Best Black Sand Beaches in Greece

Vlychada Beach is a stunning and secluded beach located on the southern coast of Santorini, Greece. It is known for its unique lunar-like landscape and volcanic rock formations, which create an otherworldly charm. The beach stretches approximately 1.5 kilometers and features a mix of black and grey volcanic pebbles. It is a tranquil haven, ideal for sun-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely walks along the shoreline, capturing the beauty of the landscape through photography. Vlychada Beach serves as a departure point for luxurious catamaran tours, providing a one-of-a-kind setting for exploration and relaxation.
The beach is nestled between towering cliffs of distinctive volcanic rocks, which adds to its picturesque scenery. The area is rich in geological history, showcasing the volcanic nature of Santorini. While Vlychada itself may not have historical ruins, its surroundings offer a glimpse into the island's ancient past.
The beach is family-friendly and offers amenities such as sunbeds and umbrellas, making it a comfortable destination for all visitors. There are also nearby seaside tavernas where visitors can enjoy local cuisine.

Kamari Beach is not your typical white sand beach. Although it has blue waters, the sand is a deep brown color. This beach has plenty of bars and restaurants, and is an amazing place to relax and experience a beach out of the ordinary.

Vourvoulos Beach is a serene and picturesque destination located in the Thira Municipal Unit of Santorini, Greece. It offers a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a quieter beach experience compared to the more crowded spots on the island. The beach stretches approximately 100 meters and features light-colored sand, contrasting beautifully with the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea. The surrounding landscape is characterized by volcanic terrain, adding a unique touch to its natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. The beach is also close to hiking trails and the charming village of Oia, known for its stunning sunsets and white-washed buildings.

The beach is ideal for locals and tourists alike who want to escape the crowds while still experiencing the beauty of Santorini. It provides basic amenities such as restrooms and outdoor showers, making it a comfortable spot for a day out. The nearby village offers traditional Greek cuisine and a peaceful environment, enhancing the overall experience.

For those interested in exploring beyond the beach, Vourvoulos is strategically located near Fira, the main town of Santorini, allowing easy access to other attractions and amenities on the island.

Eros Beach in Petalidi, Peloponnese, Greece, is a picturesque destination known for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach offers a serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing. Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, beach volleyball, and snorkeling. The beach is particularly famous for its stunning sunsets, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty and cultural attractions, including hiking trails and traditional Greek markets. This blend of natural and cultural experiences makes Eros Beach a unique and appealing destination.
Despite its serene beauty, the beach has limited amenities, so visitors should plan accordingly. It is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil retreat from crowded tourist spots.

Perissa Beach is a brown pebbled beach surrounded by hills and deep turquoise waters. The view of the ocean is beautiful and will be scattered with sailboats and people swimming.

Kampia Beach, located in Akrotiri, Greece, is a picturesque destination known for its golden sand and serene atmosphere. The beach stretches for about 1.2 kilometers, offering ample space for sunbathing and relaxation. It is named after the numerous carob trees in the surrounding hills, adding to its natural charm. Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming and beach volleyball, although it is not generally considered ideal for surfing. The nearby Akrotiri Archaeological Site and the village of Akrotiri provide additional attractions for those interested in history and local culture.
The beach is surrounded by scenic hiking trails, offering breathtaking views of the sea. While it is not as crowded as other beaches in Santorini, Kampia Beach provides a peaceful retreat for those seeking tranquility. However, it lacks some amenities like lifeguards, making it less family-friendly.
Despite its serene nature, Kampia Beach is close to several restaurants and hotels, ensuring that visitors have access to necessary facilities and accommodations.

Monolithos Beach, located on the eastern side of Santorini, is a tranquil and family-friendly destination known for its soft black volcanic sand and crystal-clear waters. It offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling tourist areas, making it ideal for those seeking relaxation. The beach is easily accessible by car or public transportation and is close to Fira, the island's capital. Monolithos Beach provides a serene atmosphere with amenities like sun loungers and umbrellas for rent, along with nearby tavernas serving fresh seafood and traditional Greek cuisine.
The beach's shallow waters are perfect for swimming, especially for families with young children. Visitors can enjoy activities such as beach volleyball and a children's playground. The surrounding area is rich in history, having once been the site of Santorini's first tomato canning factory.
Monolithos Beach offers a unique blend of relaxation and outdoor activities, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience Santorini's quieter side.

Mesa Pigadia Beach is a tranquil and picturesque spot on the southern coast of Santorini, about 14-15 kilometers from the capital Fira. It is nestled in an idyllic bay surrounded by towering cliffs, which provide natural protection from strong winds. The beach is known for its large pebbles and dark blue, crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for those seeking a quiet and peaceful retreat.
The beach offers a charming family tavern with delicious local dishes, sun loungers, and umbrellas for comfort. A unique feature is the cave leading to White Beach, which adds an adventurous touch for explorers.
Despite being off the main road, it can be accessed via a short dirt path, making it a hidden gem away from the crowds of more popular beaches.

Cape Columbo Beach is a secluded gem located in the northern part of Santorini, Greece, near the picturesque town of Oia. This stunning beach is known for its dramatic red cliffs and long stretch of dark grey sand with pebbles. It is an unorganized beach, meaning there are no sunbeds or restaurants on site, but it offers breathtaking views and clear blue waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is popular among nudists and those seeking a peaceful, natural setting away from crowds. Its proximity to Oia makes it an ideal spot to combine beach relaxation with exploring the charming village and its famous sunsets.

The landscape around Cape Columbo is characterized by big red cliffs and untouched nature, creating a unique and breathtaking environment. The beach is not accessible by car directly, requiring a short walk from the parking area. This adds to its secluded charm, making it a perfect spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more popular beaches.

Cape Columbo is named after a British warship that sank in the area during the Napoleonic Wars, adding a historical layer to its natural beauty. The nearby underwater crater, also named Columbo, contributes to the warm waters, making it an exciting spot for adventurous swimmers and divers.

Perivolos Beach, located on the southern coast of Lindos, Greece, is a stunning stretch of dark volcanic sand. However, it appears there might be confusion with Perivolos Beach in Santorini, which is more commonly known for its black sand and vibrant atmosphere. If referring to the Santorini location, Perivolos Beach offers crystal-clear waters and a lively environment, making it ideal for both relaxation and entertainment. The beach is well-organized with amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and a variety of dining options. It is a popular spot for water sports and beach activities, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
The beach's proximity to other famous landmarks in Santorini makes it a great base for exploring the island. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities from swimming and snorkeling to more adrenaline-pumping water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding.
The area is also known for its lively beach bars and restaurants, offering a mix of traditional Greek cuisine and modern dining experiences.