Kamari Beach: Tips & How to Get There

Kamari Beach is Santorini’s most easily accessible black sand beach. Only 10km from Fira and 2km from the airport, the wide organized sandy beach is set at the foot of the dramatic Mesa Vouno mountain. It is the perfect choice for families and for those who want to explore the volcanic landscape of the island.

In this guide we will tell you all about the black sand and whether or not it is a family beach. We will also see how you can get to the beach from Oia or Fira, what is free and what is not and how safe the water is on windy days.

Is Kamari Beach Worth Visiting?

Kamari Beach is a lovely and well-organized beach. The volcanic landscape of Santorini combines perfectly with the comfort of easy access and zero effort to enjoy it. The 5km long black sandy beach stretches at the southeastern part of the island in front of the Mesa Vouno Mountain that towers above it.

This is a beach of convenience. It is not for those seeking secluded coves and quiet lonely stretches of sand. But it is one of the best equipped and most comfortable black sand beaches in Santorini, within easy walking distance from Fira. Sunbeds, restaurants and a promenade along the sea are all just a step away.

The Black Sand (and What It’s Really Like Underfoot)

Kamari Beach has coarser black sand than the pictures would have you believe. It is a mixture of sand and pebbles from volcanic basalt which forms a very dark black shoreline. The sand is hot, and could burn your feet by midday. You may want to pack water shoes or flip-flops to wear.

Compared to Perissa Beach, adjacent to Kamari Beach, the black sand at Kamari is a bit rougher. It is part of a range of textures across Santorini’s beaches that’s worth knowing before you pick one. The sand at Red Beach, on the other hand, is almost entirely made up of loose pebbles. Note that if you have your heart set on a beach with soft, fine sand then this may not be the place for you. However, the black sand creates a dramatic contrast with the deep blue Aegean Sea, making for great photographs, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Kamari Beach for Families

Kamari Beach is a strong pick for family travel in Greece, as the beach is fully organized and flat. You won’t find any very steep parts or any rocks to have to climb over. The northern part is generally calmer and shadier than the middle, which is busier. It is also closer to the promenade that runs along the front of the beach. Therefore, it is ideal for trips with young children as it is close to restaurants that serve simple Greek food.

Sunbeds, umbrellas, showers and toilet facilities line the beach. The long, flat promenade is perfect for strolling with a toddler, unlike the steep cliff sides of the other Santorini villages. You can grab breakfast or lunch to take down to the beach and make the most of your day. Be aware that the black sand gets very hot, so it is wise to bring water shoes for your children.

Getting to Kamari Beach

Kamari Beach is one of the most easily accessible beaches of Santorini. By car it is about 15 minutes from Fira, with free parking along the beach. There are also regular buses from Fira bus station, more frequently during summer months.

The drive from Oia to Kamari beach will take approximately 40 minutes as it is the full length of the island from north to south. Unfortunately, there are no direct buses from Oia. Most tourists choose to rent a car and drive, or take a taxi. Some prefer to visit one of the beaches for a half day and then go to the other for the second half of the day. An easy way to split the day when you’re doing group travel with friends with mixed preferences.

Is Kamari Beach Free?

Kamari Beach has free access. In Greece, the law guarantees public access along the shoreline to all beaches. If you want the comforts of having your sunbed and umbrella, you can rent a set from one of the many beach bars. But access, the car parking and the promenade are free.

Budget travelers can still enjoy a day at this beach as you can bring your own towels and sit wherever you like. No need to rent sunbeds. It is a great value beach for budget travelers even though it has a resort feel to it. If easy, good-value days like this sound like your kind of trip, explore our Greece vacation packages or request one built around Santorini and beyond.

Is It Safe to Swim?

Kamari Beach is generally suitable for swimming and it has a gentle, gradually sloping gradient. Early mornings are very calm and are perfect for new swimmers and children. Water quality is good and the beach has received the Blue Flag rating.

The majority of travel guides neglect to add one crucial piece of information for visitors to Kamari Beach. This east-facing beach is situated on the exposed side of the island. During the meltemi period (late July – early August), the strong winds can turn the afternoon sea turbulent. They can also create strong currents. If you are traveling with children, or are not a confident swimmer, the mornings at Kamari are by far the safer time to visit. Afternoons are far better for sunbathing.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kamari Beach depends on your vacation goals. For a relaxing holiday it is early in the morning, when the sea is calmer and there are fewer people on the beach. A good window for senior travel in Greece looking to avoid both heat and crowds. In the afternoon, it has more life but a strong wind blows almost all summer days. For an atmospheric dinner or pictures, an evening on the promenade is ideal. After dark the floodlights on the mountain create a wonderful atmosphere.

Beyond the Beach

Kamari is an excellent base to explore beyond the beach. From the ancient city of Thera, on top of Mesa Vouno you can admire the most breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. After a pleasant walk down, you can enjoy lunch in the town. Close by to Thera are several wineries, such as Estate Argyros, where you can taste volcanic wines made of the unique grape Assyrtiko. A relaxed afternoon that works well for honeymoons in Greece looking to pair the beach with something slower.

One more note on Kamari: As it is right below the Santorini airport, you can actually watch the planes taking off and landing from the beach. Late in the afternoon is best. In the evening go to the Open-Air Cinema Kamari, a lovely spot to watch a movie under the stars.

Conclusion

Kamari offers an easy experience to enjoy a good black sandy beach. It is well organized, with volcanic scenery, and free access to the public. It also provides a good number of amenities, so you can actually spend the whole day there. Suitable for families and for people who prefer calm waters.

Visit Kamari Beach on its own or as part of a broader tour of Santorini with a visit to Ancient Thera or a winery. In any case, this beach makes a great choice as one of the best Santorini coastlines.

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