Rhodes Weather: Complete Year-Round Guide

⭐ Rhodes Weather: Complete Year-Round Guide (Best Time to Visit + Monthly Overview)

Hey traveller! I’m Looneytravels — your Local Rhodes Expert resident who wants your holiday here to be smooth, memorable and totally stress-free.
If you want deeper help planning your trip around sun, crowds and seasons, you can always dive into the Rhodes Travel Guide 2026 or follow the ready-made Rhodes 7-Day Itinerary for easy planning.

In this guide, I’ll break down Rhodes Weather by season and month, with real temperatures, sea conditions and packing tips so you know exactly what to expect — whether you’re visiting in April, August or November.

⭐ How Rhodes Weather Works Through the Year

Rhodes sits in the south-eastern Aegean, closer to Turkey than mainland Greece, which gives it one of the longest summers in the country. Official climate data shows average daily temperatures from about 12–13°C in January up to 27–28°C in August, with more than 300 days of sunshine per year.

Summer (June–August) is hot, dry and sunny almost every day, with average daytime highs around 29–35°C and very little rain(very rare). Spring and autumn are warm and comfortable, while winter remains mild compared to northern Europe — think 14–17°C in the day, with some rainy, windy spells.

Sea temperatures are another big plus: they peak around 26–28°C in August, stay very swimmable through September and October, and only drop to about 16–17°C in late winter.

⭐ Rhodes Weather and the Best Time to Visit

If you want classic beach weather without extreme heat or massive crowds, shoulder months are your best friend. Major travel sources and cruise guides agree that May–June and September–October offer the ideal balance: warm days, good sea temperatures and lighter crowds than July–August.

Summer (especially late July and August) has the hottest conditions, often above 32–37°C, which is great for sun worshippers but can feel intense for sightseeing — and recent years have brought more heatwaves and wildfire risks across Greece. Winter is mild and much quieter: many beach facilities close, but Rhodes Town stays lively enough for a city break with local life.

For most travellers, spring and autumn give you that sweet spot of pleasant warmth, swimmable sea and more relaxed prices.

⭐ Seasonal Overview (What It Actually Feels Like)

⭐ Rhodes weather in Spring (March–May)

⭐Temperatures & Sea:

March starts around 18–20°C in the day, climbing to 20–24°C by late April and 22–26°C in May. Sea temperatures are cool in March, but by late May many people start swimming comfortably.

⭐Rain & Wind:

Most of the heavy winter rain is fading out, but March can still see showers. By May, rainfall is low and days are mostly sunny.

⭐What It Feels Like:

Perfect for walkers, explorers and anyone who doesn’t want 35°C on their head. Wildflowers are out, the island is green, and the Old Town feels alive but not overcrowded.

⭐What to Pack (Spring):

Light trousers / jeans
T-shirts and light long sleeves
A thin jumper or light jacket for evenings
Closed shoes or trainers
Swimsuit (especially for late April & May)
Light scarf or layer for breezy days

If you’re planning an April or May trip, Rhodes in Spring: Weather, Swimming & What to Expect goes into much more detail.

⭐ Rhodes Weather in Summer (June–August)

⭐Temperatures & Sea:

Daytime highs often reach 29–32°C, with some days hotter inland and on the east coast. Evenings stay warm, and the sea is beautifully warm — 24–28°C in July–August.

⭐Rain & Wind:

Rain is very rare; some summers pass with almost no showers at all. You may feel the meltemi winds, especially on the west coast, which can be a relief in the heat. VisitGreece

⭐What It Feels Like:

Peak holiday mode: busy beaches, long bright evenings, lots of nightlife, and maximum energy everywhere. Great for beach people, but a bit too hot for those who like hiking or long city walks.

⭐What to Pack (Summer):

Very light clothing (shorts, dresses, cotton, linen)
Strong suncream (high SPF)
Sunhat and sunglasses
Swimsuits (at least two)
Beach shoes/sandals
A light shirt or dress for evenings
Refillable water bottle

⭐ Rhodes weather in Autumn (September–November)

⭐Temperatures & Sea:

September often feels like an extra summer month, with daytime averages around 24–26°C and a very warm sea. October stays comfortable (around 22–24°C), with sea temperatures still 22–24°C, and November cools further but is usually still mild.

