I will be staying in Oia for one week with my 7 other family members in August. Is the bus system in Aug dependable or should we think about renting a car for a few days (ie when we want to visit the red beach or other villages)?
If we should rent a car, do we need to do it ahead of time, or when we get there? Do I need an international drivers license? If so, where do I get one?
Thanks
Beth

The local bus system is dependable. If I recall correctly the buses all depart central Fira at the top of the hour and fan out across the Island to Oia, Acroteri and the Red Beach as well as Perissia and Kamri Beaches. They then pick up passangers for the return trip to Fira where they all arrive just in time to depart agian at the top of the next hour. The problem you will encounter is that Fira is a hub and to get from Oia to any of the beaches you have to transfer in Fira both going and returning.
With respect to car rentals I suspect you may have difficulty finding a car that will seat 8. I rented in June and did not need to book ahead. August may be a different story.
I was able to rent without an international drivers license however I understand the police may not be too happy if they stop you and you don't have one.

The bus system is very efficient and dependable. In August the buses will run from Oia to Fira between 7:30 AM and 10:30 PM.

Here's a link to the island schedules. They're also posted on the outside of the information building at the bus square in Fira as well as at the other end of each route.

www.ktel-santorini.gr

I've had trouble accessing this website in the last couple of days. Hopefully this is a temporary situation.

Wait until you get there to rent a car. There will be plenty of them to choose from. Each village has several rental agencies, and you'll get a better price by dealing with the locals instead of one of the international "big boys.".

Great! Thanks for the info.

Brotherlee-

You wouldn't recommend waiting to rent a car in Santorini until you get there if you need an automatic, would you?

I'm not sure. I suppose it partially depends on what time of year. If it worries you then the best thing to do would be to rent in advance and put your worries to rest.