Find Your Perfect Beach in Santorini

Baxedes (also spelled “Baxédes”, sometimes extended as “Baxedes & Paradisos”) is a more secluded northern-coast beach of Santorini, located east of Cape Mavropetra and near Oia / Finikia. It is over 1 km long, with black volcanic sand + small pebbles, and backed by cliffs / escarpments that offer natural shade in some parts. Because it is less developed, it retains a more natural, quiet character compared to Santorini’s busy beach zones.

One of Santorini’s iconic black sand beaches — formed from volcanic lava and minerals — Black Beach lies near Perissa / Akrotiri. With its striking dark shore, clear Aegean waters, and cliff-backdrop, it’s ideal for both relaxation and more active beach-days. The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, with shallow areas that deepen more quickly. It’s well-suited for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying seaside tavernas.

Exomitis lies on the southern coast / tip of Santorini (on the southeastern stretch), forming part of the long continuous black-sand coastline from Perissa toward the cape. The beach is relatively quiet / secluded / less visited compared to more touristy beaches. The stretch is part of an extended beach that includes more organized zones nearer other beaches, but Exomitis itself is more rustic / low infrastructure.

Paralia Gialos is a peaceful pebbly beach on the southwest coast of Santorini, in the Akrotiri area. Sheltered within a bay near the inactive Kokkinopetra volcano, the beach offers dramatic views of cliffs, natural vegetation, and wild scenery. The sea bed is a mix of sand, small pebbles and gravel. It’s quieter than many of the more famous beaches, making it ideal for visitors who want relaxation, sun, sea and nature rather than large crowds.

Kamari is a well-known resort village on the southeastern coast of Santorini. Its beach is a long black volcanic beach / pebbly sand beach, formed by Santorini’s volcanic geology. The shore lies under the foot of the Mesa Vouno mountain, adding dramatic backdrop. A paved promenade runs along the beach, lined with cafés, restaurants, shops, and bars.

Mesa Pigadia is a quieter, lesser-known black-sand / volcanic pebble beach located on the southwest coast of Santorini near Akrotiri. The beach lies in a small cove backed by cliffs, giving it a sheltered and intimate feel. It is often described as a “hidden gem” for people seeking a more peaceful beach experience away from the busy beaches of Santorini. Mesa Pigadia is accessible via a rough / dirt road from the main road; public buses don’t come all the way — walking from nearby stops or driving is typical.

Perivolos Beach (Παραλία Περβολός) lies on the southeastern coast of Santorini, extending between Perissa and Agios Georgios. It’s known for its black volcanic sand / pebbly-volcanic shore and stylish, lively beach club scene. Because it is long and well organized, Perivolos offers both social, activity-rich zones (with bars, music, water sports) and more relaxed stretches away from the busiest parts.

Below towering red volcanic cliffs, Red Beach is a dramatic, photogenic stretch of sand and pebbles on Santorini’s southern coast. The high red rocks create a striking contrast with the deep blue of the Aegean. The sea entry is somewhat rocky and steep in places, so it’s more suitable for those who are okay with uneven terrain. Swimming is generally calm.

Vlychada Beach lies on the southern coast of Santorini, about 13-14 km from Fira. The beach is known for its dramatic volcanic geology: towering white cliffs sculpted by wind and sea, a long shoreline of gray sand mixed with pebbles, and deep, clear waters. Its lunar-like landscape gives it a peaceful, almost surreal vibe, making it ideal for those seeking something scenic and less crowded than the more tourist-heavy beaches. The water close to shore is relatively shallow to begin with, but deepens quickly.