It is an arduous task to compile a list of the most beautiful beaches on Rhodes. The island is very large and its coastline is dotted with magnificent beaches of all sizes, from kilometre-long shorelines to tiny coves known only to the locals. There are so many that even if you concentrate your holiday in one area, there is no guarantee that you will be able to see them all!
This great quantity goes hand in hand with variety: in Rhodes you can find sandy, pebble or rocky beaches; those with deep waters prevail, but there are also beaches with slowly sloping seabeds suitable for small children and inexperienced swimmers.
There are beaches equipped with umbrellas, sports fields and bars for those who do not want to take an extra step beyond the hotel-beach route, and wild beaches without any services for those who put nature first.
So how do you choose the best beaches in Rhodes? Inevitably, one has to do some beautiful beaches or bays a disservice and exclude them from the list and include only those beaches one really cannot help but see.
Of course, taste is a matter of taste, and of the recommended beaches in Rhodes below, some will be perfect for you and the type of holiday you dream of, while others will not be for you. Don’t worry, because this list is just a start: on the largest island of the Dodecanese, all you have to do is start your car and drive a few kilometres to find dream beaches!
Lindos is the most romantic town on Rhodes and the most visited resort after the capital. Its main beach, comprising two areas sometimes referred to by the single name of ‘Lindos Beach’ and sometimes by separate names (Main Beach and Pallas Beach), is an enchanting sandy beach bathed by calm blue waters.
The scenery is fairy-tale: behind the beach rises a hillock on which the typical white Lindos houses are perched, dominated by a fortress that hides a thousand-year-old acropolis; there is also abundant Mediterranean vegetation.
The beach at Lindos is perfect for a memorable day trip: start with a visit to the town and its cultural attractions, dive into the sea and then onto the sun lounger for relaxation, and return to town for a tasty dinner in one of the delicious little restaurants with a rooftop terrace.
Hidden beneath the Acropolis of Lindos, St Paul’s Bay owes its name to the small white chapel dedicated to the apostle who, according to tradition, landed here in AD 43. This horseshoe-shaped cove, almost completely enclosed, is protected by rock formations that shelter it from the winds, creating an oasis of tranquillity. The sand is fine and golden, while the emerald-green waters are so transparent that it is possible to see the seabed even at a depth of several metres.
The intimate size of the bay makes it particularly romantic and secluded, perfect for those seeking privacy and a suggestive atmosphere. The rocky seabed and sea caves around the perimeter of the bay offer excellent opportunities for snorkelling. The sheltered position keeps the sea always calm, even when there are strong winds elsewhere on the island. During the summer season, it is advisable to arrive early in the morning to find space, given the growing popularity of this little hidden paradise.
Faliraki beach stretches for more than 5 kilometres along the east coast, representing one of the most organised and lively beach resorts on Rhodes. The golden sand is interspersed with stretches of smooth pebbles, while the cobalt-blue sea offers gradually sloping seabed, ideal for both families and experienced swimmers. Its strategic location, only 15 kilometres from Rhodes town, makes it easily accessible by regular public transport.
Faliraki is famous for its intense nightlife and wide range of water sports: from parasailing to jet skiing, from diving to banana boats. The beach is fully equipped with every comfort, including restaurants, beach bars and wellness centres. During the day the atmosphere is familiar and relaxed, while at sunset it transforms into one of the island’s nightlife centres. The quality of services and the variety of activities available make Faliraki an excellent choice for those seeking a dynamic and complete holiday.
The Kalithea Baths represent one of Rhodes’ architectural and natural gems, where history and scenic beauty come together in an extraordinary way. Built in the 1920s during the period of Italian rule, the oriental-style structures with polychrome mosaics and ornamental fountains create a unique atmosphere in the Mediterranean. The small pebble beach is nestled between rock formations that plunge directly into the emerald green sea.
The crystal-clear waters and rocky seabed rich in marine life make this an ideal place for snorkelling and diving. The ancient thermal springs, no longer active, have left a legacy of an architectural complex of rare beauty, recently restored and transformed into a cultural centre. The bay is protected from the winds and always maintains calm sea conditions, while the secluded location offers an escape from the crowds of Rhodes’ most famous beaches. Cultural events and concerts are organised during the summer season, adding charm to this already magical place.