⭐Rain & Wind:

Showers slowly return later in October and November, but many days are still sunny and bright. Autumn storms can sometimes be intense, as Greece faces more extreme weather episodes in recent years, including heavy floods in parts of the Aegean. The Guardian

⭐What It Feels Like:

Ideal for people who hate extreme heat. You can swim, hike, explore villages and Old Town comfortably. By November, it feels more like a calm Mediterranean autumn.

⭐What to Pack (Autumn):

T-shirts and light shirts
Shorts for September, light trousers for later months
A warmer layer for evenings (cardigan, light fleece, or jacket)
Swimsuit (September–October for sure)
Closed shoes plus sandals
Compact umbrella or light rain jacket for late autumn

If you’re planning a September, October or early November trip,
Rhodes in Autumn: Warm Seas, Fewer Crowds & Why Locals Love It explains why many locals and repeat visitors consider autumn the most balanced time to visit the island.

⭐ Rhodes weather in Winter (December–February)

⭐Temperatures & Sea:

Average daytime temperatures sit around 13–16°C; nights can drop close to 9–11°C. The sea is at its coolest (about 16–18°C), and swimming is usually only for the brave.

⭐Rain & Wind:

This is the rainy season. December and January are the wettest months, with Atlantic-style storms bringing strong winds and heavy showers some years. Holiday Weather

⭐What It Feels Like:

More like a cool spring in northern Europe: some bright blue-sky days, some grey and rainy ones. Many tourist services close, but Rhodes Town remains lively with locals, cafes and shops.

⭐What to Pack (Winter):

Jeans or warm trousers
Jumpers and sweaters
A proper jacket (not heavy ski gear, but something warm and windproof)
Closed shoes
Umbrella or waterproof
Layering pieces (t-shirts under jumpers)

For a deeper look at what the island is really like outside peak season, read Rhodes in Winter: What It’s Really Like (Local Guide).

⭐How Rhodes Weather Feels Month by Month

Here’s a quick overview of each month:

January & February
Cool and damp; average around 12–13°C with the highest rainfall of the year. Not beach weather, but good for a quiet city break if you don’t mind rain.

March
Still changeable, but sunnier; around 15–17°C most days. Wildflowers arrive; great for walks with a light jacket.

April
Proper spring. Many days in the high teens/low twenties. Some still find the sea chilly, but the island looks fresh and green.

May
Probably the best balance of warmth and comfort: often 22–25°C with long sunny days, small crowds and slowly warming water. For many travellers, Rhodes Weather in May is ideal for mixed beach and sightseeing.

June
Warm, bright and starting to feel like full summer. Beaches fill up, but it’s not yet as intense as late July–August.

July & August
High summer, hot and dry. Expect long days above 30°C+, with very warm sea and busy resorts. Plan sightseeing early morning or late afternoon.

September
Still feels like summer, but a bit softer. Sea is at its warmest and evenings become gentler. Many locals and experienced visitors say September is the best month.

October
Warm enough for sea swimming early in the month, with comfortable days around 22–24°C and cooler evenings. Some rain showers appear, but it’s often a beautiful late-season choice.

November
More autumnal: mixed sun and cloud, moderate temperatures and rising rainfall, especially later in the month.

Understanding Rhodes Weather like this makes it much easier to pick the exact month that matches your ideal holiday style.

⭐ What to Pack by Travel Style

Beach-Focused Holiday (June–September)
2–3 swimsuits
Flip-flops + beach shoes
Loose cotton/linen clothing
High SPF suncream and after-sun
Hat, sunglasses, light cover-up

Sightseeing & Exploring (April–June, September–October)
Comfortable trainers or walking shoes
Light layers (t-shirts + thin jumper)
Sun protection (even in shoulder months)
Daypack and refillable bottle

Off-Season Visit (November–March)
Closed shoes
Jeans and warm trousers
Jumper + mid-weight jacket
Umbrella or light raincoat

You get more detailed info in our Packing Guide

⭐ FAQ — Rhodes Weather 2026 (Best Time to Visit, Month by Month & By Traveller Type)

⭐ What is the best month to visit Rhodes for a beach holiday?

