Kayaking Rhodes: Red Sand Beach with Greek Picnic

Paddle past castles, swim at Red Sand Beach, eat Greek picnic

Sea kayaking from Haraki village along Rhodes' east-southeast coastline to the Red Sand Beach, with certified guide, all equipment, snorkeling gear and a traditional Greek picnic included. Small groups keep the pace relaxed and the attention personal. Children from age 14 are welcome when accompanied by an adult. The total outing runs 4.5 hours, with 2.5 hours of actual paddling time.

The experience

You start in Haraki, a quiet seaside village on Rhodes' east side, where your certified sea kayak guide briefs you on safety and hands over all the gear you need (kayak, paddle, drybag, snorkel kit), so there's nothing to arrange beforehand. The route covers 9.4 kilometers along the coastline, moving at a pace that lets you take in the rock formations, tiny islets and the Medieval castles that dot the water. Your guide shares local stories and pirate legends as you paddle, turning the route into something more than just a scenic run.

When you reach Red Sand Beach, you stop to swim and snorkel in clear Mediterranean water, then settle in for a fresh traditional Greek picnic that recharges you before the paddle back. The small group size (the operator keeps numbers low) means you're not jostling for space or waiting for stragglers, and your guide can adjust the rhythm if someone needs a break or wants to linger at a particular spot.

Pickup is available from the South if you book that option. Without it, you make your own way to Haraki. Bring your own water bottle for environmental reasons. The operator supplies potable water but asks you to bring a reusable one. Kids aged 14 to 17 must have an adult with them in the group.

What’s included

• All kayaking equipment, including drybag.
• snorkeling gear.
• a certified sea kayak guide in English or Greek.
• a fresh traditional Greek picnic at Red Sand Beach.
• potable water supply.
• souvenir photos from the day.

Options for this experience

2 options

Red Sand Beach, pickup not includedGuide in English or Greek · 09:00Meet at the location

Pickup from the SouthGuide in English or Greek · 07:30Pick-up and drop-off: this option covers pickup from the areas of Gennadi, Kiotari, Lardos, Lothiarika, Pefkoi, Lindos, Vlycha and Kalathos. Pickup is included.

You pick the guide language when booking.

You see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates & prices

Before you book

Days and timesThursdayDepartures at 07:30 and 09:00Last departure this season: 29 Oct

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (18 to 80 years) · Youth (14 to 17 years) · Under 14: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 16

Live guideEnglish and Greek

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Trekking Hellas Rhodes

Is this one for you?Book the option with pickup from the South if you're arriving by rental car or taxi and don't want to navigate to Haraki village yourself. Without pickup, you'll need your own transport to the starting point. The small group size and relaxed pace suit first-time kayakers and anyone who wants personal attention rather than a crowded departure.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Greek.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (14 to 17 years). Under 14: they can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the Red Sand Beach actually like when you get there?

Red Sand Beach is a small cove with distinctive reddish sand and clear shallow water, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The operator includes snorkel gear, so you can explore the underwater life without extra cost or planning.

How much of the 4.5 hours is actually time in the kayak?

Paddling time is 2.5 hours. The rest covers the safety briefing, gearing up, the stop at Red Sand Beach for swimming and the picnic.

Do I need kayaking experience to book this?

No. The operator describes this as suitable for beginners and takes small groups at a relaxed pace. You do need to be a basic swimmer and have at least moderate physical fitness. The guide will brief you on safety before you leave Haraki.

What happens if I book pickup from the South?

Pickup from the South is included in that option and gets you to Haraki village before the kayaking starts. The other option has no pickup, so you arrange your own transport to the village.

What's included in the traditional Greek picnic?

The operator describes it as fresh and traditional Greek food, served at Red Sand Beach. Specific dishes are not listed, but it's designed to refuel you after paddling. Bring your own reusable water bottle, as the operator supplies potable water but asks guests to minimize single-use plastic.