The most photographed beach in Rhodes is undoubtedly Anthony Quinn’s Bay, a piece of paradise on earth capable of enchanting even a Hollywood star who had seen quite a bit of the world.
Now renamed after the American actor who fell in love with it, it is a rocky beach squeezed between two promontories covered in vegetation and washed by an emerald sea. The rocks form natural terraces, ideal for those who like to bask in the sun for hours without annoying grains of sand on their skin. Due to the crystal-clear waters and the seabed rich in marine flora and fauna, this beach is also recommended for snorkelling enthusiasts.
Many tourists visit it fleetingly as a stop on a day tour of Rhodes: a pity, because this beauty deserves more than half an hour. If you like the scenery but are bothered by the hustle and bustle, move to the nearby beach of Ladiko: the same beauty with far fewer people.
Tsambika beach is distinguished by its fine, golden sand, a rarity on the Greek islands where pebbles prevail. Situated 26 kilometres south of Rhodes town, this wide bay is dominated by the monastery of Panagia Tsambika that stands on the hill above, reached via a flight of 300 steps. The azure waters and gently sloping shallows make this beach particularly popular with families with children.
The location on the east coast provides protection from the Meltemi winds, keeping the sea always calm and ideal for swimming. The beach is partially organised with sunbeds and umbrellas, but also has large free areas where you can lay out your towel on the soft sand. Beach bars offer refreshments and traditional Greek dishes, while the panoramic view from the monastery above offers one of the most beautiful sunsets in Rhodes. Local legend has it that women who climb barefoot to the monastery receive a fertility blessing.
Tucked away in a sheltered bay along the east coast, Agathi beach is a small treasure trove of fine, light golden sand. Located a few kilometres from the village of Haraki, this beach of about 200 metres is surrounded by rocky hills that shelter it from the winds, creating a particularly mild microclimate. The turquoise waters maintain shallow waters for many metres, ideal for families and less experienced swimmers.
The surrounding landscape is dominated by the ruins of Feraklos Castle, a 13th century Byzantine fortress that adds historical charm to the natural beauty of the place. The beach provides essential services without being overly commercialised, maintaining anauthentic and relaxedatmosphere. The rock formations at either end of the bay provide natural shade and vantage points to admire the coastline. During the hottest hours, the sea breeze from the open sea naturally cools the environment, making your stay particularly pleasant.
Vlycha beach stretches across a vast coastal plain that slopes gently down to the sea, creating one of the widest and most welcoming beaches on Rhodes. Located between Lindos and Lardos, this beach of sand mixed with fine gravel offers shallow waters for hundreds of metres, making it particularly safe for children. The waters have the characteristic of being slightly warmer than in other parts of the island, thanks to the protected conformation of the bay.
The strategic location provides an exceptional panoramic view of the southern coast of Rhodes, while the constant breeze makes the climate particularly pleasant even on the hottest days. The beach is well equipped with spaced-out sunbeds that provide privacy, beach bars and restaurants serving local specialities. Water activities include non-motorised water sports and kayaking excursions to nearby coves. In the evening, Vlycha turns into one of the most romantic spots to watch the sunset over the island’s south coast.
Glystra beach is an oasis of tranquillity located 11 kilometres south of Lindos, surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation that reaches all the way to the shore. This small cove of about 180 metres is characterised by fine golden sand and smooth pebbles, while the crystal-clear waters maintain a particularly intense emerald-green hue. The privacy offered by the surrounding vegetation and the slightly hidden position make it ideal for those seeking relaxation away from the crowds.
The beach has a modern service centre that includes safes and USB sockets for recharging electronic devices, services that are rare on Greek beaches. The natural shade provided by maritime pines eliminates the need for umbrellas for much of the day, while the rocky seabed at either end offers excellent snorkelling opportunities. The cosy atmosphere and quality services have made Glystra a favourite destination for discerning travellers who appreciate comfort without sacrificing contact with unspoilt nature.
