Clear blue waters, restaurants lining the bay and white sands....oh wait, scratch that, hard pebbles! Yes, the illusive and magical island of Santorini isn't kissed with the typical soft sands that its counterparts possess. Santorini was actually formed from volcanic eruptions, so its beaches are composed of volcanic materials collected across different eras, ranging from rough, textural pebbles to fine, dark sand! Me, without researching, thought the "black beach" was going to be the only one with rocks, but I was surprised to discover that the whole island was lined with dark little pebbles!
However, this quirk only makes Santorini a more unique and fun travel experience! This vlog above and this blog article below explores three of Santorini's most popular attractions!
Caldera Hot Springs
Spoiler Alert: IT'S NOT HOT. Cedric even exclaimed "I'm cold" when we jumped off our boat into the "hot" springs. This caldera is beautiful to look at and we were impressed by the mountains, but not by the waters!
These hot springs sit inside the island’s volcanic caldera, right by the little uninhabited island of Nea Kameni. The water here is (supposedly 🙄) naturally heated by volcanic activity and has a reddish-brown color thanks to the mix of iron and sulfur. You can only get there on a boat tour, usually leaving from Fira’s old port or Athinios port. The boats stop nearby, and you swim a short distance into the warmer waters close to shore. People say the mineral-rich water is great for your skin and joints, but it can definitely stain light swimsuits, so dark swimwear is the way to go. I made sure to wear a pink, blue and brown patterned bikini where a stain would be undetectable. Here's a cute swimsuit that would be perfect! And I love the shorts included with this cute bikini set!
Our Santorini Catamaran Cruise was a blast! Starting in the morning we cruised along the coast of Santorini in the waters of the Aegean Sea. Included was a delicious buffet, drinks (white wine and soft drinks) and transport to the waters of red beach, white beach and the springs. My only critique is that we didn't actually get to land on the beaches, however I guess none of the boats are allowed to dock because it's too shallow. The main fun was connecting with about thirty other people on the boat and jumping off the decks with new friends!
New friends on the Santorini Catamaran Boat Cruise
Kamari Beach
Kamari Beach, on the eastern side of Santorini, is a lively spot that’s great for both relaxing and exploring. Sun beds are free and it's only 2 Euros to take the local bus from Fira! The beach is covered in medium sized, black volcanic rocks. With the impressive Mesa Vouno mountain on one side and the Aegean Sea on the other, Kamari has a fun, vibrant vibe that makes it a favorite for visitors. There's also an airport landing nearby, making a great opportunity for catching a photo with a plane (see below!). Although beautiful, beware that the black rocks get hot in the sun, so walking along the beach may hurt your toes!
Perissa Beach Black Stones
Perissa Black Sand Beach and plane
Perissa Beach
Perissa Beach, on the southeast coast of Santorini, is one of the island’s most popular places to spend a sunny day. The beach stretches out in soft black volcanic sand. The pebbled rocks at this beach are smaller and smoother than Kamari, so you're not burning your toes as you walk! This beach is also backed by the dramatic Mesa Vouno mountain. I love how there's so much to do in this beach area! Cedric got a foot massage by the ocean, we ate at a cafe which overlooked the area and we shopped at a local market. Overall, this beach was my favorite!
Kamari Beach
Cedric gets a foot massage at Kamari Beach
Would you prefer a day on a boat exploring the waters of the Aegean Sea with new friends or lounging at Perissa beach getting a foot massage? Comment you answer on my new vlog and subscribe to this blog for more travel tips for Europe, Asia and U.S.A travel!
