While I thoroughly recommend spending as much time as possible in Santorini, sometimes all you have is the option of one day. If you find yourself island hopping throughout Greece, here is your itinerary for exploring Oia, on the island of Santorini.
1. Swimming in Amoudi Bay
Start your day with a cool dip in Amoudi Bay. The walk down to the water will leave you hot and sweaty and ready to enjoy all that Santorini has to offer-including a cliff dive! The path to the bay is a bit tricky, with a rocky path and narrow drops, but it makes the arrival all the more enjoyable as you take in the rising volcanic cliffs from below.
2. Taking a donkey ride back up
After all that activity you are going to be a bit tired, so spare your legs and rent a donkey to carry you up the sharp incline. You'll be able to enjoy the surrounding views without dodging the donkey droppings that line the stone stairs. Just make sure to hold on tight, and try to breathe through your mouth.
3. Lolita's Gelato
Although you may be expecting Italy to be the leader of Gelato, this Greek Yogurt based confection is truly unmissable. Try the Greek Viagra for a yogurt/honey confection that will have you coming back a few hours later for another taste. Enjoy in their soothing all white courtyard, or lick this sticky street as you stroll through the winding streets.
4. Perissa Black Sand Beach
Home to white, red, and black sand beaches, the seaside views in Santorini are each unique and breathtaking at once. Since the island is made of volcanic rock, it's black sand beaches are a definitely unmissable emblem. Head to Perissa beach for a sea of striped chaises and straw umbrellas. Hungry? Walk to the end of the beach to Afros, where the welcoming owner will let you point and pick your fish of choice.
5. Photo Break
Lets admit it, one of the main reasons you came to Greece was for the killer Instagram photos. Save some time to just wander the island, camera or iPhone in hand. The light changes the island's color, bathing its white stones in a soft warm glow, but the finale of sunset is a showstopper. An endless sea of reds, pinks, and yellows dance across the sky, providing a gorgeous burst of color against the white and blue of the island.
6. Dinner with a sunset view
During the peak tourist season it's advisable to make a reservation if you are looking for a meal with a view. Ask for the window seats to enjoy the sunset with a glass of ouzo and a taste of tzatziki.