18 Best Things to Do in Faliraki 🇬🇷 – Ultimate Rhodes Island Guide

🏠 Where to Stay in Faliraki

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Rodos Palladium Leisure & Wellness
• ✨ 5-Star: Elysium Resort & Spa
• 🏨 4-Star: Elpida Beach Studios
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Aquarius Beach Hotel
• 💸 Cheap: Marieta-Giannis
• 🏢 Apartment: Ikaros Studios
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Amada Colossos Resort
• 🏩 For Couples: Esperos Village Blue & Spa - Adults Only

During my many visits, I’ve compiled this list of must-do activities that showcase the best this Mediterranean gem has to offer. Whether you’re planning your first Greek island adventure or returning for another dose of Aegean magic, these 15 experiences will help you create unforgettable memories in Faliraki.

💁 Best Guided Tours

• Faliraki: Boat Trip to Afantou Caves, Antony Quinn, Ladiko from € 35 (⭐4.8/5)
• Faliraki: Anthony Quinn Bay and the Caves Cruise with Drinks from € 45 (⭐4.7/5)
• Lindos Independent Tour from Faliraki, Ixia, and Ialyssos from € 25 (⭐4.5/5)
• Speedboat To Symi & St George's Bay Directly from Faliraki Beach from € 60 (⭐4.9/5)

Top Attractions in Faliraki, Rhodes

1. Aquarium of Faliraki

Unique Discovery. I stumbled upon AquaWorld Faliraki while exploring the northeast coast of Rhodes, about 15 km from the main town. You can’t miss it with its distinctive pink shark sign at the entrance! This small but fascinating marine aquarium doubles as a rescue center for injured sea creatures.

Conservation Mission. What makes this place special is their dedication to collecting and protecting unwanted or injured animals before returning them to their natural habitat. The staff explained how they rescue sea creatures trapped in fishing nets that would have died without intervention.

Mediterranean Wildlife. Inside, I found an impressive variety of Mediterranean sea creatures – colorful fish, crabs, starfish, and even sea turtles. The highlight for me was seeing the baby sharks that occasionally find temporary homes here. Children around me were absolutely thrilled when staff members allowed them to touch some of the animals like stingrays and starfish.

Practical tips:

• Open daily from 10:00 to 23:00
• Admission costs €5 for adults and €3 for children
• Plan to spend about 1-2 hours exploring
• Free shell and sea crystals gift at the end of your visit
• Wheelchair and stroller rentals available

2. Kathara Beach

Peaceful Retreat. Kathara Beach offers a welcome escape from the bustling crowds of Faliraki’s main beach. This 300-meter stretch of golden sand became my go-to spot when I needed a more tranquil day by the sea.

Scenic Landscape. What struck me most was the beautiful landscape surrounding the beach – lush greenery and rocky outcrops frame the shoreline, creating a picturesque setting that’s perfect for photos. The gentle slope into the water makes it particularly safe for families with children.

Complete Amenities. Despite being less crowded than other beaches, Kathara doesn’t skimp on amenities. I found comfortable sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, clean restrooms, showers, and changing rooms. Several beach bars and taverns are conveniently located nearby for refreshments.

Accessibility options:

• Walking: 20-minute walk from Faliraki center
• Public Bus: Take the Lindos-bound bus (€2-3)
• Taxi: Approximately €6-10 from anywhere in Faliraki

3. Tasos Beach

Unique Waters. What makes this beach unique is its large area of shallow water in the center – perfect for those who just want to wade and cool off without fully swimming. The water clarity here is exceptional, with vibrant blues that seem almost unreal in the Mediterranean sunlight.

Adventure Spots. My adventurous side was satisfied by the rocky areas perfect for jumping into the deeper water. If you have teens or older children, they’ll love this natural diving platform. The contrast between the shallow and deeper sections creates an interesting swimming experience for all abilities.

Beach Services. The beach is well-equipped with affordable sunbeds and parasols – I paid just €16 for a full day, which felt like great value compared to other beaches in the area. Free showers are available, and there’s a changing booth on the southern side where you’ll find a gravel section.

