Warmest sea of the year, near-perfect weather, and the month a lot of locals would pick.
If you ask a local for the best month to visit Santorini, a lot of us will say September. The sea is at its warmest, the weather is close to perfect, and the island still has its summer energy — but without the full-on peak of August. It's also one of the best months of the year for a honeymoon. Here's how to make the most of it.
Travelling a month earlier? Read the August guide →
September is the sweet spot. The heat softens into warm, comfortable days, the sea holds onto all of summer's warmth — often the best swimming of the year — and the evenings are made for long dinners. It's beautiful for getting outside: walking the caldera paths and villages is a pleasure again once the peak heat eases. The island is still lively and busy, especially early in the month, so it doesn't feel empty — you just get the good weather with a little more breathing room.
Don't let "shoulder season" fool you: September is still a busy month, particularly the first couple of weeks. You still need to plan ahead.
September is when the sea is at its most inviting — warm, calm and ideal for swimming and snorkelling. It's also the month the island opens back up for walking: the caldera paths, the villages and the sunset spots are all far more comfortable once the extreme August heat fades. Combine a morning walk with an afternoon swim and you've got the perfect September day.
September is a favourite for honeymooners, and it's easy to see why: warm but not scorching, romantic long evenings, and an island that's lively without being overwhelming. For a special dinner in Oia, book ahead at Ambrosia or Oia Gefsis — both give you that caldera-view, sunset-dinner evening that people come to Santorini for. Reserve early; the best sunset tables go fast.
With the sea this warm, the beaches are still very much worth it. The black sand of Perissa and Perivolos on the south coast makes for easy full days, and a catamaran cruise — swimming and snorkelling stops, a BBQ meal with drinks, and the caldera from the water — is arguably even better in September than in peak summer, with the warm sea and softer light.
The island's still busy, so a little planning goes a long way. Pre-book a transfer for your arrival (€20–30) so you skip the taxi queue, and if you want freedom for beaches and villages, sort a rental car or ATV early.
Yes — many locals consider it the best month. The sea is at its warmest, the weather is warm but comfortable, and the island is still lively without the full peak-season crush of August. It's ideal for swimming, walking and long dinners.
Yes, especially in the first half of the month. It's quieter than August but far from empty, so you should still book tours, transfers and restaurant tables in advance.
Very warm — September often has some of the best swimming of the year, since the sea holds onto all of summer's heat. It's excellent for swimming, snorkelling and catamaran cruises.
It's one of the best months for it. The weather is warm but not scorching, the evenings are romantic, and the island is lively without being overwhelming. Book caldera-view dinners in Oia — like Ambrosia or Oia Gefsis — well ahead.
Yes. Book tours and boat trips in advance, pre-book taxis and transfers, and reserve dinner — including in Oia, where the best sunset tables go quickly.
Yes — September is a lovely time for an Oia dinner, more comfortable than peak August. Reserve ahead; Ambrosia and Oia Gefsis are both great for a caldera-view, sunset evening.
Yes. Once the extreme August heat eases, the caldera paths and villages are far more comfortable to explore — the Fira-to-Oia walk and village wandering are back to being a pleasure.