Beaches of Rhodes: 20 spots for sand, pebbles and surfing

Choosing a beach on Rhodes is harder than it seems. The island's shores are washed by two seas, the resorts stretch for dozens of kilometers, and every beach has its own character: pebbles or sand, waves or calm, a busy promenade or a quiet cove.

There are plenty of facts to help you decide. 38 beaches on Rhodes received the EU Blue Flag in 2025 for clean water and safety (source). And since 2024, Greece has had a beach law in effect: it limits sunbed rentals and keeps part of the shore free for everyone (source).

Below are 20 beaches on Rhodes: from the crowded Faliraki with its long stretch of sand to quiet Lachania and Anthony Quinn Bay. For each beach you'll find the surface and water entry, how to get there, who it's for, and an honest catch.

How to choose a beach on Rhodes

💡 In short: first decide on the surface and wind, and the choice narrows itself down from there.

• For kids, go with sand: Ladiko, Tsambika, Pefkos, and Gennadi have gentle entries and soft bottoms.
• For surfing, you need pebbles and wind: that's Ixia, Ialysos, Kremasti, and Prasonisi.
• On wild beaches (Tsambika, Lachania, Kalafos) there are no sunbeds, so bring a towel, water, and water shoes.
• Access, infrastructure, and Blue Flags: 09/2026, according to Visit Rhodes and Visit Greece.

The table below groups all 20 beaches by coast, surface, and type of vacation, so you can compare them at a glance.

1. Faliraki

© Vadim Indeikin · CC BY-SAPhoto: Vadim Indeikin, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

On the east coast of Rhodes, about 14 km from the town, stretches the five-kilometer Faliraki beach (on the map). Locals call it the "Golden" beach.

Up to the middle of the village, the shore is covered with sand; beyond that it mixes with pebbles. The water entry is gentle everywhere, and in the south the bottom is purely sandy. Further north, wave-washed mounds of pebbles and large rocks appear. With kids, you'll be more comfortable on the southern section, where getting in is easy.

The width of the strip varies: in the center of Faliraki there's room for one row of sunbeds, then the shore widens. A wooden boardwalk runs along the entire beach, with bars and rental stands nearby. The beach has a Blue Flag for clean water and sand.

• Who it's for: sand lovers and those who prefer pebbles.
• How to get there: from Rhodes Town by bus or car, about 20 minutes from the airport (on the map).

2. Kolymbia

© Freak-Line-Community · CC BY-SAPhoto: Freak-Line-Community, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Kolymbia grew out of a Greek village founded by the Italians in the 1930s, and it became a resort in the 1980s. The Italian and Greek character together create a calm atmosphere here.

The central beach lies in a quiet little cove where strong waves are rare. A eucalyptus alley leads to the water, and the cove opens onto a view of the mountains. The strip is narrow, with a surface of fine pebbles mixed with sand.

Right at the water's edge there are large rocks, so some visitors enter the sea in special footwear. Bright fish, rays, and octopuses live near the rocks in the cove, and divers come here for that reason.

• Cost: you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, or sunbathe on your own towel.
• The catch: large rocks at the water's edge, you need footwear to enter.

3. Elli

© dronepicr · CC BYPhoto: dronepicr, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), Wikimedia Commons

Elli stretches along the north of the island, from the old port of Mandraki to the northern tip of Rhodes. The strip is about 400 meters long (on the map), and locals call it Enidrio.

The area is divided between hotels and restaurants, and they keep the shore clean. For this, Elli consistently receives the Blue Flag.

The atmosphere of the seventies remains here, but with modern infrastructure: comfortable loungers and umbrellas are available for rent, and you'll be offered a massage by the water. There are many hotels, tavernas, and nightclubs nearby.

• Who it's for: those who want a city beach near their hotel and entertainment.
• How to get there: on foot from the center of Rhodes town, the beach starts at Mandraki port.

4. Anthony Quinn Bay

© Maurizio Ceol · CC BYPhoto: Maurizio Ceol, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

The bay got its name in honor of the actor Anthony Quinn: he filmed on Rhodes and bought this stretch of coast, which later passed to the state.

