⭐ Best Spots for Paddleboarding in Rhodes

If you’re planning to enjoy the sea in the calmest, most peaceful way, paddleboarding in Rhodes is one of the easiest and most rewarding activities on the island. With clear water, sheltered bays, long coastlines, and dramatic scenery, Rhodes offers some of the best stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) conditions in Greece.

The east coast is usually calm, making it perfect for beginners, families, and sunrise lovers. The west coast can also be incredible — but only on low-wind days — with big Aegean views and deep-blue water under your board.

Use this guide together with the Rhodes Travel Guide 2026 and the sea-focused route ideas in the Rhodes 7-Day Itinerary for planning the ideal SUP days.

⭐ Who I Am & Why I Wrote This Guide

Hey traveller — I’m Looneytravels, your Rhodes local buddy.

This guide focuses on the best local spots for paddleboarding in Rhodes, with real advice on conditions, access, scenery, and safety.

⭐ Paddleboarding in Rhodes (Local Overview)

Here’s what makes Rhodes such a fantastic SUP destination:

✔ calm Mediterranean east coast
✔ clear water
✔ predictable morning conditions
✔ scenic rocky bays
✔ long sheltered stretches for distance paddling

The island is great for beginners — just choose the right beaches.

⭐ Best Spots for Paddleboarding in Rhodes (2026 Guide)

Let’s break down the most beautiful and SUP-friendly locations on the island.

⭐ 1. Anthony Quinn Bay — Scenic & Turquoise

This is one of the most photogenic SUP spots in Rhodes.

⭐ Why It’s Amazing

✔ dazzling turquoise water
✔ rocky scenery and cliffs
✔ calm mornings
✔ short, beautiful circuits

Local tip:
Go early — before 10:00 — when the water is like glass.

⭐ Perfect For

✔ beginners early morning
✔ experienced paddlers wanting scenic routes
✔ snorkelling breaks mid-paddle

⭐ 2. Ladiko Bay — Calm, Protected, Ideal for Beginners

Directly next to Anthony Quinn but much calmer and wider.

⭐ Why It Works So Well

✔ sheltered from wind
✔ shallow sections
✔ easy entry
✔ great for first-timers

If you’re new to paddleboarding in Rhodes, start here.

⭐ 3. Tsambika Beach — Long, Golden, Perfect for Distance Paddles

One of my personal favourites for a peaceful long paddle.

⭐ Why It’s Excellent

✔ long stretch of calm water
✔ sandy entry
✔ predictable morning conditions
✔ amazing colour at sunrise

You can paddle from one end to the other for a beautiful 1–2 km session.

⭐ 4. Stegna — Local, Calm, Beautiful Coastal Scenery

Stegna is where many locals paddle because the water stays calm and clear.

⭐ What Makes It Great

✔ bright blue water
✔ rocky edges to explore
✔ less tourist traffic
✔ relaxed local vibe

Ideal for morning or evening paddles.

⭐ 5. Haraki — Glassy Water & Gentle Bay

A charming, quiet bay that’s perfect for families and beginners.

⭐ Why Haraki Works

✔ very stable water
✔ gentle curve of the bay
✔ calm early mornings
✔ close to restaurants and shade

Perfect if you want relaxed paddling without any effort.

⭐ 6. Lindos Main Beach — Calm Lagoon-Like Conditions

A stunning area for soft, easy paddling.

⭐ Why It's Special

✔ shallow water
✔ warm and calm
✔ beautiful backdrop of Lindos village
✔ great visibility

For SUP photography, it doesn’t get much better.

⭐ 7. St Paul’s Bay — Protected Cove with Crystal Water

A dreamlike paddleboarding setting.

⭐ Why It Shines

✔ safe from wind
✔ protected lagoon
✔ extremely clear water
✔ ideal for slow, scenic paddling

Great for couples, families, and anyone wanting peaceful SUP sessions.

⭐ 8. Kiotari — Long, Quiet, Deep-Blue Coastline

South Rhodes is perfect for SUP if you like wide-open, peaceful space.

⭐ What Makes Kiotari a Top SUP Spot

✔ clean coastline
✔ less boat traffic
✔ long distances for fitness paddles
✔ amazing sunrise views

On low-wind days, Kiotari feels like a dream.

⭐ 9. Navarone Bay (Near Lindos) — Dramatic Cliff Views

A cinematic paddleboarding location.

⭐ Why It Stands Out

✔ dramatic rock walls
✔ deep, blue water
✔ calm when wind is low
✔ fantastic long paddles

Not for complete beginners — depth and distance require confidence.

⭐ 10. Afandou & Traganou — Clear, Spacious, Peaceful

These beaches offer long stretches for quiet paddling.

⭐ Best Features

✔ super-clear water
✔ long coastline
✔ gentle morning conditions
✔ fewer people

Perfect for paddlers who enjoy space and quiet.

⭐ When to Go Paddleboarding in Rhodes

⭐ Best Time of Day

✔ 06:30–10:30 — calmest water
✔ sunset paddles are beautiful but slightly windier

⭐ Best Months

✔ May–June
✔ September–October
✔ July–August: go earlier because wind rises midday

⭐ Safety Tips for Paddleboarding in Rhodes

✔ check wind (especially the “meltemi” north wind)
✔ avoid west coast unless it’s a calm day
✔ wear a leash
✔ bring water and sunscreen
✔ stay close to shore if conditions change
✔ choose sheltered bays in summer afternoons

For transportation advice to beaches, see the Rhodes Transport Guide – Best Ways to Travel in Rhodes.