If your main goal is swimming, sunbathing and easy beach days, the best months are June, July, August and September. In these months you get long sunny days, very warm sea temperatures and almost no rain. July–August are the hottest and busiest, while June and September are a bit softer and more comfortable for people who don’t love extreme heat.

If you want a beach holiday without crowds, September is often the sweet spot: the sea is at its warmest, evenings are still summery, and families with school schedules start to disappear. To pick the right area for your beach base (Faliraki, Pefkos, Kolymbia, Kiotari etc.), have a look at Where to Stay in Rhodes – Guide to All Best Areas & Resorts.

⭐ When is the best time to visit Rhodes if I hate extreme heat?

If 35°C in the shade sounds like your nightmare, aim for late April, May, early June, late September or October. In these months, you still get plenty of sunshine and comfortably warm days, but the temperatures are usually in the low-to-mid 20s rather than high 30s. It’s perfect for sightseeing, hiking, village exploring and relaxed terrace dinners.

In May and early June, the island is green and fresh; in late September and October, the sea is still warm from summer. For mixed “exploring + some beach time”, these shoulder months are ideal. To combine the right weather with the right area (city vs beach), check Best Things to Do in Rhodes Greece and Rhodes Itinerary.

⭐ Is Rhodes too hot in July and August?

It depends on your heat tolerance. In July and August, daytime temperatures often sit above 30°C, with heatwaves pushing into the mid-30s or more. On the east coast (Faliraki, Kolymbia, Lindos, Pefkos), the sea is calm and the sun is strong, so you need good sun protection and plenty of water. The west coast (Ixia, Ialyssos) is cooler thanks to stronger winds, which some people love and others find too gusty.

If you visit in high summer, plan sightseeing early in the morning or after 17:00 and spend the hottest hours near the sea or pool. For ideas on structuring your days around heat, have a look at Rhodes Transport Guide – Best Ways to Travel in Rhodes and Rhodes Old Town Guide 2026 – What to See, Eat & Explore.

⭐ Can you swim in Rhodes in April, May and October?

Yes — but it feels different in each month. In April, the sea is still on the cooler side; some people love it and some find it fresh. By May, especially from mid-month onwards, many visitors and locals start swimming regularly. In October, the sea is usually very pleasant, because it has stored heat all summer; this often surprises people who think autumn means cold water.

If your absolute priority is warm sea, choose late May through October, with the warmest water generally in September. For choosing a sheltered, family-friendly bay with calm water, check Best Beaches in Rhodes and Best Snorkelling Spots in Rhodes – Local Secrets.

⭐ What is Rhodes like in winter (December–February)?

Winter in Rhodes is mild but changeable. Daytime temperatures are usually around 13–16°C, with some sunny days feeling like a cool spring and other days bringing rain, wind and storms. Many beach facilities, resort hotels and tourist shops close, but Rhodes Town remains active with locals, open cafés and year-round residents.

Winter is a good time if you want quiet streets, local life and lower prices, and you don’t mind that it’s not beach weather. It’s more of a Mediterranean city break than a classic island holiday. To understand how to enjoy the island beyond the beach, read Rhodes in Winter and Discover Rhodes.

⭐ Is Rhodes windy? Which side of the island is windier?

Yes, Rhodes can be windy — and this wind is part of why summers are still bearable. The west coast (Ixia, Ialyssos, Theologos) is windier, making it great for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The east coast (Faliraki, Kolymbia, Lindos, Pefkos, Kiotari) is more sheltered and usually has calmer seas, which is better for families and people who prefer glassy water.

If you’re sensitive to wind, choose an east-coast base. If you love water sports, look at Ixia, Ialyssos or Prasonisi. For help choosing, see Where to Stay in Rhodes – Guide to All Best Areas & Resorts and Rhodes for Adventure Lovers.

⭐ What’s the best time to visit Rhodes for hiking and nature?

The best months for hiking, walking and nature are March, April, May, late September, October and early November. In spring, the island is green, wildflowers are everywhere, and temperatures are perfect for long walks without overheating. In autumn, the sea is still warm, but the air is fresher and perfect for exploring places like Seven Springs, Butterfly Valley and Profitis Ilias.

Avoid doing long hikes in July and August, unless you start very early in the morning and bring plenty of water. For outdoor ideas, have a look at Best Hikes in Rhodes and Rhodes for Nature Lovers.