Culinary Options. The beachfront restaurant serves decent seafood, though I found the octopus plate somewhat unbalanced in its portions. A meal for two will set you back around €80, which is on the pricier side for the area.

4. Saint Nectarios Church

Spiritual Oasis. Tucked away from Faliraki’s bustling beach scene, Saint Nectarios Church offers a peaceful respite for visitors seeking cultural experiences. I was immediately struck by the church’s brilliant white exterior contrasting beautifully against the deep blue Greek sky, creating that iconic Aegean aesthetic we all love.

Local Worship. During my visit, I was fortunate to witness a brief service with locals lighting candles and offering prayers. The atmosphere was profoundly reverent, with the scent of incense filling the air. Even as a non-Orthodox visitor, I felt welcome to observe this authentic glimpse into Greek religious life.

Visitor Etiquette. Remember that this is an active place of worship, not just a tourist attraction in Faliraki. Women should bring a scarf to cover their shoulders, and everyone should dress modestly. Photography is permitted in most areas, but I avoided using flash out of respect for worshippers.

Practical Information. The church is open daily from 8:00 to 20:00 with no entrance fee, though donations are appreciated. Sunday morning services start at 7:30 and can be an enriching cultural experience if you’re interested in Eastern Orthodox traditions.

5. Anthony Quinn Bay

Celebrity Connection. Named after the famous actor who fell in love with this spot while filming “The Guns of Navarone,” Anthony Quinn Bay is a picture-perfect cove just 4 km south of Faliraki. The actor was so enamored with this slice of paradise that he attempted to purchase it (though Greek law prevented the sale).

Emerald Waters. The bay’s most striking feature is its extraordinary water color – a mesmerizing emerald green that transitions to deep blue further out. This unique coloration comes from the minerals in the surrounding rocks and creates an almost tropical appearance that’s rare in the Mediterranean.

Snorkeling Heaven. Bringing my snorkel gear was the best decision I made when visiting this bay. The rocky outcrops and underwater formations create a natural aquarium teeming with colorful fish, octopuses, and sea urchins.

Beach Setup. The beach itself is relatively small and pebbly rather than sandy, making water shoes a wise investment (available at shops in Faliraki for €10-15). Sunbeds are limited and cost around €20 for a pair with an umbrella, so arriving early (before 10 AM) is essential during peak season.

Access Information. You can reach Anthony Quinn Bay by taking the local bus from Faliraki (€2 one-way), taxi (approximately €10), or by car with parking available at the top of the cliff (a 5-minute walk down to the beach). The slightly challenging access keeps crowds somewhat manageable even in high season.

⭐ Best Activities

• Rhodes Yellow Submarine Tour – Dive into the underwater world of Rhodes with this unique submarine tour, offering panoramic views of marine life and the island’s coastline.

6. Faliraki Water Park

Aquatic Playground. The Faliraki Water Park (officially WaterPark Rhodes) stands as one of Europe’s largest water parks and became my favorite day-trip escape from the beach routine. Spanning over 100,000 square meters, this massive aquatic playground offers enough slides, pools, and attractions to keep visitors entertained for an entire day.

Thrilling Slides. The park’s most impressive features are its adrenaline-pumping slides. I conquered the Free Fall, a near-vertical drop that had my heart racing, and the Kamikaze, which sends you plummeting at breathtaking speeds. For those seeking extreme thrills, these slides deliver unforgettable moments of weightlessness and excitement.

Family Options. What impressed me most was the park’s thoughtful design for all ages. While thrill-seekers tackle the extreme slides, families with younger children can enjoy:

• Pirate Ship area with mini slides and water cannons
• Wave pool with regular tsunami-like waves every 30 minutes
• Lazy River where you can float peacefully on tubes
• Children’s pool with shallow water and gentle attractions

Visitor Tips. Admission costs €28 for adults and €18 for children, with operations running from May through October (10:00-18:00). I recommend arriving early to avoid entrance queues and secure prime sunbed locations near your favorite attractions. Wearing water shoes helps navigate hot surfaces during peak summer heat.

