Visitors flock to Ammoudi Bay with great gusto. And once you visit, you’ll understand why. Nestled at the base of burnt orange cliffs with Oia hanging overhead, Ammoudi Bay is a charming fishing village sporting colorful buildings, azure waters, and a waterfront lined with traditional Greek tavernas. With its picture-perfect setting, delicious seafood, and laidback village vibes, Ammoudi Bay is an essential stop on any Santorini itinerary.
If you’re planning to visit this dreamy corner of Santorini, here’s everything you need to know – from how to get there, when to go, must-do activities, and where to stay!
Ready to discover Ammoudi Bay’s best bits? Grab some assyrtiko, and let’s jump right into this quick guide to Ammoudi Bay in Santorini!
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Where is Ammoudi Bay
Ammoudi Bay, also spelled Amoudi Bay, is a picturesque fishing port on the northwestern tip of Santorini, Greece. It’s about a 25-minute drive from the capital city of Fira and lies right below the stunning hilltop village of Oia.
How to Get to Ammoudi Bay
There are no public buses to Ammoudi Bay, but it’s accessible in several other ways: via a steep set of stairs, by water taxi, or by car. Here’s a quick breakdown so that you can choose the best option for you.
Walking
If you’re already in Oia, one of the best ways to get to Ammoudi Bay is to follow the stone step trail. The trail snakes down a cliff, offering breathtaking views over the ocean and the caldera, but note that this option is not for the faint of heart. The trail has 278 steps, and while it might seem doable, remember that you’ll need to get back up again! The trailhead starts near Oia Castle, and it takes about 15 minutes to walk down (depending on your photo stops). The easiest way to find the trailhead is to get yourself to Oia Castle Luxury Suites by Art Maisons (see Google Maps).
Wear comfortable shoes with a proper grip, as the trail has many loose rocks. You’ll also need water for this trek, so remember to fill up your reusable water bottle. A camera is also obligatory!
Car or Taxi
The most straightforward way to get to Ammoudi Bay is by car. You can catch a taxi down to the bay from Oia or pre-arrange a transfer. Renting a car for your Santorini trip is another option. That said, you should know there is only one tiny parking bay (see Google Maps) near the port entrance (and the only ATM in the village). It’s often full or reserved for locals, so most people park along the road. Know that during the busy months, the road gets congested quickly, and parking along the curb fills up quickly. Make sure to time your visit and arrive before the crowds get in. Early mornings or a few hours before sunset is best.
Water Taxi
A really fun way to get to and from Amoudi is by water taxi. The Santorini Yachting Club runs a water taxi service between Amoudi Bay, Fira Old Port, Athinios Ferry Port, and several other locations. There is a catch, however. There is no standard schedule for this service, and you’ll need to ring them (or ask your hotel to do so) a few days in advance to confirm availability and timings. You can reach the yacht club at +30 69 7322 6605.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Santorini (or any of the other Greek islands in the Cyclades)) is from late April to October. Peak season runs between July and August, and the island is chockful with tourists. Therefore, if you prefer fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices, it’s best to come during the slower months — late April to early June or mid-September to October.
Although the most popular time of day to visit Ammoudi Bay is during sunset, it’s also an excellent spot to visit during the day. You can easily spend a few lazy hours enjoying the scenery, swimming, or working on your tan. When you’ve had your fill of sun and sea, head to one of the tavernas to enjoy an authentic Greek meal or a boozy cocktail. Just make sure to reserve a table well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Best Things to Do in Amoudi Bay
Eat seafood (and lots of it)
The highlight of any visit to Ammoudi Bay is sampling its fantastic selection of freshly caught seafood. Don’t miss the grilled octopus — a real must-eat!
The waterfront is full of charming tavernas where you can kick back for a few hours, enjoying the stunning food and equally stunning views over the bay and Thirassia in the distance! Some of the best Ammoudi restaurants are Amoudi Fish Tavern, Dimitris Amoudi Taverna, and Sunset Ammoudi. Whether you’re coming for lunch or dinner, book a table beforehand, especially during peak season.
Watch the Sunset
While there is no shortage of stunning sunset spots in Santorini, watching the sunset from Ammoudi Bay is one of the top things to do in Oia!
Unfortunately, everyone else in Santorini thinks so, too! Ensure you arrive a little before sunset to get the best spot along the waterfront or the trail and have time to grab a takeout cocktail at Sunset Oia Cafe (near the village’s northern entrance). Of course, the best way to watch the sun dip under the horizon is while sipping a glass of wine and relishing a delicious Greek meal! If that’s for you, make a dinner reservation well in advance to guarantee you get a seat next to the water.
If crowds aren’t for you, joining a sunset cruise is another epic way to enjoy the famous Santorini sunset.
Go swimming or cliff-jumping
A real secret spot in Ammoudi is the small beach south of the port. You’ll need to walk through the village and follow a dirt track along the coast, which takes about 10 minutes to reach.
Ammoudi Beach isn’t your typical beach with soft sand, however. Instead, it’s a rocky strip of volcanic coast with a slightly damaged concrete slab where you can bake in the sun or jump into the crystal-clear water. Bring water shoes as the rocks are sharp and slippery.
If you’re up to it, swim to St. Nicholas islet opposite the bay. It’s another popular cliff-jumping spot featuring a rocky ledge where you can jump into the dreamy Aegean Sea. While there, duck into the tiny church, which also happens to go by the same name.
Where to Stay
Finding accommodation in Ammoudi Bay can be tricky due to its small size. There are only a few villas and holiday apartment rentals in the village. They’re usually pricey and often booked out months in advance. If you’re set on staying here, try Amoudi Villas, Secret Gem Suites Ammoudi, The Bay, or Pasithei Suites.
Alternatively, base yourself in Oia, where there are more accommodation choices and much more to do. Here are my top picks:
- Luxe: Art Maisons Oia Castle Hotel, Aspaki by Art Maison, or Armenaki Santorini are all fantastic options if you’re looking for the cream of the crop.
- Mid-range: Santorini Paradise Cave Houses and Old Castle Oia offer stunning views over the ocean and caldera. Both offer favorable prices during the slower months.
- Budget: There aren’t many budget accommodation options in Oia, but try The Arches or Marcos Rooms for more affordable rates.
Ammoudi Bay, Santorini in Conclusion
Whether you’re visiting for the seafood, watching the gorgeous sunset, or soaking up the Greek way of life, Ammoudi Bay will undeniably be a highlight during your Santorini trip!
There you have it – my complete guide to Ammoudi Bay in Santorini, Greece! Tell me, have you been to this charming fishing village? If you have any tips for travelers heading to Amoudi Bay, let me know in the comments below!
Don’t forget to pin this Amoudi Bay guide for your upcoming trip to beautiful Santorini, Greece!
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