Santorini isn’t just a paradise for couples; it’s a delightful destination for all ages including those hard to please teenagers. Discover a host of activities that promise fun and excitement for visitors of all ages.
Here’s a guide to ensure the teenagers find Santorini as memorable as you do!
1. Water Sports on Perissa Beach
Perissa Beach is located on the southeastern coast of Santorini and is a hub for water sports enthusiasts, offering a dynamic array of activities suitable for all ages and skill levels. With its expansive stretch of black volcanic sand and crystal-clear waters, it provides an ideal setting for engaging in thrilling aquatic adventures.
One of the most popular water sports at Perissa Beach is windsurfing. The consistent and manageable winds create perfect conditions for both beginners and experienced windsurfers. Schools along the beach offer lessons and equipment rentals, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the exhilaration of gliding over the Aegean Sea.
Jet-skiing is another favourite among visitors. With the throttle in your hand and the spray of the sea in your face, jet-skiing provides a rush of adrenaline and a unique perspective of Santorini’s stunning coastline. Guided tours are available for those looking to explore the surrounding areas, including the impressive rock formations and secluded coves.
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, paddleboarding offers a serene and enjoyable way to navigate the calm waters. This activity is not only fun but also an excellent workout, requiring balance and core strength.
Families can indulge in pedal boating, a leisurely and safe activity that allows you to explore the beach’s periphery at your own pace. The transparent-bottom pedal boats offer an intriguing view of the underwater world.
Banana boat rides and tubing provide laughter and excitement as you hold on tight while being towed at high speeds by a motorboat. These group activities are perfect for friends and families looking to share memorable and amusing moments.
With its combination of natural beauty and well-equipped facilities, Perissa Beach is a premier destination for water sports in Santorini. The range of activities available promises a day of fun, excitement, and unforgettable memories by the water.
2. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
Scuba diving and snorkeling in Santorini offer an enthralling underwater adventure, revealing a hidden world of marine life and geological wonders beneath the Aegean Sea’s crystal-clear waters. The island’s volcanic origins have crafted a unique seascape, teeming with caverns, reefs, and intriguing formations, providing an exhilarating playground for underwater enthusiasts.
For scuba divers, Santorini boasts several dive sites suitable for various skill levels. Beginners might start at the Caldera, where the relatively shallow waters are home to an array of colourful fish and sponges. If your teen already has some experience at diving, they can explore deeper sites, like the caverns near Akrotiri or the shipwreck at Taxiarchis, each offering a distinct and mesmerising underwater landscape.
Dive centers, predominantly found in areas like Kamari, Perissa, and Oia, offer equipment rental, courses, and guided dives, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants. These centers cater to both novice and seasoned divers, providing the necessary training and support to explore Santorini’s underwater treasures confidently.
Snorkeling in Santorini is accessible and rewarding, with many beaches offering ideal conditions for this activity. Amoudi Bay, near Oia, is a popular spot, with its rocky coastline and clear waters creating a vibrant habitat for marine life. Perissa and Kamari beaches also provide excellent snorkeling opportunities, with their black sand seabeds hosting a variety of fish and underwater flora.
For those seeking a more organised snorkeling experience, several companies offer guided tours. These excursions often include visits to multiple sites, equipment provision, and expert guidance, making them suitable for families and individuals of all ages and abilities.
Engaging in scuba diving and snorkeling in Santorini unveils a fantastic aquatic experience, where the island’s volcanic history and the rich biodiversity of the Aegean converge. Whether you’re gliding through a school of fish, exploring a mysterious cavern, or simply marveling at the underwater topography, these activities promise a captivating and unforgettable adventure in the depths of Santorini’s beautiful seas.
3. Photography Excursion
A photography excursion in Santorini is a visual feast, capturing the island’s unparalleled beauty, from its iconic architecture to its mesmerising landscapes and magical light. These tours are designed for photography enthusiasts of all levels, offering guidance and insights to help you capture stunning images that embody the essence of Santorini.
