The Ultimate Guide to a Girl’s Trip to Santorini
Sun, Sea, and Santorini
There's something undeniably enchanting about Santorini, with its cliffside villages painted in whites and blues, spectacular sunsets that light up the Aegean Sea, and the warm Greek hospitality that welcomes every visitor. This September, my friends and I embarked on a five-night trip to this island paradise, and it was everything we dreamed of and more. From the laid-back charm of Levante Beach Hotel to the luxurious loungers of the Prince Beach Club, each day was a discovery. Here's the lowdown on where we stayed, the places we loved, the food we savoured, and the spots that made our girls' trip an unforgettable journey.
Levante Beach Hotel: A Traditional Greek Haven
Nestled in the lively resort of Kamari, Levante Beach Hotel epitomises the traditional Greek aesthetic with its pristine white architecture complemented by blue shutters, all framed by the soft hues of pink flowers. The hotel's pool was a refreshing oasis, but it was the beach that truly captured our hearts. With the hotel offering its loungers on the beach for a minimum spend of €10 on food or drinks, we found ourselves basking in the sun with ease and affordability. The menu, a delightful mix of Greek and American options, catered to our cravings without burning a hole in our wallets.
Prince Beach Club and Restaurant: Luxurious Lounging
As we sought out new experiences later in the trip, the Prince Beach Club and Restaurant beckoned us with its promise of comfier loungers and a slightly higher spend of €15. This splurge was well worth it—the food was fresh and delicious, and the loungers were the epitome of comfort. This spot quickly became a favourite, blending luxury with the laid-back vibe of Santorini's beach scene.
Kamari: The Heartbeat of Santorini
Kamari, a bustling hub on the southeast of the island, was our chosen playground. Packed with bars, restaurants, tourist shops, boutiques, and beach clubs, it offered everything we could have wished for. The vibrant nightlife and the plethora of dining options on the bustling promenade made every evening an adventure for us to look forward to.
Views and Beyond in Oia
No trip to Santorini is complete without witnessing the famed sunset in Oia. Though our taxi ride from Kamari, arranged by the hotel, took us there in about half an hour, the experience was bittersweet. The views were undeniably stunning, don’t get me wrong - Oia was beautiful - but the crowds and the steep prices at the bars and restaurants left us longing for the simplicity and charm of Kamari. Despite Oia's beauty, it was Thira that truly stole our hearts.
Thira: A Spectacle of Sunsets and Hospitality
Our dinner at Marinera in Thira was a highlight of the trip. Their top-floor terrace offered breathtaking views of the sunset, a spectacle that lasted hours, transforming into a mesmerising display of lights as the night fell over Thira, the island's capital. The food was delicious, the drinks were great, and the warmth of the staff made us feel right at home. I couldn’t recommend this place more, the views made it worth every penny.
Wet Stories in Perivolos: Aesthetic but Pricey
Our visit to the Wet Stories beach bar in Perivolos was a testament to Santorini's diverse offerings. The decor was newly done, with a relaxed chilled-out vibe created by lots of natural textures and materials. There was a lovely little boutique in the back selling jewellery, bags, and beach wear, as great as the products on offer were - the price points were fairly high. I can imagine on a busier day the DJ and the setting would create a much better atmosphere than when we attended. While aesthetically pleasing and set against the stunning backdrop of a black sand beach, the prices and service left much to be desired for those not willing to splurge.
Final Thoughts: Why Kamari Wins
Reflecting on our incredible journey, Kamari stands out as the true gem of Santorini for a girl’s trip. Its combination of affordability, beauty, and vibrancy makes it a place we'd return to in a heartbeat. With plenty of hotels to choose from, and temperatures ranging from 26-30 degrees Celsius accompanied by a gentle breeze, Kamari is the ideal choice
Santorini in September is a paradise waiting to be explored.