Rhodes, Aegean, Greece

Afantou Beaches

Overview

Afantou offers a classic Greek beach experience, centered around one of the longest and most spacious shorelines on Rhodes. The beach is known for its characteristic mix of sand and smooth pebbles, leading into famously clear, turquoise waters that deepen quite quickly. Unlike the more crowded resorts nearby, Afantou provides a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, making it a favorite for those seeking a tranquil day by the sea while still being just a short drive from more lively areas.

The coastline here is wonderfully diverse, as highlighted by our editor’s picks. You can discover the cinematic beauty of Anthony Quinn Bay, a stunning cove with emerald waters that became a must-see attraction. For a complete contrast, the vibrant and energetic Faliraki is the island's most visited beach, buzzing with activity and watersports. Right next door, you can explore the unique sea caves at Traganou Beach, a quieter gem that forms the northern part of Afantou's bay. For a truly spectacular day trip, the golden sands and shallow waters of Tsambika are widely considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the entire island.

Beyond these highlights, the main beach at Afantou itself caters to every preference, with organized sections offering amenities alongside vast, untouched areas where you can easily find a quiet spot. This blend of developed and natural coastline is just the beginning, with many more coves and shores detailed in our full guide. The village of Afantou was historically built inland to remain 'invisible' from the sea, and this separation helps the beachfront retain its peaceful character, making it an ideal and versatile base for exploring the island.

FAQ

Is Afantou beach sandy or pebbly?

Afantou Beach is a mix of sand and pebbles. While some parts of the long shoreline have fine sand, you'll find many areas, especially at the water's edge, are covered with smooth, colorful pebbles. Because of the pebbles, some visitors prefer to wear water shoes for comfort when walking into the sea.

Is Afantou a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Afantou can be a great choice for families. The beach is very long, so it rarely feels crowded, offering plenty of space for children to play. While the water gets deep relatively quickly, the beach itself is considered safe and is a good distance from busy roads. Some hotels in the area are specifically family-friendly, with amenities like kids' clubs and pools.

How does Afantou beach compare to Faliraki beach?

Afantou and Faliraki beaches offer very different experiences. Faliraki is a bustling, highly organized beach with a lively party atmosphere, lots of bars, and extensive watersports. Afantou, on the other hand, is much larger, quieter, and less developed. It's ideal for those seeking a more relaxed and spacious beach day, away from large crowds, while still being just a short drive from Faliraki's amenities.

Can you swim at Afantou beach and what is the water like?

Absolutely. The water at Afantou Beach is known for being crystal clear and having a beautiful turquoise color, earning it a Blue Flag award for cleanliness. The sea deepens quite abruptly a few meters from the shore, which many find refreshing and great for swimming. Due to the depth, the water often stays refreshingly cool, even in the peak of summer.

Are there any hotels directly on Afantou beach?

Yes, there are several hotels and resorts located right along the beachfront road of Afantou, offering direct access to the sea. These range from large all-inclusive resorts to smaller apartment complexes. Many visitors choose these accommodations for the convenience of being steps away from the water.

How far is Afantou beach from Afantou town?

Afantou beach is located about 2 kilometers (1.25 miles) from the main village of Afantou. The village was historically built inland to be 'invisible' to pirates. During the high season, a small tourist train often runs between the village square and the beach, making it easy to travel between the two.

Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for rent at Afantou beach?

Yes, there are organized sections of Afantou beach where you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas. However, because the beach is so long, there are also large, untouched areas where you can lay down your own towel and enjoy a more natural setting. This mix of organized and undeveloped sections caters to all preferences.

What kind of facilities and restaurants are on Afantou beach?

You'll find a good range of facilities along Afantou beach. There are several beach bars and canteens for drinks and snacks, as well as traditional fish tavernas serving fresh seafood. Showers and changing rooms are also available in the more organized parts of the beach. For a wider selection of restaurants and shops, Afantou village is a short distance away.

People Also Ask

Is Afantou beach good for watersports?

Yes, Afantou beach offers a variety of watersports. In the organized sections, you can find facilities for activities like jet skiing, windsurfing, and banana boat rides. The clear, calm waters also make it a pleasant spot for swimming and snorkeling, though marine life for snorkeling is considered average.

Is it easy to find a quiet spot on Afantou beach?

Yes, very easy. Afantou is one of the longest beaches in Rhodes, stretching for about 4 kilometers. Because of its vast size, it rarely feels crowded, even during the high season. If you walk away from the main organized sections with sunbeds, you can easily find a quiet, more secluded spot to relax.

What's the best way to get to Afantou beach?

If you have a rental car, Afantou beach is easily accessible from the main Rhodes-Lindos national road; just follow the signs past Faliraki. Public buses also connect Rhodes Town and other resorts to Afantou village, from where you can walk or take the seasonal tourist train to the beach. Taxis are also readily available.

Is Afantou a party destination?

No, Afantou is not considered a party destination. The atmosphere at the beach and in the village is generally relaxed and laid-back, popular with families and couples seeking a quieter holiday. For lively nightlife, the famous party resort of Faliraki is only a 5-10 minute drive away.

What is Traganou beach and how is it related to Afantou?

Traganou beach (also called Traounou) is the northernmost part of the long bay of Afantou. It is famous for its beautiful sea caves at one end, which you can explore. It shares the same pebble and clear water characteristics as the main Afantou beach but is often considered a distinct spot, particularly popular for its caves.

Is there anything to do near Afantou beach besides swimming?

Yes, located just across from the beach is the Afandou Golf Course, an 18-hole course that is a major attraction for visitors. Additionally, the charming Afantou village with its traditional square, shops, and cafes is just 2km away. The popular Seven Springs (Epta Piges) nature reserve is also just a short drive from the beach.

When is the best time to visit Afantou beach for swimming?

The best time for swimming at Afantou beach is from June to September when the weather is hot and the sea is warm and inviting. If you prefer fewer crowds and more moderate temperatures, late May, early June, or late September are also excellent times. The water might be slightly cooler, but the beach is more peaceful.

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