Photography tours are typically conducted in various locales across the island, each offering a unique set of photographic opportunities. Popular starting points include Fira and Oia, with their iconic blue-domed churches, narrow alleyways, and breathtaking caldera views. These towns provide a canvas of vibrant colours, dramatic contrasts, and captivating details, making them ideal for both landscape and architectural photography.
The cost of a photography excursion can range from €100 to €300, depending on the duration and inclusivity of the tour. A standard tour might last around 4 to 5 hours, but full-day options are also available for those looking to immerse themselves in the craft. The price usually includes the guidance of a professional photographer, transportation to various locations, and sometimes even snacks and beverages.
During the excursion, participants are guided through a curated itinerary of photogenic spots, often including off-the-beaten-path locations known only to locals. The professional photographer leading the tour provides valuable tips and feedback, helping you to improve your composition, lighting, and technique. Whether you’re shooting with a high-end DSLR, a compact camera, or a smartphone, the guide will help you make the most of your equipment.
Beyond the popular towns, excursions might venture into traditional villages, vineyards, and beaches, each offering a distinct atmosphere and set of visual elements. With the island’s natural light, unique geography, and charming architecture serving as your backdrop, a photography excursion in Santorini is an inspiring and educational experience, allowing you to see and document this enchanting destination through a new lens.
4. Outdoor Cinema Experience
An outdoor cinema experience in Santorini is a delightful and unique way to enjoy a movie under the starlit sky, with the gentle breeze of the Aegean Sea in the background. This charming activity combines entertainment with the island’s enchanting atmosphere, providing a memorable evening for all.
Kamari Village, located on the eastern side of Santorini, hosts one of the most famous open-air cinemas in Greece. Nestled amidst a beautiful garden setting, the cinema offers a relaxing and comfortable environment for moviegoers. The venue is well-equipped with high-quality projection and sound systems, ensuring a top-notch viewing experience.
The ticket price for the outdoor cinema is reasonably affordable, usually ranging from €8 to €10. This cost provides you with entrance to the movie and a comfortable seat in the garden. The cinema often has a bar and snack area where you can purchase refreshments, including popcorn, drinks, and sometimes even cocktails, to enjoy during the film.
The film selection at the outdoor cinema is diverse, typically featuring a mix of international blockbusters, acclaimed art films, and beloved classics. Movies are usually shown in their original language with Greek subtitles, catering to both local and international audiences.
Before the movie starts, arrive early to soak in the atmosphere, find a prime seating spot, and perhaps enjoy a drink as the sun sets. As the sky darkens and the stars begin to twinkle, the screen lights up, signaling the beginning of a magical cinematic journey in the heart of the Aegean.
An outdoor cinema experience in Santorini is not just about watching a movie; it’s about immersing yourself in the island’s nocturnal beauty while enjoying a film. With the stars overhead and the scent of the sea in the air, it’s a sensory delight that encapsulates the joy and romance of Santorini nights.
5. Quad Biking Adventure
Embarking on a quad biking adventure in Santorini is an exhilarating way to explore the island’s diverse landscapes, from its stunning beaches to its charming villages and breathtaking viewpoints. Quad biking offers a sense of freedom and excitement, allowing you to navigate the island’s terrain at your own pace while soaking in the spectacular scenery.
Quad bike rentals are available in various locations across Santorini, including the main towns of Fira, Oia, and Perissa. Rental shops are typically easy to find, and many offer the option to book in advance online or walk in for same-day rentals. Prices can vary but expect to pay approximately €30 to €50 per day, depending on the type and power of the quad bike you choose. It’s advisable to compare prices and reviews of different rental companies to find the best deal.
Before you set off, the rental company will provide a brief orientation to familiarise you with the operation of the quad bike. Helmets are provided and should be worn at all times for safety. Ensure you have a valid driver’s license, as it’s required for rental.
