Beaches on the Northwest Coast

The northwest coast of Rhodes has a very different character from the more sheltered east coast. Here the beaches are often longer, windier and more open, with a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views across the Aegean Sea.

This part of the island is especially popular with visitors who enjoy windsurfing, kitesurfing, sunset views and beaches with a more natural feel. Some areas are well organised and close to major resorts, while others are quiet, local and visited by far fewer tourists.

Rhodes Town – west coast beaches 

The west coast of Rhodes Town begins close to the centre and has several beaches within walking distance of hotels, restaurants and the old town. Akti Kanari and Akti Miaouli are the best-known beaches on this side of the city, both offering clear water, a lively promenade and easy access from the town centre.

The beaches here are usually windier than those on the eastern side of Rhodes Town, and the sea can be rougher. This gives the area a slightly different atmosphere from the beaches on the east coast, especially in the late afternoon when many visitors come here for a swim, a walk along the seafront or to enjoy the sunset. Of the two, we generally prefer Akti Kanari, which feels slightly more spacious and relaxed.

A little further south, Kato Petres is a much quieter and more local part of the coastline. It consists of small pebbly beaches and rocky bathing spots that only a few visitors discover. One of the small curiosities in this area is the cave of Michael Panormitis, a tiny cave by the sea that adds a little extra character to this hidden stretch of coast.

Ialyssos and Ixia

Southwest of Rhodes Town, Ixia and Ialyssos form the most developed holiday area on the northwest coast. The coastline here is long and open, with a mix of pebbles and sand, many hotels close to the beach and several organised sections with sunbeds, beach bars and water sports.

Ixia is the closest of the two to Rhodes Town and is known for its long beach, large hotels and active beach scene. The wind is often stronger here than on the east coast, making it one of the most popular areas on Rhodes for windsurfing.

Further south, Ialyssos has a slightly more traditional resort atmosphere. It is one of the larger holiday areas on Rhodes, with a long beach, restaurants, cafés and hotels spread along the coast. The beach in Ialyssos is not as calm and sheltered as many of the beaches on the eastern side of the island, but that is part of its appeal. It feels open, spacious and very connected to the sea.

Kremasti and Theologos

South of Ialyssos, the coast becomes more relaxed and less built-up. Kremasti beach is long, open and generally much quieter than the resort beaches closer to Rhodes Town. There is usually plenty of space, and the atmosphere is more local and low-key.

Theologos continues the same west coast character, with wind, open views and a beach that is especially popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers. This part of Rhodes is not the best choice if you are looking for very calm, shallow water, but it is ideal for those who like space, fresh sea air and a more natural beach setting.

Fanes is also part of this central part of the west coast. The beach in Fanes has a relaxed local feel and is another good example of the quieter, windier side of Rhodes, away from the busiest holiday resorts. Not many visitors are aware of it, but immediately east of the harbour, a small beach with sunbeds, parasols and a beach bar offers a more comfortable alternative in this part of the coast.

Beaches Near Ancient Kamiros

Further south, the coastline around Kamiros feels even more local and authentic. Kamiros beach is close to the archaeological site of Ancient Kamiros, making it a good stop if you want to combine beach time with a little history.

Kalavarda is one of the best-known surf spots on this part of Rhodes. The beach itself is simple and open, but the steady wind makes it especially popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers. It is not a polished resort beach, and that is exactly what gives it its appeal.

Kopria is very different. This small rocky cove is one of the hidden gems of the west coast, with a local feel and a peaceful setting that many visitors never discover. It is not a beach with lots of facilities, but it is beautiful and atmospheric, and we always enjoy returning to this quieter side of Rhodes.

If you are exploring this part of the island, it is also worth considering a visit to Kritinia Castle (also known locally as Kastellos). The castle is not directly on the beach, but it offers wonderful views over the coastline and the surrounding landscape, and it fits naturally into a day trip along the quieter west coast of Rhodes.