Santorini: Red Beach and Perissa With Lunch and Sunbeds

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini and want to experience the island’s varied shoreline without spending all day in transit, a 5-hour coastal tour might be just what you need. This guided adventure takes you from dramatic red cliffs to the black sands of Perissa Beach, blending natural beauty with a relaxed pace, perfect for travelers staying on the Caldera side. We’ve looked into this tour, and here’s what makes it stand out—and what you might want to consider.

Two aspects we particularly like are the balance of sightseeing and relaxation and the inclusion of a traditional Greek lunch with sea views. These touches turn a simple beach day into a well-rounded experience. One potential drawback is the limited time at each stop, which might not satisfy those wanting a deep dive into every beach. Still, for those short on time but craving a taste of Santorini’s diverse coast, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate scenic drives, comfortable transportation, and casual beachside environments.

Key Points

• Diverse coastline: Visit both the striking Red Beach and the expansive black sands of Perissa.
• Comfortable transportation: Air-conditioned vans with pick-up and drop-off from multiple locations.
• Inclusive experience: Sunbeds, towels, and a traditional Greek lunch are included.
• Flexible timing: Short stops with just enough time to enjoy each site.
• Ideal for Caldera guests: Designed for those staying on the caldera side who want a taste of the coast.
• Family-friendly: Not suitable for non-swimmers, but a great leisure outing for most travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Guide to the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Itinerary

The tour begins with a pick-up from seven different locations—Oia, Emporio, Akrotiri, Megalochori, Imerovigli, Kamari, and Thera. This flexibility makes it easier to fit into your itinerary, especially if you’re based on the caldera side. The vehicles are air-conditioned, ensuring comfort on the roughly 20-minute drive to your first stop.

Red Beach: A Visual Feast

Your first stop is Red Beach, famous for its dramatic crimson cliffs that plunge into the water, creating a landscape unlike any other in Santorini. With about 20 minutes here, you’ll have just enough time to admire the view, snap some photos, and appreciate the natural contrast of the red rock against the blue sky and sea.

The reviews highlight the appeal of this spot—Julianne, for example, mentions that the beaches were “spectacular” and praises the “beautiful views”. The proximity of Red Beach to the main roads makes it accessible, but the limited time means you’ll want your camera ready and your admiration quick.

Transition and Additional Stops

After leaving Red Beach, the tour continues with a short drive (about 15 minutes) to Perissa Beach. This stop is known for its long black sand shoreline, which provides a different sensory experience. The contrast with Red Beach’s crimson cliffs offers a visual lesson in Santorini’s volcanic origins.

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Relaxation at Perissa Beach

Here, you’ll have around two hours—more than enough time to swim, sunbathe, or simply unwind. Sunbeds and towels are included, making it easy to settle in comfortably. The beach’s wide, black sands are perfect for long walks or just soaking up the sun with a good book.

Guests report that the lunch served here is a highlight, offering authentic Greek fare: pita, tzatziki, fried tomatoes, fava, feta with honey, Greek salad, moussaka, and choices of chicken or pork souvlaki. Local wine and water round out the meal. Julianne’s review notes that she “enjoyed all the information” from the guide and found the beaches “spectacular”—a testament to how well the experience resonates with visitors.

The Return Journey

After lunch and some leisure time, the van takes you back to your starting point, with a brief stop along the way to stretch and take in the scenery. The total tour duration is around 5 hours, making it manageable for a half-day outing.

What Makes This Tour Valuable?

This experience is particularly strong in its combination of natural beauty and comfort. The inclusion of sunbeds and towels means you don’t need to bring your own, and the lunch offers a taste of Greek cuisine without fussing over where to eat. It’s a hassle-free way to see two of Santorini’s most iconic beaches without the hassle of renting a car or navigating public transport.

The small group/private feel ensures personalized attention, even if the exact group size isn’t specified. The flexible pick-up points are also a plus, allowing for seamless integration with your existing plans. The professional English-speaking driver and optional multilingual guides (at extra cost) add to the overall comfort and information value.

However, keep in mind that time at each location is limited—about 20 minutes at Red Beach and two hours at Perissa. If you’re looking to explore these beaches in greater depth or want to relax without feeling rushed, you might find this tour somewhat brief. Still, it strikes a good balance for travelers wanting a taste of Santorini’s coastline without dedicating a full day.

Is It Worth the Price?

In terms of value, this tour offers a lot: transportation, guided commentary, sunbeds, towels, and a full Greek lunch—all bundled at a competitive rate. It’s perfect for those short on time but eager to experience multiple beaches and enjoy some downtime. Given the positive reviews and the scenic highlights, many travelers find it to be a worthwhile investment, especially considering the convenience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re staying on the Caldera side and want a straightforward way to see both the red and black beaches while enjoying a relaxed meal, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate scenic drives, beach lounging, and authentic local food. It’s also suitable for families or couples who prefer a casual, guided experience with all essentials covered.

The Sum Up

This Santorini coastal tour offers a compact yet fulfilling way to see some of the island’s most striking beaches. You’ll appreciate the breathtaking views, the convenience of included sunbeds and lunch, and the professional guidance throughout. It’s a great choice for those who want a relaxing half-day with minimal fuss and maximum scenic reward, especially if you’re based on the caldera side and want to explore beyond the iconic towns.

If you’re after a simple, scenic escape with good comfort and authentic touches, this tour delivers. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to enjoy Santorini’s diverse coastlines without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, with specific start times depending on availability.

What beaches does the tour visit?
You’ll visit Red Beach for its dramatic red cliffs and the long black sands of Perissa Beach.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, air-conditioned vans pick you up and drop you off at seven different locations around Santorini.

What’s included in the price?
Parking, transportation, visits to the beaches, sunbeds, towels, and a traditional Greek lunch with local wine and water.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there’s time for swimming at Perissa Beach, with sunbeds and towels included for your convenience.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
It’s not suitable for non-swimmers, as swimming is part of the experience and safety measures may not accommodate those who can’t swim.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, and water. No outside food or drinks are allowed in the vehicle.

Are there any language options?
English is the primary language, but Spanish, Russian, French, and Romanian are available upon request with an additional cost.

How can I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

This tour offers a straightforward, scenic introduction to Santorini’s coast, creating a memorable, comfortable half-day experience for those eager to enjoy Greece’s natural beauty without overextending.

You can check availability for your dates here: