West Coast Beaches
Rhodes is the home of the best Mediterranean beaches. The beaches are the island’s major attractions. Although most of these are in the east coast, the west coast has its own share of frequented beaches. The strong winds may prove to be a downside especially to tourists who prefer solace and tranquility. However, it is the same feature why tourists visit the west coast. The strong winds, more so during the summer months, makes sea sports like swimming difficult. It only makes the beaches inviting to daredevils and water sports enthusiasts. The west coast beaches is often referred to as the paradise for windsurfers.
If Rhodes Town is in the northern tip of the island, Prasonisi sits on the southern point. The total distance of the beach from the capital is 90 kilometers, give or take. The nearest town in Prasonisi is Katavia. With signs to guide tourists, turn left after Katavia. After some kilometers of driving, a few liters of gasoline, and a a couple bags of chips, Prasonisi will come to view. You can take it all from the top of the hill. Cue in the soundtrack and take your first look at the windsurfer’s paradise.
Aesthetically speaking, Prasonisi is one of the most magnificent beaches on the island. Its landscape is beckoning tourists to set up their blankets, bask in the sun, and watch surfers do their thing. There is also plenty of sightseeing to do. Two arenaceous coves can be reached either by walking or by swimming, whatever is more comfortable given the weather condition and the level of the water.
If you are planning to stay long and enjoy the beach, there is a wide array of choices available. All the houses provide rooms for rent. Plus they have their own taverna, so dining is only a minute away. Some of the hotels are Lighthouse I, Lighthouse II, and Oasis. There are selected areas where camping is allowed and it is for free. If you want to be close to Mother Nature, camping is not such a bad idea. Several outdoor showers and toilets are there at your disposal. Also, the locals are very friendly. They have a simple outlook in life making tourists more relaxed and laid back.
Because of the topography, the meltemi wind, that blows across the whole Mediterranean, is stronger in Prasonisi. Although the windsurfing season begins in May and lasts until mid-October, the best time to go in the beach and surf is during July and August. These are the months where the strongest winds hit the area. Of course, Prasonisi has more to offer than windsurfing. No matter how much you love the sport, you would want a change of pace, once in a while. The beach is also good for sunbathing, sightseeing, and relaxation. If you do not want to bum around, volleyball is another sport that you can enjoy aside from windsurfing.
From a well-known beach in the west, let’s take a look at Glyfada—a somewhat unfamiliar beach in the west coast. From Kritana village, you just have to follow the directions and then, voila!, the road to the beach is there in front of you. It is 72 kilometers away from the city of Rhodes and is 6 kilometers before the Siana village.
The place is surrounded with hundreds of pine trees. This is the reason why the water has a very deep green color. However, the blowing winds usually stir up the water and make the emerald-colored sea look blurry. Also, large pebbles covered in seaweed are scattered all over the beach. Instead of soft sands, your feet will walk in rocks to enjoy the water. This is a place, not for relaxation, but for adventure and exploration. It is ideal for fun-seekers not exactly for families with children in tow. Do you want another fact that will further give you a picture how adventurous Glyfada beach is? Mobile phones do not work in this place. But it does have a card-operated telephone. It is not likely for anybody to be a cast-away.
Some other beaches in the west coast are Soroni, Katavia, Kalamos, Paleochora, and Fanes.