Where to stay in Kamari, Santorini: The best areas and 21 accommodations

Kamari is one of Santorini's most popular resorts, built on the eastern side of the island on a long beach with black volcanic sand. Unlike Oia and Fira, life here is more relaxed and beach-oriented, with a pedestrian promenade lined with tavernas, bars, and shops right by the sea.

The village lies in the shadow of Mesa Vouno mountain, home to Ancient Thera, and is approximately 10 km from Fira and about 5 km from the airport, making it a convenient choice for those seeking easy access without losing proximity to the beach.

In this guide, you'll discover the areas around Kamari worth considering for your stay, how each differs in atmosphere and price, as well as specific accommodation suggestions for various budgets, from family hotels with pools to simpler studios near the beach.

What to see and do in Kamari

Kamari is one of Santorini's most popular seaside settlements, renowned for its impressive beach with black volcanic sand. It stretches for 5 kilometres beneath the imposing rock of Mesa Vouno, which separates it from Perissa. The coastal promenade is the hub of activity, bustling with tavernas, cafes, and shops that remain lively until late. The beach is exceptionally well-organised, with sun loungers and water sports facilities, making it an ideal destination for families and anyone seeking comfort by the waves.

Above the village, at the summit of the mountain, lies the archaeological site of Ancient Thera, founded in the 9th century BC. A visit offers the chance to see temple ruins, the ancient theatre, and the agora, while the panoramic views over the Aegean Sea are breathtaking. Access is either by road or via a hiking trail that starts from the end of the village. The ascent, though demanding, rewards visitors with the historical significance of the site and a connection with the volcanic landscape that characterises the entire island.

Kamari's gastronomy caters to all tastes, from traditional Greek flavours to international cuisine. At the seafood tavernas by the sea, you can enjoy fresh seafood, accompanied by the famous Santorini fava and local Assyrtiko wine. The area is home to notable wineries where you can learn about the unique cultivation of vines in a 'kouloura' shape to protect them from the winds. In the evening, the coastal road transforms into a vibrant scene with music and cocktails, offering a more relaxed nightlife compared to the intensity of the capital.

One of the most significant attractions is the open-air cinema (Cine Kamari), considered one of Europe's most beautiful. Set in a lush garden, you can watch films under the starry sky while enjoying a local drink. Additionally, Kamari hosts a Jazz Festival every summer, attracting artists and music enthusiasts. These events offer a different quality to your stay, combining traditional entertainment with cultural pursuits in an environment that remains authentic despite decades of tourist development.

The best period to visit is from May to October. Access is easy, as Kamari is 8 km from Fira and 5 km from the airport. There are regular bus services, while car hire facilitates exploring the traditional inland villages, such as Pyrgos. Daily boat trips depart from the beach to Perissa, giving you the chance to see the rock formations from the sea. For diving enthusiasts, there are centres that organise excursions to nearby reefs.

Finally, staying in Kamari offers a balanced experience. You have direct access to the sea and the lively pedestrian street, but also the ability to quickly reach the tranquility of the archaeological sites. The area is flat, which makes getting around much easier for everyone compared to the caldera. Whether you're looking for relaxation on the beach or historical tours, Kamari has the infrastructure and natural beauty to satisfy every traveller, maintaining a sense of hospitality that makes every visitor want to return soon.

Beyond activities, Kamari offers excellent accommodation options to suit every budget, from luxurious resorts to affordable rented rooms. The geological uniqueness of the black sand, resulting from centuries of volcanic activity, gives the area a distinct aesthetic that you won't find anywhere else in the world, making every moment on the beach a special experience.

The best areas to stay in Kamari

1. Kamari Beach, The heart of the resort, right by the sand

The area around Kamari's coastal promenade gathers most of the resort's hotels and restaurants, with direct access to the beach and all amenities. It's ideal for those who want everything within easy reach, from dining to nightlife, without needing a car for their daily needs. Accommodation prices vary depending on the distance from the beachfront, with sea-view properties naturally costing more.

Pros:

• Direct access to the beach
• Plenty of dining and entertainment options within walking distance
• Close to the airport

Cons:

• Can be noisy in the evening
• Densely built, less privacy

Recommended accommodations:

1. Blue Sea Hotel
A hotel right by the beach with a pool and comfortable rooms, a good choice for families.

• Average cost: approximately 130€ per night

2. Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort, Santorini
A large resort with multiple pools, spa, and full services, suitable for families and couples.

• Average cost: approximately 280€ per night

3. Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini
A luxurious resort with modern aesthetics, pool, and spa, featuring a distinct style and high level of service.

• Average cost: approximately 350€ per night

4. Afroditi Venus Beach Resort
A hotel with a pool and spa, close to the beach, with comfortable rooms for families and couples.

• Average cost: approximately 190€ per night

5. Kamari Beach Hotel
A simple, well-maintained hotel near the beach, offering good value for money.

• Average cost: approximately 120€ per night

6. Levante Beach Hotel
A hotel with a pool right on the coastal promenade, suitable for those who want to be in the centre of the action.

• Average cost: approximately 160€ per night

7. Smy Mediterranean White Santorini
A modern hotel with a pool and stylish design, close to the beach and shops.

• Average cost: approximately 200€ per night

8. Hotel Sunshine
An economical hotel with basic amenities, a good base for those looking to save without sacrificing location.