⭐ What’s the best time for families with kids to visit Rhodes?

For families, the best balance between good weather, warm sea and manageable heat is usually late May, June and September. In these months, the water is swimmable, the sun is strong but not extreme (especially in June and September), and attractions like Faliraki Waterpark and family resorts are fully open.

July and August are fine for families too, but you’ll want to plan more pool breaks, siestas and shade time in the middle of the day. If you’re choosing areas specifically for kids (playgrounds, shallow beaches, all-inclusive hotels), read Rhodes for Families, Where to Stay in Rhodes Without a Car – Guide for Best Areas and Waterpark Rhodes: Complete Guide to Faliraki Waterpark (Tickets, Rides & Tips 2025).

⭐ When is the best time to visit Rhodes for couples?

Couples often love May, June, September and early October. These months offer warm evenings, beautiful sunsets, less crowding in Lindos and Old Town, and lower hotel prices than peak summer. It’s easier to find romantic rooftop tables, quiet coves and relaxed wine bars when the island isn’t at full capacity.

If you’re planning a honeymoon or anniversary trip, consider Lindos, Kallithea, Kiotari or Gennadi outside of peak August. For inspiration, check Rhodes for Couples – Most Romantic Places and Rhodes Lindos Travel Guide 2026 – Explore Like a Local.

⭐ How does Rhodes weather affect driving and transport?

In summer, heat mainly affects comfort: cars get hot if parked in direct sun, and long midday walks from bus stops can feel heavy. Always bring water, use sunshades, and avoid parking for hours on open asphalt. Buses and taxis run normally, but can be crowded in July–August. In winter, heavy rain and storms can occasionally cause delays, but main roads are usually fine.

The good news is that Rhodes rarely has ice or snow issues on coastal roads. To plan routes and transport around the seasons, see Rhodes Transport Guide – Best Ways to Travel in Rhodes and Driving in Rhodes.

⭐ Is climate change affecting Rhodes weather?

Like most of Greece, Rhodes has started to feel hotter summers, more intense heatwaves and occasional extreme weather episodes (heavy rainstorms, strong winds) in recent years. This doesn’t mean you should cancel your trip, but it does mean smart planning: avoid the hottest hours in July–August, stay hydrated, check local fire warnings, and listen to advice from your hotel or local authorities.

Shoulder seasons (May–June and September–October) are becoming even more attractive because they offer the same sunshine with less risk of extreme heat. For planning your trip around these patterns, pair this guide with Rhodes Travel Mistakes to Avoid and Rhodes Itinerary.

⭐ Last Thoughts

I hope this guide gives you a clear, relaxed picture of what the skies, sea and temperatures are really like here through the year. When you understand Rhodes Weather season by season and month by month, it becomes much easier to choose the right time to visit — whether you’re chasing pure beach days, gentle hiking weather or a quieter winter escape.

If you’d ever like a deeper look at the island — from route ideas and hidden bays to ready-made daily plans — you can always explore the Rhodes Travel Guide 2026 or the Rhodes 7-Day Itinerary whenever it suits you.

⭐ More Guides to Make Your Rhodes Trip Smoother

If you want your holiday to feel relaxed and easy from the moment you land, you might enjoy some of my other simple guides. Each one gives you clear, local advice so you can avoid confusion and plan your days with confidence.

Where to Stay in Rhodes Without a Car – Guide for Best Areas
Perfect if you’re not renting a car and want the easiest, walkable places to stay.

Where to Stay in Rhodes: Guide to All Best Areas & Resorts
A full breakdown of every area on the island — great for choosing the right base.

Rhodes Transport Guide – Best Ways to Travel in Rhodes
Explains buses, taxis, transfers and driving in the easiest way possible.

Top Hotels in Rhodes 2026: Best Hotels by Area from Ixia to Gennadi
A friendly list of the best hotels, based on real local knowledge and experience.

Rhodes Taxi Prices — Full Guide with Prices 2025 (Local Tips & Real Costs)
Updated taxi costs for all major routes, plus honest tips to avoid overpaying.

Feel free to explore any of these whenever it suits you — they’re written to make your trip smoother, calmer and stress-free.

Wishing you blue skies, calm seas and a holiday that fits you perfectly.