Last Updated on: 5th July 2024, 01:00 pm
Even though Santorini isn’t the most known beach destination, it can still provide you with a relaxing beach vacation. Kamari and Perissa are two of the best beach towns in Santorini, boasting beaches and amenities up to par with the top beaches in Greece.
With its miles of black sand beaches, lively promenade and array of hotels and restaurants, Kamari brings a wonderful blend of resort amenities alongside natural Aegean beauty.
Kamari beach – Image by Michelle Raponi from Pixabay
How To Get to Kamari Beach
Kamari lies only 10 kilometers from Santorini Airport heading north along the island’s east coast.
There’s no direct bus from the Santorini airport to Kamari.
If you want to use the bus, you’ll need to go to the central bus station in Fira and change there for Kamari. Check out my article about Santorini buses to learn how to best use them.
Taxis from the airport take just 15 minutes travel time.
From Fira, the public bus ride lasts 25 minutes winding scenically around Santorini’s rugged coastal roads before arriving at Kamari terminal.
Kamari beach – black sand, with Mesa Vouno mountain in the background – Image by eartner from Pixabay
About Kamari Beach
Kamari brings visitors three kilometers of glistening black sand beaches lined with beach bars and cafes making it easy to stay refreshed while enjoying the revitalizing Aegean waves.
The sand and the landscape are very similar to the ones you’ll find on Perissa Beach. The two beaches are separated by Mesa Vouno, the mountain where Ancient Thera sits.
The crescent moon curve of Kamari’s beach allows glorious sunrise vistas over the glittering water and unique views back to Santorini’s imposing sea cliffs.
Beachgoers can rent lounge chairs and umbrellas to relax under while the energetic take advantage of watersports rentals like jet skis, kayaks and standup paddleboards available right from Kamari’s shores.
Kamari Beach – the black sand makes a nice contrast to the golden light of late afternoon
Where To Stay in Kamari
Kamari offers a nice range of hotel and apartment options given its extensive tourism infrastructure.
Santorini Kastelli Resort
Luxury five-star resorts like Santorini Kastelli Resort have incredible caldera cliff settings slightly set back from the beach yet still overlooking the water.
Such secluded locations are perfect for those who seek to rest, relax and enjoy their time by the pool. Kamari beach is only a short walk away from the hotel.
Santorini Kastelli Resort offers breakfast, lunch and dinner by the pool. It also has spa facilities such as steamy sauna and hot tub, as well as a gym and a tennis court.
Makris Beach Hotel
Makris is an apart hotel that offers two types of rooms: with sea view and with garden view.
Located right on the black pebble beach of Kamari, the hotel is built in the traditional Cycladic style, with whitewashed walls and arched roofs.
Click here to check out this hotel and to book your stay.
Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort
Located right in the center of Kamari, at 3 minutes’ walk from the beach, Radisson Blu Zaffron is a great choice for Santorini visitors who enjoy quality hotels and laid back beach time.
The hotel has two restaurants and an outdoor swimming pool. An airport shuttle is available on request.
Beachside Apartment Rentals
For prime beachfront locations on a budget, beachside apartment rentals and low-cost hotels align conveniently along Kamari’s dark sand.
Check out Aegean Gold, or Nisia Beach Apartments & Suites. Both options look great.
Beware, though, Kamari tends to be very crowded in season. Perissa is much better from this point of view.
Dining in Kamari
Kamari’s long promenade street stretches the length of town providing visitors their choice of dining spots. Beachfront tavernas serve fresh Greek cuisine paired with local wines that can be enjoyed while watching sublime Aegean sunsets over the sea for a perfect finish.
The adjacent pedestrian street also lights up after dark with a wide selection of international restaurants and buzzing open-air cocktail bars that stay lively well into the night.
The beachfront promenade in Kamari – perfect for evening walks
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Nearby attractions within easy day reach of Kamari Beach stays make it a wonderful central homebase on Santorini. Must-see sites inlcude Ancient Thera only 10 minutes drive away or a short bus trip followed by cable car ride to the mountaintop ruins.
Winery visits through Santorini’s wine region are also easily accessible from Kamari.
For great contrast just 15 minutes north, black sand gets swapped for red beach sands at popular Red Beach near Akrotiri village. That’s 15 minutes away only if you drive or take a cab. Public buses require changing the line in Fira, and therefore take way more time.
With so many options just a quick ride away, Kamari BEACH delivers the perfect Santorini destination.