What it's like
Perissa is a sea-side village on the eastern shore of Thira, the largest island in the Santorini archipelago. Its long beach of black sand and pebble is the focus of beach life on this side of the island, shared with nearby Kamari.
A day on the sand here is simple. Rent a parasol, swim off the black shore, and stop for a meal at one of the bars along the front. Inland in the village, the Museum of Minerals and Fossils holds a collection of minerals and fossils from Santorini and elsewhere in Greece. Ancient Thera sits on the hill between Kamari and Perissa, worth visiting for the view and history.
Good to know
- Walking along the coastal street is hard going, since there are no sidewalks and you walk beside a lane of traffic.
- Summer brings many parasols and chairs, so arrive early for a spot on the sand.
- Take care in the evening, when many motorcycles and scooters use the streets.
Perissa Beach
Perissa Beach is a long stretch of black sand and pebble on the eastern side of Santorini, lined with bars, hotels and restaurants. It is the main beach of the village of Perissa.
Tours that go here
Prices are per person, booked with our partner, Shore Excursions Group.
Kamari beach
Kamari is the longest beach on Santorini, a long stretch of black pebbles and shingle with restaurants and bars lining the sand. It is a good place for a swim and a slow afternoon by the water.
Fira
Fira is the capital of Santorini, a white town of cobblestone streets stacked on the caldera rim. Shops, tavernas, hotels and cafes line the lanes, and most visitors come up from the old port.
Oia
Oia is a cliffside village at the north end of Santorini, known for its iconic streets and its sunset over the caldera. Visitors come for the views and the evening light.
Ancient Thera
Ancient Thera is a Classical-era hilltop site on Mesa Vouno, between Kamari and Perissa. Visitors come for the ruins, the history and wide views over the island.
The same kind of day, elsewhere
Beaches
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
