The countless bays and beaches of Rhodes make for a carefree beach holiday. Along the 220 km of coastline, the Greek island offers both pebble and sandy beaches ranging from golden to ash grey – something to suit every 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 the west coast of Rhodes is battered by high waves and strong winds, with grey pebble and stone beaches, the east coast offers numerous sheltered bays with fine sandy beaches. Between Faliraki and Lindos, one beautiful stretch of beach follows the next, and in high season not a single lounger goes unused.
If you are looking for quieter spots, the Rhodes beaches in the south are well worth the journey. If you are willing to make the 80 km drive from the island’s capital to the very tip of the island, you will still find secluded bays where you can enjoy undisturbed swimming on Rhodes.
Below we share a personal selection of beautiful Rhodes beaches that we visited during our time on the island:
🏖️ Dream beaches & hidden bays
🍽️ Restaurants, tavernas & cafés
🏛️ Must-see highlights & ancient sites
🗺️ Worthwhile spots & insider tips
🚘 Practical info like rentals & parking
♾️ Lifetime access & updates
Rhodes beaches in the east
#1 Anthony Quinn Bay
In this 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 is often overcrowded, as many excursion boats also anchor in the bay.
→ Everything you need to know about Anthony Quinn Bay can be found in this article: Anthony Quinn Bay
For food, we recommend the Kounna Beach & Resto Bar above Anthony Quinn Beach. The relaxed atmosphere and the magnificent view over the bay more than make up for the relatively high prices.
The bay owes its name to the American actor Anthony Quinn, who filmed parts of “The Guns of Navarone” here in 1961. Out of gratitude, the Greek government named this beautiful bay after him. A quieter alternative to Anthony Quinn Beach is Ladiko Beach, which is particularly inviting in the low season.
If you want to experience the coast in a different way, you can explore the beautiful east coast beaches of Rhodes by boat or kayak. Via our partner GetYourGuide*, you can book an exciting day tour here:
➲ To the kayak tour incl. snorkelling*
#2 Afandou Beach
The kilometre-long stretch of grey pebble and sandy beach in the east of Rhodes runs from Traganou Beach southwards into Afandou Beach.
As no large hotel complexes have settled along this stretch so far, it remains pleasantly quiet even in high season. There are plenty of spots where you can swim undisturbed.
In the northern section at Traganou Beach, you can explore sea caves. The water is crystal clear on both stretches. The seabed drops away quite quickly, so the beach is only partially suitable for families with young children. The ground is also quite rocky in the water, so swim shoes are an advantage.
At the beach bar Sundalia on the Beach, you can unwind with a freddo espresso or a chilled cocktail. The setting is really tasteful and it is a real standout as a beach bar and bistro. The homemade pizzas in particular have stayed with us as a fond memory.
#3 Stegna Beach
Stegna is a popular seaside village on Rhodes with a long sandy beach divided into several sections. The beach along 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 a place of quiet contemplation.
Along the seafront, numerous tavernas and cafés rent out sun loungers and umbrellas. There are also plenty of natural, unmanaged sections. For us, Stegna Beach is one of the most beautiful spots on the island to simply switch off.
South of Stegna lies Grand Blue Beach, a dreamlike bay with turquoise-blue waters and sea caves perfect for snorkelling. Even the descent down the many steps to the pebble beach is a highlight in itself. A beach bar on site rents out sunbeds and umbrellas. The entry into the sea is shallow, though swim shoes are recommended due to some rocks in the water.
If Stegna is too quiet for you and you prefer a livelier scene – banana boats, water skiing and stand-up paddling – then head to Tsambika Beach, just 7 km to the north, which offers plenty of water sports.
→ All information about the most popular beach on Rhodes can be found here: Tsambika Rhodes
#4 Red Sand Beaches
Between Stegna and Charaki there are several secluded bays with reddish sand and pebble beaches. From Archangelos, a rough gravel track 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 car park. From here it is only a short walk to two natural bays. Even in high season, it is very quiet here and the clear sea water is wonderfully refreshing.
