The beauty of Rhodes is that it not only boasts a fascinating mix of culture and history, but it also has more beaches than you could shake an ice-cream cone at. From craggy bays and calm lagoons to silky swathes and remote hideaways, its coastline is as diverse as it is dramatic. Whether you’re a surfer or a sunseeker, here’s our roundup of the best beaches in Rhodes to visit as part of your next villa holiday.
Best for water-sports: Prasonísi Beach
Hugging the southern tip of the island, Prasonísi is one of the best beaches in Rhodes for windsurfing, if not the whole of Europe. The reason for its epic swell: a sandspit straddling the point at which the Aegean and Mediterranean seas collide. The head-high waves on the Aegean side create excellent conditions for experienced windsurfers and kitesurfers, while the calmer Mediterranean side is suitable for beginners. A handful of beachfront outlets offer lessons; try Prasonísi Center.
Best for swimming: Anthony Quinn Bay
Biting into the east coast, Anthony Quinn Bay is one of the island’s most famous beaches – named after the actor from The Guns of Navarone. The bay was previously near-deserted but shot to fame when Quinn fell in love with it on location, and even tried (unsuccessfully) to buy it once filming wrapped up. Sadly, the secret is now out and it’s one of the most popular Rhodes beaches. You have to arrive early to nab a spot, but it’s worth it – the water is clear, calm and a dazzling emerald colour. If it’s busy, try neighbouring Ladiko, which is just as picturesque.
Best for sunbathing: Afandou (Afantou) Beach
Further south along the coast, Afandou is one of the longest Rhodes beaches, with plenty of towel space for sunbathing. Be warned, though, the sand is pebbly – in fact, the smooth stones are used to make the island’s famed mosaic floors. However, you can hire sun loungers; a rental shack sits alongside restaurants, bars and water-sports centres.
Best for scenic landscapes: Traganou Beach
At its northern tip, Afandou Beach spills over onto the pebbly sands of Traganou. Beyond the military watchpoint is a sheltered cove concealing the Traganospilia – a trio of caves accessible by both land and sea. The pale blue waters are startlingly clear, although cooler than you may expect thanks to freshwater seep. If you’re arriving by car, note that the beach is signposted ‘Traounoú’ from the highway.
Best for children: Tsambika Beach
Another eastern coast favourite, Tsambika is one of the few Rhodes beaches with sugar-fine sand – great for children. The waters are also quite shallow, making it perfect for young ones to splash about in. There are umbrellas for shade from the midday sun, and refreshment stands for light snacks. The beauty of the area is that hotels aren’t allowed to be built here so it’s quite underdeveloped – expect wild dunes backed by a wall of dense foliage.
Best for seclusion: Alyki Beach
Alyki is a hidden gem on the rugged west coast – and one of the best beaches in Rhodes. This golden crescent is a local secret, sitting in the shadow of a time-worn castle below the tiny mountain village of Monolithos. Craggy cliffs wrap around the bay, where deep blue waters wash over a slender band of sand. A scattering of rocks across the bay offers great perches to reside with a book, or there are sunbeds available on the pebbly sand.
Best for the whole family: Glystra Beach
On the southeast coast, the bougainvillea-draped village of Lardos unfurls from the shores of a silvery beach: Glystra. Backed by dense foliage, the crescent of white sand is flour-soft and lapped by turquoise waters. The shallows are ideal for kids to swim in, while pedaloes and canoes will keep teens occupied. Rows of umbrellas offer shade, while a little café supplies all-day eats.
Best Beaches in Rhodes
Now you know the best beach beaches in Rhodes for a relaxing holiday, why not have a look at our luxury villas in Rhodes? Grab that suncream, slip into those flip flops and have yourself a beach holiday you won’t forget! Our friendly concierge team can help you to pick the ideal holiday home for you, just give them a call and they’ll do the rest!
POSTS RELATED TO BEST BEACHES IN RHODES:
The Best Greek Islands for Families
Top 10 Things to do in Rhodes
Rhodes Travel Guide