Elli Beach Rhodes – Full Local Guide 2026

⭐ Elli Beach Rhodes — The Ultimate Local Guide (City Beach, Clear Water & Easy Access)

Elli Beach Rhodes is one of the easiest beaches in Greece to fall in love with. It sits right in Rhodes Town, between the famous Aquarium, Mandraki Harbour and the New Town promenade — so you can swim in clear blue water in the morning and be inside the Medieval Old Town ten minutes later.

Locals love Elli Beach for its:

• warm, clean water

• long, organized shoreline

• sunrise and sunset swims

• cafés and bars just steps from the sand

• and the simple fact that you don’t need a car to enjoy it

If you’re still shaping your holiday, you can easily plug Elli into your overall plan using my Rhodes Travel Guide 2026, Rhodes 7-Day Itinerary and Best Things to Do in Rhodes Greece guide.

This is a full, local-written guide to Elli Beach Rhodes — detailed, honest, and designed to help you enjoy it like someone who actually lives here.

⭐ Who I Am & Why I Wrote This Guide

Hey traveller — I’m Looneytravels, your friendly Rhodes local buddy. I live in Rhodes year-round, swim at Elli Beach regularly, and spend my days exploring the island so you don’t waste time or money on tourist traps.

Elli Beach is my go-to for:

• quick sunrise dips

• after-work swims

• casual meet-ups with friends

• and lazy Sundays when I don’t want to drive anywhere

I wrote this guide because most descriptions of Elli Beach Rhodes are either too generic (“nice city beach”) or written from a one-time visitor perspective. You’re getting local reality here — what the water is really like, where to sit, what to avoid, and how Elli fits into your wider Rhodes trip.

If you’re still deciding where to stay, my Where to Stay in Rhodes – Guide to All Best Areas & Resorts breaks down which areas suit couples, families, nightlife-lovers and quiet-seekers (including Rhodes Town around Elli Beach).

⭐ Elli Beach Rhodes Overview

Elli Beach Rhodes is the main beach of Rhodes Town, stretching along the northern tip of the island between the Aquarium and the Casino / New Town promenade. It’s a long, organized beach with a mix of sand and fine pebbles, lined with sunbeds, beach bars and a beautiful pedestrian promenade.

Here’s what to expect at Elli Beach Rhodes:

• ✔ Clear, warm water

• ✔ Smooth entry (sand + small pebbles)

• ✔ Long, organized beach with sunbeds & umbrellas

• ✔ Famous diving platform in the sea

• ✔ Cafés, bars, ice cream and restaurants seconds away

• ✔ Lifeguards in season

• ✔ Perfect location if you stay in Rhodes Town

• ✔ Easy to combine with Rhodes Old Town sightseeing

According to the Greeka Elli Beach page, this city beach is loved for its clear water, soft sand-pebble mix and the lively yet elegant atmosphere right next to Rhodes Town’s main attractions.
The Rhodes-Beaches guide to Elli Beach underlines the long organized shore, diving platform and well-developed facilities that make it one of the top city beaches in Greece.
And as shown in an AllTrails paved coastal route that passes Elli, the seafront path here offers a flat, scenic walk with views across the town coastline and the Aegean.

If you like the idea of walking from your hotel to the beach and to the Old Town, Elli Beach Rhodes is one of the best base areas on the island. For a bigger picture, check Best Beaches in Rhodes to see how Elli compares to the rest of the coastline.

⭐ What Makes Elli Beach Rhodes Special

Elli is special because it combines city convenience with holiday-postcard water.

You get:

• The comfort of staying in Rhodes Town

• The beauty of a clean blue-flag style beach

• The choice of cafés, bars, bakeries and restaurants right behind you

• The ability to walk everywhere — Old Town, Mandraki, nightlife, museum, harbour

It attracts:

• locals (morning swimmers & after-work crowd)

• couples (sunset drinks + beach days)

• families (easy logistics, food & shade close by)

• solo travellers (safe, social and walkable area)

If you’re travelling without a car, Elli plus the surrounding area is one of the most practical choices on the island — which I explain in more depth in Where to Stay in Rhodes Without a Car – Guide to the Best Areas.

