When it comes to summer getaways, Greece – especially the postcard-perfect island of Santorini – proves time and time again that some clichés are absolutely worth chasing: endless blue skies, whitewashed villages, and sunsets so stunning they practically demand their own passport stamp. Several fresh luxury properties, cliffside suites, and reimagined villas have opened or been revamped this year, ideal for travelers looking for next-level experiences or design-forward stays. One of Santorini’s newest gems, the Sandblu Resort, in its first full operating season this summer, redefines serene extravagance. Situated on the tranquil east coast of Kamari, nestled into the rugged foothills of Mesa Vouno, overlooking the Aegean’s iridescent blue sea, the Sandblu Resort offers an intimate escape where contemporary luxury meets timeless Cycladic charm.

From the moment you arrive at Sandblu, this cascading, whitewashed oasis feels like a secret carefully curated for those seeking calm, connection, and ultimate elegance. Designed by the Rockwell Group, Sandblu’s architecture pays homage to Santorini’s striking landscape, with clean geometric lines spilling down the cliffside and every terrace framing panoramic sea views. Natural materials like locally quarried stone, light wood, marble, and accents of azure and sage mirror the island’s iconic color palette. Home to 66 rooms, suites, and villas, many featuring private plunge pools and infinity terraces, the resort feels like the ultimate five-star hillside village, revealing ever more breathtaking vistas at every turn.

Each room serves as a private Santorini sanctuary, where serene design, soothing hues, and uninterrupted sea views create a personal haven of calm and escape. At Sandblu, the rooms, suites, and villas feel less like hotel accommodations and more like private sanctuaries carved into Santorini’s dramatic cliffs. Interiors strike a delicate balance between minimalism and warmth. Each space opens onto a terrace with uninterrupted Aegean views, some with their own plunge pools for moments of secluded indulgence. Thoughtful touches elevate the experience: ambient lighting that shifts with the time of day, Pulfrich ESPA bath products that invite slow rituals, and 111Skin masks waiting bedside for a little extra post-sunset glow. It’s the kind of effortless luxury that feels both designed and deeply personal.

The stunning infinity-edge pools at Sandblu are a true centerpiece of the resort, artfully designed to blur the line between water and sky. Perched high above the coastline, these dramatic pools appear to spill seamlessly into the glistening Aegean Sea below, offering uninterrupted, panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. Whether you're floating in the crystal-clear waters or lounging poolside, every angle reveals a new, breathtaking vista—sun-dappled cliffs, endless blue horizons, and the soft shimmer of the sea—creating an atmosphere of pure, elevated tranquility. For families traveling with little ones, Sandblu also offers a thoughtfully designed shallow kids’ pool area, providing a safe and fun space for children to splash and play while parents relax nearby and take in the same spectacular scenery. It’s the perfect balance of family-friendly comfort and sophisticated island luxury.

Adding to the resort’s allure is Sandblu’s exclusive beach club, set along a striking stretch of Santorini’s famous black sand beach. Guests are effortlessly transported from the resort via a branded BMV SUV to this private seaside haven, where plush cabanas and comfortable beach beds await—offered at no additional cost. Thoughtful touches like complimentary bottled water ensure guests stay refreshed as they soak up the sun and the soothing sounds of the Aegean waves. Whether you’re lounging under the shade of an umbrella or dipping your toes into the warm, volcanic sand, the beach club delivers yet another unforgettable layer to the Sandblu experience, merging effortless relaxation with the island’s natural beauty.

Sandblu seamlessly blends luxury with family-friendly comfort, making it an ideal destination for travelers with children—especially rare on the island of Santorini, where many properties cater primarily to honeymooners and only welcome guests aged 10 and older. The resort offers thoughtfully designed kid-friendly amenities, including a safe, spacious, and fully equipped kids’ club that keeps little ones engaged with creative activities inspired by local culture and nature. My kids especially loved making volcanoes that erupted, painting black rocks collected from the beach below, and creating their own Greek mythology books, all keepsakes we’ll treasure from our most memorable stay. Family-friendly dining options on premise ensure meals are enjoyable for all ages, featuring a kids’ menu that delights even the pickiest eaters (my little ones are still talking about the chicken nuggets and French fries, which were the tastiest and most gourmet versions we’ve ever tried). The attentive staff goes the extra mile to accommodate young guests’ needs. With plenty of open spaces, shallow pools, and easy beach access, Sandblu creates a relaxed environment where parents can unwind, confident their children are well cared for, fabulously fed, and happily entertained.

Guests at Sandblu will embark on an unforgettable culinary journey, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients are transformed into vibrant Mediterranean masterpieces rich with flavor and tradition. Six thoughtfully curated dining venues anchor the resort’s sensory experience. At Platea, the poolside spot serving breakfast and lunch, every meal is a celebration—featuring fresh Mediterranean dishes inspired by local traditions, all enjoyed with sweeping panoramic views of the glowing Aegean Sea. Nectar at Sandblu stands out with its creative menu, blending bold local flavors and modern Greek techniques to deliver a memorable dining experience that perfectly complements the resort’s stunning surroundings (we’re still talking about my mom’s birthday celebration dinner here, sure to be a memory we treasure for a lifetime). World-class service ensures every detail is thoughtfully attended to (including cappuccinos finished with custom artwork), while innovative dishes surprise and delight the palate with unexpected combinations of fresh, local ingredients. 

