Perissa, Santorini’s Black Sand Beach

While you may have booked a trip to Santorini for the white cave houses, infinity pools and sunsets of Oia, the resort town and the black sand beach in Perissa is the perfect place to let time slow way, way down. To just seep up the rays of sunshine, feel the hot black sand sink through your toes, dive into the pool, and drift among the waves of the Aegean Sea. The best thing to do in Perissa is to simply mellow into the laid-back Greek island vibe.

How to get to Perissa

Santorini Airport to Perissa: The Santorini airport is about 30 minutes by car from the airport. There is no direct public transport between the two as all buses run through the main station at Fira. This means that if you want to use the bus, you must first go to Thira, then take a second bus to Perissa. Most hotels in Perissa offer an airport shuttle for an additional fee. You can also book via a third party, like hoppa.

From Fira (aka Thira) to Perissa: Perissa is about a 30 minute drive from Fira by taxi, rental car, ATV or scooter. You can easily take the bus from Fira to Perissa, which costs €2.40 for a one-way ticket.

Once in Perissa, it’s easy to rent a scooter or ATV to explore the island.

Where to Stay in Perissa

We landed a great place to stay in Perissa called Samson’s Village, just steps from the black sand beach. The rooms were basic but clean, and I loved the white and blue buildings and beautiful pink bougainvilleas that are such a quintessential part of the Greek Islands.

If you’re looking for something more upscale, check out the Anastasia Princess. This hotel is a one minute walk from Perissa Beach, and some rooms come with their own jacuzzi or plunge pool. Other beautiful hotels, all with that iconic white plaster and stunning pool areas include the family-run Sellada Beach Hotel and the chic and modern Aqua Blue Hotel.

What to Do in Perissa

The tavernas lining the huge stretch of sand have plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, many of which you can use if you order food.

Because the sand is black in Perissa, it gets hot hot hot! Remember your sandals.

If you’re looking for more adventure, check out the few rental shops offering jet skis, parasailing and even banana boats. Rent quads for about €30 a day to explore more of the island.

Hike up the hill at the end of the beach to Ancient Thira, with ruins from as far back as the 9th century B.C. This 3 km trail will take a bit over an hour, and offers sweeping views of the sea. Entrance fee into the ancient city is €2.

While there are plenty of dining options along the beach, you’ll get much better prices by heading one street over into town. Our favorite food stops were Gyros Time and the 24 hour Santa Irini Bakery.

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