Perched on the east coast of Santorini, Kamari is a laid-back resort village that boasts the longest beach on the island. It was constructed by residents from nearby Episkopi Gonias in the 1950s after their village was destroyed by a magnitude 7.2 earthquake. Kamari takes its name from a small arch that formed part of an ancient sanctuary dedicated to Poseidon.

Kick back on the black sands of Kamari Beach, which is patrolled by lifeguards and has deck chairs and umbrellas for rent. You can venture below the water’s surface with the local scuba diving school or participate in a range of water sports before settling in for a movie at the open-air cinema.

A short drive south of Kamari is the archaeological site of Ancient Thera, which occupies a rocky mountain top. After exploring its centuries-old temples, Roman baths and amphitheatre, continue along the trail that leads down to the pebbly shores of Perissa Beach.

Getting there

Kamari is around 15 minutes’ drive from Thera and 20 minutes from the Athinios Ferry Port. Santorini International Airport is 10 minutes away and has flights to destinations across Europe. Buses connect Kamari to towns and villages across Santorini.