Rhodes beaches: The 12 most beautiful swimming spots

The countless bays and Beaches of Rhodes enable a carefree beach holiday. Along the 220 km of coastline of the Greek island, there are pebble and sandy beaches that range from golden to ash gray – depending on your taste and mood.

“There is hardly a beach on the sunny island that is not used for tourism – but the quietest bathing spots are still the Rhodes beaches in the south.”

While on the west coast of Rhodes high waves meet grey pebble and stone beaches in strong winds, the east coast offers numerous wind-protected bays with fine sandy beaches. Between Faliraki and Lindos, one beautiful stretch of beach follows the other and especially in the high season no lounger remains unused.

If you are looking for quieter places, then a visit to the Rhodes beaches in the south is worthwhile. If you accept the 80 km drive from the island’s capital to the very bottom, you will still find secluded bays where you can enjoy undisturbed swimming on Rhodes.

Enclosed we show you a personal selection of beautiful Rhodes beaches that we visited during our stay on the island:

Rhodes beaches in the east

#1 Anthony Quinn Bay

In the dreamlike bay, the turquoise blue sea glistens and invites you to take a dip in the cool water. Parasols and sun loungers are available on the pebble beach for a fee. In summer, this popular Rhodes Beach often is overcrowded, as many excursion boats also arrive at the bay.

For food we recommend the Kounna Beach & Resto Bar above the Anthony Quinn Beach. The chilled atmosphere and the magnificent view of the bay compensate for the relatively high prices.

Incidentally, the bay owes its name to the American actor Anthony Quinn, who filmed parts of the film “The Guns of Navarone” here in 1961. Out of gratitude, the former government named this beautiful bay on Rhodes after him. An alternative to Anhony Quinn Beach is the Ladiko Beach, which is very inviting in the low season.

If you want to experience the coast in a different way, you can explore the beautiful beaches of Rhodes in the east by boat or kayak. About our partner GetYourGuide* you can book an exciting day tour here:

➲ To the kayak tour incl. snorkeling*

#2 Afandou Beach

The kilometre-long stretch of grey pebble/sandy beach in the east of Rhodes leads from Traganou Beach in a southerly direction into Afandou Beach.

Since no large hotel complexes have settled on this stretch of beach so far, it is still pleasantly quiet even in the high season. There are numerous places where you can swim undisturbed.

In the northern part, on the Traganou Beach, you can explore sea caves. The sea is very clear on both stretches of beach. The beach quickly drops quite deep and is therefore only suitable for families with children to a limited extent. The ground is also quite rocky in the water, so bathing shoes are an advantage.

In the beach bar Sundalia on the Beach you can relax with a Freddo espresso or chilling cocktail. The ambience is very tasteful and makes a lot of impression as a beach bar and bistro. Especially the homemade pizzas have remained in our best memories.

#3 Stegna Beach

Stegna is a popular seaside village on Rhodes with a long sandy beach divided into several areas. The beach section on the promenade is ideal for families with children, as it slopes gently into the clear sea. The northern part of Stegna beach is unmanaged and is a place for meditation.

Along the seafront there are numerous taverns and cafes that rent sun loungers and umbrellas. There are also plenty of natural sections. For us, Stegna Beach is one of the most beautiful places on the island to unwind.

To the south of Stegna lies the Grand Blue Beach, a dreamlike bay with turquoise blue waters and sea caves perfect for snorkelling. Even the descent over many steps to the pebble beach is a highlight. There is a beach bar on site that rents sunbeds and umbrellas. The entrance to the sea is shallow, bathing shoes are recommended because of some rocks in the water.

Stegna is too boring for you and you prefer to party extensively, are you into banana boats, water skiing and stand-up paddling? Then you should definitely head to Tsambika Beach, just 7 km north, which offers plenty of water sports.

#4 Red Sand Beaches

Between Stegna and Charaki there are several secluded bays with reddish sand and pebble beaches. From Archangelos, a bad gravel road leads to one of the red beaches (Cape Archangelos Beach). Red Sand Beach itself is only accessible by boat.

Above Cape Archangelos Beach there is an unpaved parking lot. From here it is only a short walk to two natural bays. Even in the high season, there is little going on here and you can refresh yourself wonderfully in the clear sea water.

#5 Agathi Beach

Gorgeous golden sandy beach and shallow, crystal-clear waters make Agathi Beach an ideal place to stay for the whole day and a nice bathing spot on Rhodes for families with children. In the high season, however, it is very crowded and completely paved with expensive parasols and deck chairs.

At the northern end of Agathi Beach, near the stunning cave church, there is a secluded spot where you can relax under the shade of tamarisk trees. We recommend a visit especially in the low season.

#6 St. Paul’s Bay from Lindos

The Saint Paul’s Beach is located south of Lindos directly behind the Acropolis. You have to share the dreamlike scenery with numerous sun worshippers, especially during the holiday season.