⭐ Paddleboarding for Families & Beginners

⭐ Best Beginner Beaches

✔ Ladiko
✔ Haraki
✔ Tsambika
✔ Lindos Main Beach
✔ Glystra
✔ Kiotari

These offer soft entries, stable water, and predictable conditions.

If you're traveling with children, also check Rhodes with Kids: Things They’ll Actually Enjoy in the Rhodes Travel Guide 2026.

⭐ Local-Only Paddleboarding Tips

✔ morning light is the most beautiful
✔ keep to the right side of bays to avoid small boats
✔ always check wind direction before launching
✔ rocky coves = best visibility and colour
✔ sandy bays = easier paddling

⭐ Where to Stay for Paddleboarding in Rhodes

⭐ Lindos

Perfect for SUP around St Paul’s Bay and Navarone.

⭐ Stegna

Local vibe + calm water.

⭐ Haraki

Perfect for slow, peaceful paddling.

⭐ Kiotari

Quiet coastline, ideal for long-distance SUP sessions.

Explore Where to Stay in Rhodes – Guide to All Best Areas & Resorts and Best Hotels in Rhodes for accommodation ideas.

⭐ Frequently Asked Questions About Paddleboarding in Rhodes

❓ Is Rhodes good for paddleboarding?

Yes — Rhodes is one of the best Greek islands for paddleboarding, especially along the east coast. Sheltered bays, clear water, and predictable morning conditions make it ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Locations such as Ladiko, Tsambika, Haraki, Stegna, and Lindos consistently offer calm seas that are perfect for SUP.

Rocky coves also provide excellent visibility and dramatic scenery, making paddleboarding in Rhodes both relaxing and visually rewarding.

❓ Which side of Rhodes is best for paddleboarding?

The east coast is best. It is naturally protected from the strong meltemi winds that affect the west coast, especially in summer. This means flatter water, easier entry, and safer conditions.

The west coast can be suitable only on very calm, low-wind days and is better for experienced paddlers due to waves and currents.

❓ When is the best time of day to paddleboard in Rhodes?

Early morning is ideal — typically between 6:30 and 10:30. During these hours the sea is usually glassy, boat traffic is minimal, and the light is soft. Sunset paddling can also be beautiful but may come with slightly more wind.

Locals almost always paddle in the morning for safety and comfort.

❓ Is paddleboarding in Rhodes suitable for beginners?

Yes. Rhodes is extremely beginner-friendly if you choose the right beaches. The best beginner spots include:

• Ladiko Bay

• Haraki

• Tsambika Beach

• Lindos Main Beach

• Glystra

• Kiotari

These locations have calm water, easy entry, and plenty of space to practice.

❓ Can families with children paddleboard in Rhodes?

Absolutely. Many beaches in Rhodes offer stable, shallow conditions suitable for families, especially in the morning. Haraki, Ladiko, Tsambika, and Lindos Main Beach are particularly good for families with older children who want to try SUP in safe conditions.

Always ensure children wear flotation vests and stay close to shore.

❓ Do I need my own paddleboard, or can I rent one?

You don’t need to bring your own board. Paddleboard rentals are widely available during the summer season at popular beaches such as Faliraki, Tsambika, Stegna, Lindos, and Kiotari. Many locations also offer guided SUP tours, especially around Anthony Quinn Bay and Lindos.

❓ Is paddleboarding in Rhodes safe?

Yes — when done responsibly. Stick to sheltered bays, check the wind forecast, paddle early in the day, wear a leash, and avoid drifting far from shore. Rhodes has very few dangerous marine conditions, but wind can change quickly in summer afternoons.

Staying on the east coast and paddling early makes the experience very safe.

❓ What is the best season for paddleboarding in Rhodes?

The best months are May–June and September–October, when the sea is warm, the weather is stable, and crowds are smaller. July and August are also excellent if you paddle early in the morning before winds increase.

⭐ External Expert References

“Best Greek Islands for Paddleboarding & Kayaking” – Lonely Planet
Highlights Rhodes as one of Greece’s top islands for SUP due to its sheltered east coast, calm bays, and crystal-clear water ideal for beginners and scenic paddling.

“Mediterranean Paddleboarding Destinations with Calm Water” – Condé Nast Traveller
Features Anthony Quinn Bay and Lindos as standout paddleboarding locations in the Mediterranean, praised for their turquoise water, dramatic scenery, and protected conditions.

“Outdoor & Water Activities in Rhodes” – Greece Is Magazine
Covers stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and calm-water sports in Rhodes, highlighting Tsambika, Stegna, and Haraki as ideal low-wind locations.

⭐ Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a beginner looking for calm, clear water or an experienced paddler seeking scenic coastline, paddleboarding in Rhodes is one of the best ways to enjoy the island. From turquoise coves to long sandy stretches, Rhodes offers ideal SUP conditions — especially early in the morning when the sea is smooth and peaceful.

Plan your sea days using the Rhodes Travel Guide 2026, route your activities with the Rhodes 7-Day Itinerary, and find the perfect coastline base through Best Hotels in Rhodes.

Slow paddles, clear water, and warm Aegean mornings — that’s Rhodes on a board.