⭐ Elli Beach Rhodes — Atmosphere, Water & Layout

⭐ Atmosphere & First Impressions

Elli Beach Rhodes has a lively but not chaotic feel. It’s not a party beach, but it definitely has energy.

• Morning: calm, quiet, mainly locals doing laps and hotel guests going for early swims.

• Midday: lively, sunbeds filling, cafés busy, families and couples spread out along the shore.

• Afternoon: warm water, relaxed buzz, music from some beach bars but not “club” level.

• Evening: softer light, sunset colours, great time for a swim or a drink along the promenade.

It’s one of the few beaches where you can spend the day in your swimwear and the evening in smart casual — without ever needing a car. If you want to see how Elli fits into a full Rhodes Town day (beach + Old Town + harbour + sunset), my Rhodes Old Town Guide 2026 – What to See, Eat & Explore is very useful.

⭐ Water Quality & Swimming

The water at Elli Beach is usually:

• ✔ very clear (especially in the morning)

• ✔ warm from late spring to autumn

• ✔ calm or gently wavy

• ✔ deep enough for laps but with a manageable entry

It’s one of the best places in Rhodes Town for long-distance swimming — the shoreline is straight, and you can comfortably swim parallel to the beach.

If you’re visiting in shoulder season and wondering about water temperature, my Rhodes Weather – Complete Year-Round Guide explains what to expect month by month (including when locals start and stop swimming).

⭐ Beach Type — Sand or Pebbles?

Elli Beach is a sand + fine pebble mix:

• The central part has softer sand with small pebbles — comfortable for most people.

• The Aquarium side has more pebbles but very clear water.

• The casino side can feel slightly more pebbly, especially near the waterline.

Most visitors walk barefoot without issues, but if you have sensitive feet, light water shoes can make entry even easier.

⭐ Sunbeds, Prices & Facilities

You’ll find a full range of setups at Elli Beach Rhodes — from basic sunbeds to more luxurious beach-club style beds.

Typical prices (change slightly year to year):

• Standard sets: ~€10–€15 (2 beds + umbrella)

• Front-row or branded beach bars: ~€15–€25

• Premium “luxury” setups in July–August: up to €30–€105 in peak locations

Facilities along Elli Beach generally include:

• ✔ Showers

• ✔ Changing cabins

• ✔ Toilets (through cafés / beach bars)

• ✔ Lifeguard stations (summer season)

• ✔ Beach bars & restaurants

• ✔ Access to the diving platform

If you want to keep your budget under control while still enjoying Elli, my Is Rhodes Expensive Compared to Other Greek Islands? guide breaks down realistic costs for food, sunbeds and activities in Rhodes Town and beyond.

⭐ Where to Swim at Elli Beach Rhodes (Best Sections)

⭐ 1. Near the Diving Platform — Fun & Energetic

The famous diving platform is one of the symbols of Elli Beach Rhodes.

Best for:

• confident swimmers

• teenagers and young adults

• people who enjoy a bit of fun & energy

Here the water is deeper, and there’s a playful vibe with people jumping in, swimming out and taking photos. It’s safe in normal conditions, but always check flags and lifeguard signals.

⭐ 2. Central Elli — Best for Most People

The middle section of Elli Beach offers the best balance:

• comfortable sand-pebble mix

• gradually deepening water

• plenty of sunbeds

• easy access to cafés and toilets

This is ideal for families, couples and anyone who just wants an easy beach day with minimal decision-making.

⭐ 3. Aquarium Side — Calmer & Great for Morning Swims

On the Aquarium end, the bay curves slightly, sometimes giving:

• more shelter from waves

• extra calm water in the early hours

• a quieter atmosphere compared to the central diving-platform zone

This is where many locals head for sunrise swims, especially before work.

