Best Black Sand Beaches in Santorini

Santorini is famous for its whitewashed cliffside villages and sunset views, but its volcanic coastline is just as iconic. If you're searching for the best black sand beaches in Santorini, you'll find them primarily along the island’s southeast shore. Here lava- and ash-shaped dramatic stretches of dark sand and pebbles complement crystal-clear Aegean water. These beaches are the result of Santorini’s volcanic history, giving the shoreline its deep charcoal color and striking contrast against the blue sea.

Here are the best black sand beaches in Santorini, followed by an elevated way to experience them at Royal Beach Club Santorini.

1. Perissa Beach

Perissa Beach is the most famous black sand beach in Santorini. Located at the base of Mesa Vouno Mountain, it stretches for miles, giving visitors plenty of space to swim, lounge and explore.

The sand here is dark and coarse and the water is typically calm and clear, making it ideal for swimming. A long promenade runs parallel to the beach, lined with restaurants, cafes and beach bars. If you want the quintessential Santorini black sand beach experience with plenty of energy and amenities, Perissa is the benchmark.

Best for: First-time visitors who want the classic black sand beach atmosphere with easy access to food and facilities.

2. Perivolos Beach

Just south of Perissa, Perivolos Beach blends seamlessly into its neighbor but offers a slightly more refined beach club atmosphere. The black sand here is just as dramatic, but the vibe leans more toward curated loungers, stylish beach setups and music drifting across the shoreline.

Perivolos is known for its vibrant beach scene, with organized sections offering sunbeds and umbrellas. It's an excellent choice for travelers who want their Santorini beach day to include both relaxation and a social element.

Best for: Travelers looking for a lively beach environment with an upscale edge.

3. Kamari Beach

Kamari Beach sits on the eastern side of the island and is one of the most accessible black sand beaches in Santorini. A wide promenade runs behind the beach, making it easy to combine swimming with shopping, dining or a relaxed seaside stroll.

The shoreline here features black sand mixed with small pebbles and the water is typically calm during summer months. Kamari offers a well-organized layout with loungers and umbrellas available throughout much of the beach.

Best for: Families and visitors who want walkability and a convenient beach experience.

4. Vlychada Beach

Vlychada Beach stands out not only for its dark volcanic sand but for its dramatic white and beige cliff formations that look almost sculpted. The contrast between pale cliffs and dark shoreline creates one of the most unique coastal landscapes in Santorini.

This beach feels slightly more secluded than Perissa or Kamari, offering a quieter atmosphere. It's ideal for travelers who appreciate striking scenery and a less commercial setting.

Best for: Photography lovers and travelers seeking a more tranquil beach environment.

5. Mesa Pigadia Beach

Mesa Pigadia Beach is tucked along Santorini’s southern coast and offers a more rugged black sand and pebble experience. The setting feels raw and natural, framed by rocky cliffs and clear waters.

Because it's less centrally located, Mesa Pigadia typically sees fewer crowds. The volcanic shoreline here feels authentic and understated, perfect for visitors who want to experience Santorini’s geological beauty away from the busiest stretches.

Best for: Travelers who prefer a quieter, more natural setting.

6. Monolithos Beach

Monolithos Beach is known for its softer dark sand and shallow waters. Compared to other black sand beaches in Santorini, Monolithos tends to be calmer and less crowded.

The gradual entry into the sea makes it appealing for families or those who prefer a more relaxed swim. While it does not have the dramatic backdrop of Vlychada, it offers a peaceful atmosphere and plenty of space to spread out.

Best for: Laid-back beach days and families.

Experience Black Sand Beaches at Royal Beach Club Santorini

For travelers who want to experience Santorini’s volcanic coastline in a more elevated way, Royal Beach Club Santorini introduces a curated beach day on a volcanic black sand beach along the Aegean Sea. The experience is set to open in April 2026, bringing a new way to enjoy Santorini’s iconic shoreline.

As part of the Ultimate Santorini experience, the day pairs beach time with visits to Oia and Fira, creating a seamless three-stop journey across the island. Transportation is included and the beach club portion centers on comfort and convenience, with loungers, umbrellas, Wi-Fi and beachfront dining already arranged.

The experience is intentionally beach-focused, offering access to a volcanic black sand shoreline with views across the caldera and Aegean. Guests enjoy complimentary food inspired by Greek flavors, a welcome drink and a relaxed atmosphere enhanced by music throughout the day. It's designed to deliver the best of Santorini’s black sand beaches without the guesswork of planning.

If you're searching for the best black sand beaches in Santorini but want the logistics handled for you, Royal Beach Club Santorini provides a structured yet scenic way to enjoy the island’s iconic volcanic shore.