#5 Agathi Beach
Gorgeous golden sand and shallow, crystal-clear water make Agathi Beach an ideal spot for a full day at the beach and a lovely family-friendly beach on Rhodes. In high season, however, it gets very busy and is almost entirely taken up by expensive parasols and deck chairs.
At the northern end of Agathi Beach, near the charming cave church, there is a secluded spot where you can relax in the shade of tamarisk trees. We especially recommend a visit in the low season.
#6 St. Paul’s Bay near Lindos
St. Paul’s Beach is located south of Lindos, tucked directly behind the Acropolis. During the holiday season, you share this dreamlike setting with plenty of fellow sun-seekers.
The sheltered bay with its sandy beach offers crystal-clear water and ideal conditions for a day of swimming. If you want to secure one of the pricey loungers with a parasol, arrive early at St. Paul’s Bay – by mid-morning all spots are typically taken.
→ All information about the village of Lindos on Rhodes can be found here: Lindos Rhodes
A beach restaurant takes care of the physical well-being; prices are high, as you would expect given the location. Changing rooms, showers and toilets are available.
During the season, St. Paul’s Bay is frequently visited by excursion boats from the northern Rhodes resorts and can get very crowded as a result. In the low season it is quieter, and a boat trip to Lindos is a real pleasure. Click the link on GetYourGuide* to find out more about this beautiful tour:
➲ To the guided boat trip to Lindos*
If you want to escape the daytime crowds, visit St. Paul’s Bay in the evening. The atmosphere at Restaurant Tambakio is particularly romantic at that hour – by candlelight, you sit on wooden chairs with your feet in the sand and round off the day with a glass of wine.
#7 Glystra Beach
Between Lindos and Kiotari, the road runs alongside Glystra Beach. The sheltered bay impresses with its golden sandy beach, which slopes gently into the sea. The water is crystal clear and shallow, making it ideal for children who can splash around safely.
The forest fires of 2023 left their mark on the area around the beach, and the popular beach bar burned down during the fires. The beach is still well visited in high season. In the low season, there is usually enough space for everyone.
🗺️ 10 road trip routes with maps
🏖️ Beautiful beaches & swimming spots
🏛️ All top sights & attractions
🤫 Unpublished insider tips
🍽️ Accommodation, tavernas & cafés
Rhodes beaches in the west
#8 Kopria Beach
If you have worked up a sweat after visiting Kritinia Castle, Kopria Beach is the perfect place to cool down. The small pebble beach sits in a picturesque bay, and the crystal-clear water shimmers turquoise blue.
Parasols and sun loungers are free of charge. Above the beach is Johnny’s Bar, a simple taverna serving cold drinks and Greek food. Changing rooms, showers and toilets are also on hand.
In high season Kopria Bay is well attended. In the low season the parasols and sunbeds are usually packed away and it gets quieter. Kopria Beach is only partially suitable for young children, as the seabed drops away 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 hire sunbeds and umbrellas in high season. The beach had some seagrass washing up at the time of our visit.
→ Here we reveal everything there is to discover in the region around Monolithos: Monolithos on Rhodes
At Fourni Beach there is also a simple food truck in the summer months. Just behind it stretches the rocky promontory of the cape, where some ancient burial chambers can also be explored.
If you follow the path over the rocks of Cape Fourni, you will reach a small bay on the far side. The narrow sandy beach is set into sandstone cliffs and the water is a brilliant turquoise blue.
Depending on wind strength, high waves can occur on the west coast, so these beaches are only partially suitable for families with young children. If you want to experience the picturesque coastline from the sea, we recommend a Rhodes sailing trip or catamaran ride, ideally at sunset. Click the links for more information on GetYourGuide*:
➲ To the all-inclusive catamaran trip with BBQ*
#10 Limni Beach
On the west coast there are natural coastal sections near Apolakkia with grey sandy beaches, which are very quiet even in high season, though they can be affected by flotsam (including plastic waste).