Once you’re ready, the island is yours to explore. Popular routes include the ride from Fira to Oia, where you can witness the famous Santorini sunset. The journey offers panoramic views of the caldera and the sparkling Aegean Sea. Another favoured route is the southern loop, taking you through traditional villages like Pyrgos and Emporio, past the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, and along the stunning black sand beaches of Perissa and Perivolos. Your teen can easily fit on the back of your bike and enjoy all aspects of the ride.
Each route offers unique sights, from the iconic blue-domed churches and whitewashed buildings to the rugged cliffs and rolling vineyards. With the wind in your hair and the sun on your face, a quad biking adventure in Santorini is a thrilling and unforgettable experience, providing a unique perspective of the island’s beauty and charm.
6. Arts and Crafts Workshop
A visit to an arts and crafts workshop in Santorini is a delightful immersion into the island’s rich artistic heritage, offering hands-on experiences that allow you to create your own masterpiece while soaking in the local culture. These workshops are scattered across the island, with many located in the charming villages of Fira, Oia, and Megalochori.
One popular option is the traditional pottery workshops in Megalochori, where you can learn the ancient craft of pottery from local artisans. These workshops typically last for 2 to 3 hours, providing ample time to understand the basics of pottery and craft your own ceramic piece. Prices for these workshops can range from €50 to €100 per person, depending on the duration and the level of instruction provided.
For those interested in painting, there are workshops available that focus on capturing Santorini’s stunning landscapes and iconic architecture on canvas. These classes are often held in picturesque locations, providing plenty of inspiration for participants. Painting workshops usually last around 3 to 4 hours and can cost between €70 to €150, with all materials included.
There are also jewellery making workshops where you can design and create your own piece of jewellery under the guidance of skilled craftsmen. These workshops offer a fascinating insight into the process of jewel;ery making, from design to execution. Prices for jewellery workshops vary but expect to pay in the range of €100 to €200 for a session lasting 3 to 4 hours.
Before booking any workshop, it’s advisable to check the specific details, including the duration, cost, and location, as these can vary between different providers. Participating in an arts and crafts workshop in Santorini not only provides a fun and creative outlet but also allows you to connect with the island’s artistic soul, leaving you with a handmade souvenir and cherished memories of your visit.
7. Volcanic Boat Tour
A volcanic boat tour in Santorini is an enthralling adventure, offering a unique perspective of the island’s dramatic and iconic caldera. This excursion is a must-do for all visitors, providing an opportunity to explore the active volcano, soak in hot springs, and marvel at the stunning landscapes that define Santorini’s allure.
The journey typically begins from the old port of Fira, where you’ll board a traditional wooden boat or a modern catamaran. As you sail towards the caldera, the panoramic views of Santorini’s cliff-perched villages, with their whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches, are absolutely breathtaking.
The first stop on the tour is usually the volcanic island of Nea Kameni. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to hike up to the crater of the active volcano. The walk is moderately strenuous, with rugged and uneven terrains, but reaching the top rewards you with spectacular views of the caldera and the surrounding islands. The guide will share fascinating insights about the volcano’s history and geology, enhancing your understanding of this natural wonder.
Next, the boat often heads to the nearby island of Palea Kameni, famous for its hot springs. You can take a rejuvenating dip in the warm, sulfuric waters, which are said to have therapeutic properties. The contrast of the hot springs against the coolness of the Aegean Sea creates a delightful and invigorating experience.
Many tours also include a stop at the island of Thirassia, a quaint and less touristy spot where you can explore a traditional Greek village, enjoy a meal at a seaside taverna, or simply relax on the beach.
Prices for volcanic boat tours in Santorini vary, ranging from €20 to €150, depending on the type of boat, duration, and inclusions of the tour. With its combination of adventure, relaxation, and awe-inspiring views, a volcanic boat tour is a quintessential Santorini experience that leaves you with indelible memories of the island’s majestic beauty.