The sheltered bay with sandy beach offers crystal clear water and ideal conditions for a day of swimming. If you want to get hold of an expensive deck chair with a parasol, you should arrive early at the St. Paul’s Bay of Lindos, because already in the morning all seats are usually occupied.

A beach restaurant takes care of the physical well-being, the prices are high according to the location. Changing rooms, showers and toilets are available.

During the season, St. Paul’s Bay is often used by excursion boats from the northern Rhodes Resorts and is therefore often overcrowded. In the low season it is quieter and a boat trip to Lindos is a pleasure. Click on the link from GetYourGuide* to learn more about the beautiful tour:

➲ To the guided boat trip to Lindos*

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle during the day, visit St. Paul’s Bay in the evening. Then the mood on site in the Restaurant Tambakio Particularly romantic. By candlelight, you sit on wooden chairs with your feet in the sand and end the day comfortably with a glass of wine.

#7 Glystra Beach

Between Lindos and Kiotari, the road leads along the Glystra Beach. The wind-protected bay impresses with its golden sandy beach, which slopes gently into the sea. The water is crystal clear and shallow, ideal also for children who can splash around safely.

The forest fires in 2023 have really taken their toll on the region around the beach. The scene beach bar burned down at the time. The beach is also well visited in the high season. In the low season, there is usually still enough space.

Rhodes beaches in the west

#8 Kopria Beach

If you have worked up a sweat after visiting Kritinia Castle, you can cool off at Kopria Beach. The small pebble beach is located in a picturesque bay. The crystal clear water shimmers turquoise blue.

Parasols and sun loungers are free of charge, above is located Johnny’s Bar, a simple tavern with cool drinks and Greek food. Changing rooms, showers and toilets are also available.

In the high season, the Kopria Bay is well attended. In the low season parasols and sunbeds are usually dismantled and it gets quieter. Kopria Beach is only suitable to a limited extent for children, as the beach drops down relatively quickly.

#9 Rhodes beaches at Cape Fourni

South of the ruins of Monolithos Castle lies Cape Fourni with two relatively quiet pebble beaches. At Fourni Beach you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas in high season. The beach was a bit overgrown with seagrass at the time of our visit.

At Fourni Beach there is also a simple food truck in summer time. Immediately behind it stretches the rocky promontory of the cape, on which some old burial chambers can also be visited.

If you follow the path over the rocks of Cape Fourni, you will reach a small bay on the opposite side. The narrow sandy beach is embedded in sandstone cliffs and the sea is turquoise blue.

Depending on the wind strength, there can be high waves on the west coast, so these Rhodes beaches are only suitable for families with children to a limited extent. If you want to experience the picturesque coast from the sea, we recommend a Rhodes Sailing Trip or catamaran ride, ideally at sunset. Click on the links for more information on GetYourGuide*:

➲ To the all-inclusive catamaran trip with BBQ*

➲ To the sunset sailing trip*

#10 Limni Beach

On the west coast there are natural coastal sections near Apolakkia with grey sandy beaches, which are very quiet even in the high season, but partly polluted with flotsam (including plastic waste).

In case of strong winds, the Limni Beach due to high waves, it is only suitable for swimming to a limited extent. You have to bring your own beach umbrella and food, there is only a simple changing room and a beach shower on site.

Rhodes beaches in the south

#11 Agios Georgios Beach

The long, still undeveloped stretch of beach in the far southeast is a real insider tip and our personal favourite beach on Rhodes. Beautiful golden sand beach meets crystal clear water here. The entrance to the sea is shallow and therefore also ideal for children.

The Agios Georgios Beachis natural and not cultivated. For a long day at the beach, you should have a parasol in your luggage in addition to drinks and snacks, as there are no shady trees.

The access is via a gravel road from Agios Pavlos in the direction of Agios Georgios Chapel. In front of the dunes there is a small parking bay where you can park your car. Please help to keep the beautiful dune landscape and the beach free of garbage.

About 5 km from Agios Georgios Beach in the hamlet of Agios Pavlos is the beautiful Café Kolonie San Marco. Here you can enjoy delicious homemade snacks and fresh aloe vera juice in an absolutely idyllic atmosphere.

#12 Prasonisi Beach

At the Southern tip of Rhodes is the surfing mecca of the island. The wide sandy beach is dominated by kiters and windsurfers in strong winds, who find ideal conditions here. However, the sandbank in front also offers enough space to cool off.

Especially in the high season, Prasonisi Beach is heavily frequented and partly polluted by plastic waste. Depending on the water level, you can cross over to the opposite island. Pay attention to the currents in the water, they are very strong here, as this is where the Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean Sea.

Prasoinisi is not to be missed during your holiday in Rhodes. If that’s too much hustle and bustle for you, you can look for one of the natural beach sections between Prasonisi and Agios Georgios Beach, which can only be reached via bad gravel roads.