In strong winds, high waves make Limni Beach unsuitable for swimming. You will need to bring your own beach umbrella and food; only a simple changing room and a beach shower are available 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. Gorgeous golden sand meets crystal-clear water here, and the entry into the sea is shallow, making it ideal for children too.
Agios Georgios Beach is completely natural and unmanaged. For a long day at the beach, pack a parasol in addition to drinks and snacks, as there are no shady trees.
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. Please help keep this beautiful dune landscape and beach free of litter.
About 5 km from Agios Georgios Beach, in the hamlet of Agios Pavlos, is the lovely Café Kolonie San Marco. Here you can enjoy delicious homemade snacks and fresh aloe vera juice in an absolutely idyllic setting.
#12 Prasonisi Beach
At the southern tip of Rhodes lies 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 sandbar in front also offers plenty of space to cool off.
In high season Prasonisi Beach is heavily visited and can be affected by plastic waste. Depending on the water level, it is possible to walk across to the small island opposite. Pay close attention to the currents, which are very strong here where the Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean.
Prasonisi is not to be missed during a Rhodes holiday. If that is too lively for your taste, look for one of the natural beach sections between Prasonisi and Agios Georgios Beach, reachable only via rough gravel tracks.
Rhodes Beachfront Hotels
The choice of hotels on Rhodes is vast, and many are located right by the sea. The most popular seaside resorts are Faliraki, Kolymbia and Ialyssos, the latter being very close to the airport. Individualists seeking peace and quiet tend to look for a villa or holiday apartment in the south.
Our recommendations for beach hotels on Rhodes – including studios and apartments near the sea – with more information on availability and prices, can be found on Booking.com*:
Afandou Beach Villas Sofias, Afandou
A tasteful villa with a beautiful garden and large pool near Afandou Beach. Extensive facilities and space for up to 8 people. A great base for exploring the island!
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 excellent food. The grounds are spacious and well maintained. Also ideal for families.
Atrium Prestige Thalasso Spa Resort & Villas, Lachania
Luxurious 5-star hotel away from the crowds in the south of the island. Immaculately maintained grounds, excellent cuisine and friendly staff.
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.
Anatoli Traditional Villa, Stegna
Joan rents out a stylish stone house right by the sea in a quiet spot south of Stegna. High-quality finishes, stunning views and a private beach.
➲ Book Anatoli Traditional Villa*
Excursions and tours to Rhodes beaches
Discover the island’s beautiful beaches from the water: by submarine, snorkelling, kayaking or stand-up paddleboard. The following excursions are very popular with holidaymakers and offer a completely different perspective on the coast of Rhodes. 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 can be found in the following articles:
- Our highlights in Rhodes
- Rhodes Holidays – 11 important tips
- 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 personal favourite, 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 unspoilt 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 near Lindos. In the south, the beaches of Agios Georgios and Prasonisi are worth seeking out.
Which beaches on Rhodes are best for children?
Stegna Beach, Agathi Beach and Agios Georgios Beach – all have shallow water and sandy shores. St. Paul’s Bay near Lindos is also ideal. Tip: At the secluded Agios Georgios in the far south, you will need to bring your own beach umbrella and food.
Are the beaches on Rhodes crowded?
The east coast between Faliraki and Lindos gets very busy in July and August. If you are looking for peace and quiet, head to 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 at the Red Sand Beaches. It is also possible discreetly on the quieter stretches of Afandou Beach.
Which beaches on Rhodes are sheltered from the wind?
The east coast of Rhodes is sheltered from the wind and generally has calm waters. Well-protected beaches include Anthony Quinn Bay, Stegna, Agathi and St. Paul’s Bay near Lindos. The west coast is often windy with high waves. When the meltemi (a strong northwesterly wind) blows 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 accessible in the off-season?
All beaches on Rhodes are accessible year-round. In the off-season, however, beach bars are often closed and sun loungers are not available. Year-round quiet beaches include Agios Georgios, the Red Sand Beaches and Afandou Beach – bring your own equipment.
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