8 Best Beach Resorts in Santorini for a Stylish Stay by the Sea

Known for its whitewashed cliffside views, Santorini is often imagined from above the sea. But along its eastern edge lies another side of the island — one shaped by black volcanic sands, sun-soaked promenades, and boutique resorts that open directly onto the Aegean. Whether you’re drawn by the sunrise over Kamari Beach or the tranquil coves near Akrotiri, the best beach resorts in Santorini reveal a softer rhythm of island life — one that’s still sophisticated, but built for sea breezes and sand underfoot.

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How We Ranked the Best Beach Resorts in Santorini

While most travelers know Santorini for its caldera cliffs, this list focuses on its beach-facing resorts — properties that deliver both the island’s signature design and the ease of coastal living.

• Beach Access & Setting: Resorts with true beachfront locations—particularly those on Kamari, Perivolos, or Caldera Beach—earned top marks for offering direct access to the island’s stunning shores.

• Design & Island Character: We favored properties that reflect Cycladic architecture, contemporary elegance, or thoughtful design that speaks to Santorini’s unique sense of place.

• Service & Guest Experience: Personalized attention, warm hospitality, and consistent service quality stood out as key factors across guest reviews and expert assessments.

• Guest Ratings & Reputation: We drew insights from verified reviews on trusted platforms such as Expedia, Booking.com, and Tripadvisor to ensure a well-rounded perspective.

• Value & Atmosphere: Whether boutique or luxury, we prioritized resorts offering a relaxing, high-quality experience that feels both authentic and worth the investment.

#8 Veraclub Imperial — Perissa

Starting our list of the best beach resorts in Santorini, Veraclub Imperial brings relaxed Italian-influenced hospitality to the island’s black-sand southern coast. It’s bright, easygoing, and perfectly placed for guests who want sunbeds, sea, and simplicity all in one.

Why We Chose It

We liked its unpretentious style — clean, friendly, and close to everything you come for in Perissa: the beach, beach clubs, and sea views that stretch for miles. It’s an excellent base for a carefree beach holiday.

What Guests Say

Guests praise the beach proximity, helpful staff, and laid-back atmosphere that feels instantly welcoming.

Best For

Travelers seeking a straightforward, good-value resort by the sand.

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#7 RK Beach Boutique Hotel — Kamari

At number seven among the best beach resorts in Santorini, RK Beach Boutique Hotel offers comfort and convenience right in the heart of Kamari’s promenade. Guests can step straight from the pool deck onto the beach, surrounded by cafés, bars, and the easy buzz of seaside life.

Why We Chose It

We liked how RK Beach captures the spirit of Kamari — relaxed but lively. The décor is simple, the service genuine, and the setting unbeatable for anyone who loves a morning swim followed by a beachside breakfast.

What Guests Say

Reviewers appreciate the prime location, friendly staff, and accessibility to restaurants and shops.

Best For

Travelers who want everything — beach, dining, and nightlife — right at their doorstep.

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#6 Amaria Beach Resort — Kamari

Coming in sixth on our list of the best beach resorts in Santorini, Amaria Beach Resort combines modern design with genuine family warmth. Its clean, contemporary aesthetic and black-sand backdrop give it a unique Santorini-chic look without the heavy price tag.

Why We Chose It

We liked the sense of community — the team here feels more like hosts than hotel staff. The poolside bar, sunrise views, and proximity to Kamari Beach create the perfect blend of relaxation and convenience.

What Guests Say

Guests highlight the friendly service, great food, and short walk to the beach — many call it “comfortable and effortless.”

Best For

Families or couples who appreciate modern comfort close to the water.

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#5 The Boathouse Hotel — Kamari

Taking the fifth spot among the best beach resorts in Santorini, The Boathouse Hotel is one of Kamari’s most beloved family-run stays. It offers bright, spacious rooms, a relaxed beachfront pool area, and a genuine warmth that only small island properties deliver.

Why We Chose It

We liked its honesty — no pretension, just easy charm. Breakfasts are freshly made, rooms are airy and spotless, and the beach is quite literally steps away. The Boathouse feels personal, like visiting friends who happen to own a prime spot on the sea.

What Guests Say

Guests rave about the staff’s kindness, the beachfront pool, and the calm atmosphere that invites longer stays.

Best For

Couples and return travelers who love familiar, family-style hospitality by the beach.

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#4 Kokkinos Villas — Akrotiri

The fourth spot among the best beach resorts in Santorini goes to Kokkinos Villas, a peaceful hideaway overlooking Caldera Beach near Akrotiri. Its hillside position offers stunning views toward the volcanic cliffs, while still providing easy access to the quiet shore below.

Why We Chose It

We liked the contrast — affordable yet scenic, quiet but connected. It’s perfect for guests who want a sense of the caldera’s drama without the crowds of Oia. The nearby beaches and tavernas make it feel authentically local.

What Guests Say

Guests love the views, friendly hosts, and peaceful location away from Santorini’s busier towns.

Best For

Travelers looking for calm surroundings, great views, and good value.

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#3 La Mer Deluxe Hotel & Spa — Kamari

Claiming the third spot on our list of the best beach resorts in Santorini, La Mer Deluxe Hotel & Spa delivers refined comfort within a short walk of Kamari Beach. Its elegant interiors, relaxing spa, and peaceful courtyard pool create a sense of quiet sophistication away from the promenade’s bustle.

Why We Chose It

We liked the mix of style and service — polished but never stiff. The spa facilities are among the best on this side of the island, and the staff’s professionalism gives the experience a true boutique feel.

What Guests Say

Guests highlight the calm atmosphere, excellent breakfast, and proximity to both the beach and Kamari’s shops.

Best For

Couples wanting a boutique stay near the beach with a strong spa program.

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#2 Sandblu Resort Santorini — Kamari

Runner-up among the best beach resorts in Santorini, Sandblu Resort redefines contemporary island luxury. Its architecture is a masterclass in Santorini-chic — clean white lines, natural textures, and panoramic views over Kamari Beach. The infinity pool and spa are standout features, drawing both couples and design lovers.

Why We Chose It

We liked how effortlessly it merges sophistication with comfort. Sandblu feels both glamorous and grounded, with service that anticipates what guests need without ever overdoing it.

What Guests Say

Guests praise the design, the pool, and the calm energy that makes every day feel like a retreat.

Best For

Couples, honeymooners, and anyone drawn to modern luxury by the sea.

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#1 Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini — Agia Paraskevi

Topping our list of the best beach resorts in Santorini, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa brings its world-famous lifestyle brand to the island’s southeast coast. With direct access to Agia Paraskevi Beach, it blends sleek white architecture with the energy of its signature beach club, world-class spa, and contemporary suites overlooking the Aegean.

Why We Chose It

We liked the sense of completeness — it’s the rare Santorini resort that feels both social and serene. Guests can spend the morning at the spa, the afternoon at the pool, and still retreat to a peaceful suite by sunset. Service, cuisine, and design all feel global yet distinctly Greek.

What Guests Say

Guests highlight the upbeat atmosphere, chic rooms, and balance between relaxation and entertainment.

Best For

Style-conscious travelers and couples who love vibrant, upscale beachfront energy.

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Final Thoughts

For an island known for its cliffs, the best beach resorts in Santorini reveal a different kind of beauty — grounded, warm, and touched by the sea. From the signature glamour of Nikki Beach to the design-driven calm of Sandblu Resort and the boutique comfort of La Mer Deluxe, each property brings a unique layer to the island’s softer, coastal side.

Whether you come for the sunrise over Kamari or the quiet solitude of Akrotiri, these resorts remind you that Santorini isn’t only about views from above — it’s also about life at the water’s edge.