Ialyssos Beaches

Overview

Located on the breezy Aegean coast of Rhodes, Ialyssos offers a distinct beach experience. The shoreline here is primarily shingle and pebble, washed by famously clear waters. While you may not find fine sand, you will discover a coastline renowned across Europe for its consistent winds, creating a world-class destination for water sports and a refreshing escape from the summer heat.

The main local shoreline, Ialysos Beach, is a paradise for windsurfers and kitesurfers. For a change of scenery, the editor's picks highlight the island's incredible variety. A short trip can take you to the stunning emerald waters of Anthony Quinn Bay, a cinematic cove perfect for swimming. For a livelier atmosphere and a vast stretch of golden sand, Faliraki is the island's main hub. Further afield, a day trip to Lindos offers the unforgettable experience of swimming at a beautiful beach directly below its ancient Acropolis.

Ialyssos's position makes it a fantastic base for exploring the entire island's coastline. Many visitors venture out to discover different shores, including the famously beautiful sandy expanse of Tsambika. With a relaxed resort atmosphere that sets it apart from busier party towns, Ialyssos provides the perfect starting point for any coastal adventure. For more inspiration, explore our complete list of the best beaches in the region.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Ialyssos beach sandy or pebbly?

Ialyssos beach is primarily a pebble and shingle beach, especially at the shoreline. While some parts have sand mixed in, and the sea floor can be sandy in places, it is not a fine sand beach. Many visitors recommend bringing water shoes for comfort when walking on the pebbles and entering the water.

Ialysos Beach

Is it always windy in Ialyssos?

Ialyssos is well-known for being windy, especially during the summer months of July and August due to the 'Meltemi' wind. This makes it a world-class destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing. While the wind is fairly consistent, it's usually calmer in the mornings and picks up in the afternoon. This constant breeze can be pleasant as it moderates the summer heat.

Which is better for a beach holiday, Ialyssos or Faliraki?

The choice between Ialyssos and Faliraki depends on your holiday preference. Ialyssos has a pebble beach, is famous for windsurfing, and generally has a more relaxed atmosphere, while still being very close to Rhodes Town. Faliraki, on the other hand, is known for its long, sandy beach, calmer waters, and vibrant nightlife with many bars and clubs.

Ialysos Beach

Faliraki

Is Ialyssos beach good for swimming?

Yes, the water at Ialyssos beach is very clear and considered excellent for swimming. However, there are a few things to keep in mind: the beach is pebbly, so water shoes are recommended, and the seabed can drop off quite sharply. Also, it can get wavy in the afternoons when the wind picks up, which some people enjoy.

Ialysos Beach

Are the beachfront hotels in Ialyssos worth it?

Staying in a beachfront hotel in Ialyssos is a popular option, as many offer private beach sections with sunbeds and direct access to the sea, which is convenient given the public areas can be busy. These hotels often have large pools and gardens, providing a great alternative for days when the beach is too windy and offering stunning sunset views over the Aegean.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Ialysos Beach

Is Ialyssos a good choice for families with young children?

Ialyssos can be a good choice for families, as the resort is well-developed with many family-friendly hotels and amenities. However, the beach itself may not be ideal for very young children because it is pebbly rather than sandy, and the water gets deep relatively quickly. Families often choose hotels with large pools and gardens as an alternative to the beach.

Ialysos Beach

What kind of water sports are available at Ialyssos beach?

Ialyssos is a premier destination for wind-based water sports due to the reliable Meltemi wind. It is especially famous for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with several schools and rental centers along the beach that host international competitions. You can also find other activities like jet skiing.

Ialysos Beach

What's the difference between Ialyssos beach and Ixia beach?

Ialyssos and Ixia are neighboring resorts that share a long bay, so their beaches are very similar. Both are mainly pebble and shingle, and both are windy, making them great for watersports. They effectively merge into one another, with the main difference being the specific hotels, restaurants, and facilities located directly on each stretch of the coast.

Ialysos Beach

Ixia

People Also Ask

Are there sunbeds and umbrellas on Ialyssos beach?

Yes, Ialyssos is a well-organized beach with many sections offering sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. Many of the large beachfront hotels manage their own sections, which may be private or have fees for non-guests. There are also public sections with facilities available.

Ialysos Beach

How far is Ialyssos from Rhodes Town and how do I get there?

Ialyssos is very close to Rhodes Town, located approximately 8-10 kilometers to the southwest. It's a short trip, typically taking 10-15 minutes by car or taxi. There is also a frequent and reliable public bus service connecting Ialyssos to the capital, making it a convenient base for sightseeing.

What is the vibe of Ialyssos? Is it a party town?

Ialyssos has a relaxed, resort-town vibe. It's lively with plenty of restaurants, tavernas, and cocktail bars, but it is not a wild party destination like Faliraki. The nightlife is more focused on enjoying a nice meal, having drinks, and perhaps listening to some live music rather than all-night clubbing. Its proximity to Rhodes Town allows for easy access to more vibrant nightlife if desired.

Ialysos Beach

Faliraki

When is the best time to visit Ialyssos for a beach holiday?

The best time for a classic beach holiday in Ialyssos is from June to September when temperatures are hot and the sea is warm. However, be aware that July and August are the windiest months. For those who prefer slightly cooler temperatures and calmer conditions, May, late September, and early October are also excellent times to visit.

Ialysos Beach