Perissa Black Sand Beach, Santorini

Perissa Beach: Santorini's Black Sand Icon

Perissa Beach is Santorini's most visited and most accessible beach — a long stretch of volcanic black pebbles and sand that extends for several kilometres along the island's south-eastern coast. The black sand, unusual and visually striking against the vivid blue of the Aegean, absorbs the sun's heat and can get extremely hot underfoot — bringing sandals or water shoes is strongly recommended.

The beach is well-organised with sunbeds and umbrellas, a string of beach bars and restaurants, and a promenade behind. The water is clean and deep, with the crystal clarity typical of the Aegean. Mesa Vouno, the dramatic volcanic promontory that separates Perissa from Kamari Beach on the other side, provides a spectacular backdrop and is home to the ancient city of Thera — a worthwhile detour if you can manage the ascent in the heat.