⭐ 4. Casino / Akti Miaouli Side — Slightly Quieter & More Local

On the far side closer to the casino and Akti Miaouli, you’ll find:

• fewer organized rows

• more space between sunbeds

• a slightly more “local” vibe

It’s a good option if you like Elli’s convenience but prefer a slightly less busy feel.

⭐ Food & Drinks Around Elli Beach Rhodes

One of the biggest advantages of Elli Beach Rhodes is the food situation — you’re surrounded by options within a few minutes’ walk.

You’ll find:

• casual beach bars serving snacks, salads and cocktails

• tavernas with Greek dishes

• cafés for breakfast and coffee

• bakeries and gelato spots in the back streets

If you’re a real food lover, combine your Elli day with dinner in the Medieval City using my Best Rhodes Old Town Restaurants guide — it lists the places locals actually eat, not just the tourist traps around the main squares.

For evening plans after the beach, my Nightlife in Rhodes – Insider Picks for the Best Nights Out explains where to go in Rhodes Town for cocktails, wine bars and more relaxed night spots.

⭐ Hidden Corners & Local Secrets at Elli Beach

Even a city beach has its secrets. Here’s what locals know:

⭐ Sunrise Swim Zone
Near the Aquarium, Elli gets that calm “private pool” feel just after sunrise. If you’re a morning person, this is the best time to experience Elli Beach Rhodes almost alone.

⭐ “Glass Water” Mornings
On wind-free days, the water turns glassy at around 08:00–09:00 — perfect time for clear-water photos and GoPro shots.

⭐ Evening Promenade Walk
The promenade behind Elli is perfect for an easy sunset stroll. You can continue all the way towards Kato Petres on one side or Mandraki Harbour and the Old Town on the other. For deeper Old Town explorations, use the Rhodes Old Town Guide 2026.

⭐ Windy Beach Contrast
Just around the corner from Elli is Windy Beach (west side of the tip). On very hot days, locals sometimes swim at Elli in the morning for calm water, then shift to Windy Beach in the afternoon for the breeze.

⭐ Best Time to Visit Elli Beach Rhodes

By time of day:

• Morning:

  • calmest water

  • least crowded

  • lots of locals

  • best for long swims

• Midday:

  • busiest

  • warmest water

  • full sun (protect yourself!)

• Late Afternoon:

  • more relaxed again

  • beautiful softer light

  • perfect balance of warmth + comfort

• Evening:

  • swimming still possible in summer

  • great time for photos and a drink nearby

By month:

• May–June: warm enough to swim, not too crowded

• July–August: hottest and busiest, but Elli handles crowds better than small bays

• September–October: warmest sea, more relaxed atmosphere, especially nice for couples and solo travellers

To choose your ideal travel month, check the full Rhodes Weather – Complete Year-Round Guide & Best Time to Visit.

⭐ Elli Beach Rhodes for Different Traveller Types

⭐ Families

Elli Beach works very well for families because:

• shallow sections near the shore

• lifeguards in high season

• toilets and food are very close

• no problem walking back to hotel with tired kids

• buses and taxis are easy if you stay slightly outside Rhodes Town

If you’re planning a family holiday without renting a car, make sure to read Where to Stay in Rhodes Without a Car – Guide to the Best Areas.

⭐ Couples

Couples tend to love:

• sunset drinks overlooking the sea

• long walks along the promenade and harbour

• combining beach + Old Town dinner in one simple day

• having plenty of food and nightlife choices within walking distance

If you’re still torn between staying in Rhodes Town or somewhere like Lindos/Pefkos, my Pefkos or Lindos – Which Is Better for Your Holiday? guide helps compare south vs north.