Rhodes Beachfront Hotels

The choice of hotels in Rhodes is large, many of which are even located in the immediate vicinity of the sea. The most popular seaside resorts are Faliraki, Kolymbia and Ialyssos. The latter is located in the immediate vicinity of the airport. Individualists seeking peace and quiet look for a villa or a holiday apartment in the south.

Our recommendations for beach resorts on Rhodes as well as studios and apartments near the beach and more information on availability and prices can be found at Booking.com*:

Afandou Beach Villas Sofias, Afandou

Tasteful villa with beautiful garden and large pool near the beach of Afandou. Extensive facilities and space for up to 8 people. Good base to explore the island!

➲ Book Afandou Beach Villas*

Apollo Blue Hotel, Faliraki

Popular 5-star hotel right on the sandy beach of Faliraki. Clean, spacious rooms, extensive leisure and sports facilities, friendly service and very good food. The green area is spacious and well-kept. Also ideal for family holidays.

➲ To book from the Apollo Blue Hotel*

Atrium Prestige Thalasso Spa Resort & Villas, Lachania

Luxurious 5-star hotel away from the crowds in the south of the island. Very well maintained, spacious grounds, good cuisine and friendly staff.

➲ To book the Atrium Prestige*

Ladiko Inn Hotel, Faliraki

Family-run 3-star hotel on the seafront, close to the famous Anthony Quinn Bay. Comfortable rooms with balcony or terrace, helpful staff and fair prices.

➲ To book from the Ladiko Inn Hotel*

Anatoli Traditional Villa, Stegna

Joan rents out a chic stone house right by the sea in a quiet location south of Stegna. High quality finishes, amazing views and private beach.

➲ Book Anatoli Traditional Villa*

Excursions and tours to Rhodes beaches

Discover the island’s beautiful beaches from the water: by submarine, snorkeling, kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding. The following excursions are very popular with holidaymakers and will show you the coast of Rhodes from a completely different perspective. The links lead to the GetYourGuide* tour portal*:

➲ To the tour with the yellow submarine*

➲ To the sea kayak tour along the coast*

More Rhodes Travel Tips you can get in the following articles:

• Our highlights in Rhodes
• Rhodes Holidays – 11 Important information
• Rhodes Excursions & Tours
• Rhodes with children
• Best hotels in Rhodes
• Day trip to Rhodes Town
• Seven Springs Rhodes

FAQ for Rhodes Beaches

Which are the most beautiful beaches on Rhodes?

Our top 3: Agios Georgios Beach (our favorite beach with golden sand), Anthony Quinn Bay (turquoise blue water), and Stegna Beach (perfect for relaxing). The east coast has sheltered bays with sandy beaches, while the south coast has the quietest and most unspoiled spots.

Where are the sandy beaches on Rhodes?

The most beautiful sandy beaches are on the east coast: Tsambika, Stegna, Agathi, Glystra, and St. Paul’s Bay in Lindos. In the south, there are the beaches of Agios Georgios and Prasonisi.

Which beaches on Rhodes are best for children?

Stegna Beach, Agathi Beach, and Agios Georgios Beach—all have shallow water and sandy beaches. St. Paul’s Bay in Lindos is also ideal. Tip: At the secluded Agios Georgios in the far south, you’ll need to bring your own beach umbrella and food.

Are the beaches on Rhodes crowded?

The east coast between Faliraki and Lindos gets very crowded in July/August. If you are looking for peace and quiet, visit Afandou, Grand Blue Beach, the Red Sand Beaches, or the south coast. Visit popular beaches early in the morning or in the off-season. The further south you go, the more secluded it gets!

Are there nudist beaches on Rhodes?

There are only a few officially designated nudist beaches. However, nudism is tolerated in secluded bays, especially in the south between Agios Georgios and Prasonisi or on the Red Sand Beaches. It is also possible to do so discreetly on the unspoiled Afandou Beach.

Which beaches on Rhodes are sheltered from the wind?

The east coast of Rhodes is sheltered from the wind and has calm waters. Sheltered beaches include Anthony Quinn Bay, Stegna, Agathi, and St. Paul’s Bay in Lindos. The west coast is often windy with high waves. However, when strong meltemi winds (from the northwest) blow in summer, the east coast remains calm.

Are there any good Rhodes hotels right on the beach?

Yes! Our recommendations: Apollo Blue Hotel (5-star in Faliraki), Ladiko Inn Hotel (family-friendly near Anthony Quinn Bay), Atrium Prestige Thalasso Spa Resort (luxury in the south near Lachania), Afandou Beach Villas Sofias (villa with pool), and Anatoli Traditional Villa in Stegna with a private beach.

Which beaches on Rhodes are also open in the off-season?

All beaches on Rhodes are accessible year-round. However, in the off-season, the beach bars on Rhodes are often closed and there are no sun loungers available. The quiet beaches on Rhodes that are open year-round include Agios Georgios, Red Sand Beaches, and Afandou Beach. You should bring your own equipment here.

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