Perissa Beach is Santorini's longest and most popular beach, famous for its dramatic black volcanic sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Located on the southeastern coast of the island, this Blue Flag beach offers everything you need for a perfect beach day - from water sports and beach clubs to excellent tavernas and stunning mountain views.
Why Perissa Beach is Special
Perissa's unique black sand is formed from volcanic lava and creates a striking contrast against the bright blue Aegean Sea. The beach stretches for nearly 7 kilometers, giving you plenty of space even during peak season. Behind the beach, the impressive Mesa Vouno mountain rises dramatically, adding to the spectacular scenery. This is the kind of beach where you can easily spend an entire day!
Beach Facilities & Amenities
Perissa is one of Santorini's most organized beaches with excellent facilities:
- Sunbeds & Umbrellas: €8-15 per set, mandatory at beach club areas
- Showers & Changing Rooms: Available at multiple points along the beach
- Lifeguards: On duty during summer months
- Parking: Free parking areas available near the beach
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible areas and ramps
- WiFi: Most beach bars and restaurants offer free WiFi
Important Note:
The black sand gets VERY hot in the midday sun! Bring water shoes or flip-flops to walk comfortably. The sand also retains heat, making it pleasant for evening beach walks.
Water Sports & Activities
Perissa is Santorini's water sports hub! You'll find numerous centers offering:
- Scuba Diving: Several dive centers offer courses and guided dives to volcanic reefs
- Jet Skiing: €40-60 for 15-20 minutes
- Paddleboarding (SUP): €15-20 per hour
- Kayaking: Single and double kayaks available
- Banana Boat Rides: Fun group activity
- Snorkeling: Crystal-clear waters perfect for exploring
- Parasailing: Get aerial views of the coastline
Best Beach Bars & Clubs
Perissa's beach bar scene is legendary! Here are the top spots:
Wet Stories
Popular beach bar with pool, DJs, and party atmosphere. Great for younger crowds looking for music and fun.
JoJo Beach Bar
Stylish lounge atmosphere with comfortable sunbeds, good music, and excellent cocktails. Perfect for a relaxed beach day.
Barolo Beach Bar
Elegant beach bar with comfortable sunbeds, excellent cocktails, and Mediterranean cuisine. Perfect spot for a relaxing day by the sea.
Dining at Perissa Beach
The promenade behind the beach is lined with tavernas and restaurants serving everything from traditional Greek food to international cuisine:
- Tavernas: Fresh seafood, Greek salads, grilled meats at reasonable prices
- Beach Restaurants: Feet-in-the-sand dining with sunset views
- Fast Food: Gyros, souvlaki, burgers for quick meals
- Cafes: Coffee, ice cream, and light snacks throughout the day
Most beach bars also serve food, so you don't need to leave your sunbed for lunch! Expect to pay €10-20 for a meal at casual places, €20-35 at nicer restaurants.
Things to Do Near Perissa
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Hike to Ancient Thira: 30-minute uphill hike to ancient ruins atop Mesa Vouno with panoramic views
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Visit Perissa Village: Traditional Greek village just inland with local shops and authentic tavernas
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Walk to Perivolos: Continue south along the beach to reach the connected Perivolos Beach
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Open Air Cinema: Cinekamari shows movies under the stars in summer (nearby Kamari)
Getting to Perissa Beach
- By Car/ATV: 15 minutes from Fira, 30 minutes from Oia. Free parking available.
- By Bus: Regular buses from Fira (€2-3, every 30 minutes in summer)
- By Taxi: €30-35 from Fira, €45-50 from Oia
- Hotel Shuttle: Many hotels in Perissa offer beach shuttles
Perfect Beach Day Itinerary
Perissa vs. Kamari: Which is Better?
Perissa and Kamari are Santorini's two main black sand beaches, separated by Mesa Vouno mountain. Here's how they compare:
- Perissa: Longer beach, younger crowd, better water sports, more beach bars, livelier atmosphere
- Kamari: More upscale, better restaurants, wider promenade, slightly calmer, popular with families
Can't decide? Visit both! They're only 20 minutes apart by car, or you can hike between them via Ancient Thira.
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season (July-August): Busiest time with all
facilities open, warmest water (24-25°C), but crowded and more
expensive
Shoulder Season (May-June, September-October): Perfect!
Pleasant weather, warm enough for swimming (22-23°C), fewer crowds,
better prices
Off-Season (November-April): Most facilities closed,
water too cold for most swimmers, but peaceful beach walks possible
Perissa Beach offers everything you need for a memorable beach day in Santorini. Whether you're seeking adventure with water sports, relaxation at stylish beach clubs, or simply want to swim in the crystal-clear Aegean waters, Perissa delivers. Don't forget your water shoes, sunscreen, and sense of adventure!