• Average cost: approximately 95€ per night

2. Central Kamari, A little further inland, with a quiet character

Central Kamari, a few hundred metres from the beach, offers a quieter environment while maintaining easy access to the coast with just a few minutes' walk. Here you'll find many small hotels and boutique accommodations offering good value for money, and prices are noticeably lower than beachfront properties. It's a good choice for those seeking a balance between tranquility and proximity to the beach.

Pros:

• Better value for money
• Quieter environment
• Close to the beach on foot

Cons:

• Requires a short walk to the coast
• Less sea view

Recommended accommodations:

9. Santorini Kastelli Resort
A resort with a pool and lush gardens, in a quiet location near the village centre.

• Average cost: approximately 150€ per night

10. Casa Vitae Suites
Small suites with modern decor, a good option for couples seeking peace and quiet.

• Average cost: approximately 170€ per night

11. La Bellezza Eco Boutique Hotel
A boutique hotel with an ecological philosophy, a small pool, and personalised service.

• Average cost: approximately 155€ per night

12. Selini Hotel
A family-run hotel with a pool, offering good value for money slightly inland from the beach.

• Average cost: approximately 115€ per night

13. Santorini Crystal Blue Boutique Hotel
A small boutique hotel with refined decor and a quiet courtyard.

• Average cost: approximately 140€ per night

14. Iris Boutique Hotel
A stylish hotel with a pool, suitable for couples seeking a tranquil stay.

• Average cost: approximately 135€ per night

3. North Kamari, towards Messaria, More secluded, with quiet family options

In the northern part of Kamari, towards Messaria, you'll find accommodations further from the main beach but offering a calmer environment and often lower prices. This area is suitable for those with a car who don't mind a short distance from the beach, in exchange for greater peace and quiet and often better views of the hinterland or the sea.

Pros:

• Lower prices
• Quiet environment
• Good access to Fira and the airport

Cons:

• Car needed for the beach
• Distance from Kamari's promenade

Recommended accommodations:

15. Aegean Gold
A small hotel with a pool and a quiet environment, a good base for those with a car.

• Average cost: approximately 125€ per night

16. Mountain and Sea Suites
Suites with mountain and sea views, a quiet location away from the beach hustle and bustle.

• Average cost: approximately 145€ per night

17. Anassa Deluxe Suites
Comfortable suites with a small pool, suitable for couples seeking tranquility.

• Average cost: approximately 160€ per night

18. Monolithia
Traditional houses with stone architecture, a quiet environment and authentic atmosphere.

• Average cost: approximately 130€ per night

4. South Kamari, towards Agia Paraskevi, Affordable options and studios

On the southern side of Kamari, towards Agia Paraskevi, you'll find simpler accommodations and studios at a lower cost, suitable for budget travellers or those who want basic lodging without many luxuries. The distance from the beach is short, usually 5 to 10 minutes on foot, and the area is quieter than the resort centre.

Pros:

• More economical prices
• Close to the beach
• Quiet neighbourhood

Cons:

• Simpler facilities
• Fewer services compared to large hotels

Recommended accommodations:

19. Alafouzos Studios & Apartments
Simple, clean studios with a kitchen, suitable for self-catering stays at a low price.

• Average cost: approximately 85€ per night

20. Join Us Low Cost Rooms
Affordable rooms, a basic option for travellers on a limited budget.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

21. Sunflower ApartHotel
Apartments with a kitchen and a small pool, a good choice for families seeking independence.

• Average cost: approximately 100€ per night

Practical tips before you book

• Bring flip-flops for the beach. The black volcanic sand gets very hot at midday in summer.
• Take advantage of its close proximity to the airport. If you arrive late at night or depart early in the morning, Kamari saves you a lot of travel time.
• Ascend to Ancient Thera early in the morning. The climb up Mesa Vouno mountain is more pleasant before the weather gets too hot.
• Stay slightly further inland from the beach if you want peace and quiet. A few hundred metres from the promenade significantly reduces evening noise.
• Combine Kamari with a visit to Perissa. The path over the rock or the road by car easily takes you to the opposite beach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kamari a good choice for families?

Yes, its organised beach with relatively calm waters, the pedestrian street with many dining options, and hotels with pools make it one of the island's best destinations for families.

How far is Kamari from the airport?

Approximately 5 km, about a 10-minute drive, which makes it one of the most convenient bases for those arriving or departing at unusual hours.

Do you need a car in Kamari?

If you stay near the beach, you don't need a car for your daily needs, but for excursions to Fira, Oia, or other villages, a car is very helpful.

Does Kamari beach have sun loungers and umbrellas?

Yes, it is fully organised for much of its length, with sun loungers, umbrellas, and water sports facilities.

What is the distance from Kamari to Fira?

Approximately 10 km, a drive of about 15 to 20 minutes by car or regular bus.

Is it worth visiting Ancient Thera from Kamari?

Yes, the archaeological site is located above the village and offers spectacular views of both sides of the island, with access either by car or on foot.

The conclusion

Kamari is a practical and balanced choice for accommodation in Santorini, ideal for those who want a beach, easy airport access, and lower prices compared to Oia or Fira. If you want to be in the thick of the action, accommodations right by the coastal promenade give you direct access to food, entertainment, and the sea. If you prefer a quieter environment, options slightly further inland in the village or towards Messaria offer better value without losing proximity to the beach. In any case, Kamari serves as a good base for exploring the rest of the island, thanks to its central location.

See also our guides on where to stay in Pefkos and where to stay in Portaria.