Perissa & Perivolos — Black Beach Mile

Perissa (Περίσσα) and Perivolos (Περίβολος) together form Santorini's longest and most popular beach: kilometer after kilometer of jet-black volcanic sand, lined with beach bars, taverns, sun loungers, and — at the southern end of Perivolos — a party atmosphere that lasts into the night.

Perissa is the northern, more family-friendly part: wide, well-organized, with lifeguards, water sports (jetski, banana boat, parasailing), and a promenade full of restaurants and cafes. At the northern end rises the mighty Mesa Vouno (rock mountain, 396 m), on whose summit lie the ruins of ancient Thera — accessible via a steep hiking trail (about 45 minutes). The ruins of the Greco-Roman city (founded in the 9th century BC) offer a fantastic view of both sides of the island.

Perivolos seamlessly merges into Perissa and is Santorini's beach-life center: Here, the best beach bars line up (JoJo Beach, Wet Stories, Chilli Beach) with music, cocktails, and lounge atmosphere. In the evening, Perivolos becomes an open-air club — the more relaxed, cheaper alternative to nightlife in Fira.

Accommodation Tip: Perissa and Perivolos are the cheapest accommodation options on Santorini — guesthouses and studios from 30–50€ per night, significantly less than at the Caldera. By bus (line Fira–Perissa, every 30 minutes, 2.40€) or scooter, you are in Fira in 20 minutes or in Oia in 40 minutes. The perfect compromise: beach vacation by day, Caldera sunset by evening.