White cliffs and transparent water of an aquamarine hue make the bay one of the most photographed on the island. The rocky bottom keeps the water clean, and the cliffs shelter the bay from the wind, so the sea here is warm.

The surface is sandy and pebbly, with large boulders near the shore. A pontoon is set up for swimming in deeper water. A taverna with a view of the bay stands on the cliff.

• The catch: rocky bottom and boulders near the shore, not convenient for small children.
• Who it's for: divers and snorkelers, with boat and catamaran rentals on site.
• How to get there: there are no hotels nearby, so people get there by bus, taxi, or rental car.

5. Rhodes Town Beach

The town beach starts at Mandraki port and stretches toward the northern cliffs. The coastline is separated from the hotels by a stone wall, so it is calm and safe here.

Closer to the port the shore is sandy, and further on the sand gives way to fine pebbles. The entry into the water is gentle, and near the port the bottom is sandy, which is convenient for families with children.

The first line is taken up by umbrellas and loungers, with bars and water sports rental points behind them. Toilets, showers, and changing rooms are free; you only pay for loungers.

• Who it's for: families with children and those staying in nearby hotels.
• How to get there: on foot from the center of Rhodes, the beach starts at Mandraki port.
• Infrastructure: water attractions, beach games, sea excursions.

6. Lindos

© Böhringer Friedrich · CC BY-SAPhoto: Böhringer Friedrich, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5), Wikimedia Commons

Lindos lies at the foot of a knight's castle and the ancient Acropolis. To the north, in a spacious bay, is Megalos Yialos beach.

The entry into the water here is gentle, the water warms up quickly, and the shore is covered with soft sand. This makes the beach convenient for families with children. Rocks in the water are rare and covered with seaweed, so swimming is safe.

The second section, Megali Paralia, is closer to the town and is divided into two parts by a rocky outcrop. Excursion boats moor at the pier, and buses and taxis come here.

• How to get there: the most popular route is from Mandraki port by excursion boat, also by bus and taxi.
• Who it's for: families with children and those who want to combine swimming with visiting the castle.
• Infrastructure: changing rooms, fresh-water showers, volleyball and football areas, a water sports station.

7. Ixia

© Κων/νος Δόσπρας ( Kondospras ) · CC BY-SAPhoto: Κων/νος Δόσπρας ( Kondospras ), CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Ixia is on the west coast by the Aegean Sea, about 7 km from Rhodes Town (on the map). Mount Filerimos rises nearby, and beyond it lies Ialysos.

The Aegean Sea here is windy, with strong waves, so Ixia has become a favorite of kite- and windsurfers. Kite schools and windsurfing stations with experienced instructors operate here.

The coastal strip is almost entirely pebbly. The water gets deep right at the shore, waves roll in constantly, and a road runs along the beach. This is not convenient for families with children.

• How to get there: a short drive from Rhodes Town, the road runs along the coast.
• Who it's for: athletes and young people, while older tourists mostly swim in hotel pools.
• The catch: you won't get a calm swim with children because of the depth, waves, large pebbles, and the nearby road.

8. Ladiko

© Pjotr Mahhonin · CC BY-SAPhoto: Pjotr Mahhonin, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Ladiko lies in a small bay among the rocks, sheltered from the wind. The water here is always calm, which is why families with children choose this bay. The bay has two beach sections.

The first is a wide sandy strip with an even bottom and no stones. There are many paid loungers under umbrellas, but there is also space for those who sunbathe on a towel. Toilets, changing rooms, and showers are provided free of charge.

The second section is less convenient: the surface is pebbly, and you go down to the water by stairs from a small pier. On the other hand, it's good for snorkeling, and it attracts those who don't like crowds. It's easy to walk between the sections along the shore; the distance is short.

The first section is popular, so visitors arrive early in the morning: by midday the free spots under umbrellas are gone. The entry into the water here is gentle and even, so swimming with small children is comfortable. Both sections have free parking, cafes and tavernas with fish menus, and boat rental operates at the pier.

• Who it's for: families with small children, because the bay is sheltered from the wind and the bottom is even.
• Infrastructure: loungers and umbrellas on the first section, cafes and tavernas, boat and pedal boat rental.

