Spoiler alert: Santorini is everything the dreamy photos promised — whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, cliffside sunsets — but here’s something I wish I knew before going: it’s not a beach vacation.
I know, I know. That might be a little controversial, but hear me out.

🏝️ Why Santorini Isn't Really a Beach Destination

Before my trip, I imagined lazy afternoons with sandy toes, sun-kissed skin, and an iced drink by the shoreline. Instead, I found an island perched on volcanic cliffs — more suited for hiking and rooftop views than sandy stretches and beach umbrellas.

Don’t get me wrong — Santorini, or Thira (as it’s known in Greek), is breathtaking. It’s full of cascading bougainvillea, deep blue shutters, and infinity pools that seem to spill into the Aegean Sea. But the truth is, the beaches are not the main attraction here. Most are made of dark volcanic rock or pebbles, and the best swimming spots require a bit of a trek.

And maybe I’m spoiled. I grew up spending summers by the Mediterranean in Egypt — where the sand is soft, the water shallow and warm, and everything you need is a short bike ride away. So when I say don’t expect a traditional beach vacation in Santorini, it’s coming from a place of love (and sunburned experience).

🏘️ Where to Stay in Santorini for the Best Experience

We stayed in the center of the island, and if you're looking for walkability and panoramic views, I highly recommend it. Being centrally located meant we could wander up north to the iconic blue-domed churches in Oia, or meander down toward the lively restaurants and rooftop patios overlooking the sea.

One of the most unexpected and charming moments? Watching mountain goats trot along the cliffside while the gondolas quietly descended toward the old port. It’s a reminder that Santorini is layered — not just in geography, but in experience.

🌅 Best Time to Visit Santorini, Greece

If you’re planning a trip, the best time to visit Santorini is shoulder season — think late April to early June, or mid-September to October. Here’s why:

✅ Fewer crowds: The narrow alleys of Oia are far more magical when you're not shoulder-to-shoulder with tour groups.
✅ Better prices: Accommodation and flight prices dip outside of peak season.
✅ Still warm & sunny: The Aegean sun is generous — spring and fall still offer beautiful weather without the blazing summer heat.

Avoid July and August if you can — it’s peak tourist season, and the island gets packed. Not to mention, it can get hot, and Santorini’s winding streets aren’t the most forgiving under a noon sun.

💡 Final Tips for a Meaningful Trip

Pack good walking shoes — you’ll do a lot of uphill climbs and cliffside wandering.
Bring a swimsuit if you're staying somewhere with a pool (which you absolutely should).
Explore beyond Oia — Pyrgos, Fira, and Imerovigli have their own charm and quieter streets.
Don’t go just for the beach — go for the sunsets, the slow dinners, the wine tastings, and the once-in-a-lifetime views.
Not all resort pools are topless friendly - lol I learned this the hardway, but alas you’re only 23 once.

Santorini might not be the beach escape I expected — but it turned out to be something even better: a place where time slows, light glows, and the sea feels like it’s whispering secrets to the cliffs.

Want a printable packing list? Drop your email below, and I’ll send it straight to your inbox. ✈️