Things to do in Santorini for Kids
Why Santorini is great for families
Milos is a relaxed, authentic Greek Cycladic island with over 70 beaches, crystal‑clear warm water, and plenty of space for kids to run and play. It’s low‑key (no big nightlife or noisy clubs), and has a strong local vibe, making it ideal for families wanting a peaceful Greek island holiday.
We stayed in Adamas (Adamantas) where the main ferry port is. We stayed here because you can walk to your accommodation (or get a free transfer depending on the hotel).
We really enjoyed Adamas as we did not hire a car on the island. We enjoyed the variety of landscapes from white volcanic rocks and sea caves to sandy bays, and there are easy boat trips, beach picnics, and a simple village life.
Best areas to stay with kids in Santorini
For families, most tourism agents will recommend staying in Pollonia or near Plaka/Adamas, depending on your kids’ ages and what kind of beach access you want.
Pollonia (on the north coast) is often top‑rated for families:
Small fishing village with a gentle, sandy/pebbly beach where kids can paddle safely.
Has a seafront playground and a few family‑friendly tavernas right on the water.
Generally quieter than Adamas and feels very safe for older kids to wander with an ice cream.
Plaka (the main hilltop town) is pretty and central, but has steep, cobbled streets – not ideal if you need a stroller or have toddlers.
Great for older kids/teens who enjoy walking and exploring, but keep an eye on the uneven steps.
Adamas (Adamantas) is the main port, lively with cafes and shops, but can feel a bit busy and less beachy.
Good if you want easy access to shops and ferries, but the immediate waterfront is less “beach day” and more “town & boats.”
Top kid‑friendly beaches in Santorini
Milos has many beaches, but some are much better for small children than others.
Beaches with shallow, calm water and facilities (sunbeds, toilets, small tavernas nearby):
Plathiena Beach (near Adamas) – small, sheltered bay with shallow water, good for toddlers and young kids.
Firiplaka Beach – golden sand, shallow shelf, and often has a small bar/restaurant nearby; great for families.
Firopotamos Beach – calm, small bay, good for kids who like paddling and swimming close to shore.
Provatas (Prophetes Elias) Beach – nice sandy area, lifeguarded in peak season, and has sunbeds/umbrellas (though can be pricier).
Also worth a visit:
Paleochori Beach – famous for its geothermal hot springs meeting the sea; older kids and teens love the “hot water pool” effect.
Sarakiniko Beach – dramatic white volcanic rocks, but not a proper sandy beach; better for adventurous kids who can climb safely under close supervision.
Avoid very rugged or cliff‑access beaches like Tsigrado or the Kleftiko caves with very young or nervous kids, as they involve steep paths or ladders.
Easy family activities & days out in Santorini
There are lots of low‑pressure, fun things to do that keep kids entertained without being too demanding.
Beach hopping / beach safari
Hire a car or book a tour and visit 3–4 beaches in one day so kids can compare calm vs. rocky vs. sandy ones.
Take picnic snacks, swim gear, and a small towel or microfibre beach mat for each child.Family boat trip around Milos
A half‑day or full‑day catamaran cruise is usually a hit: swimming stops, snorkelling, and maybe a simple lunch on board.
Many operators offer family‑friendly boats and can adjust the route if kids are restless or want more time in the water.Explore the fishing villages & villages
Klima & Mandrakia – colourful fisherman’s houses built right on the water; great for photos and short walks - we really enjoyed Mandrakia it was a beautiful fishing village and you can eat in the Famous Taverna where they serve fresh squid.
Plaka – wander the whitewashed streets, maybe stop for a gelato or juice at a small café.
Geology & adventure for older kids
Older kids who like rocks, volcanoes, and fossils can enjoy guided talks or short hikes that explain the island’s volcanic past.
Sarakiniko feels like a mini “moon walk” and can be a fun mini‑adventure if you bring sturdy shoes and water.
Practical tips for families in Santorini
Hire a car (or a small SUV) – Milos is not very big, but public transport is limited, and having your own wheels makes beach days much easier.
Book accommodation early in summer (June–August), especially if you want a family‑friendly apartment or villa near a calm beach.
Bring snorkels and masks; kids love the clear water and small fish along the rocks and reefs.
Pack hats, reef‑safe sunscreen, and water shoes – even sandy beaches often have some pebbles or rocks.
Many restaurants are family‑friendly, but some beach bars are more adult‑oriented; choose places with space for kids to sit and play nearby.
When to go to Santorini
Best months for families: late May–early June & September–early October.
Warm water, fewer crowds, and more relaxed prices than July–August.
Mid‑summer (July–August) is hot and busy, but still manageable if you stay in a quieter village like Pollonia and avoid the busiest beaches at
What to eat in Santorini
We often had lunch from:
the bakery (Spanikopita and Orange Cake) https://maps.app.goo.gl/JuZZ1Xmw6WAExH9w7
Filos (Gyros) https://maps.app.goo.gl/jUYmZAJ2oLVTT2Kp7 (we got the chicken gyros but swapped the homemade sauce for tzatziki - just our preferred taste as we love tzatziki.
and dinner in our experience was better (and cheaper) when it was not on the Caldera - all of the restaurants catered to children for variations on their main menu.
