Rhodes Sea Kayaking: Agathi Beach, Caves & Castle Picnic

Summary

Kayak Rhodes coast caves swim at Agathi Beach castle views picnic

You’ll paddle quiet waters along Rhodes’ coastline with a local guide, stopping for swims at hidden beaches like Agathi and exploring sea caves under Feraklos Castle. Snack on fresh food right on the sand and peek into Saint Agatha’s chapel tucked inside a cave. It’s relaxed but lively — you’ll probably leave with salt in your hair and stories you didn’t expect.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the paddles sounded — that soft, hollow dip as we pushed away from the little port near Archangelos, sea shoes already wet before I’d even sat down properly. Our guide, Yiannis, grinned and showed me how to adjust the foot pedals (I still got it wrong at first). The air tasted salty and warm, but not heavy. We slid past rocky outcrops where the water turned this wild turquoise over pale sand — honestly, I kept looking down just to see the colors change under my kayak.

We stopped at a beach you can’t really reach by car — red sand that stuck to my toes and smelled faintly of thyme from somewhere up in the cliffs. There was a quick cooking lesson right there on the sand; nothing fancy, but somehow food always tastes better when you’re salty and tired. Yiannis told stories about Feraklos Castle looming above us — apparently pirates used to hide in these caves? I tried to imagine it while snorkeling along the rocks (mask fogged up immediately, classic).

Later we paddled close beneath those castle walls. It’s strange seeing something so old from the sea — makes you feel small in a good way. At Agathi Beach we took another break for swimming. Someone pointed out Saint Agatha’s chapel tucked inside a cave; it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. The light inside was cool and blueish, almost quiet compared to outside where some kids were splashing around. On the way back we drifted past Haraki village — fishing boats bobbing, people waving like they actually meant it.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much or end up with sand everywhere (seriously: everywhere). But there’s something about moving slow along this coast that sticks with me more than any photo could. If you like days that don’t feel rushed and want to see Rhodes in a different way… well, maybe this is your thing too.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sea kayaking and beach exploration

• Pass by three crosses little port
• Explore Charaki fishing village
• Visit seal's cave
• Paddle near Feraklos castle rocks
• Explore Feraklos and Charaki castle
• Picnic at remote sandy beach
• Swim and snorkel at red sandy beach
• Quick cooking lesson at red beach
• Stop at Agathi golden sand beach
• Walk around Saint Agatha's chapel
• Admire Lindos cape and Byzantine castle

Top questions

How long is the Rhodes sea kayaking tour?

The tour lasts about one day with several stops for swimming, snacks, and exploration along Rhodes’ coast.

Is hotel pickup included in this kayaking tour?

Yes, hotel or port pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

Do I need previous kayaking experience?

No prior experience is needed; guides provide instruction and support throughout the tour.

What should I bring for sea kayaking in Rhodes?

Bring sea shoes or flip flops that can get wet and your own snorkeling mask for safety reasons.

Are meals or snacks provided during the trip?

A snack or light meal is included during a beach stop; vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with health issues?

The tour requires moderate fitness; it isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular conditions.

Can I join from a cruise ship arrival?

If your cruise arrives late or doesn’t dock as planned, refunds aren’t given for missed tours—plan accordingly.

What are some highlights of this day trip?

You’ll kayak past Feraklos Castle, swim at Agathi Beach, visit Saint Agatha’s chapel in a cave, and enjoy snacks on remote sands.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off, all kayaking equipment with safety gear, guiding by locals who know these waters well, time for swimming and snorkeling (bring your own mask), plus snacks served right on a remote sandy beach before heading back along Rhodes’ colorful coastline.