Last updated on August 31st, 2023
The stunning Amoudi Bay is situated below the whitewashed town of Oia, Santorini. Known for its red cliffs, fish tavernas, and unique atmospheres, Amoudi is by far one of the best things to do in Oia.
The delightful bay stays busy with Caldera tours and visitors enjoying a relaxing lunch or romantic dinner by the water. It should be part of anyone’s Santorini itinerary for these reasons and more.
Due to its location near the water and the long climb down from Oia, a trip to Amoudi does take some planning. To help you make the most of your visit, I’ve compiled a detailed guide based on my personal experience.
Best Time of Day to Visit
The most popular time of the day to visit Amoudi Bay is at night when people can grab dinner at one of the area’s tavernas and watch the sunset. As a result, expect lots of crowds during the summer and make dinner reservations ahead of time to ensure a table.
If you are interested in swimming near the bay, it is best to visit earlier in the day when the sun is at its peak. Though there is no real beach here, this island section is a popular spot for cliff jumping, which I will discuss more.
How to Get to Amoudi Bay
Getting to the Amoudi takes some physical endurance if you walk, especially the hike back! However, if you are already in Oia, it is the best and more scenic way to get down. You can also take a taxi or drive down if you’d prefer. Here are some tips on getting there no matter what you choose.
Walk Down to Amoudi Bay from Oia
One of the prettiest parts about getting to Amoudi Bay from Oia is decent. But, unfortunately, it is also the most exhausting! Around 300 steps (278 steps, to be exact) wind down the rocky cliffside to the water.
The cobblestone steps are steep and require you to pay attention to where you step. One nice thing about the descent down is that there are little shops and attractions you will walk past, such as Oia Castle. The path down is truly picturesque!
Although I would not recommend heels, most people wore them as they were heading for dinner. Another thing to know about the descent down is there is no shade from the Mediterranean sun, and near the bottom half, you will have to be careful not to step in donkey droppings. Most people will leave this part out.
Regarding donkeys, there are people offering donkey rides up and down part of the cliffside. Please do not support the mistreatment of these animals by paying for a ride. Unfortunately, anywhere around the island that offers donkey rides is known to mistreat these animals. If you truly do not want to walk, get a taxi to Amoudi instead. It is about the same price.
Take a Taxi
There is a way that you can bypass all those stairs if you don’t want to deal with them. It costs €10 to take you to the center of Oia and come quickly. If you are staying on other parts of the island like Fira, taxis will be the way to go if you don’t have a car or ATV.
Car or ATV
If you rent a car or ATV to get around the island, you can drive it down to Amoudi Bay. There is a small parking close to the bay, which allows you to bypass the steps down. However, it fills up fast, so try to get there early if you need to look for a spot.
We used Moto Manos for our rental. The employees there were accommodating, and it is conveniently located near the airport. There are dozens of other rental companies around the island as well!
Amoudi Bay Restaurants Guide
One of the main reasons people come to Amoudi Bay is to experience a traditional Greek taverna. Each serves a very similar menu and an equally stunning view. The overall atmosphere is impeccable, sitting feet from the water and enjoying a refreshing drink and authentic Mediterranean meal.
Although the tavernas here are very similar, Amoudi Fish Tavern is hands down the most popular. Amoudi Fish Tavern is where we chose to eat dinner, and we were satisfied. The fresh seafood was excellent, and the service was quick and extremely friendly.
The setting was what did it for us. We opted to sit near the water, but there were some spectacular seats on the cliffside. Amoudi Fish Tavern has several levels of seating, depending on your preference. If you want better views of the sunset, ask to sit higher up on the cliff.
Other restaurants to try are Dimitris Amoudi Taverna, Taverna Katina and Sunset by Amoudi. They are all open from both lunch and dinner.
TRAVEL TIP: You will have to make reservations no matter where you eat in Amoudi Bay. Even during lunch, the tavernas get very busy, especially during peak season.
Where to Stay Near Amoudi Bay
There are plenty of hotels situated on the cliffside above the bay. Many people like to stay here due to the views of the bay below. No matter where you stay in Oia, you can easily walk there.
KATIKIES SANTORINI
Katikies suites are the epitome of luxury. Each room has a private terrace overlooking the Aegean Sea. the hotel is located in the heart of Oia but has everything you need if you want to stay on the premises. Facilities include two restaurants, hot tubs, welcome gifts, and an infinity pool.
Luxury Hotel | Check Rates
We stayed at Pezoules of Oia and would come back again. We had our own private terrace overlooking the Caldera and access to a luxurious infinity pool steps from our door. The staff was accommodating and ensured that we had everything we needed. They made our stay as perfect as possible, from complimentary champagne to breakfast on our terrace.
