Santorini: Red Beach, Black Sand Beach w/ Lunch and Sunbeds

Discover Santorini’s Spectacular Coastline: Red Beach and Black Sand Beach with Lunch and Sunbeds

On a warm, sun-drenched day in Santorini, we find ourselves on a tour that promises a taste of the island’s diverse seaside scenery—perfectly suited for those staying on the Caldera side who want a straightforward yet memorable day by the sea. For $150 per person, this experience offers visits to Red Beach, with its striking crimson cliffs, and the black sands of Perissa Beach, complete with a leisurely lunch, sunbeds, and plenty of swimming opportunities.

What we love about this trip is how it combines spectacular photo opportunities with relaxed beach time. First, the dramatic red cliffs at Red Beach are truly a sight to behold—think vibrant, towering rock formations that look like they belong on a movie set. Then, relaxing on the black sands of Perissa Beach offers a contrast that’s just as captivating, with ample space to stretch out and enjoy the sun. We also appreciate the included sea-view lunch, which provides local flavors in a beautiful setting.

A potential consideration is the limited time at each beach, which might not satisfy travelers wishing to linger longer or explore further. But for those looking for a well-organized snapshot of Santorini’s coast, this tour hits the right balance.

This experience suits travelers who want an easy-to-access, scenic day with highlights that don’t require excessive walking or complicated logistics. It’s perfect for those who love photography, relaxing at the beach, and enjoying authentic Greek cuisine in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Iconic Coastal Scenes: Visit Red Beach’s dramatic crimson cliffs and Perissa’s black sands.
• Relaxing Beach Time: Sunbeds and towels are included, making for a comfortable, fuss-free experience.
• Scenic Drive: The coastal trip is ideal for guests staying near the Caldera, offering striking views.
• Tasty Lunch: A seated meal with a fixed menu, including local wine, water, and classic Greek dishes.
• Time Management: Ample free time for swimming, sunbathing, or snapping photos.
• Value for Money: For $150, you get transportation, a guide, lunch, and beach access—making it an accessible option for many.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Santorini Coastal Experience

The Journey Begins: Comfortable Transportation and a Scenic Drive

Our day starts with pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, guided by a professional English-speaking driver. This is especially convenient if you’re staying on the Caldera side, as the trip is designed to be straightforward and relaxing. The journey along Santorini’s coast offers plenty of opportunities to admire the breathtaking scenery—craggy cliffs, rolling hills, and the shimmering sea all pass by in a blur of blue and ochre.

We appreciated that the group size was manageable, allowing us to enjoy the views without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. It’s worth noting that the transport is private or semi-private, which enhances the comfort level—important when you’re carrying your camera or beach gear.

Red Beach: A Colorful Cliffside Marvel

Our first stop is Red Beach, renowned for its vivid crimson cliffs that plunge into the sea. The cliffs are the result of volcanic activity, giving the area its distinctive color, and the scene is truly mesmerizing. As we arrive, the guide points out the best angles for photos—this isn’t just sightseeing; it’s a chance to capture a memory of Santorini’s natural artistry.

The beach itself is small but packed with character. The crimson cliffs create a natural amphitheater that makes the spot feel both dramatic and intimate. Swimming here is possible, but the space can be crowded during peak times, so it’s best to arrive early if you want to beat the crowds.

One of the things we loved was how accessible Red Beach is from the main road, making it easy to visit even for those with limited mobility—though note that the cliffs are quite steep, so some walking might be involved.

Perivolos Beach: The Black Sand Paradise

Next, the tour takes us to Perivolos Beach, a long stretch of black volcanic sand that’s fun to walk along and even more enjoyable to relax on. This is a classic Santorini experience—softer than it looks, and perfect for sunbathing or taking a dip.

You’ll have ample free time here, with sunbeds and towels included, so you can settle in comfortably. The shallow waters make it an ideal spot for swimming and wading. Many travelers, like Julianne, mention the spectacular beaches—and we agree, Perissa’s expansive shoreline offers a peaceful yet lively atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding.

