suitable for families, especially the quieter sections further south towards Agios Georgios. The beach is spacious, offering plenty of room to play. While some beach clubs are party-focused, many are relaxed. However, parents should be aware that the water gets deep quite quickly. For shallower waters, Monolithos Beach is often recommended as the most family-friendly on the island.

Paralia Perivolos

Paralia Monolithos

People Also Ask

Do you have to pay for sunbeds at Perivolos beach?

Most of the sunbeds and umbrellas at Perivolos are owned by the adjacent beach bars and restaurants. Typically, you can use them for a fee, which can range from €30 to €50+ for a set, sometimes including towels or drinks. At some tavernas, the beds may be free if you purchase food and drinks. There are also open stretches of beach where you can lay your own towel for free.

Paralia Perivolos

What is the best time of year to visit Perivolos for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Perivolos is from late May to early October. For the warmest sea temperatures and liveliest atmosphere, visit in July and August. For pleasant weather, warm water, and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of June and September are ideal.

Are there water sports available at Perivolos beach?

Yes, Perivolos is a major hub for water sports in Santorini. You can find a wide variety of activities available, including jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. Several rental shops along the beach offer equipment and lessons for all skill levels.

Paralia Perivolos

What is the nightlife like in Perivolos?

The nightlife in Perivolos is centered around its beach clubs. During the day and into the evening, many clubs have DJs creating a lively party atmosphere right on the sand. While it's not as intense as the club scene in Fira, it's considered the main party beach on Santorini, with events often lasting late into the night during the summer.