Red Beach
Κόκκινη Παραλία / Περίσσα
A bay with red and black pebbles, framed by ochre-red volcanic cliffs beside the Akrotiri archaeological site. It is the island's most photogenic beach, and most people admire it from the ridge above.
Red Beach (Kokkini Paralia) lies on the southern tip of Santorini, about 1 km west of the Akrotiri prehistoric site. Ochre-red and black volcanic cinder cliffs plunge into the sea, enclosing a small beach of red and black pebbles. The strong contrast with the deep blue water makes it the island's most photogenic beach. From the car park, follow a gravel path for about 10 minutes over the ridge. A viewpoint near the small chapel offers a panoramic view, and the light is best just before and after sunset. The cliffs are loose and rockfall is frequent. Authorities have repeatedly closed the beach and posted warning signs. Most visitors only admire it from the ridge. If you go down to the beach, you do so at your own risk, and you should never stop beneath the cliffs. You can also take a small boat from the Akrotiri harbour to Red Beach, White Beach, and Black Beach. There are no facilities on the beach, and the midday summer sun is intense, so bring water and sunscreen. Getting there: take a bus from Fira to the Akrotiri terminus (about 30 minutes), then walk. It can be combined with the Akrotiri site and the lighthouse for a half-day trip.
Opening hours
Open all day (beach often closed due to falling rocks)
Nearby sights
- Akrotiri Archaeological Site
- Vlychada Beach
- Akrotiri Lighthouse
- Megalochori
- Emporio & Kasteli
- Nea Kameni Volcano Boat Trip
- Santo Wines Winery
- Pyrgos