The vibe is laid-back, with beach bars and cafes nearby if you want a cold drink or a quick snack. The black sand creates a striking contrast against the blue sea, making it an Instagram-worthy scene.

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Lunch with a View: Authentic Greek Flavors in a Relaxed Setting

After soaking up the sun and saltwater, the tour pauses for a fixed-menu lunch with sea views. The menu features traditional dishes like Pita, Tzatziki, Fried Tomatoes, Fava, Feta with Honey, Greek Salad, Moussaka, and Souvlaki—each bite offering a taste of Greece.

The inclusion of local wine and water enhances the meal, making it a true culinary highlight. The experience isn’t just about eating—it’s about savoring your food while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Reviewers mention that the guide, Felipe, provided engaging info, making the meal even more enjoyable.

Final Leisure: Swims, Photos, and Relaxation

Post-lunch, there’s ample time to swim again, sunbathe, or take photos of the coast’s rugged beauty. Julianne’s review highlights how spectacular the beaches were and how much she appreciated the guide’s insights. The beach time is flexible enough for you to do your own thing—whether that’s floating in the water, snapping pictures, or simply relaxing on your sunbed.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While the beaches and scenery are stunning, keep in mind that the time at each location is limited—around 1.5 to 2 hours. If you’re someone who prefers to linger longer or explore more deeply, this might feel a bit rushed.

What you need to bring includes a hat, swimwear, sunscreen, camera, and water. The tour explicitly states that food and drinks are not allowed in the vehicle and that electric wheelchairs or alcoholic drinks are prohibited onboard—so plan your needs accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for photographers, beach lovers, and those seeking a straightforward, scenic day without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s also suited for travelers who want a taste of both natural beauty and authentic Greek cuisine, all in a comfortable, organized format. If you’re a non-swimmer, you might want to check the swimming options beforehand, as the tour is not suitable for non-swimmers, but there’s plenty of sightseeing and relaxing for everyone else.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $150, you’re getting a well-organized, scenic, and relaxing day along Santorini’s coast. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, relaxing beach time, and a tasty traditional meal offers solid value—especially compared to more expensive private tours or those with less focus on beaches.

If you’re looking for a quick yet memorable escape to see two of Santorini’s most iconic beaches with the added bonus of a scenic drive and a delicious meal, this tour ticks all the boxes. The positive review from Julianne, praising the guide Felipe, underscores how engaging and enjoyable the experience can be.

While it’s not the longest or most in-depth beach excursion, it’s a perfect choice for travelers who want a balanced, hassle-free day that combines natural beauty, local flavor, and some well-deserved relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
The fixed menu includes Greek dishes like pita, feta, and vegetarian options such as fried tomatoes and fava, so vegetarians should find plenty to enjoy.

How much time do we spend at each beach?
You can expect around 1.5 to 2 hours at each location, enough to swim, take photos, or relax, but not enough to explore extensively.

Are sunbeds and towels included?
Yes, sunbeds and towels are provided at Perissa Beach, ensuring a comfortable experience without additional cost.

Can non-swimmers join this tour?
Since swimming is part of the experience and the tour is not suitable for non-swimmers, this trip is best for those comfortable in the water.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring a hat, swimwear, sunscreen, camera, and water. Remember, food and drinks are not allowed in the vehicle, and electric wheelchairs or alcohol are prohibited.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it convenient if your plans change.

In summary, the Santorini: Red Beach, Black Sand Beach with Lunch and Sunbeds tour offers a beautiful, relaxed way to experience some of the island’s most iconic coastlines. It’s ideal for travelers who want an organized, scenic day with enough free time to soak in the views and enjoy local flavors, all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a beach enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a stress-free way to see Santorini’s natural beauty, this experience delivers genuine value.

You can check availability for your dates here: