Rhodes has a long and rocky shoreline, and some of its best scenery cannot be reached on foot. A guided sea kayaking trip puts you at water level, paddling along cliffs, through narrow channels and into small caves, with stops in coves where the only way in is by water. The Pirates Route, one of the best-known paddling trips, follows a stretch of coast named for the island's seafaring past, and the guides tell stories of the island's seafaring past as you go. The kayaks are stable sit-on-top or double kayaks, designed for beginners, and a guide leads the group at an easy pace, with safety gear and a briefing before you set off. The sea on a calm day is clear and green over pale rocks, and fish dart below the boat.
A typical tour lasts three to four hours, with about an hour or two of actual paddling, split into short stretches so that the effort is manageable. You meet the guide at the beach or the meeting point, get fitted with a life jacket and a paddle, and practise the basic strokes in the shallows. The group then follows the coast, stopping to look into caves, swim, snorkel if you have brought a mask, and eat a snack or fruit on the shore.
Some versions end with a drink at a beach bar. Sunset versions of the same route are popular in summer, when the light on the cliffs is particularly beautiful and the temperature is more comfortable.
You do not need to be fit or experienced, but you should be able to swim and to paddle steadily for a while. Children are often allowed in double kayaks with an adult, and there are age and weight limits, so ask before you book. Pregnant travellers and people with shoulder or back problems should check with the operator and a doctor. The guides can adapt the route to the weather and the group, and they will cancel or change it if the wind is too strong.
Think about what you wear. A swimsuit under a quick-drying top, a hat, sunglasses with a strap, sunscreen and water shoes are ideal. Bring a towel and a change of clothes for afterwards, and leave valuables in the car or the hotel. A waterproof pouch for your phone allows you to take photos, and the guide will often take a few for the group as well.
Getting there depends on the starting point. Some routes begin on the east coast near Lindos and Kallithea, others on the west side, and most operators indicate the meeting point clearly when you get tickets. A car or a taxi is the easiest way to reach it, although some operators offer pick-ups from certain areas.
Seasons
Sea kayaking is a warm-weather activity, best from May to October, when the sea is calm and warm. The wind on Rhodes, especially on the west coast, can be strong, so tours may be rescheduled. Early morning and late afternoon are the most comfortable times in July and August. Whatever the month, listen to the briefing, stay with the group and tell the guide if you feel tired, because they can always shorten the day.
What to expect
The experience
A guided sea kayaking tour along the coast with a safety briefing, short paddling stretches, sea caves and swim stops.
Best time
Mornings or late afternoons from May to October, in calm weather.
How long
About three to four hours, with one to two hours of paddling.
Tips
Wear a swimsuit and water shoes, bring sunscreen, a hat and a towel, use a waterproof pouch for your phone, and tell the guide if you are a beginner.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active travellers who want to see the coast from the water without needing experience.
- Families
- Older children can often share a double kayak with an adult; ask about age and weight limits.
- Couples
- A shared double kayak and a private cove for a swim make a fun, memorable morning.
- Pair with
- A swim and lunch in Lindos or a visit to Kallithea Springs.
- Time needed
- Three to four hours, plus travel to the start.
Good questions
Do I need experience to kayak on Rhodes?+
No. The tours use stable kayaks, give a briefing and lead the group at an easy pace, but you should be able to swim.
How long do you paddle?+
Usually one to two hours in total, broken into short stretches with stops for swimming and looking into caves.
What should I wear?+
A swimsuit, a quick-drying top, water shoes, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Bring a towel and a change of clothes.
Can children take part?+
Often yes in a double kayak with an adult, subject to age and weight limits. Ask the operator before you book.
What happens if it is windy?+
Guides change the route or reschedule when the wind or waves are too strong, so keep dates flexible.
