Savvas Dimitropoulos, Rhodes Travel Advisor, Sunday 14-09-2025
Elli Beach sits at the northern tip of Rhodes Town between Mandraki and the Aquarium. It is cosmopolitan, easy to reach, and well organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, cafés, and water sports. The water is clear and refreshing, and there are plenty of places to eat within a short walk. If you want a beach you can drive to in minutes and combine with a stroll in Rhodes Town, Elli Beach is an excellent choice.
Elli is the most city friendly beach on the island. You can swim in clear water, relax on organized sections, and be at a café or a museum soon after your towel dries. The location makes it ideal for a flexible half day that mixes sea time with a walk to Mandraki or an evening in the old town. In high season it gets lively, which adds to the cosmopolitan feel and the convenient services on offer.
Drive toward Rhodes Town and follow signs for the Aquarium. Elli Beach runs along the seafront here, so access is simple. Street parking and nearby lots are available, with the easiest spaces earlier in the morning and later in the afternoon. Keep valuables out of sight and note your car location before you head to the water. If you prefer to avoid city driving at peak times, arrive before midday or later in the day when traffic eases.
The shoreline is a mix of sand and small pebbles with very clear water. Organized areas offer sunbeds and umbrellas when available, and you will find water sports along sections of the beach. Families enjoy the calm morning hours, while the afternoon brings a livelier mood. Enter the sea slowly, watch your footing near pebbly patches, and keep within the marked swimming area away from activity zones. Bring a mask if you enjoy casual snorkelling near the rocks at the edges.
Elli is perfect for a beach and city combo. After your swim, walk to Mandraki for photos by the harbour and the windmills. Visit the Aquarium for a short, cool break or plan an evening walk to the medieval old town and dinner in the center. If you are driving onward, it is easy to link Elli with a quick look at the walls of the old town before returning to your hotel.
Arrive earlier in summer to secure parking and your preferred spot on the beach. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, and plan short shade breaks around midday. Keep a small dry bag for your phone and documents if you move between the sea and the promenade. If you want a quieter session, choose the edges of the beach or come later when the light softens and the atmosphere feels more relaxed.
Where exactly is Elli Beach? At the northern end of Rhodes Town between Mandraki and the Aquarium, right along the seafront.
Is the beach organized? Yes. You will find sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports in season, plus many cafés nearby.
Is the seabed sandy? It is a mix of sand and small pebbles with very clear water. Enter slowly and watch your step near pebbly sections.
How busy does it get? It can be lively in high season due to the central location. Arrive early or later in the day for an easier setup.
Can I combine it with sightseeing? Yes. Mandraki, the Aquarium, and the medieval old town are all within a short drive or walk.
4.9/5