Perissa - Laid BackBeach Fun!!

Perissa is the perfect illustration of the fact that Santorini has much more to offer than just the amazing volcano views.

For example, there are many Santorini beaches worth exploring and Perissa beach is definitely one of the best ones.

Everything you expect from a great beach resort is here.

Highlights

Beach

Pretty much everything in this village is centered around beach activities... and there are a lot of them!

For many visitors to Perissa, a typical day starts with a big brunch followed by a day of dipping and sun-bathing.

Here you can try a number of different watersports, including diving.

If you're of the more laid-back type then rent a sunchair and relax knowing that the nearest refreshment bar is never far away.

Perissa beach has received the recognition of the Blue Flag, which certifies it as a particularly clean and safe beach, both in and out of the water.

Later in the afternoon, the crowds move into the beach bars, which gradually turn up the intensity until it ends up one of the grand beach parties for which Perissa is so well-known.

Santorini Water Park

If you like water fun, you can also try out the only Santorini water park, which is located here.

The water park has the expected water slides for children of all ages, but also a pool recreation area with pool bars and a restaurant.

Santorini water park is open from 10 am to midnight, but the water activities close at 7 pm.

Churches

The day after your Perissa beach party you may feel like going to church to confess your sins...!?

Luckily, you may do so in one of the nicest and largest of all Santorini churches.

The Church of Timiou Stavrou (Church of the Holy Cross), located in Perissa square, was originally built in 1840 but largely rebuilt after it was hit hard by the 1956 Santorini earthquake.

To visit a nice little church with a great view of the village go to Panagia Katefiani, which is located some 200 meters up the mountain of Mesa Vouno.

It served as a refuge for locals at times when they were threatened by invaders from the sea.

Museum of Minerals and Fossils

One of the latest contributions to the Santorini museums, the Museum of Minerals and Fossils is located at the main square, close to the Church of the Holy Cross.

This museum houses a fine exhibition of prehistoric minerals and fossils, not only from Santorini, but also from Greece and beyond.

The oldest item on exhibit dates back some 1.5 billion years, while some more recent ones only go as far back as 50,000 years.

In summer the museum is open daily between 10.00-14.00.

Access

Perissa is only about 2 km (1.2 mi) down the road from Emporio. It is serviced by local buses from Fira, which run on a frequent schedule, especially in summer.

There are bus stops at several locations along the beach and at Perissa square.

Accommodation

One of two Santorini camping grounds is located here. The Perissa camping area is right next to the beach and is thus perfect for beach lovers on a tight budget.

You will also find a wide range of hotels here for any taste and budget.