Cape Columbo beach
Discover Cape Columbo – Santorini's most secluded gem, a beach far removed from the bustle of civilization. Nestled beneath the towering presence of a sheer cliff, the cape of the same name rises majestically from the sea. This idyllic retreat boasts picturesque landscapes and waters warmed by underwater thermal activity, drawing in those who cherish the tranquility of a secluded beach holiday. For aficionados of untouched, "wild" beaches, Cape Columbo is the quintessential paradise.
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Beach description
Cape Columbo, located in the northeastern part of the island in the beautiful bay of the same name, is approximately 10 km away from the capital, Thera. The picturesque shore is covered in dark gray, almost black sand, which is very warm, thanks to the nearby caldera.
- The location will take your breath away with its amazing landscapes, while the calmness and solitude are sure to attract those who appreciate romantic dates in the great outdoors.
- The vast open spaces are immense. So immense, in fact, that it feels like a stage set for theatrical performances, with the only thing missing being the actors in this natural amphitheater with its magical backdrop.
- The striking reddish mountains act as natural barriers from the outside world and provide welcome shade from the heat of the sun.
- The water is especially warm here due to the geothermal processes, stemming from the nearby crater of the island's main volcano. At times, it might even feel too warm.
The descent into the water is gentle, but the depth increases rapidly, making it less suitable for young children. The shore and the waters are pristine, making this place perfect for those seeking solitude. However, be mindful that storms are frequent here.
When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit Santorini for a beach vacation is typically between late May and early October. During this period, the weather is warm, and the Aegean Sea is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Late May to June: This is the ideal time for those who prefer a quieter vacation, as the summer crowds have not yet arrived. The weather is pleasantly warm, and the sea has started to heat up, making it comfortable for swimming.
- July to August: These are the busiest months, with peak tourist season in full swing. The weather is hot, and the beaches are at their most vibrant. However, be prepared for higher prices and more crowded spaces.
- September: As the summer winds down, September offers a great balance with fewer tourists and still-warm weather. The sea remains warm from the summer heat, providing excellent conditions for water activities.
- Early October: For those looking to catch the last of the summer weather, early October can still offer sunny days suitable for beach outings, though the evenings start to cool, and there's a higher chance of windy conditions.
Ultimately, the best time for a beach vacation in Santorini depends on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and prices. Each part of the season offers a unique experience on this beautiful Greek island.
Video: Beach Cape Columbo
Infrastructure
There is no infrastructure. This is the real wild beach of Santorini - unrealistically beautiful, picturesque, and completely unequipped for relaxation. For those who love the signs of civilization, it would be better to look for another beach on the island.
Here, you go for complete isolation from noisy society. Ultimately, everything necessary - from food to umbrellas - can be brought from home if you prioritize a secluded vacation in an incredibly picturesque place away from crowds of vacationers.
There are no showers or changing rooms; however, during the season, you can rent a sunbed and an umbrella, and there are toilets available. There is also no café, and water transport to Cape Columbo does not exist. This is why it is essential to bring everything you need, including water and food. It is possible to spend the night in your own tent. So, this is the right place for real lovers of a "wild" holiday.
If you wish to rest with a bit more comfort, then you need to book a room in one of the hotels in the city of Oia, located about 4.5 km away from this beach. Here, you can go using a rented car for the day. Soulis Apartments is in relative proximity to the beach and promises cozy and comfortable rooms for the whole family. A neighboring Almyra Studios offers a wide range of apartments with all amenities and a sea view. Pelagos Hotel Oia is located a couple of kilometers from the beach and is decorated in traditional Cycladic style: snow-white furniture in the rooms will energize and refresh you in the morning.
Weather in Cape Columbo
Best hotels of Cape Columbo
All hotels of Cape ColumboUseful information
To get to the beach of Cape Columbo is possible only on a rented car. You’ll have to get to the cape, leave the car there and go down the narrow path to the coast itself.
Since the beach is pretty far from civilization, it is not equipped at all and there aren’t any accessible shelters in bad weather, it’s worthwhile to study weather forecasts in advance. High waves can occur here in a storm, making the beach not the safest place to relax.
If you want to combine a varied vacation, you can visit not only this beach in a day, but also a rocky Baxedes located relatively close to it (about 3 kilometers from Oia). Due to the strong northerly winds blowing there, and the arising high waves it is especially popular among surfers. It is not recommended to go there with children because of the great depths almost off the shore.