Set between two rocky headlands on the east coast of Rhodes is the scenic Tsambika Beach. Here you can bask in the sunshine, gaze out at the Aegean Sea, try various watersports and sample Greek cuisine at beachfront bars and restaurants. Tsambika Beach takes its name from Tsambika Monastery, which sits on top of a hill at the north end of the beach.
This family-friendly beach of fine, golden sand curves around a wide bay. Rent a sunbed and umbrella or roll out your towel in your preferred spot. The water is calm, shallow and warm, ideal swimming conditions for those coming with young children. Although Tsambika Beach is non-nudist, there is naked sunbathing at the southern end of the beach.
Energetic visitors might want to try watersports such as kayaking and parasailing. There is also a waterpark for children with inflatable climbing frames and slides tethered in the sea. For more fun in the water, purchase an inflatable boat and snorkeling equipment from the beach shops.
If you haven’t prepared a picnic, visit the restaurants and bars that line the beach. Enjoy a cold beer or fresh fruit juice and sample classic Greek dishes such as tzatziki and grilled feta cheese.
While you are here, tour the hilltop Tsambika Monastery, a Byzantine church that is home to a revered icon of the Virgin Mary. Legend has it that praying to the idol can help women with fertility problems. After your visit, enjoy magnificent views of the coast from your lofty vantage point.
Tsambika Beach is approximately 18 miles (30 kilometres) south of Rhodes City, the capital of the island. If you are driving, you will find a large, free parking area. Alternatively, you can reach Tsambika by bus. If you don’t want to spend all day sunning yourself by the sea, consider taking the short drive to the forest and lake of Seven Springs.
