Red Beach
Red Beach is one of the narrated stops on the self-guided Santorini audio walking tour in Gingerguide. Plan about ~60 min here. Press play at the spot for its two to three minute story, or ask the AI guide anything about it.
- Type nature
- Suggested visit ~60 min
- Santorini Santorini guide
About Red Beach
A dramatic cove of rust-red volcanic cliffs and dark sand near Akrotiri, spectacular but landslide-prone and partly restricted since 2013, now often admired from a boat offshore.
Red Beach lies on the southern coast of Santorini, reached from the village and archaeological site of Akrotiri, and is among the island's most photographed beaches. Its sand and pebbles are pulverised black and red volcanic rock, while the cliffs above take their deep red colour from oxidised iron in the iron-rich volcanic scoria and tuff. The beach sits within a small cove enclosed by these steep, rust-coloured walls.
The site is prone to landslides. Since 2013 parts of the beach have been closed with danger and no-entry signs after repeated rockfalls, and a February 2025 earthquake swarm triggered a fresh collapse. Engineering-geology researchers have concluded that the cliff erosion is beyond feasible engineering solutions and that the landslides are sudden and unpredictable, advising that visitors be kept away. Many now view the cliffs from small boats out of Akrotiri harbour.
Did you know? The cliffs are made of iron-rich volcanic scoria and tuff. Over time that iron has oxidised, literally rusted, which is why the rock glows the deep red that gives the beach its name.
How long should you spend at Red Beach?
Plan about ~60 min at Red Beach. That is enough to take it in and hear its narrated story; stay longer if it grabs you. The tour is self-guided, so there is no rush.
Is Red Beach worth visiting?
Red Beach is one of the 12 sights the Gingerguide team researched and narrated in Santorini, so it earns a place on a self-guided walk. Its story explains why it matters, and you can ask the AI guide anything the story leaves open.
Nearby stops in Santorini
Sources and further reading
Where to check the facts about Red Beach and read more:
Day 1 of the Santorini in 2 days itinerary →
Updated:
Hear the story of Red Beach
Preview the Santorini tour free in the Gingerguide app.