Santorini on a Budget (somewhat)

Private tours are always available there. Just go into any travel office to inquire about what they can offer and what they charge. My guess is it won't be as inexpensive as you'd hope but I could be wrong.

You can also find information online such as these: http://www.oceanwavetours.com and https://tourguides.viator.com/tour-guide-kostas-sakavaras-2154.aspx

With four in your party, I would definitely look into this. I would have no hesitancy from a safety standpoint; as for cost, you won't know till you ask.

Thanks for your posts! We are also looking into renting a couple of 4 wheelers, and take in the island.

If your passport and driver's license are from outside the EU or UK be sure to get an International Driving Permit. If you live in No. America you get it at your local AAA/CAA office, no test or membership required, for $15.

You don't need a travel guide on Santorini! Just rent a car (driving is easy but you need to be observant) and Rick's Greece book is all you need.

Thanks for all your replies. I think common sense and your advice and ALL the reading I've done will help alot.

Julia
Ontario, Canada

Hi Julia. While on Naxos you probably should consider staying at St George beach. Its early season so the other beach areas will be mostly very quiet. St George is attached to Naxos town so you can walk to all the activity you want.
St George Beach Naxos http://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/sets/72157632113170279/

Naxos tours has a round the island bus tour. While we rent a car and drive we have run into the Naxos tour groups at several locations and the guide is well informed and it takes you to all the highlights. Once you have seen the island you can consider renting a car to go back to someplace that you wanted to visit in depth. Perhaps the villages of Chalki and Aparanthos.
The interior of Naxos is rugged mountains. I would suggest a car not a quad if that's where you plan to go. Hot sun and wind and mountain roads without guardrails means quads are a bad idea. On the other hand if you want to take a day toot out to the western beaches thats just 7km with no hills. A quad would probably be fun.
Naxos Town http://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/sets/72157632094558042/
Trip around Naxos http://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/sets/72157634605629689/

Thanks for your reply. We were only possibly renting quads in Santorini, not Naxos. We are staying at the Galaxy in Naxos, minutes to the beach and close to Naxos Town. and Cori Rigas in Santorini. If anyone has any information/comments on these hotels please share.

Thanks,
Julia