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

Getting a glimpse of Santorini’s coastline is a must for anyone visiting this iconic Greek island. This particular tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavor, all packed into four hours. It’s especially suited for travelers staying on the Caldera side, looking for an easy yet immersive way to experience some of the island’s most photogenic beaches without the hassle of planning every detail.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to stand on Red Beach, with its dramatic crimson cliffs and striking waters. Second, the relaxed time at Perissa Beach, famous for its black sands and clear waters. Third, the inclusion of lunch with sea views, making it a truly indulgent yet affordable experience.

One possible consideration: at just four hours, it’s a quick trip—so if you’re seeking a more in-depth beach day or additional activities, you might want to explore longer options.

This tour is best for beach lovers, first-time visitors wanting a scenic overview, and those short on time but eager to soak up the island’s unique coastal vibe.

Good To Know

• Convenient pickup and drop-off from seven different locations around Santorini.
• Visit two iconic beaches—Red Beach and Perissa—with ample time to relax.
• Enjoy a scenic coastal drive perfect for Caldera-side guests.
• Lunch includes local dishes and wine, served with a view.
• Sunbeds, towels, and swimming time at Perissa Beach are included for maximum comfort.
• A driver-guide provides insight and a smooth, air-conditioned ride.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation

Starting your adventure, you’ll be picked up from one of seven locations, including Thera, Imerovigli, or Oia, which makes planning easy no matter where you stay. The transfer in a comfortable, air-conditioned van takes around 20 minutes to reach your first destination. This quick, hassle-free start means you’re on your way to discovering Santorini’s coast without the worry of navigating yourself.

Red Beach: A Photo-Op Like No Other

The first stop is Red Beach, famous for its crimson cliffs and striking backdrop. The beauty of Red Beach isn’t just in the color of the cliffs but the way they sharply contrast with the blue waters—making it a perfect spot for photos. The 20-minute visit provides just enough time to marvel at the scenery, snap some pictures, and soak in the unique landscape.

One reviewer, Julianne from the United States, mentioned that the beaches were spectacular and highly recommended their trip, praising the guide Felipe for his engaging storytelling. She appreciated how well-informed and friendly he was, making the short stop enjoyable and educational.

Perissa Beach: Relaxation and Refreshment

After Red Beach, it’s a quick 15-minute drive to Perissa Beach, renowned for its black volcanic sands. Here, you’ll have approximately two hours to swim, lie on sunbeds, or take a leisurely walk along the shoreline. The inclusion of sunbeds and towels makes relaxing effortless.

Guests have described Perissa as a perfect spot for unwinding, with one reviewer highlighting how spectacular the beaches are and the opportunity to enjoy the crystal-clear waters. The vibe here is laid-back, with the black sands providing a stark contrast to the more popular white-sand beaches in other Mediterranean destinations.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch with a View: Tasting Greek Flavors

The tour includes a lunch break at a seaside location, where you’ll enjoy a fixed menu of Greek specialties. Think pita with tzatziki, fried tomatoes, fava, feta with honey, Greek salad, and Moussaka—plus options of chicken or pork souvlaki. A glass of local wine and water complete the meal, served with a view of the sea.

This is a great value considering the quality of the food and the scenic setting. It’s a good chance to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and indulge in authentic Greek flavors without worrying about extra costs or decisions.

Scenic Return and Drop-offs

After lunch, the journey back in the van takes around 20 minutes. The tour concludes at your original pickup point or one of the designated drop-off locations, including Oia, Akrotiri, or Kamari. The flexibility to choose your drop-off adds convenience, especially if you plan to explore more of the island afterward.

What Does the Tour Offer Beyond the Basics?

The Benefits of a Guided Coastal Tour

Having a professional driver-guide, like Felipe—who was praised for his excellent information and friendly manner—adds a lot of value. They provide context about the beaches, volcanic landscape, and local culture, enriching your understanding of Santorini. The small-group vibe ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd, making it easier to ask questions or take photos without feeling rushed.

The Timing and Pace

The 4-hour duration is perfect for travelers on a tight schedule or those who prefer a relaxed overview without committing to an entire day. The timing is flexible enough to include the best highlights while leaving the rest of your day free for exploring other parts of the island.

Cost-Effectiveness and Value

At $151 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. You get transportation, guidance, beach access, sunbeds, towels, and a full Greek lunch—all with the convenience of a pre-planned itinerary. If you’re looking to tick off two iconic beaches without the hassle of booking separate transport or worrying about where to sit, this package is quite practical.

Consideration for Non-Swimmers

The tour isn’t suitable for non-swimmers, as the focus is on beach activities and swimming. If you’re uncomfortable in the water, you might want to consider other options or plan additional land-based experiences.

Why This Tour Could Be Just Right for You

This tour appeals to travelers wanting a snapshot of Santorini’s coast, combined with comfort and local flavor. It’s ideal if you’re based on the Caldera side and prefer a guided, hassle-free experience. The inclusion of lunch, sunbeds, and scenic stops makes it good value, especially for those who love beaches and want some memorable photos.

If you’re short on time but want a meaningful taste of Santorini’s diversity—this quick trip hits the right notes. Perfect for first-timers, beach enthusiasts, or those wanting an easy, relaxing way to see some of the island’s most celebrated natural sights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, you will be transported in an air-conditioned van with a professional English-speaking driver.

How long do I spend at each beach?
You’ll have about 20 minutes at Red Beach and around two hours at Perissa Beach for swimming, sunbathing, or relaxing.

Are sunbeds and towels included?
Yes, sunbeds and towels are provided at Perissa Beach.

What does the lunch consist of?
A fixed menu with Greek dishes such as pita with tzatziki, fried tomatoes, feta with honey, Greek salad, Moussaka, and Souvlaki, plus local wine and water.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, since swimming and beach activities are part of the experience, it’s not suitable for non-swimmers.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, and water for personal comfort.

Are there any additional costs?
Only personal expenses or anything outside the fixed menu are extra.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
Check availability for start times, but the schedule is designed to maximize daylight and beach time.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those looking for a short, scenic beach trip.

Final Thoughts

This Santorini beach tour offers an excellent way to experience the island’s distinct coastal scenery without the fuss of planning every detail yourself. The combination of Red Beach’s dramatic cliffs, Perissa’s black sands, and a delicious Greek lunch makes it a well-rounded, value-packed outing. The small-group setting and professional guidance ensure you get personalized attention, and the included amenities make relaxing straightforward.

It’s perfect for travelers short on time who want a quick yet memorable snapshot of Santorini’s unique beaches. While it’s not a full-day adventure or a diving excursion, it hits that sweet spot of scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and comfort—ideal for first-timers, beach lovers, or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to the island’s stunning coast.

Whether you’re seeking Instagram-worthy photos, a chance to unwind in beautiful surroundings, or a simple way to tick off Santorini’s iconic beaches, this tour checks all those boxes—at a price that’s surprisingly reasonable for all that’s included.

You can check if your dates are available here: