Kamari Beach guide: what to know before you go
Kamari is a long, organised black-sand beach on the east coast of Santorini, about 10 minutes by car from the airport. The water is clear, and the beach has held a Blue Flag. A paved promenade full of cafés and restaurants runs behind the beach, and the Mesa Vouno headland at its southern end separates it from Perissa.
What is Kamari Beach like?
Kamari is one of the longest beaches on Santorini. The shore is dark volcanic sand mixed with small pebbles, and the water gets deep fairly quickly, so it is good for real swimming. Most of the beach is organised, with sunbeds and umbrellas run by the beach bars, but there are quieter stretches if you walk away from the centre.
Kamari has held a Blue Flag, the international award for clean water, safety and environmental management.
Tips for the black sand
- Wear sandals or water shoes. Dark sand and pebbles heat up fast in the afternoon sun.
- Come early or late. Mornings are calm and quiet, and late afternoons are softer and cooler.
- Check the wind. In July and August the meltemi wind usually blows from the north. The east coast often feels more sheltered than the north of the island, but the sea can still get choppy on windy days.
The Kamari promenade
A long stone-paved promenade runs right behind the beach, lined with cafés, tavernas, cocktail bars and shops. It is car-free along most of its length, which makes it one of the nicest places on the island for an evening walk. In the evening the headland at the end of the beach is lit up.
Mesa Vouno and Ancient Thera
The rocky mountain rising at the southern end of the beach is Mesa Vouno. On top sit the ruins of Ancient Thera, the island’s ancient city. You can drive or take a taxi up the winding road, or walk up on an old cobbled path. We cover the walk in our Ancient Thera hike guide.
Can you go from Kamari to Perissa by boat?
Yes. In season a small water taxi runs around the Mesa Vouno headland between Kamari and Perissa, the black-sand beach on the other side. It is an easy way to spend half a day on a different beach without driving. Ask reception for the current timetable.
The open-air cinema
Just behind Kamari is Cine Kamari, an open-air cinema in a garden. Films are shown in the evening in summer, and there is a small bar. It is one of the most relaxed nights out on the island.
Is Kamari a good base for exploring Santorini?
For many travellers, yes. Kamari is close to the airport, flat and walkable, with plenty of places to eat, and it is calmer than Fira or Oia. Fira is about 15 minutes away by car, and buses connect the two.
At Mon Signor, every suite has a sea view, and reception can arrange car or moto rental, catamaran trips and wine tasting when you want to see the rest of the island.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kamari Beach sand or pebbles?
Kamari Beach is black volcanic sand mixed with small pebbles. Wear sandals, because the dark sand gets hot in the afternoon.
Is Kamari Beach good for swimming?
Yes. The water is clear, Kamari has held a Blue Flag for water quality, and the sea gets deep fairly quickly, which suits proper swimming.
How far is Kamari from Fira?
Kamari is about 10 km from Fira, roughly 15 minutes by car. Public buses also connect Kamari and Fira.
Can I get from Kamari to Perissa by boat?
Yes. In season a water taxi runs around the Mesa Vouno headland between Kamari and Perissa beaches.