⭐ Best Activities

• Faliraki Water Park Admission Ticket – Enjoy a day of fun in the sun at one of Europe’s largest water parks, featuring thrilling slides, a wave pool, and family-friendly attractions.

7. Skypark Entertainment Center

Evening Entertainment. When the sun sets and beach time ends, Skypark Entertainment Center offers a perfect transition into nighttime fun. Located in the heart of Faliraki, this modern entertainment complex combines multiple attractions under one roof, making it ideal for families and groups seeking evening activities.

Bowling Experience. The centerpiece of Skypark is its state-of-the-art bowling alley featuring eight professional lanes with automatic scoring systems. At €6 per person per game, it’s reasonably priced entertainment that sparked friendly competition among my travel companions. The neon lighting and music create a lively atmosphere that appeals to all ages.

Gaming Options. Beyond bowling, Skypark offers an impressive variety of entertainment:

• Modern arcade with the latest video games
• Pool tables (€2 per game)
• Air hockey and foosball tables
• Virtual reality experiences
• Laser tag arena (€8 per person)

Family Value. What makes Skypark stand out is its appeal across generations. While teenagers gravitate toward the arcade games, adults can enjoy bowling or billiards, and younger children have dedicated game areas. It’s open daily from 17:00 to 01:00, making it perfect for those evenings when you want a break from the typical beach-taverna routine.

8. Town Hall of Kallithea Municipality

Historical Significance. The Town Hall of Kallithea Municipality stands as a testament to Rhodes’ complex past, particularly during the German-Italian occupation. Built by the Italians in 1934, this architectural gem combines Mediterranean and colonial styles that reflect the Italian influence on the island of Rhodes during their occupation from 1912 to 1943.

Cultural Heritage. Inside, you’ll find a small museum housing artifacts and documents that tell the story of Kallithea’s development from a small village to a thriving resort town. The registry office, still functioning today, is where many locals have documented their most important life events for generations. The square in front of the building becomes lively during summer evenings when locals gather.

Practical Information. The Town Hall is open to visitors Monday through Friday from 9:00 to 14:00, with no entrance fee. It’s located just 3 km from Faliraki town center, making it an easy addition to your itinerary when exploring the area’s historical sites.

Best Things to Do in Faliraki at Night

1. Bar Street (Ermou Street)

Nightlife Central. Ermou Street, better known as “Bar Street,” forms the pulsating heart of Faliraki’s famous nightlife scene. This 600-meter stretch transforms after sunset into a neon-lit playground packed with over 100 bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. The energy here is undeniable, with music spilling onto the streets and promoters enticing passersby with drink specials.

Diverse Venues. What surprised me was the variety of establishments catering to different tastes and moods. You’ll find:

• Karaoke bars where amateur singers take the spotlight
• Sports bars showing international matches
• Cocktail lounges with sophisticated ambiance
• Dance clubs with international DJs
• Traditional Greek music venues

Budget-Friendly. Faliraki’s bar scene offers remarkable value compared to other European party destinations. Most bars run happy hours until midnight with deals like two-for-one cocktails (typically €6-8 each) or beer buckets (5 bottles for €15). Even after happy hour ends, prices remain reasonable, making it possible to enjoy a full night out without breaking the bank.

Timing Strategy. The street comes alive gradually, with most activity between 23:00 and 04:00. I recommend starting your evening with dinner elsewhere, arriving on Bar Street around midnight when the atmosphere reaches its peak, and being prepared for a late night – the most popular clubs don’t close until sunrise during high season.

2. Sunset Bars on the Beach

Golden Hour. Faliraki’s beachfront transforms magically as day transitions to evening, with a collection of sophisticated sunset bars offering front-row seats to nature’s daily spectacle. These establishments strike a perfect balance between the town’s party atmosphere and more refined relaxation, making them ideal for those seeking a memorable evening without the intensity of Bar Street.

