6Expecting Every Beach to Be Like the Caribbean

Santorini is a volcanic island, and while its beaches are beautiful in their own way, they’re not your typical white-sand tropical shores. 

Red Beach, Perissa, and Kamari offer black or red volcanic sand and pebbles—not fine powdery sand. Some travelers arrive expecting turquoise waters and palm trees, then leave disappointed. Bring water shoes, embrace the unique geology, and remember: what Santorini lacks in soft sand, it makes up for in epic backdrops and crystal-clear water.