The Traveling Taylors

When we boarded our boat tour to the Santorini hot springs, we imagined crystal-clear water, spa-like serenity, and maybe even a volcano view massage. The reality? Let’s just say it was… different. If you’re wondering whether the Santorini hot springs are truly relaxing or just a tourist trap, here’s what we experienced — and everything you need to know before you dive in.

🌋 What Are the Santorini Hot Springs, Anyway?

The Santorini hot springs are located on the tiny islet of Palea Kameni, inside the caldera itself. Fed by underwater volcanic activity, the springs are rich in iron and sulfur, creating a mineral-rich, reddish-brown lagoon that contrasts sharply with the blue Aegean.

But don’t expect a luxury spa setup — these springs are 100% natural, with no infrastructure, changing rooms, or lounge chairs in sight.

🛥️ How Do You Get to the Santorini Hot Springs?

You’ll need to book a boat tour, usually departing from the old port in Fira or Athinios. Most tours include:

• A stop at Nea Kameni to hike the active volcano
• A swim at Palea Kameni hot springs
• Sometimes a sunset sail or beach BBQ

Heads Up: Boats can’t dock directly at the springs. You’ll jump into the cold sea and swim about 30 meters to the warmer water.

🧖‍♀️ What It’s Really Like to Swim in the Springs

Here’s what caught us off guard:

• The color: The water is a murky rust-orange from volcanic minerals.
• The smell: Yep, it smells like eggs (sulfur). It’s not overwhelming, but it’s there.
• The temperature: It’s warm, not hot. Think bathwater, not hot tub.
• The stains: Your swimsuit will never be the same. That iron-rich water clings to fabric — avoid wearing white or light colors.

Pro Tip: Bring a dark swimsuit, a towel, and water shoes (the bottom is rocky and slippery).

💬 Is It Worth It? Here’s What Travelers Say

The Relaxed:
“We loved floating in the warm water, surrounded by cliffs and sea. It felt like a natural spa experience.”

The Realists:
“It was cool to say we swam in a volcano, but it wasn’t exactly relaxing — lots of people, slippery rocks, and a bit chaotic.”

The Skeptics:
“Honestly? We could’ve skipped it. The water wasn’t that warm, and it was more novelty than soothing.”

⚖️ Santorini Hot Springs: Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Unique experience inside a volcanic caldera	Water isn’t that hot
Gorgeous views from the water	Smells sulfuric
Part of most boat tours	Can get crowded
Fun story to tell back home	Stains swimsuits

🧭 Should You Visit the Santorini Hot Springs?

Go if you:

• Love nature and unique geological sites
• Don’t mind getting messy or wet
• Already plan to do a caldera boat tour

Skip if you:

• Expect a luxury hot spring soak
• Hate strong smells or murky water
• Aren’t confident swimming in open sea

💡 What We’d Do Differently

If we could do it again, we’d:

• Bring a cheap swimsuit we didn’t care about
• Choose a semi-private catamaran tour with fewer people
• Time it in shoulder season for less crowding
• Manage expectations — it’s not a spa, it’s an adventure!

🧳 Final Take on the Santorini Hot Springs

So, are the Santorini hot springs relaxing or overrated? Honestly — a little of both. They’re not glamorous, but they are a one-of-a-kind experience. If you go in knowing what to expect, you’ll likely walk (or swim) away with a great memory and maybe a slightly orange swimsuit.