If you're only going to Santorini once in your life choose accommodation with views over the caldera. Nothing wrong with the beach resorts although there are far better beaches elsewhere in Greece. We stayed in Firostefani, an easy 10 min walk along the cliff path into Fira for all the nightlife. Make no mistake Santorini is all about the views from this side of the island, its unique so its not cheap. We had 4 nights here before moving onto Paros & Naxos and loved it.

Yes, if you can afford it, book accomodation in Oia or Fira. However, we visited Santorini on rather less of a budget and loved it. The other 2 main resorts are Perissa and kamari. we stayed in kamari where the accomodation was a lot more affordable than the places on the Caldera side but the buses ran regularly to Thira, where you could get a bus to lots of other areas on the island. We saw the whole island in a few hours by hiring quad bikes- great fun and we stopped at a cafe/bar in Oia which was breathtakingly cut into the cliffside. This is a photo I took there.

Kamari had lots of restaurants/bars, all of which served lovely food but although it's one of the main resorts we didn't find it had much nightlife even in August. Be aware the sand is volcanic, black and is absolutely boiling. We had a great holiday and I would return here again.

Thank you so much for your advise.

I think it Oia then!

Does anyone know the best hotel/villa to go for around the grand each mark for 10 days?

The only place I can whole heartedly recommend ( because we stayed there) is the Nomikos Villas in Firostefani. Oia is also a fabulous place with hotels and villas that have stunning views. If possible choose a property with a full 180 degree view some places have the view obstructed in one direction by other properties.

How about Lauda hotel? Is it true this is the only good priced hotel with a pool?
The reviews sound really good.