Best beaches in Kiotari

Kiotari Beach, like the resort, has managed to expand as a holiday destination without becoming over developed and retains a quaint charm. The long stretches of pebble and sand are rarely overcrowded, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the sun. Some parts of the shoreline are quite rocky making interesting places for snorkellers to explore and with calm warm waters the beach also attracts a lot of water sport enthusiast. The immediate area is well served by mini markets, bakeries, patisseries and tavernas so you will be well catered for during your visit. Just one word of caution, some of the approaches to the sea can be rocky so we recommend that you bring some suitable swimming shoes.

Just down the coast from Kiotari, on the outskirts of Lardos, lies the perfectly shaped cove of Glystra beach. This little sandy gem, 210m long and 35m wide, is a haven of peace away from the hustle and bustle of the nearby resorts. The warm waters are shallow, making it ideal for families with young children, who will also enjoy exploring the dunes at the back of the area. Numerous deckchairs and parasols are available for hire, while snacks and drinks can be purchased from the small beach restaurant.

In the nearby resort of Lindos lies the charming Lindos beach. This 400-metre beach of soft beige sand is fringed by clear, calm turquoise waters, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. The gently sloping sands mean that the sea remains shallow for some distance, before gently deepening, making it ideal for families with young children. The area is well served by beach kiosks, tavernas and restaurants, as well as an abundance of sun loungers for hire. There are also plenty of water-based activities on offer, including waterskiing, parasailing and banana boats. The beach can get crowded in high season, so we recommend leaving early if you want to secure the best spot for a relaxing day.

If you prefer beaches that are a little more authentic and less touristy, we recommend Pallas beach. Located a short distance from Kiotari and hidden away below the town of Lindos, this beach is the smaller but perfectly formed neighbour of the Lindos beaches. It can be reached from the main beach via a narrow coastal path or a footpath near the start of the famous donkey trail to the Acropolis. The beach has rudimentary facilities compared to some of the larger beaches in the area, but this only adds to its charm and there are always plenty of tavernas offering healthy food and drink. Just be careful not to swim near the jetty, where sea urchins abound and can ruin your day.

Just outside Lindos is the magnificent bay of St Paul. Tradition has it that it was in this bay that St Paul landed to bring Christianity to Rhodes, hence its name. Arriving by road, you will have a spectacular view of the two coves that make up the bay, certainly one of the most beautiful in Greece and often voted one of the best beaches in the world. Free parking is available close to the beach and a short walk leads to sandy and pebble beaches surrounded by rock formations, which many visitors exploit as natural diving boards. The beaches themselves are very well organised, with plenty of sun loungers and cabins for hire, beach bars, toilets and showers. The whole area has a lively but relaxed atmosphere, where people can relax and enjoy this remarkable stretch of coastline.