⭐ Solo Travellers

For solo travellers, Elli Beach Rhodes is one of the safest and easiest options on the island:

• you’re close to everything

• you don’t need a car

• there are enough people around to feel safe, but it’s not overwhelming

• cafés and bars make it easy to be social or just people-watch

For a deeper dive into solo safety, social spots and best areas, read Rhodes for Solo Travellers – Safety, Areas & Things to Do.

⭐ Mobility, Accessibility & Safety

⭐ Accessibility

Elli Beach is one of the most accessible beaches in Rhodes:

• flat promenade

• paved paths

• easy access from nearby hotels

• some ramps down to the beach

• short walking distance from central Rhodes Town

Pebbles at the waterline may be a bit tricky for those with mobility issues, but overall it’s one of the best choices for accessibility on the island.

⭐ Safety Tips (Local View)

Elli Beach Rhodes is generally very safe, but:

• protect yourself from the sun, especially 12:00–15:00

• keep valuables close — it’s a city beach, so don’t leave phones/cards unattended

• check flags and lifeguard instructions before using the diving platform

• in July–August, pre-book premium sunbeds if you want front-row spots

To avoid other common first-timer mistakes (like choosing the wrong area or getting overcharged for taxis), check Rhodes Travel Mistakes to Avoid – Local Tips for First-Time Visitors.

⭐ Transport – How to Get to Elli Beach Rhodes

⭐ If You’re Staying in Rhodes Town

Good news: you probably walk. Elli Beach is:

• a short walk from most Rhodes Town hotels

• 10–15 minutes on foot from the Medieval Old Town

• a few minutes from Mandraki Harbour

⭐ From Other Areas

By bus:
Most east-coast buses (Faliraki, Kolymbia, Lindos) arrive at the main Rhodes Town station. From there, Elli Beach is roughly a 10–15 minute walk.

By taxi (approximate one-way fares):

• Ixia → Elli: ~€20–€25

• Ialyssos → Elli: ~€23–€28

• Faliraki → Elli: ~€22–€28

• Kallithea / Koskinou → Elli: ~€18–€24

For up-to-date fares and how taxis work on the island, see Rhodes Taxi Prices – Full Guide with Prices 2025, Local Tips & Real Costs.

If you’re planning to explore other beaches around the island, my Rhodes Transport Guide – Best Ways to Travel in Rhodes and Car Rental Rhodes – Local Tips will help you decide between buses, taxis and a hire car.

Arriving by plane? My Rhodes Airport Diagoras – Complete 2026 Travel Guide explains how to reach Rhodes Town and Elli Beach easily from the airport.

⭐ Where to Stay Near Elli Beach Rhodes

Elli sits in the modern part of Rhodes Town, which has a wide range of hotels — from simple budget options to high-end suites.

Popular picks close to Elli often include:

• large seafront hotels with pools facing the promenade

• smaller city hotels a couple of streets back (quieter but still walkable)

• all-round mid-range hotels ideal for couples or solo travellers

To see which specific properties I actually recommend (by area and budget), go through Top Hotels in Rhodes 2026 – Best Hotels by Area from Ixia to Gennadi and my main Rhodes Island Greece Hotels page.

If you’re more interested in comparing Rhodes Town vs beach resorts like Faliraki, Kolymbia, Pefkos or Kiotari, the Where to Stay in Rhodes – Full Guide to All Areas & Resorts gives you a simple breakdown.

⭐ Elli Beach Rhodes FAQ (Local Answers for 2026)

❓ Is Elli Beach worth visiting in Rhodes?
Yes — Elli Beach Rhodes is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you’re staying in or near Rhodes Town. It offers clear water, a long organized beach, great swimming and easy access to the Old Town, harbour and city attractions all in one place.

❓ Is Elli Beach sandy or pebbly?
Elli Beach is a sand + fine pebble mix. The central section feels softer underfoot, while the sides (especially near the Aquarium) can be more pebbly but with extremely clear water.

