When the kids have had enough of ruins, the Faliraki Water Park is the obvious answer. It sits on the north-east coast of Rhodes, a short drive from Rhodes Town, and is among the best-known water parks in Greece. The park has a wide mix of slides, from gentle family rides to steep, fast ones for teenagers, plus pools, a wave area and shallow zones for small children. Sun loungers, shaded areas and food outlets make it possible to spend a whole day there without leaving. For families on a beach holiday it is a way to give the children a high point of the trip.
The park is built around a central area of pools and a lazy river, with the larger slides fanning out around it. Rides are graded by height and age, so younger children have their own splash zone with small slides and water jets, while older children and adults can try the faster tubes and body slides. Queues on the busiest rides can build in the middle of the day in July and August, so arrive near opening and head for the biggest slides first, then move to the pools when the crowds arrive.
Admission usually gives access to the park's rides and pools for the day, while loungers, umbrellas, lockers and food are often extra, so check what the ticket includes when you book. Lifeguards are posted around the park, and there are rules on height, age and swimwear that are posted at each ride. Swimwear without metal fasteners is best, and shorts with zips or rivets are commonly not allowed on slides. Bring a towel, waterproof sunscreen, flip-flops and a hat, and keep valuables in a locker rather than on your lounger.
Getting there
Faliraki is about fifteen kilometres from Rhodes Town, and local buses, taxis and hire cars all make the trip. A bus from the town runs to the resort area, and from there the park is a short walk or taxi ride. If you are driving, parking is normally available nearby. Allow time for the journey so you arrive close to opening, and plan the return so you are not travelling in the hottest part of the afternoon.
Who will enjoy it? The park works best for families with children aged about four to sixteen, and for groups of friends who like thrill slides. Toddlers can enjoy the shallow areas, though they will need close supervision. Visitors who have spent several days in the Old Town often find a water park day is a welcome reset. It is less suited to visitors who prefer quiet, scenic experiences, and the music and crowds may be too much for them on a peak summer day.
Seasons
The water park is a seasonal attraction, normally open from late spring to early autumn, with the busiest weeks in July and August. Opening times vary through the season, so check before you go and avoid cooler, windy days when the water feels cold. Combining a morning at the park with an evening in Faliraki or a return to Rhodes Town for dinner makes a satisfying family day.
What to expect
The experience
A full day at a large water park with slides, pools, a lazy river and areas for young children.
Best time
Weekday mornings in June or September, when queues are shorter.
How long
A half or full day.
Tips
Arrive near opening, bring a towel, sunscreen and a hat, use lockers for valuables and check ride height rules.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families with children and teenagers who want a high-energy day.
- Families
- The main audience, with separate zones for small children.
- Couples
- Fun for couples who like slides, though the crowds can be heavy in peak season.
- Pair with
- A relaxed dinner in Rhodes Town or a sunset cruise the next day.
- Time needed
- Four to seven hours.
Good questions
How far is it from Rhodes Town?+
About fifteen kilometres to Faliraki, reachable by bus, taxi or car in around twenty to thirty minutes.
Are towels and lockers included?+
Often not. Check what the ticket includes when you book.
Is it suitable for toddlers?+
Yes, there are shallow areas, but toddlers need close supervision.
When is it open?+
It is a seasonal park, usually from late spring to early autumn. Check dates before you go.
What should I wear?+
Swimwear without metal fasteners. Rivets and zips are often not allowed on slides.
