The world famous island of Santorini is the southern most island of the Cycladic group in the Aegean Sea located 63 miles north of Crete. Its surface area is 73 sq. km and its population, distributed among thirteen villages, just exceeds 13,000.
Santorini can be reached from most international airports via Athens. The flying time from Athens to Santorini is approximately 40 minutes. Numerous charter flights from different European Cities fly directly to the island during the summer period. Another way to reach the island is by a regular ferry boat service from the port of Piraeus, Thessaloniki or Crete and almost all the Cycladic islands. The boat trip takes approximately 7-9 hours depending on the ferry type and the ports of call. A daily high speed boat is available only during the summer period leaving from the port of Piraeus and from numerous other Cycladic islands and Crete.
The climate in Santorini is typical of the Mediterranean climate, generally extended periods of sunshine throughout most of the year, relatively warm dry summers and mild winters. Long periods of consecutive rainy days are not common in Santorini, even during the winter and the sky does not remain cloudy for more than a few days in a row, as it does in other regions of the world. During the warm and dry season the weather is usually stable, the sky is clear, the sun is bright and there is generally no rainfall.
Santorini's famous beaches are spread out mainly along the eastern and the south-eastern side of the island. Each beach has special characteristics, which make it unique and outstanding. The black shining pebbles, the unique land formations, the black, white and red sand, these all make for unforgettable scenery with the coastline having a wild and remote beauty. These beaches are frequented by locals, however recently they have been discovered by a few tourists, mainly by families and couples alike.
In the south-eastern part of the island one will find the beaches of Monolithos, Avis and Kamari which are organized beaches mainly preferred by families with small children. Numerous hotels, restaurants, tavernas and small shops are located along the beaches, especially in Kamari. Water sports are offered at the beach of Avis, which attracts younger people.
Diving centres on the island include the Mediterranean Dive Club in Perissa and the Volcano Diving School in Kamari.
The island of Santorini really does make for an experience you will never forget.