9. Kallithea

Kallithea lies by the Mediterranean Sea not far from Faliraki and consists of a village and two fishing hamlets. The name translates as "beautiful view."

© Maurizio Ceol · CC BYPhoto: Maurizio Ceol, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

The central beach is a pebbly strip that accommodates many visitors. Palm trees and pines decorate the shore, and their shade offers a pleasant place to rest.

Kallithea has held the status of a popular resort destination for over a century. The two fishing hamlets have preserved their national character: the houses here are colorful, and handmade souvenirs hang on walls and fences. Strolling through these little streets has become an attraction in itself for tourists. Bars and restaurants are located outside the village proper so as not to disturb guests' sleep at night.

The water sports center offers water skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing, and a diving school operates here as well. A separate reason to visit: the ancient thermal baths of Kallithea with mineral water, popular with visitors. The central beach has been awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness.

• Who it's for: water sports enthusiasts and those who want to combine the beach with thermal baths.
• Infrastructure: loungers under umbrellas, snack bars and bars along the entire coast, a diving school.

10. Prasonisi

© Vadim Indeikin · CC BY-SAPhoto: Vadim Indeikin, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Prasonisi is located on a sandy isthmus where the waters of the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas meet in winter. This phenomenon is called the "kiss of the two seas."

The wind blows constantly here, so the spot has been claimed by kite- and windsurfers. The two-meter waves of the Aegean Sea suit experienced athletes, while kiters ride from the opposite side.

Regular visitors also enjoy it here: there is a thick layer of soft sand underfoot, and you can swim in both the warm Mediterranean water and the cooler Aegean. Two tavernas and one guesthouse operate on the spit.

• How to get there: mostly by your own or rented car; many people stay in tents and camper vans.
• Who it's for: kite- and windsurfers, as well as those who want to swim in two seas.
• The catch: little accommodation nearby, infrastructure limited to two tavernas and a guesthouse.

11. Ialysos

© Mitroshk · CC BYPhoto: Mitroshk, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Ialysos has been known since ancient times. Today the resort is chosen by surfing enthusiasts; the northwest wind creates good conditions for water sports.

Local and international competitions are held in Ialysos, and hotels have conference rooms. The surface is sandy-pebbly, so there is a spot for everyone.

The bottom is rocky, the waves are high, and the entry into the water is steep. You will hardly see parents with toddlers here. Water sports centers with instructors operate for athletes.

• Who it's for: surfers of any level.
• The catch: the steep entry and high waves are not suitable for small children.

12. Haraki

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Haraki grew out of a fishing village on the east coast and became a small resort. Local residents have moved into the tourism business: guesthouses, apartments, private hotels.

The beach lies in a bay surrounded by hills, so there is no wind here, and the water stays calm and warm. One half is covered with golden sand, the other is strewn with colorful pebbles.

Parents with children choose the sandy part with its gentle entry. There are no stones near the shore, but the water gets deep quickly. The clear water is good for snorkeling and diving, and evenings here are quiet: there are no discos or clubs.

• Who it's for: those seeking quiet, a calm sea, and evening sunsets.
• The catch: the water gets deep quickly, so keep that in mind with children.

13. Gennadi

Gennadi is located between Rhodes Town and Lindos, in the center of the bay of the same name. There is no luxury infrastructure here, but the beach is spacious and noticeably less crowded than at neighboring resorts.

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The strip runs from south to north and borders Kiotari. The beach has been awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness and facilities. Wooden boardwalks run across the area, making it easy to walk over the sandy-pebbly surface.

Bars, tavernas, and cafes are concentrated in the center of the strip, and there is a shop with beach supplies nearby. Not all sections are equipped, so many people come with their own towels and mats.

• Who it's for: those who want a quiet holiday away from the crowds.
• How to get there: between Rhodes and Lindos, along the coast by bus or car.
• Nearby: hotels, tavernas, pharmacies, and shops.

14. Kiotari

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Kiotari developed in the 1990s and is considered one of the best resorts on the island. It has modern infrastructure and hotels of various categories, which is why families come here.

