Prasonisi beaches
Prasonisi is one of the most breathtaking natural places on Rhodes. It lies at the southern tip of the island, around 90 kilometres south of Rhodes town, where the landscape opens up towards the sea in every direction.
Prasonisi is sometimes an island and sometimes a peninsula, depending on the sea level and conditions. When the sandbank is visible, it connects the mainland of Rhodes with the small islet of Prasonisi and creates one of the most unique beach landscapes in Greece. For us, this is when Prasonisi is at its most impressive, as you can walk across to the islet and explore more of the area.
The two beaches at Prasonisi
Prasonisi is famous for its two very different beach sides. On one side, the wind and waves create excellent conditions for experienced windsurfers and kitesurfers. On the other side, the water is usually calmer and more suitable for swimming, sunbathing and less experienced surfers.
This contrast is what makes Prasonisi so special. You can stand on the narrow strip of sand and see powerful waves on one side and calmer water on the other. The scenery is dramatic, open and unlike anywhere else on Rhodes, and we always end up taking far more photos than planned.
Both beach areas have fine sand and shallow water, especially close to the sandbank. The eastern side is generally the more comfortable choice for ordinary beach visitors, with sections offering sunbeds and parasols. The western side is a different story — it’s wild, windy, and dominated by thrill-seeking windsurfers, kitesurfers and visitors who come to watch the action on the water.
Parking is available close to the beach, and the area is easy to reach by car, although the drive from the northern part of Rhodes is quite long.
Child friendliness
Prasonisi can be good for children, and we recommend the calmer eastern side, where the water is usually shallow close to the shore. The soft sand and wide open space are also clear advantages for families. However, the wind can be strong, and conditions may change during the day. Families with small children should therefore avoid the most windy days and choose the calmer side of the beach.
Water sports
Prasonisi is one of the best-known windsurfing and kitesurfing spots in Greece. The steady wind, open sea and two different beach sides make it a favourite among water sports enthusiasts from many countries. There are a few surf centres and surf schools near the beach, offering equipment rental and lessons.
Even though we do not take part ourselves, we always enjoy watching the windsurfers and kitesurfers racing across the water at high speed.
Beach restaurants
There are several restaurants and cafés close to the beach, mainly near the access road and parking area. We have enjoyed eating Greek food at Lighthouse Taverna on several occasions. You will also find a small mini-market with drinks, snacks and basic supplies in Prasonisi.
The Prasonisi area
Prasonisi is not a real resort town. There are a few hotels, restaurants and small shops near the beach, but the area is primarily known for its landscape, windsurfing and unique coastal setting. One of the most popular places to stay here is Oasis Hotel Prasonisi.
In Greek, prásino nisí means green island, and in spring Prasonisi can feel surprisingly green. Regardless of the season, walking around the islet is a memorable nature experience. Further to the southwest, you can walk towards the lighthouse, where the views over the sea and coastline are especially impressive. On very clear days, it may even be possible to see the relatively unknown island of Karpathos in the distance.
The nearest villages are Kattavia and Lachania. Both are small traditional Greek villages rather than beach resorts, with a handful of tavernas and a much more local atmosphere. They are worth visiting on the way to or from Prasonisi, especially if you want to combine the beach with a short stop in one of the quieter parts of Rhodes.
Prasonisi map
On some satellite images, Prasonisi appears as a separate island, while at other times it is connected to Rhodes by the wide sandy beach. This changes with the sea level, wind and local conditions, which is part of what makes Prasonisi so fascinating. The beautiful lighthouse is located at the southwestern end of Prasonisi and can be reached on foot.
