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

If you’re eyeing a day of sun, sea, and striking scenery on Santorini, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that captures some of the island’s most iconic coastline spots. The trip is designed for travelers staying on the Caldera side who want to explore beyond the famous towns and marvel at the island’s natural beauty.

What caught our attention? First, the chance to see the dramatic red cliffs of Red Beach—a true photographer’s dream. Second, the opportunity to relax on the vast black sands of Perissa Beach, complete with sunbeds and towels included. And third, the conveniently included lunch with a sea view—a delicious way to fuel your day. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is quite focused on beaches, so if you’re looking for a cultural or historical deep dive, this might not be your perfect fit.

This tour is a fantastic option for those who love natural scenery, beach time, and a relaxed day out. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a guided experience with comfortable transport, and who like to combine sightseeing with some leisure.

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Key Points

Beautiful scenery: Red Beach’s crimson cliffs and black sands make for unforgettable views.
Comfortable transportation: Air-conditioned vans ensure a cool ride between stops.
All-inclusive beach time: Sunbeds, towels, and swim time at Perissa Beach are included.
Tasty local lunch: A fixed menu with Greek specialties and local wine offers a satisfying meal.
Ideal for Caldera-side guests: The trip suits those wanting a scenic, relaxing day close to their accommodation.
Limited cultural focus: The tour emphasizes beaches over archaeological or town visits.

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Discovering Santorini’s Coastal Highlights

The main draw of this tour is its ability to showcase Santorini’s unique coastline. It’s a different perspective from the usual sunset or town tours, letting you see the island’s natural diversity up close. If you’re already staying on the Caldera side, this makes for a convenient and low-hassle day trip.

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Red Beach: A Stunning Natural Marvel

Your adventure begins at Red Beach, famous for its crimson cliffs that plunge into shimmering blue waters. Here, you’ll find yourself taking countless photos of the dramatic landscape—a mix of red volcanic rock and vivid sea. The guide will likely share insights about what makes this beach so special, and you’ll understand why it’s a favorite among photographers and nature lovers alike.

One reviewer, Julianne, mentioned, “Our guide Felipe was wonderful! We enjoyed all the information he imparted. The beaches were spectacular. Highly recommended!” This suggests that guides enhance the experience with engaging commentary, making visits like Red Beach even more memorable.

Perivolos (Perissa) Beach: Relaxation on Black Sand

Next stop is Perivolos Beach, renowned for its black volcanic sands. The expanse of this beach allows plenty of space to stretch out, swim, or simply enjoy the sun. Sunbeds and towels are provided, so you won’t need to worry about bringing your own gear—just your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a good book.

The tone from reviews indicates that the beach’s vastness and beauty stand out. We loved the way the tour includes ample free time for swimming and lounging, creating a relaxed atmosphere that feels just right after a morning of sightseeing.

Lunch with a View: Greek Flavors and Local Wines

A highlight of the experience is the included lunch, served on a terrace with views of the sea. The fixed menu features classic Greek dishes like pita with tzatziki, fried tomatoes, fava, feta with honey, Greek salad, moussaka, and either chicken or pork souvlaki. A glass of local wine and water round out the meal.

Guests like Julianne appreciated the quality of the guide and the experience, mentioning how the information shared made the day more engaging. The fixed menu offers good value, especially considering the scenic setting, but keep in mind that any extras outside the menu come at an additional cost.

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Transportation and Group Size

You’ll be traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle with a professional English-speaking driver—perfect for staying comfortable on the drive between beaches. The group size is likely manageable, allowing for a personalized feel, though the specific number isn’t provided. The timing seems well-paced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy swimming, photos, or simply soaking in the views before moving on.

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What to Expect During the Day

The tour typically starts in the late morning, giving you the flexibility to align it with your plans. After pickup, the driver will take you to Red Beach, where you’ll have time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. Expect around 30-45 minutes here, which is enough to capture the beauty without feeling rushed.

From there, the journey continues along the coast to Perissa or Perivolos Beach. The stop here allows for swimming, sunbathing, or relaxing on your sunbed, with towels provided, ensuring comfort and convenience. You’ll probably have about a couple of hours to unwind—ample time for a dip, a walk along the shoreline, or just enjoying the seaside atmosphere.

The included lunch is served mid-day, giving you a break to savor Greek flavors while taking in the sea view. Afterwards, you’ll have more free time to soak up the sun or stroll along the black sands.

Authenticity and Practicalities

The tour is priced at $150 per person, which offers decent value considering the transport, guided commentary, beach amenities, and lunch. It’s an easy way to tick off two iconic beaches without the hassle of arranging transport or meals independently.

Since the tour is not suitable for non-swimmers, it’s best suited for confident bathers who are happy in the water. Also, travelers should bring essentials like a hat, sunscreen, camera, and water to stay comfortable.

The Experience from Guest Feedback

Julianne’s review highlights the quality of the guide, Felipe, who provided insightful commentary that added to the enjoyment of the day. She also called the beaches “spectacular,” confirming that the natural sights live up to expectations. Her positive remarks suggest that the tour’s organization and the personal touch of the guide make it a worthwhile choice.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Santorini beach tour is a fantastic way to explore the island’s natural coastal beauty. It balances scenic stops, leisure time, and a tasty meal—ideal for travelers wanting a relaxing day with some sightseeing. The inclusion of sunbeds and towels, plus the comfort of air-conditioned transport, ensures a smooth experience.

If you’re someone who loves photography, nature, and beach relaxation without the hassle of planning logistics, this tour fits the bill. It’s also perfect for those staying within the Caldera area, as the pick-up and drop-off are convenient.

However, if your travel style leans more towards cultural sights or historical sites, or if you’re not comfortable swimming, you might find this tour less aligned with your interests. Similarly, if you’re craving a more active or diverse itinerary, consider other options.

The $150 price point reflects good value for a day filled with stunning scenery, leisure, and authentic Greek flavors. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a straightforward, enjoyable day exploring Santorini’s most visually striking beaches.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, it’s designed for those comfortable swimming, as some time at the beaches involves swimming or wading in the water.

How long is the tour?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, you can expect a full-day experience with stops at Red Beach, Perissa Beach, and a lunch break, likely around 6-8 hours in total.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, sunscreen, a camera, and water. Towels and sunbeds are provided, but personal items like sunglasses or snacks can be helpful.

Are there any additional costs?
The fixed menu lunch is included, but anything outside the menu or personal expenses are at your own cost.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Yes, the tour provides ample time for swimming, photos, and relaxation, ensuring you get enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

Is this tour good for families?
Yes, especially for families with confident swimmers who enjoy beach days. Keep in mind, non-swimmers or very young children might need extra consideration.

To sum it up, this Santorini beach tour offers a relaxed yet scenic day that showcases the island’s volcanic beauty and iconic beaches. With comfortable transport, included sunbeds, and a traditional Greek lunch with sea views, it’s a solid choice for travelers looking to combine leisure with stunning natural sights. Perfect for those staying nearby and wanting a hassle-free way to enjoy Santorini’s coastline, it balances value and authentic experience in a beautifully crafted day out.