VerdictDestinations Attraction · Santorini
Volcanic Hot Springs
The warm, iron-and-sulfur-tinted thermal waters in a cove off Palea Kameni, reached only by swimming from a boat in the caldera.
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Who it's worth it for
Great for
- Families with kids
- Couples
- Solo travellers
Depends
- Travellers on a budget
- If you've only got a day
- Nature lovers
- Anyone here to unwind
- Adventurers
Worth it for families with kids, couples and solo travellers.
Why we say this
Insider secrets & local vibes
Swimming into a rust-red volcanic cove that is warmer than the sea is a fun novelty as part of a boat day.
Not independently verified — estimatedThe water is often only a couple of degrees warm, murky, and can stain light swimwear orange.
Not independently verified — estimatedWhat it feels like
Reading the room, traveller by traveller
With friends
A fun group dip, as long as nobody expects a real spa.
As a couple
A quirky stop on a wider boat trip rather than a destination in itself.
With kids
Kids enjoy the swim to the warm cove; wear dark swimwear to dodge the staining.
Good to know
Before you go
Cost
Included in boat trips
Time
30–45 min (within a trip)
- Best time
- As part of a daytime caldera boat trip.
- Getting there
- Reached only by swimming from a boat in the Palea Kameni cove.
- Accessibility
- Requires swimming from the boat; not for non-swimmers or limited mobility.
Alternatives
If it's not your thing, try
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