Afandou beach stretches over 4 kilometres along the eastern coastline, representing one of the largest and least crowded beaches in Rhodes. The name means ‘hidden’ in Greek, referring to the location of the village that is not visible from the sea, a feature that in the past protected the inhabitants from pirate raids. The beach alternates between stretches of coarse sand and areas of smooth pebbles, offering scenic variety throughout its development.
The vastness of the beach guarantees space and privacy even during the busiest periods, while the gradually sloping seabed makes it safe for all ages. The presence of the Rhodes Golf Course in the immediate vicinity adds a touch of exclusivity to the area, while the village’s traditional taverns offer authentic Rhodian cuisine. Its central location on the east coast makes it an excellent base for exploring the other beaches of Rhodes, while retaining a genuine, uncommercialised character.
The small fishing village of Haraki is home to one of Rhodes’ most authentic and least touristy beaches. This crescent-shaped bay is protected by the ruins of Feraklos Castle, which dominates from above, creating a setting of rare historical charm. The beach of smooth pebbles and coarse sand faces turquoise waters that are particularly calm, thanks to its position sheltered from the prevailing winds.
The atmosphere in Haraki is that of authentic Greece, frequented mainly by Greek families who own second homes here. The village’s traditional tavernas serve fresh fish caught daily from local boats, while the cafés on the main square maintain the traditions of Greek hospitality. The beach is devoid of large commercial structures, retaining a wild and genuine character. Castle views and walks among the ruins add a unique cultural value to this authentic bathing experience, allowing one to discover the Dodecanese islands in their most genuine form.
Situated between Faliraki and Afandou, Traganou Beach is a hidden gem characterised by silver pebbles glistening in the sun and deep blue waters. The uniqueness of this beach lies in the sea caves at its northern end, some of which can be reached by swimming for the more adventurous. The rock formations surrounding the bay create natural pools where the water takes on particularly intense tones.
The beach maintains a wild character with minimal facilities, attracting mainly nature lovers and photographers who appreciate the play of light created by the rocks and the sea. The rocky seabed is home to a rich and varied marine fauna, making Traganou one of the best snorkelling spots on the island. During sunset hours, the reflections on the silver pebbles and rocky walls create a colourful spectacle of rare beauty.
At the southernmost tip of Rhodes, Prassonisi represents one of the most spectacular natural phenomena in the eastern Mediterranean. During the summer, a tongue of sand connects the islet of Prassonisi to the mainland, dividing the Aegean Sea from the Mediterranean Sea and creating two bays with completely different characteristics. The western side is exposed to the Meltemi winds with waves and ideal conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing, while the eastern side maintains calmer waters.
Prassonisi is considered a must-see destination for sailing water sports, attracting athletes from all over the continent thanks to the constant winds that blow from April to October. The landscape, characterised by sand dunes and steppe vegetation, offers almost desert-like scenery of great beauty. During the winter, when the tongue of sand is submerged by the tides, the islet detaches itself from the mainland, creating a unique natural phenomenon that adds charm to this already extraordinary place, a must-see destination for visitors to the Greek islands.
In the southern part of Rhodes, Gennadi beach offers a bohemian and relaxed atmosphere that attracts travellers in search of authenticity. This long beach of pebbles and coarse sand is famous for its beach bars that play music from the 70s and 80s, creating a nostalgic, laid-back atmosphere. The turquoise waters and relatively isolated location guarantee tranquillity away from the routes of mass tourism.
The village of Gennadi retains the character of an authentic Greek village, with traditional houses and taverns serving fresh fish and local specialities. The beach is mainly free, with a few equipped stretches that do not compromise the natural atmosphere of the place. During sunset, the orientation of the coastline offers spectacular views of the open sea, while the constant breeze keeps the climate pleasant even on the hottest days. Gennadi is the ideal choice for those who appreciate an alternative and genuinely Greek atmosphere.
Tucked away along Rhodes’ less-explored west coast, Fourni is a tongue of sand and pebbles surrounded by rocky promontories of white limestone. This remote beach is reached via a dirt road that snakes through the island’s highest mountains, offering breathtaking views of the wild coastline along the way. The emerald green waters contrast dramatically with the white rocks and Mediterranean vegetation.
