Beaches
The best beaches in Rhodes, from Lindos to Prasonisi
Rhodes has calm coves on the east coast, windy beaches in the west and a spot at the southern tip where two seas meet. These are the beaches worth your time, and the hotels we would book.
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From the acropolis in Lindos you look straight down into St Paul's Bay, an almost enclosed cove with water that shifts from turquoise to deep blue. The white village climbs the hill above, and in the morning it is quiet enough to hear the boats chugging in to the jetty. It is one of the most beautiful places to swim in Greece.
Rhodes is easy to read when it comes to beaches. The east coast is sheltered from the wind and has calm coves of sand and pebbles. The west coast catches the meltemi wind in summer and suits surfers better. At the very south lies Prasonisi. We have split the island into three, with the beaches worth the trip and who they suit.
Short answer: which beaches in Rhodes are best?
St Paul's Bay near Lindos is the most beautiful, and Tsambika is the best sandy beach for families. Anthony Quinn Bay is best for snorkelling, and Prasonisi in the south is best for windsurfing and kiting. In Rhodes Town, Elli is the easiest beach if you stay in town.
Most beautiful cove: St Paul's Bay, Lindos
Best sandy beach: Tsambika
Best for snorkelling: Anthony Quinn Bay
Best for wind and surf: Prasonisi
Best in town: Elli, Rhodes Town
Lindos Blu
The sea view pool at Lindos Blu on Rhodes.
Lindos and the east coast: calm coves
St Paul's Bay lies below the acropolis and is almost fully enclosed by rock, so the water stays calm even when it blows. Tradition says the apostle Paul came ashore here. Lindos's main beach is on the other side of the village and is bigger, with sunbeds and tavernas.
Tsambika is a long sandy beach north of Lindos, with a small monastery on the hill above. The water stays shallow a long way out, which makes the beach popular with families. Climb the steps to the monastery for a view of the whole coast.
Anthony Quinn Bay near Faliraki is a small cove of rocks and clear water, named after the actor who filmed on Rhodes. The beach is small, but the snorkelling is among the best on the island. Come early, as parking fills up fast.
Lindos Blu: views over the bay
Lindos Blu sits on the slope above Vlicha Bay just outside Lindos, with pools looking out over the sea. The hotel is adults only and suits couples looking for peace. St Paul's Bay and the village are close, but you will need a car or taxi to get there.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Lindos Blu
Kokkini Porta Rossa
The stone gateway into Kokkini Porta Rossa in the old town of Rhodes.
Rhodes Town and Kallithea
Elli is the town beach in Rhodes Town, just north of the old town, with a diving tower out in the water. It is sand and pebbles and gets lively in the afternoon. Swim here, then walk into the old town for dinner.
A little south of town is Kallithea, with spa buildings from the Italian era and small coves of clear water between the rocks. There is an entrance fee, but the place is pretty and good for snorkelling.
Kokkini Porta Rossa: inside the old town
Kokkini Porta Rossa is a small hotel in an old stone house in the old town of Rhodes, with few rooms and a quiet courtyard. Elli and the restaurants inside the walls are within walking distance. It suits you if you want to combine the beach with city life.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Kokkini Porta Rossa
The southern tip and west coast: Prasonisi and the wind
Prasonisi lies at the very south of Rhodes, where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean. A sand spit joins the island to a small islet, with calm water on one side and waves on the other. That makes it one of the best spots in Europe for windsurfing and kiting.
The west coast around Ixia and Ialyssos has long pebbly beaches, but the wind often blows in summer. It suits surfers, less so small children. Read our Rhodes guide.
When to go
May, June, September and October: warm enough to swim, with fewer people in Lindos.
July and August: hottest and busiest. The meltemi wind often blows, especially on the west coast.
Timing: day trippers reach Lindos in the middle of the day. Swim in St Paul's Bay early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Car hire: makes it easy to reach Tsambika, Anthony Quinn Bay and Prasonisi on the same trip.
Frequently asked questions about Rhodes's beaches
What is the best beach in Rhodes?
St Paul's Bay near Lindos is the most beautiful. Tsambika is the best sandy beach, and Anthony Quinn Bay is best for snorkelling.
Is the east or west coast of Rhodes better for swimming?
The east coast is sheltered from the wind and has calmer water. The west coast is windier and better for surfers.
Does Rhodes have sandy beaches?
Yes. Tsambika, Lindos main beach and Prasonisi are sandy, while Elli and many west coast beaches are sand and pebbles.
Where is best for swimming with children in Rhodes?
Tsambika has shallow water a long way out and suits children well. Lindos main beach is calm too.
What is special about Prasonisi?
Prasonisi is where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean, with calm water on one side and waves on the other. It is a popular spot for windsurfing and kiting.