Premium Locations. My favorite sunset spot was Peppers Beach Bar, situated directly on the sand with unobstructed western views. Other notable options include:

• Kathara Bay Lounge – elevated position with panoramic vistas
• Vanilla Beach Bar – relaxed atmosphere with bean bags on the sand
• Mojito Bay – tropical-themed décor and signature cocktails
• King’s Bar – sophisticated setting with comfortable seating arrangements

Cocktail Craftsmanship. These venues take their drink menus seriously, offering creative cocktails that go beyond typical beach bar fare. Expect to pay €8-12 for signature drinks featuring local ingredients like mastiha liqueur, Greek citrus, and honey. My personal recommendation is the Aegean Sunset at Kathara Bay – a photogenic blend of rum, passion fruit, and pomegranate that perfectly matches the sky’s changing colors.

Atmosphere Evolution. What makes these venues special is how they transition through the evening. Arriving at 18:00, you’ll find a laid-back vibe with ambient music and couples enjoying quiet conversations. By 21:00, the energy shifts as dinner service begins and the music volume increases gradually, sometimes culminating in beachfront dancing under the stars.

Outdoor Adventures in Faliraki

1. Horseback Riding

Scenic Adventures. Horseback riding near Faliraki offers one of the most beautiful ways to explore the natural landscape of Rhodes. Local stables provide guided rides to nearby locations like Kallithea and Lake St. John, taking you through olive groves and along scenic coastal paths that aren’t accessible by car.

Riding Options. Whether you’re a complete novice or experienced equestrian, the riding centers cater to all skill levels. I chose a sunset beach ride that took us along a sandy beach with views of the calm waters of Faliraki Bay. The guides were patient with beginners, offering basic instruction before setting off on the trails.

Natural Exploration. What makes horseback riding special is the connection with nature as you traverse the slopes of Mount Psalidi and discover hidden valleys. My guide pointed out native plants and wildlife along the way, adding an educational element to the adventure. The horses seemed well-cared for and accustomed to the terrain.

Family Activity. This excursion is perfect for families with children over 7 years old. My 10-year-old nephew was initially nervous but ended up declaring it the highlight of his holiday. The stable owners prioritize safety, providing proper helmets and matching riders with horses suited to their experience level.

Booking Details. Prices range from €35-60 per person depending on the duration (1-3 hours). Most stables require booking at least one day in advance, especially during high season in Faliraki. Morning rides are recommended in summer months to avoid the midday heat.

2. Boat Cruises from Faliraki Harbour

Maritime Adventures. Faliraki Harbour has been providing safe mooring for boats for generations and now serves as the launching point for numerous boat cruises. These excursions range from half-day trips to nearby bays to full-day journeys exploring more distant shores of the island of Rhodes.

Snorkeling Opportunities. Many cruises include stops at Ladiko Bay and the Afandou Caves where you can dive into crystal clear water for snorkeling. The underwater visibility is exceptional, allowing you to spot colorful Mediterranean fish and interesting rock formations. Some boats provide snorkeling equipment, but bringing your own ensures a better fit.

Island Hopping. For those seeking to explore beyond Rhodes, day trips to Symi offer a glimpse of one of the most charming islands in the Dodecanese. The journey takes about 75 minutes by fast boat, giving you approximately 4 hours of free time to wander through Symi’s colorful neoclassical harbor and sample fresh seafood at traditional Greek tavernas.

Practical Tips:

• Prices range from €35 for half-day trips to €60 for full-day excursions
• Most boats depart from the harbor between 8:30-10:30 AM
• Bring sun protection, water, and a light jacket for sea breezes
• Book at least one day in advance during peak season
• Some cruises include lunch while others stop at tavernas where you can try moussaka and other Greek specialties

⭐ Best Tours

• From Faliraki: Speedboat Tour to Kalithea Caves & Antony Quinn Bay – Experience the beauty of the Kalithea Caves and the stunning Antony Quinn Bay on this exhilarating speedboat adventure.
• Faliraki: Boat Trip to Afantou Caves, Antony Quinn, Ladiko – Explore the hidden gems of Rhodes with this boat trip, visiting the Afantou Caves, Antony Quinn Bay, and Ladiko Bay for snorkeling and relaxation.
• High-Speed Boat to Symi Island Directly – Escape to the picturesque island of Symi for a day of exploration, swimming, and enjoying the local culture, all accessible via a high-speed boat from Faliraki.

