Is Rhodes Town a good destination for a beach holiday?
Yes, Rhodes Town can be a great destination for a beach holiday, especially if you want to combine beach time with exploring a historic city. The town itself has beaches like Elli Beach, which is very popular and well-organized. You can easily walk to beaches from many hotels in Rhodes Town. While it offers a different experience than a quieter, dedicated beach resort, it's ideal for travelers who enjoy having city amenities, historical sites like the Old Town, and beaches all in one place.
What are the beaches in Rhodes Town like – sand or pebbles?
Beaches in and immediately around Rhodes Town, like Elli Beach and Aquarium Beach, are typically a mix of sand and small pebbles. Some areas might be more pebbly than others. It's often advisable to wear beach shoes, especially as the sand and pebbles can get hot and for comfort when entering the water.
Can you swim at the beaches in Rhodes Town?
Yes, you can definitely swim at the beaches in Rhodes Town. Elli Beach, the main beach in town, is popular for swimming and has clear waters. The eastern side of the island, where Elli Beach is located, generally has calmer waters compared to the western side, which can be windier. Some beaches, like Aquarium Beach, have water that deepens fairly quickly, which is something to be aware of, especially with children.
Which side of Rhodes Town is less windy for beaches?
The eastern side of Rhodes Town, where Elli Beach is located, is generally less windy and has calmer waters. The western side, often referred to as 'Windy Beach' (officially Akti Miaouli), faces the Aegean Sea and is more exposed to the Meltemi winds, especially during the summer months (June to September). This makes the west side popular for windsurfing but less ideal for calm swimming and sunbathing.
Are there any all-inclusive hotels with direct beach access in Rhodes Town?
While Rhodes Town has many hotels close to the beaches, large all-inclusive resorts with extensive private beach areas are more commonly found in dedicated resort areas outside of Rhodes Town itself, such as in Ixia, Kallithea, or Faliraki. However, some hotels in Rhodes Town are located directly across the road from Elli Beach or other nearby beaches, offering very convenient access, even if not a private, all-inclusive beach setup in the traditional sense.
How much do sunbeds cost at Elli Beach in Rhodes Town?
The cost of sunbeds at Elli Beach can vary. Typically, a set of two sunbeds and an umbrella might cost around €12 to €20 for the day. Some of the fancier beach bars, like Baia Seaside, may charge more, potentially around €20 or higher for more comfortable loungers. In some sections, particularly those managed by beach bars, the sunbeds might be free if you purchase food or drinks, though this is not always the case.
Is Elli Beach in Rhodes Town suitable for families with children?
Elli Beach can be suitable for families, as it's easily accessible and has many amenities like restaurants, toilets, and lifeguards in some areas. The water is generally clear for swimming. However, it's a mix of sand and pebbles, and the water at some nearby beaches like Aquarium Beach can deepen quickly. For softer sand and shallower waters ideal for younger children, beaches further from Rhodes Town like Tsambika or Agathi are often recommended, though Elli offers convenience for those staying in the city.
What's the vibe like at Elli Beach in Rhodes Town?
Elli Beach is known for its lively, cosmopolitan, and fun atmosphere. It's one of the most popular and frequented beaches on the island, attracting both tourists and locals. You'll find a vibrant scene with numerous beach bars, restaurants, and music. It's a great place for people-watching and socialising. If you're looking for a very quiet and secluded beach experience, Elli might feel a bit busy, especially during peak season.
Are there quieter beach alternatives near Rhodes Town if Elli Beach is too crowded?
Yes, if Elli Beach feels too crowded, there are other options. While still in Rhodes Town, some smaller sections along the coast might be slightly less packed. For truly quieter experiences, you might need to travel a bit outside Rhodes Town. Beaches like Kallithea (around 10km away) offer rocky coves and a different atmosphere. Further south, you can find less crowded options like Stegna or Glystra, though these require more travel.
How do you get to Elli Beach from Rhodes Old Town or the cruise port?
Elli Beach is conveniently located and easily accessible from Rhodes Old Town and the cruise port. From the Old Town, it's a pleasant walk, typically around 10-15 minutes, heading towards the northern tip of the island. If arriving by cruise ship, the port is also relatively close, and you can walk or take a short taxi ride to Elli Beach.
What's the best time of year for a beach holiday in Rhodes Town?
The best time for a beach holiday in Rhodes Town is generally from June to September when the weather is hottest and the sea temperatures are warmest, often reaching around 25°C (77°F). This period offers the most sunshine and is ideal for swimming and water sports. May and October are also pleasant, with warm weather, fewer crowds, and the sea still warm enough for swimming, making them good shoulder season options.
Are there any unique features or things to do at Elli Beach besides sunbathing?
Yes, Elli Beach has a few unique aspects. There's a well-known diving platform a short swim from the shore, which is popular for jumping into the sea. The beach also offers various water sports facilities. Its proximity to the Rhodes Aquarium, located at one end of the beach, and Mandraki Harbour at the other, provides additional points of interest. The beach is lined with numerous bars and restaurants, contributing to its lively atmosphere.
How do the beaches in Rhodes Town compare to Faliraki?
Rhodes Town beaches, like Elli, are more urban, often a mix of pebbles and sand, and are integrated into the city, offering easy access to historical sites. Faliraki, located about 14 km south of Rhodes Town, is a dedicated resort area known for its long, sandy beach, extensive water sports, and a more traditional 'beach resort' atmosphere, often popular with families and those seeking a lively party scene. Faliraki's beach is generally considered more sandy than those in Rhodes Town.
What are the water conditions like on the west coast of Rhodes Town (Windy Beach)?
The west coast of Rhodes Town, often called 'Windy Beach' (Akti Miaouli), typically experiences stronger winds and rougher sea conditions, especially during the summer due to the Meltemi winds. This makes it a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. While the breeze can be pleasant on very hot days, the waves can make swimming less suitable, particularly for children or inexperienced swimmers, compared to the calmer waters of Elli Beach on the east coast.
Are there facilities like showers and changing rooms at Rhodes Town beaches?
Yes, organized beaches in Rhodes Town, such as Elli Beach and Aquarium Beach, generally offer facilities like public showers and changing cabins. Many sections of these beaches are managed by beach bars or hotels which also provide these amenities for their patrons or for a small fee.