❓ Is Elli Beach good for families with small children?
Yes. There are shallow sections near the shore, lifeguards in high season, toilets and food close by, and no strong currents under normal conditions. For a full overview of family-friendly areas across the island, see Best Things to Do in Rhodes Greece (family section) and Where to Stay in Rhodes Without a Car.

❓ Is Elli Beach safe for solo travellers?
Very. Rhodes Town is one of the safest urban areas in Greece, and Elli is usually busy enough to feel comfortable but not hectic. For more safety tips, see Rhodes for Solo Travellers – Safety, Areas & Things to Do.

❓ Does Elli Beach have sunbeds and umbrellas?
Yes — Elli is fully organized, with multiple rows of sunbeds and umbrellas along most of the beach. Prices vary by section and season but expect around €10–€25 per set.

❓ Can you snorkel at Elli Beach?
You can snorkel, especially near the rocky edges, but there are better snorkelling spots on the island. For serious snorkellers, check Best Snorkelling Spots in Rhodes – Local Secrets and save your mask for places like Anthony Quinn Bay, Ladiko and Traganou.

❓ Is Elli Beach windy?
Sometimes. Elli is on the north tip of the island, so it can get breezy — but it is usually less windy than the west-coast Windy Beach right around the corner. On very hot days, that small breeze is actually a plus.

❓ How far is Elli Beach from Rhodes Old Town?
Around 10–15 minutes on foot, depending on where in the Old Town you start. It’s an easy, pleasant walk via Mandraki Harbour. For route ideas combining Old Town + Elli in one day, see the Rhodes Old Town Guide 2026.

❓ Is there free parking near Elli Beach Rhodes?
Parking is limited but you can often find street parking in the surrounding neighbourhoods if you arrive early. Paid parking lots exist around Rhodes Town as well. If you’re renting a car, my Car Rental Rhodes guide includes essential parking tips and local rules.

❓ Can you walk from Elli Beach to Windy Beach?
Yes — it’s literally around the tip of the island. Many people walk between the two in a few minutes to compare conditions and choose whichever side feels better that day.

❓ Is Elli Beach crowded in summer?
In July–August, Elli Beach Rhodes gets busy, especially mid-day — but because it’s long and wide, it doesn’t feel as cramped as tiny coves like St. Paul’s Bay or Anthony Quinn. If you want a front-row sunbed at a popular bar, go earlier in the morning.

❓ How long should you spend at Elli Beach?
You can:

• stop for a quick 1–2 hour swim during a Rhodes Town sightseeing day

• spend half a day relaxing with lunch nearby

• or base your entire holiday around Rhodes Town and swim at Elli every day

To see how to structure full days in Rhodes Town (Elli + Old Town + harbour + nightlife), check Best Things to Do in Rhodes Greece and the Rhodes 7-Day Itinerary.

❓ Can I visit Elli Beach on a cruise stop in Rhodes?
Yes — Elli Beach is perfect for cruise visitors. From the port, you can walk to the Old Town, then continue to Elli for a swim and back again within a single day. For smooth planning, read Rhodes Travel Mistakes to Avoid so you don’t waste your limited hours.

⭐ Final Thoughts — Is Elli Beach Rhodes Worth It?

Absolutely.

Elli Beach Rhodes is the perfect mix of city comfort and classic Greek beach life: clear water, easy access, great food nearby and the Medieval Old Town just a short walk away.

If you:

• don’t want to rent a car

• like having everything close

• enjoy a bit of energy but not wild parties

• and want to mix beach time with culture, food and nightlife

…then basing yourself near Elli Beach Rhodes is one of the smartest decisions you can make.

For full island inspiration, explore Best Things to Do in Rhodes Greece and Best Beaches in Rhodes.
If you’d like everything planned for you step by step, grab the Rhodes 7-Day Itinerary and enjoy Rhodes — and Elli Beach — exactly like a local.

Wishing you warm water, easy swims and beautiful sunsets at Elli Beach Rhodes. 🌊☀️