Shopping and Dining Experiences

1. Shopping in Faliraki Square

Local Craftsmanship. What impressed me most were the boutiques offering local handicrafts that showcase authentic Greek artisanship. From hand-painted ceramics to intricate jewelry inspired by ancient Greek designs, these items make meaningful mementos of your visit to Faliraki. I found a beautiful olive wood cutting board that now takes pride of place in my kitchen.

Convenient Location. Situated near major bus stops and taxi ranks, the square is easily accessible from all parts of Faliraki. Its central position makes it an ideal meeting point or a place to take a shopping break between beach visits and other activities.

Shopping Hours. Most shops open around 9:00 and close for a midday break between 14:00-17:00, reopening until late in the evening (often 23:00 or later during high season). This schedule allows you to shop after dinner when temperatures are more comfortable and the atmosphere is livelier.

2. Seafood Taverns and Local Cuisine

Culinary Delights. Faliraki has become renowned for its exceptional seafood tavernas that line the waterfront and dot the town center. These family-run establishments serve the freshest catches from the Mediterranean, often purchased directly from local fishermen in the early hours of the morning when you can see the fishermen bringing in their haul.

Authentic Experiences. One of the most beautiful aspects of dining in Faliraki is the authentic Greek hospitality. At Desert Rose Restaurant, the owner Dimitris treated us to complimentary ouzo and dessert, explaining that “a guest is a gift from God” – a sentiment I found common throughout the traditional Greek tavernas in the area.

Beachfront Dining. Many tavernas offer tables directly on the sandy beach, allowing you to enjoy your meal with your toes in the sand and the calm waters of Faliraki lapping nearby. This unique dining setting, especially at sunset, creates unforgettable holiday memories as you savor fresh Mediterranean flavors.

Price Guide:

• Appetizers (mezedes): €4-8
• Main seafood dishes: €12-20
• Traditional Greek dishes: €8-14
• House wine (500ml): €6-10
• Local beer: €3-5

Relaxation Spots in Faliraki

1. Spa Experiences

Treatment Specialties. The spas near Faliraki specialize in treatments incorporating local ingredients like olive oil, honey, and Mediterranean herbs. I indulged in a Greek yogurt body wrap that left my skin incredibly soft, followed by a massage using warm olive oil infused with lavender – a combination that perfectly captured the essence of Greek wellness traditions.

Hotel Facilities. Many of the larger resort hotels in Faliraki feature extensive spa complexes with facilities including thermal suites, hydrotherapy pools, and hammams inspired by the region’s Byzantine and post-Byzantine heritage. Day passes are often available to non-guests, making these amenities accessible to all visitors.

Couples’ Packages. Romantic spa experiences are particularly popular, with couples’ treatment rooms offering side-by-side massages followed by private jacuzzi time with champagne. These packages make for a special celebration during your holiday or simply a luxurious break from sightseeing.

Booking Advice. Prices for treatments range from €50 for basic massages to €150+ for comprehensive packages. During high season, booking 2-3 days in advance is recommended, especially for popular time slots. Many spas offer discounted rates for morning appointments or multiple treatment bookings.

2. Quiet Bays for Relaxation

Peaceful Retreats. Beyond the bustling main beaches, Faliraki is surrounded by secluded coves and quiet bays that offer tranquil alternatives for those seeking relaxation. These hidden gems provide a stark contrast to the energetic atmosphere found at the resort town’s central beach.

Natural Beauty. Traganou Beach, located just a short distance from Faliraki, features impressive limestone caves and crystal clear water ideal for peaceful swimming and contemplation. The natural rock formations create small, sheltered areas where you can enjoy privacy even during busier periods.

