Paralia Perissa (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Paralia Perissa?
What makes it 77% Kids-Friendly: Lifeguards, shallow water, a small water park, playground, and casual eateries suit kids, but hot volcanic sand and louder nightlife after dusk mean parents must plan shade, footwear, and early exit.
Positives:
- Safe swimming: The gentle seabed slope and lifeguards ensure safe wading for young kids.
- Nearby amenities: Hotels, tavernas and beach bars lie within 100 m for shade and snacks.
- Varied water play: Kids can alternate between sea swims, slides and shallow pools.
Challenges:
- Hot black sand: Sand heats quickly by midday; bring water shoes to protect little feet.
- Peak-season crowds: July–August sees a busy beach; quieter spots fill up before 10 am.
- Limited natural shade: Few trees exist; plan to rent umbrellas or bring pop-up sunshades.
What is Paralia Perissa?
- A volcanic black-sand beach stretching over 3.7 kilometers along Santorini’s southeastern coast
- A coastal village of whitewashed Cycladic houses nestled at the base of the Mesa Vouno volcanic ridge
- A shoreline defined by basalt pebbles and framed by a palm-lined promenade with low-rise tavernas
What is so special about Paralia Perissa for with kids?
- Black-sand beach with a gentle slope ideal for safe wading.
- On-site mini water park with slides and pools for all ages.
- Complimentary playground next to the beach for swings and climbing.
- Interactive Minerals & Fossils Museum offers an indoor break.
- Scenic 20-minute family walk to the cliffside Panagia Katefiani chapel.
Recommended visit duration: 2-4 hours
Why 2-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A beach visit this length gives time to swim, build sandcastles and enjoy the water park without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Paralia Perissa
Family Water Park:
Mini water park with three slides and two pools just steps from the shore.
Tip: Arrive early to secure lockers and avoid long slide lines.
Kid's Playground:
Shaded play area with swings and climbing frames next to the beach.
Tip: Supervise toddlers closely; bring wipes for sandy hands.
Shallow Swimming & Sand Play:
Gently shelving seabed makes wading safe and perfect for sandcastles.
Tip: Pack buckets, spades and water shoes to keep little feet comfortable.
Museum of Minerals & Fossils:
Interactive indoor exhibits showcasing ancient stromatolites and minerals.
Tip: Check opening hours; kids under 7 often enter free.
Walk to Panagia Katefiani:
Easy 20-minute hike to a cliffside chapel with sea views.
Tip: Bring water, hats and plan for late afternoon to avoid midday heat.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Paralia Perissa
- Waived umbrella fees: Some bars remove umbrella charges with a €20–25 minimum order—reserve early.
- Bring your own toys: Buck¬ets, spades and floaties add fun and cut rental costs.
- Museum midday break: Cool off indoors at the fossil museum between beach sessions.
- Swim off-peak: Swim before 11 am or after 4 pm for cooler water and fewer people.
Reviews of Paralia Perissa
Mahesh Saini
Summary - Starts from the edge of mutations and then you can keep on walking for kilometers - Relaxing and taking a beer - Bus stop is starting as well as the end of the beach
Alec Tseng
Paralia Perissa is one of Santorini’s famous black sand beaches. The volcanic sand is striking and unique, though it can get quite hot under the sun. To the north, a massive rocky mountain separates Perissa from the nearby village of Kamari. We visited during the off-season, and it was calm and quiet—perfect for a peaceful seaside walk. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area!
MillionMile Travel
Fine beach if you really want to go to the beach on Santorini, but otherwise not really worth going from a tourism perspective, unless you have never seen a black-sand beach. Lots of day-beds, shops, and restaurants. Also lots of areas where you can setup your own space for the day. There is free public parking about two blocks away from the beach.
Shailesh Singh
Such a beautiful and peaceful beach — perfect if you’re looking to avoid the crowds. The deckchairs are super affordable, and some nearby restaurants even offer them for free if you dine there, which is a nice bonus. Or you can just lay out your towel and enjoy it without spending a thing. Overall, a great spot to relax and unwind.
Prashant Varma
Sand is hot, which in April is a blessing since water was quite cold. Picturesque. Awesome bars next to the beach.
When is the best time to visit Paralia Perissa (Santorini, Greece)?
Lifeguards patrol daily from June to early September. Peak season (July–Aug) brings full water park hours and DJs; arrive before 10am for quieter spots. Shoulder seasons (May–June, Sept) offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Two sets of sunbeds & umbrellas | EUR 40 |
| Family Water Park entry (2 adults, 2 kids) | EUR 24 |
| Museum of Minerals & Fossils | EUR 15 |
| Beach snacks & drinks | EUR 30 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 109 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: Paralia Perissa, Greece
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