Mid-Range Hotel | Check Rates
ANEMOMILOS HOTEL
The Anemomilos Hotel is a great budget option that still gives you access to a pool and views of the Aegean Sea. The hotel is right in the town, within walking distance of Oia attractions. It is also conveniently located near the bus stop if you plan to ride to Fira for the day.
Budget Hotel | Check Rates
What to do at Amoudi Bay
Watch the Sunset from Amoudi Bay
Besides the fantastic tavernas, people visit Amoudi Bay to watch the famous Santorini Sunset. For a more romantic and less crowded sunset viewing experience, make your dinner reservations a little before so you can watch the sun go down with a glass of wine at your table.
Other people will choose a spot along the winding path to watch the sun go down or even stand around the bay. It is another less crowded option.
Most people will decide to watch the sunset at Oia Castle, but you will need to get there ahead of time for a decent spot, and even then, you will have to share the moment with many others.
Book a sailing tour around Caldera for a more romantic sunset viewing experience. Several experiences are available, including private catamaran rentals, drinks, and dinner.
Trust me, unless you have a private view from your hotel room, a sunset cruise or cozy table at Amoudi Fish Tavern is the way to go.
Swim and Cliff Jumping
Since Santorini is built on volcanic cliffs, you will not find the typical Greek beaches here. Instead, the few beaches on the island are made of pebbles, most of which you will find on the opposite end of the island.
If you are interested in taking a dip in the cool water, Armeni Bay is very popular, especially for cliff jumping. To get here, you will have to walk through the bay.
Continue past the tavernas on the left and walk around the corner and down the path, which takes a little under 10 minutes. The secret spot is the best cliff-jumping spot on the entire island. Armeni Bay also has a small pebble beach where you can lay out between dips in the water.
Join a Boat Tour
One of the best ways to experience Santorini is by joining a cruise around the small island. Most of these dock at Amoudi Bay. There are dozens to choose from that cater to all tastes. Choose to explore the hot springs and take a hike up the volcano or pick a more scenic option and sail to the red and black beaches on the island. Whatever you decide, Santorini cruises are one of the best experiences you can have here.
Popular Tours and Excursions
If you want an adventurous expedition, this five-hour Catamaran Cruise takes you on a sightseeing adventure around the island. You will hike up the volcano’s crater before relaxing in the thermal hot springs around the volcano’s base in the Caldera. The cruise also includes drinks and a traditional Greek meal.
If you are interested in seeing the different areas of Santorini, this six-hour tour takes you to the top sites on the island, including the town of Oia, the black and red beaches, and the Akrotiri Lighthouse. The tour includes pick-up from your hotel or vacation rental.
For a romantic experience, try a sunset catamaran tour. Enjoy Santorini’s most beautiful sunset on board a luxury catamaran that will take you around the Aegean Sea. The excursion includes food and drinks and time to enjoy the refreshing turquoise water.
Conclusion
Amoudi Bay is the perfect place to go for late night drinks and famous Santorini sunset views. No matter where you decided to stay on the island, a trip to this lively bay should be on your itinerary.
Enjoyed this post? Here are some other Greek destinations!
Milos
- The Ultimate Milos, Greece Travel Guide
- The Top 10 Best Beaches in Milos
- 10 Best Restaurants in Milos, Greece
- Where to Stay in Milos, Greece
Santorini
- Santorini 3 Day Itinerary & Travel Guide
- The Greatest Things to do in Oia, Santorini
- Mykonos vs. Santorini – A Detailed Comparison
Mykonos
- The Ultimate 3 Days in Mykonos Itinerary
- Mykonos Travel Guide: How to Plan the Perfect Island Getaway
- Mykonos Day Trips: Visit Delos Island
Rhodes
Other Greek Destinations
Travel Planning Resources
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT |Skyscanner is the top search engine for finding and booking flights. They price check over 1,200 travel sites to help you find the best prices.
VIEW ACCOMMODATIONS |For booking hotels and vacation rentals Booking.com is a top resource . They offer some of the cheapest rates and different payment options.
PLAN TRANSPORTATION | Discover Cars is my go-to site when booking rentals. They work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs and budget.
SCHEDULE YOUR TOURS | There are many top companies available in Europe. Get Your Guide is one of the best sites for tours, excursions, and activities. Viator is another terrific website for all types of experiences.
GET TRAVEL INSURANCE | Having travel insurance is always a good idea. World Nomads is one of the top travel insurance companies. It will cover you if you must cancel your trip or if something unexpected happens.
Check out the resource page for additional travel planning resources.
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