Minimal Development. What makes these quiet bays special is their relatively undeveloped state. While you’ll find basic amenities at some locations, many remain wonderfully natural with limited facilities – bringing your own supplies is recommended. This lack of commercialization preserves their authentic charm and peaceful ambiance.

Access Information. Many of these quieter spots require some effort to reach – either a short hike down coastal paths or access via smaller roads. This extra effort acts as a natural filter, keeping visitor numbers lower. If driving, look for informal parking areas near trail heads, but be prepared to walk the final stretch to reach these tranquil havens.

Practical Information for Visiting Faliraki

1. Getting Around Faliraki

Transportation Options. Navigating Faliraki and its surroundings is straightforward thanks to various transportation choices. Local buses connect Faliraki to Rhodes Town (approximately 14 km away) and run regularly during the day, with reduced service in the evening. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes and costs around €2.50 one-way.

Taxi Services. Taxis are readily available and provide a convenient option for shorter trips or evening outings when bus service is limited. A taxi from Faliraki to Rhodes Town costs approximately €25, while shorter journeys within Faliraki are typically €8-10. Most taxis accept cash only, so keep some euros handy.

Rental Options. For exploring at your own pace, consider renting a vehicle. Options include:

• Cars: from €30-50 per day
• Scooters: from €15-25 per day
• Bicycles: from €10-15 per day
• Quad bikes: from €35-45 per day

Walking Possibilities. Faliraki town itself is compact enough to navigate on foot, with most attractions, beaches, and restaurants within a 20-minute walk of the center. A pleasant promenade runs along the main beach, making for enjoyable evening strolls between dinner and nightlife venues.

Parking Information. If you rent a vehicle, be aware that parking can be challenging in central Faliraki during peak season. Most hotels offer free parking for guests, and there are public parking areas near the beach and main square, though these fill quickly in July and August. Some restaurants offer free parking for customers, which can be convenient for evening dining.

2. Best Times to Visit

Seasonal Considerations. Faliraki offers different experiences depending on when you visit. The main tourist season runs from May through October, with July and August being the busiest months when the resort town buzzes with activity and all attractions operate at full capacity. During this peak period, you’ll find plenty of activities and lively nightlife, but also higher prices and larger crowds.

Shoulder Seasons. For a more balanced experience, consider visiting in May-June or September-October. During these months, you’ll enjoy warm weather (average temperatures 22-28°C) and calm waters perfect for swimming, with fewer crowds at popular spots like the Kallithea Springs and the Greek Orthodox Church of St. Nektarios in the middle of Faliraki.

Weather Patterns. Faliraki is blessed with a Mediterranean climate featuring hot, dry summers and mild, occasionally rainy winters. The island of Rhodes boasts over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it a reliable destination for sun-seekers. Even in October, sea temperatures remain comfortable for swimming at around 23°C.

Special Events. Various cultural events enhance the Faliraki experience throughout the season. June features the festival of Agioi Apostoloi at the small Greek Orthodox monastery at the end of the pier, where a day-long festival unwinds with traditional music and food. In September, nearby Rhodes Town hosts medieval festivals that make for fascinating day trips.

❓ FAQ About Trips to Faliraki

How can I visit Lindos from Faliraki?

You can take a boat trip from Faliraki to Lindos, which offers spectacular views of the east coast of Rhodes along the way. Alternatively, organized bus excursions depart daily from the town of Faliraki, taking approximately 45 minutes to reach this stunning historical site.

Which beach offers the best snorkel experience nearby?

Traganou Beach features impressive limestone caves and crystal clear waters that create perfect conditions for spotting diverse marine life. The waters and stunning underwater visibility make it one of the most rewarding places to visit in Faliraki for snorkeling enthusiasts.

What water park facilities are available in Faliraki?

Faliraki Park features numerous water slides including the extreme Kamikaze and Free Fall, plus a huge wave pool for all ages to enjoy. Founded in 1967, it’s one of the largest parks in Europe and remains one of the top things to do for families visiting Faliraki.