Should you manage to tear yourself away from the tranquil luxury of the hotel property, Santorini’s culinary scene promises an unforgettable journey steeped in flavor, charm, and breathtaking views. Begin at the water’s edge in Amoudi Bay, where Sunset serves what many consider the island’s most iconic dish—its legendary lobster pasta. Set just steps from the gently lapping turquoise sea, this postcard-perfect spot pairs ultra-fresh seafood with an atmosphere that feels quintessentially Greek. As the sun begins its slow descent, casting golden and rose hues across the caldera, guests dine alongside bobbing fishing boats and endless horizon views, creating a sensory memory that lingers long after the last bite. 

For those seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path magic, make your way to Metaxy Mas, a rustic taverna beloved by locals and in-the-know travelers alike. Just a mere ten minutes ride from the resort, this hidden gem offers hearty, soulful Cretan-inspired fare served on a breezy terrace overlooking vineyards and the shimmering Aegean (we’re still dreaming about the asparagus appetizer and Kataifi cheese rolls with its famed blueberry sauce). Warm hospitality, generous portions, and bold island flavors make every meal here feel like an invitation into Greek life itself.

And of course, no Santorini escape is complete without dining high above in Oia, where every table seems perched on the edge of the world. This cliffside village is a feast for the senses—whitewashed terraces glowing in the twilight, the scent of fresh herbs in the air, and the endless sea stretching beyond. For an unforgettable, romantic meal, Ambrosia remains the crown jewel. Nestled along the cliffs, this intimate hideaway offers candlelit tables carved into the rock, elevated Greek cuisine crafted from local ingredients, and views that make every course feel like part of the island’s magic. Eight summers later, these iconic culinary institutions remain as exceptional as ever… unchanged in their charm, quality, and wonder, and every bit as memorable as they were the first time around. The attentive concierge team at Sandblu stands ready to secure coveted dining reservations, exclusive experiences, and bespoke island excursions, ensuring every moment of your Santorini escape is effortlessly extraordinary.

Boutique shopping in Oia is an experience as enchanting as the village itself. Wandering along its famed, sun-drenched strip, you’ll find yourself weaving in and out of charming, whitewashed storefronts, each offering treasures as captivating as the caldera views beyond. From hand-crafted Greek jewelry and flowing linen resort wear to artisan leather sandals and locally made beauty products, every shop reveals something special — a keepsake that feels truly of this place. What makes shopping here so memorable is the leisurely pace and the sense of discovery. The winding pedestrian paths invite you to linger, to chat with friendly shop owners, to try on that perfect sun hat, or to sample fragrant olive oil soaps. The boutiques themselves feel like little jewel boxes — thoughtfully curated and artfully arranged — making even a simple browse feel like a moment to savor. By day, the bright Aegean light bounces off white walls and stone alleys, illuminating colorful textiles and sparkling gems in the displays. By twilight, as the golden glow of sunset settles over the village, the boutiques glow warmly, beckoning visitors to enjoy a final stroll and perhaps stumble upon an unexpected treasure. It’s this blend of beauty, atmosphere, and the thrill of the find that makes boutique shopping in Oia unforgettable… as much a part of the Santorini magic as the sunsets themselves.

Back at the Sandblu property, the resort’s serene spa and wellness center offers the perfect retreat after days spent indulging in unforgettable meals, boutique shopping, sun-soaked pool lounging, and blissful beach escapes. This sanctuary of calm features an indulgent menu of ESPA and 111Skin treatments designed to rejuvenate both body and mind, all set within an elegantly appointed space that includes eight private treatment suites. Between restorative spa sessions and an extensive treatment menu, guests can drift through the indoor waterfall pool, unwind in the sauna and steam room, or awaken their senses in the multi-sensory experience showers. Every element is thoughtfully crafted to promote relaxation, renewal, and the unhurried joy of island living.

For travelers seeking true serenity and soulful luxury, Sandblu offers the ultimate peaceful escape. Thoughtfully set apart from Santorini’s bustling tourist hubs, yet conveniently just 30 minutes from the lively centers of Fira and Oia, the resort feels like a hidden sanctuary where time slows and tranquility reigns. Every detail — from its minimalist, soothing architectural design to its quiet, elevated amenities — is curated to create an atmosphere of pure calm. The service is equally exceptional, striking the perfect balance between warm attentiveness and respectful discretion; every staff member, from the welcoming greeters to the expert spa therapists, is dedicated to making your stay feel effortlessly personal and deeply restorative. At Sandblu, peace isn’t just promised — it’s woven into every moment.

Sandblu impresses with its harmonious blend of architectural elegance, wellness immersion, gastronomic delight, and intimate luxury. Whether you’re floating in a private plunge pool, savoring mountain-to-sea cuisine, or letting stress melt away at the Aurora Spa, every moment feels thoughtfully curated yet effortlessly indulgent. This is more than just a stay — it’s a soulful retreat tucked within the most peaceful pocket of Santorini, where time stretches and life feels beautifully unhurried. It’s a destination I know I’ll return to, both in person and in memory, having experienced one of the most fabulous, joy-filled stays I’ve ever had.