The isolated location and essential facilities keep Fourni in an exceptional state of natural preservation, frequented mainly by hikers and nature lovers. The sea caves that open up along the coast offer shelter during the hottest hours and opportunities for exploration for the more adventurous. The beach is exposed to westerly winds, which create attractive conditions for water sports during the summer, while maintaining a wild and unspoilt character. The silence and solitude of Fourni offer a unique bathing experience, far from conventional tourism, similar to that found on the more remote Aegean islands.
Elli Beach deserves to be in the list of the 10 most beautiful beaches in Rhodes ever, yet it is only known to tourists who book their hotel in this area.
Everyone else ignores it completely, leaving this beautiful, fully-equipped beach to all-inclusive holidaymakers and the citizens of Rhodes. A secret revealed that you should treasure!
Ixia beach is a stretch of sandy shore more than 10 km west of Rhodes town. The wind conditions and the shallow waters, less shallow than on other beaches in the area, make it a perfect surfing beach.
It is also a recommended beach for sunset lovers: the north-west location is perfect for admiring an evocative sunset with fiery hues.
The area is full of hotels and all-inclusive resorts, but the beach is also frequented by many locals and is therefore a good vantage point for observing local life. There are many shops, bars and restaurants, so those who wish to stay beyond sunset will find plenty of places to spend the evening.
Remote and secluded, Plimiri (or Plimmiri) is a top spot for those looking for a beach to enjoy in complete solitude and for nature lovers. Bounded by sand dunes at the back, this picturesque sandy beach offers natural shelters from the sun thanks to its rich vegetation.
With no services and few people, it is an oasis of relaxation and peace that will seem light years away from the fashionable resorts of the north.
One of the most beautiful beaches on the west coast of Rhodes is Glifada, located in the south-central part of the island at a considerable distance from the capital (about 72 km). Remote and wild-looking, ignored by mass tourism, it is a picturesque pebble beach surrounded by lush vegetation.
Recommended for snorkelling enthusiasts.
In the following map you can see the location of the main places of interest mentioned in this article.
Do you want to look for the best beach for you regardless of the area? Do you want to be the centre of attention or on the contrary stay away from the crowds?
To help you choose, we have grouped the best beaches in Rhodes by type:
👨👩👧👦 Beaches for families with children: families will find Tsambika, Vlycha and Agathi ideal for their shallow, gently sloping sandy seabed, while Lindos and Faliraki offer full services, easy access and facilities designed for children. Afandou provides ample space to play on the sand without excessive crowding.
🏄♂️ Beaches for water sports: lovers of sailing sports should not miss Prasonisi, considered the European Mecca for windsurfing and kitesurfing thanks to the constant Meltemi winds. The west coast with Ixia offers ideal conditions for surfing, while the calm waters of the east coast are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.
🤿 Beaches for snorkelling and diving: Anthony Quinn Bay, Kallithea and Traganou offer rocky seabeds rich in marine life, crystal-clear waters and spectacular underwater formations. The sea caves of Traganou and the underwater mosaics of Kallithea create unique settings for diving enthusiasts.
🧘♀️ Beaches for those seeking tranquillity: lovers of peace will appreciate Glystra, Fourni and Haraki, where the relaxed atmosphere and fewer tourists guarantee privacy and authentic contact with nature. St Paul’s Bay offers a romantic and intimate retreat.
🏛️ Beaches for authentic atmospheres: those seeking the true Greek spirit will choose Gennadi with its nostalgic beach bars and Haraki with its fishermen’s taverns. Fourni on the west coast offers wild and unspoilt landscapes far from conventional tourism.
The east coast provides calm seas and protection from the winds, ideal for relaxation and safe swimming, while the west coast offers wilder scenery and perfect conditions for sailing sports. Each beach in Rhodes tells a different story, allowing one to discover a new aspect of this magnificent Dodecanese island every day, perfect for those wishing to explore the beauty of the Greek islands.
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