The Traveling Taylors

We’ve been to a lot of beaches around the world, but nothing prepared us for the dramatic and colorful coastlines of Santorini. Thanks to its volcanic past, Santorini’s beaches aren’t your usual stretches of golden sand—they’re wild, otherworldly, and unlike anything else you’ll find in Greece. Here’s why Santorini beaches are so different, and which ones showcase that uniqueness best.

🌋 The Volcanic Origins Behind Santorini’s Colorful Beaches

Santorini was formed by a massive volcanic eruption around 3,600 years ago, which shaped the island’s caldera and left behind layers of lava, ash, and pumice.
The result: beaches made of crushed volcanic rock, each with its own striking color—from deep black to fiery red and pale white.

❤️ Red Beach: Santorini’s Most Dramatic Shoreline

Nestled below crimson cliffs near Akrotiri, Red Beach is Santorini’s most famous (and most photographed) beach.
Why it’s unique: The red sand and rock come from iron-rich volcanic deposits.
What to expect: A steep path down, limited space, and intense visual contrast between the water and the cliffs.
Pro tip: Visit early or late for fewer crowds and cooler temps on the rock-strewn sand.

🖤 Black Beaches: Kamari & Perissa’s Bold Beauty

The majority of Santorini’s beaches—like Kamari, Perissa, and Perivolos—feature striking black volcanic sand.
What makes them special:

• Black sand absorbs heat quickly, so they’re hot underfoot (bring sandals!).
• The deep color makes the turquoise Aegean Sea pop even more.
  Why we loved them: Wide shores, great swimming, and a fun beach club vibe without losing the island’s charm.

🤍 White Beach: Stunning… but Not What You’d Think

Tucked near Red Beach, White Beach is surrounded by towering pale cliffs made of volcanic ash and pumice.
The twist? The sand itself isn’t actually white—it’s a mix of light and dark pebbles.
Getting there: Only accessible by boat, which keeps the crowds lower but limits convenience.
Worth it? For the dramatic scenery and quiet swim, yes. For lounging or amenities, not so much.

🪐 Vlychada Beach: Like Landing on the Moon

With eroded white cliffs that resemble lunar craters, Vlychada Beach is a visual showstopper.
Why it’s one of a kind: The cliffs were sculpted naturally by wind and sea, giving the beach a spacey, sci-fi backdrop.
What we recommend: Pack a picnic and come for sunset—it’s one of the most atmospheric beaches on the island.

🏖️ Santorini Beaches: More Beauty Than Comfort

Let’s be real: Santorini’s beaches aren’t the soft, powdery kind you nap on for hours. The rocks can be rough, the sand hot, and facilities limited. But what they lack in comfort, they make up for in sheer visual impact.

Quick Tips for Visiting:

• Bring water shoes or thick sandals for hot and rocky terrain.
• Pack shade and snacks, especially at less-developed beaches.
• Go early or off-season to enjoy the colors without the crowds.

🌈 Santorini’s Beaches Are a Colorful Surprise

From red cliffs to black sand to lunar landscapes, Santorini beaches prove that beauty isn’t always about soft sand—it’s about awe. If you’re chasing unique coastlines and unforgettable views, these volcanic shores are calling.