The coastal strip is long and mostly pebbly; sandy sections are rare. The sea is emerald and clear, and the bottom is visible even at depth. The convenient entry and shallow water near the shore make the beach suitable for families with children.

Loungers with umbrellas are arranged in several rows, and wooden boardwalks lead to the sea. There are many toilets, showers, and changing cabins, and trees grow along the beach, providing shade.

Kiotari is considered one of the best-kept resorts on the island: hotel service here gets praise, and the views of the surrounding hills leave no one indifferent. Greeks come here for the weekend, so on Saturday and Sunday the beach is livelier than on weekdays. The village has vehicle rental, so you can get a car or scooter on the spot.

• Cost: a pair of loungers and an umbrella are rented out; check the exact price on site.
• Who it's for: families with children, as well as fans of water skiing and diving.
• Nearby: the ancient Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Savior, vehicle rental for trips around the island.

15. Afantou

Afantou is about 5 km from Faliraki (on the map). It is the island's most spacious beach: the terrain here is flat, with no rocks, coves, or vegetation.

The sandy strip runs in a straight line along the sea, which makes the sense of open space especially strong. A few trees grow only along the road edge, and there is almost no greenery nearby.

There are plenty of shade umbrellas and sun loungers, but you can't get by without renting them. Some visitors are put off by the uneven bottom and cool water, so Afantou remains calm rather than lively.

The scenery is built on contrast: golden sand and bright blue sea, with white umbrellas enlivening the flat shoreline. People play volleyball and soccer on the sand, tavernas host music in the evenings, and a golf course is nearby. Boat excursions depart from the shore.

• Cost: sun lounger and umbrella rental, few spots of your own on the sand, check the price on site.
• Who it's for: fans of sea activities, surfing, diving, and water skiing.
• Nearby: tavernas with lunches and music evenings, a golf course not far away.

16. Pefkos

© Sedohr · CC BYPhoto: Sedohr, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Pefkos grew out of a fishing settlement and became a popular resort on the south coast. The name translates from Greek as "pine."

Pines grow everywhere: in the village, on the mountain slopes, and along the beach. The beach of the same name is covered with bright yellow sand on one half and fine pebbles on the other. The bottom is even, with no unexpected drop-offs.

The mountains shelter Pefkos from the wind, so the water here is calm. At the end of the strip you can explore caves among the rocks, and in the evenings visitors enjoy sunsets and sunrises.

• Who it's for: those looking for a quiet southern resort with Greek character.
• Infrastructure: shade canopies, umbrellas, loungers, and rental equipment for water sports.

17. Kalafos

Kalafos is about 5 km from Lindos (on the map). The coastline stretches for 4 km, and the pebbles here are so fine they resemble sand.

© User:Piotrus · CC BY-SAPhoto: User:Piotrus, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

In places there are sharp stones, so without water shoes it's easy to cut your feet. The entry into the water is gradual, but it gets deep quickly, so children should wear armbands or use a ring.

Trees grow along the beach providing shade, and some sections belong to hotels and are equipped with loungers. There are also wild stretches without loungers or umbrellas, chosen by fans of secluded relaxation. A local legend is tied to Kalafos: the bay was supposedly given to people by grateful gods. Beach gear is sold in village shops, and small children should have inflatable armbands or a ring, as it gets deep quickly here.

• Who it's for: those who want quiet and are willing to do without infrastructure.
• The catch: sharp stones on the bottom, you need water shoes for swimming.
• How to get there: about 5 km from Lindos (on the map).

18. Lakania

Lakania has long attracted artists and poets with its picturesque views. The small resort village is decorated with Greek-style houses, orange trees, and small fountains.

A series of beaches with golden sand stretches along the sea. In the cozy bay the water warms up, stays clean and transparent, and the bottom is visible even at depth.

It's quiet here: no blaring music, no rowdy crowds, and the entry into the sea is easy. Lakania suits families with children and older couples. The local hotels and villas are well maintained, and the hosts are friendly and welcoming. The low number of visitors attracts those tired of busy resorts, which is why there are few hotels here. It's pleasant to walk even without going to the beach: the village is compact, and views of the bay open up from several points.

