The Unforgetable White Beach, Santorini

White Beach doesn’t try to compete with Santorini’s more famous spots—it doesn’t need to. With bright limestone cliffs, clear blue water, and just enough room for a few sunbathers and swimmers, it has its own quiet charisma. You won’t find sunbeds or cocktails here. What you’ll get instead is peace, simplicity, and the sense that you’ve stumbled onto a place not everyone bothers to reach.

It’s small, it’s raw, and it’s not the easiest to get to—but that’s exactly the point.

Where Exactly Is White Beach?

White Beach is located on the southern coast of Santorini, near the village of Akrotiri. It’s nestled just around the rocky bend from the better-known Red Beach, and surrounded by cliffs made of bright white limestone that give it its name. There’s no road access directly to the beach—only sea routes will get you there.

How to Get to White Beach

By Water Taxi from Red Beach

This is the quickest and most common way to visit White Beach. At Red Beach, small water taxis shuttle visitors to and from White Beach throughout the day. The ride takes around 10 minutes and operates regularly during high season.

Tip: Bring cash and check the return schedule—these boats don’t run late into the evening.

By Catamaran Tour

Another great way to access White Beach is by joining a day or sunset catamaran tour. These cruises often stop at Red Beach, White Beach, Mesa Pigadia, and the volcano’s hot springs, offering a swim-stop experience in each location. Lunch and drinks are often included, along with snorkeling gear.

What You’ll Find at White Beach

Don’t expect beach bars, loungers, or tourist shops. This is a raw and natural beach. The shore is narrow and made of coarse sand and white pebbles. The water is calm, shallow near the edge, and ideal for a refreshing swim or snorkeling around the rocky edges.

The limestone cliffs towering overhead are not only beautiful—they provide a bit of natural acoustics too, amplifying the splash of waves and the occasional seagull call.

Nearby Beaches Worth Visiting

Red Beach

Just around the corner, Red Beach is the most famous on the island. Its deep red volcanic cliffs create a surreal contrast with the blue sea. It gets busy, especially by midday, but the scenery is unforgettable.

Mesa Pigadia (Black Beach)

Right next to White Beach lies the quieter Mesa Pigadia, a black-pebble beach with fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere. There’s a small taverna here and a few sunbeds if you’re looking to stay longer and enjoy a meal by the water.

Perivolos and Perissa

If you want a more developed beach experience later in the day, these long stretches of black sand on the southeast coast offer full-service options—loungers, beach bars, watersports, and more.

When’s the Best Time to Visit?

Mornings and late afternoons are ideal. The beach gets direct sunlight most of the day, and with no natural shade or services, it can get hot quickly. Water taxis usually run from late morning until early evening, while catamaran cruises are timed to avoid the worst heat.

Tips for Visiting White Beach

• Wear proper footwear: The beach is pebbly, and water shoes make a big difference.
• Bring everything you need: Water, sunscreen, snacks, and a towel. There are no shops or services.
• Use a waterproof bag: Especially useful if arriving by water taxi, as you may need to step into shallow water.
• Plan a short visit: This isn’t a full-day beach, but it’s perfect for swimming, exploring, and relaxing.

Is It Worth the Effort?

Absolutely. White Beach is one of those places that feels like a reward for trying a little harder. It’s quiet, scenic, and unlike the more crowded parts of Santorini. Whether you reach it by boat taxi or catamaran, you’ll walk (or swim) away with a sense of discovery.

If you’re up for a short adventure—and don’t mind a few pebbles in your sandals—White Beach delivers beauty, calm, and a side of Santorini that many miss.