What are the beaches in Kiotari like, are they sandy or pebbly?
Kiotari beaches are known for their mix of sand and pebbles. Some areas are predominantly sandy, while others, particularly closer to the shoreline, can have more pebbles. The main Kiotari beach is quite long and offers stretches of sand mixed with shingle. It's often recommended to bring swimming shoes, especially as the pebbles can get hot and some approaches to the sea can be rocky.
Is Kiotari a good destination for a quiet, relaxing beach holiday?
Yes, Kiotari is generally considered a great destination for a quiet and relaxing beach holiday. It's a more modern, spread-out resort that has avoided over-development and tourist saturation compared to some other spots in Rhodes. Even in high season, the long beaches tend not to be overcrowded, offering plenty of space. It's particularly suitable for families and couples seeking peace and tranquility.
Is Kiotari suitable for a family beach holiday?
Yes, Kiotari is considered ideal for families. Many of its beaches have calm waters, especially in the summer, and some have received Blue Flag status, indicating high safety and water quality standards with lifeguards on duty. The resort area is well-served with amenities, and many hotels cater specifically to families with facilities like kids' clubs and pools. Some beaches, like nearby Glystra, have shallow waters perfect for young children.
Can you swim in the sea at Kiotari and what is the water like?
Yes, you can definitely swim in the sea at Kiotari. The waters are generally crystal-clear and calm, especially during the summer months, making for pleasant swimming conditions. Some parts of the beach have a relatively steep seabed drop, meaning the water can get deep quite quickly near the shore, which is great for swimming. The water quality is often highlighted as excellent, with several beaches awarded Blue Flag status.
Are there many beachfront hotels in Kiotari?
Yes, Kiotari has a significant number of beachfront hotels, many of which are large, all-inclusive resorts. These hotels often have their own private or semi-private sections of the beach with amenities for their guests. This makes Kiotari a popular choice for those who want direct beach access from their accommodation.
Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for rent on Kiotari beaches, and what's the typical cost?
Yes, many parts of Kiotari beach, especially those near hotels, are well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas available for hire. Some hotels offer these free to their guests. For public areas, the cost for a set of two sunbeds and an umbrella can vary, but a general estimate is around €8 to €12 per day, though some specific locations or premium spots might be higher.
What's the best time of year to visit Kiotari for a beach holiday?
The best time for a beach holiday in Kiotari is generally from late spring to early autumn, specifically May to October. June to September offer the warmest and sunniest weather, with sea temperatures ideal for swimming (often 23°C or above). May and October provide pleasant, milder weather, fewer crowds, and still warm enough seas for swimming, making them great for a more relaxed beach experience.
Is Kiotari very windy? Does it affect the beach experience?
Kiotari can experience some wind, particularly a cool sea breeze, which can be pleasant in the summer heat. Its geography on the southeastern coast of Rhodes generally protects it from the stronger Meltemi winds that can affect other parts of the Aegean. Mild wave conditions and onshore winds usually create a gentle swimming environment, and it's not typically known for being overly windy to the point of disrupting beach enjoyment. Some sources even mention you don't have to worry about getting sand-whipped on windy days.
Are there watersports available at Kiotari beaches?
Yes, Kiotari beaches offer a wide range of watersports. You can find activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing, catamaran sailing, water skiing, wakeboarding, and fun rides like banana boats and crazy sofas. Several watersports centers operate along the beach, particularly in the areas near the larger hotels.
How does Kiotari compare to Lindos for a beach holiday?
Kiotari and Lindos offer different beach holiday experiences. Kiotari is a more modern, spread-out resort known for its long, quieter beaches (sand and pebble mix) and a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for families and those seeking tranquility. Lindos is a historic village with picturesque, mainly sandy coves (like Lindos Main Beach and St. Paul's Bay) that can get very crowded, especially in peak season. Lindos offers more in terms of historical sightseeing (the Acropolis) and a traditional village atmosphere, while Kiotari is more focused on resort-style relaxation with many all-inclusive hotels.
Is Kiotari beach usually crowded?
Kiotari beach is known for being relatively uncrowded, especially compared to more famous beaches on Rhodes like Faliraki or Lindos. Its long stretch of coastline means there's generally plenty of space for everyone, even during the peak summer months. This makes it a good choice for visitors looking for a more peaceful beach experience.
What is the nightlife like near Kiotari beaches?
Nightlife in Kiotari is generally low-key and often centered around the hotels, many of which provide evening entertainment. There are also some relaxed bars and restaurants in the resort center and along the seafront. For more lively nightlife with clubs and bustling bars, visitors often head to nearby Gennadi (about 10 minutes by taxi) or further afield to places like Lindos or Faliraki. Some beach bars in Kiotari, like Shimba Beach Bar or Mosa Beach Bar, can offer a more vibrant atmosphere with music and cocktails in the evenings.
Are there any quieter, hidden gem beaches near Kiotari?
While Kiotari itself is relatively quiet, the nearby Glystra beach is often mentioned as a beautiful, smaller sandy cove ideal for families and those seeking a peaceful spot. Exploring the coastline south towards Gennadi can also reveal less organized and more secluded stretches. Locals sometimes prefer the Kiotari area for its tranquility, suggesting the entire stretch has a more laid-back vibe than other parts of Rhodes.
How do you get to Kiotari beaches from Rhodes Town or the airport?
Kiotari is located about 60 km south of Rhodes Town and a similar distance from Rhodes International Airport (Diagoras Airport). The most common ways to reach Kiotari are by rental car, which offers flexibility for exploring, or by taxi. Public buses also connect Rhodes Town to Kiotari, but the journey will be longer and less direct. Some package holidays may include airport transfers directly to Kiotari hotels.
Is Kiotari a good base for exploring other beaches and sights in South Rhodes?
Yes, Kiotari can be a good base for exploring South Rhodes. It's relatively close to other popular spots like Lindos (approx. 15-20 km north), Gennadi (just south), and Prasonisi (the southern tip famous for windsurfing, about 25-30 km south). Renting a car is recommended for easily accessing these areas and discovering more remote beaches and villages in the southern part of the island.