• Who it's for: couples and families who value quiet and privacy.
• How to get there: by car or taxi along the south coast.

19. Kremasti

© A.Savin · CC BY-SAPhoto: A.Savin, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Kremasti lies on the west coast near the international airport and the Valley of the Butterflies. It is a popular resort with modern infrastructure and a convenient beach.

Kremasti beach is a wide pebble strip: part of the shore is developed, part remains wild. The coast's defining features: constant strong wind, picturesque stones, and abundant greenery.

The beach regulars are surfers, as the waves allow riding almost around the clock. A gradual entry into the water is rare here; the depth starts almost immediately at the shore, so Kremasti is not suitable for small children.

• Who it's for: surfers looking for consistent waves.
• The catch: depth at the shore and wind, poorly suited for children.
• How to get there: by bus, taxi, or rental car.

20. Tsambika

© dronepicr · CC BYPhoto: dronepicr, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), Wikimedia Commons

Tsambika is named after the mountain at the northern end of the beach strip, on top of which stands the monastery of the same name. The mountain shields the wide strip of golden sand from the north wind.

From the south the area is also surrounded by mountains, so it's calm here in any weather. The water changes color: in the morning it looks light green, and by day it turns bright blue.

The entry into the sea is easy: no stones, and the depth increases gradually. Tsambika is chosen by families with children, snorkelers, and those who enjoy a relaxed vacation. There are no hotels here, so getting there by car is more convenient.

• Who it's for: families with children and fans of snorkeling.
• The catch: inconvenient to reach by public transport, no hotels nearby.
• Infrastructure: loungers in the northern part, a few tavernas, rental equipment for sea activities.

Rhodes beaches on the map

The map below shows the beaches from this selection: from Faliraki and Tsambika in the east to Prasonisi in the south. Open the map to see which beaches are near your hotel and plan your trip in advance.

⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

Where are the sandy beaches on Rhodes?

There are quite a few sandy beaches on the island. Tsambika, Pefkos, Ladiko, and Afantou are fully or almost fully covered with sand, and Ladiko and Tsambika have a gentle entry. At Faliraki and the Rhodes town beach, sand extends to the middle, then mixes with pebbles. If you specifically want sand, choose the east and south coast.

Which Rhodes beaches are suitable for children?

The best options for children are Ladiko, Tsambika, Pefkos, Gennadi, and Megalos Yialos in Lindos. These have a soft bottom, a gentle entry, and calm water. Ixia, Ialyssos, Kremasti, and Anthony Quinn Bay are not suitable: the depth starts at the shore, with high waves and stones.

Where can you surf on Rhodes?

Surfers choose Ixia, Ialyssos, Kremasti, and Prasonisi. The west and south of the island have constant wind, and the waves suit both beginners and experienced athletes. Ixia and Ialyssos have windsurfing schools and stations with instructors, and at Prasonisi people kite on both sides of the spit.

How much does it cost to rent loungers and umbrellas?

There is no single rate: the price is set by the beach, section, or hotel owner, so it varies from beach to beach and by season. On developed sections you pay for a pair of loungers with an umbrella, while on the wild beaches of Tsambika, Lakania, and Kalafos you can lie on your own towel for free. Check the exact price on site.

How do you get to the beaches without a car?

Buses and taxis run to Faliraki, Lindos, Ixia, Ialyssos, Kremasti, and Gennadi. To Prasonisi, Tsambika, and Lakania, public transport runs rarely or not at all, so a rental car is more convenient. Anthony Quinn Bay has no hotels of its own; people get there by taxi or bus.

In short: what to book

Below is a quick decision guide so you don't have to reread the whole selection.

If you're traveling with children: choose Ladiko, Tsambika, Pefkos, or Gennadi. If you want surfing: Ixia, Ialyssos, Kremasti, or Prasonisi. If you need a city beach near your hotel: Elli and the Rhodes town beach. If quiet matters: Lakania, Haraki, and Kalafos.

Swimming is most comfortable from May through September, and accommodation near Faliraki and Lindos should be booked in advance: in high season, hotels near popular beaches fill up months ahead.