Kalithea Holidays

A stone's throw from Faliraki and minutes from Rhodes Town, Kalithea sits on the sun-drenched east coast of Rhodes, serving up sandy coves, crystal-clear snorkelling and one of Greece's most beautiful restored spa complexes.

Good to Know

• ☀️ Weather: Summer highs of 29-32°C with 12+ hours of sunshine; sea temperatures hit a gorgeous 25-26°C in peak season

• 💶 Prices: A cold Mythos will set you back €3-4, while a meal for two at a local taverna runs €20-40

• 🏛️ Fun fact: The stunning Kallithea Springs were built in 1920 during Italian rule and have been used as a filming location for movies including scenes from the James Bond universe

Top Reasons to Visit Kalithea

• World-class snorkelling The rocky coves and crystal-clear waters around Kallithea Springs are considered some of the best snorkelling spots on Rhodes, with an abundance of marine life hiding in underwater caves and stone pools

• Kallithea Springs This beautifully restored Italian-era thermal spa complex features stunning Arabic-influenced domed pavilions, mosaic floors and aromatic gardens, now functioning as a beach club and popular wedding venue

• Kalithea Cats sanctuary Animal lovers will adore this volunteer-run cat sanctuary near the springs, where you can meet friendly felines and even help out if you fancy

• Koskinou village Just 2km inland sits one of Rhodes' prettiest villages, famous for its impossibly colourful wooden doors, flower-filled courtyards and traditional pebble-mosaic floors

• Sandy coves and organised beaches From the small beach at Kallithea Springs to the well-equipped Oasis Beach and Tassos Beach nearby, you've got options for both rocky swimming and sunbed-lounging

Where to Stay

Kalithea's got a brilliant spread of accommodation, from family-friendly all-inclusives to swanky adults-only retreats.

• The Elysium Resort & Spa is a 5-star beachfront beauty with sea-view rooms, a lagoon-style pool and a world-class spa using ESPA products. Live piano music and sunset views come as standard.

• Helea Lifestyle Beach Resort sits right on Kalithea Beach with six swimming pools, multiple restaurants including a Street Food Hub, and a seriously impressive all-inclusive package. Perfect for couples wanting a bit of luxury.

• Helea Family Beach Resort is the family-focused sister property, featuring 11 freshwater pools, waterslides, an Ella Kids Park and a dedicated kids' foodhall. The beachfront location and entertainment programme keep everyone happy.

• Kresten Royal Euphoria Resort offers 5-star luxury with a private beach, five swimming pools including a seawater pool, and an adults-only section with its own Wine and Champagne Bar. Just 6km from Rhodes Town.

• For brilliant value, the Kalithea Sun & Sky is a welcoming 3-star option set among olive and oak tree gardens, with Rhodian-style bungalows, a family pool and themed dinner nights.

Top Things to Do in Kalithea

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best Things to Do in Kalithea for Families

• Explore the rock pools at Kallithea Springs Kids will love clambering over the sculpted rocks and discovering tiny coves, while the calm shallow areas are perfect for little swimmers to paddle

• Visit Kalithea Cats This heartwarming sanctuary near the springs lets families meet friendly rescue cats; volunteers welcome help with feeding and cuddles

• Spend a day at Oasis Beach Well-organised with sunbeds, umbrellas and a beach bar, plus calm waters ideal for families who want facilities nearby

• Day trip to the Valley of the Butterflies About 25 minutes' drive away, this magical nature reserve sees thousands of Jersey Tiger moths gather from June to September

💑 Best Things to Do in Kalithea for Couples

• Sunset drinks at Kallithea Springs The restored Italian pavilions and palm-fringed terraces make for an impossibly romantic backdrop to evening cocktails

• Dinner in Koskinou village Wander the colourful streets as the light fades, then settle into a traditional taverna for proper Greek cuisine and local wine

• Spa day at Elysium or Kresten Royal Both resorts offer excellent spa facilities if you fancy being pampered

• Catamaran cruise along the east coast Half-day cruises take in Anthony Quinn Bay, hidden coves and swimming stops with lunch included

🎉 Best Things to Do in Kalithea for Groups

• Diving and snorkelling trips Daily diving excursions depart from Kalithea to explore underwater caves and marine life; no experience needed for introductory dives

• Water sports at the beach Jet skis, pedalos, kayaks and banana boats are all available along the coast for group fun

• Bar hop to Faliraki Just 2km away, Faliraki's legendary Bar Street and Club Street offer endless nightlife options for a bigger night out

• Medieval Town night out in Rhodes Head to Rhodes Town for cocktails on rooftop terraces overlooking fortress walls, then dinner in the atmospheric Old Town

🏛️ Best Things to Do in Kalithea for Culture Lovers

• Kallithea Springs architecture tour Admire the beautifully restored Italian-era complex with its Arabic-influenced domes, archways and gardens; entry includes beach access

• Koskinou Traditional House This free museum in the village centre showcases a preserved 1902 Rhodian home with hand-woven textiles, ceramic plates and original pebble-mosaic floors

• Chapel hopping in Koskinou Discover the tiny 4th-century Basilica of Agios Loukas and the domed church of Agia Irini

• Rhodes Old Town day trip The UNESCO World Heritage medieval city is just 20 minutes away, with the Palace of the Grand Master, Street of the Knights and atmospheric cobbled lanes to explore

Local Lingo

Greek is the language you'll hear in Kalithea, though English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants and tourist spots. A few phrases go a long way with locals, especially in the quieter village of Koskinou.

• Yassas (YAH-sass) Hello

• Efharisto (ef-hah-ree-STOH) Thank you

• Parakalo (pah-rah-kah-LOH) Please / you're welcome

• Kalimera (kah-lee-MEH-rah) Good morning

• Stin iyia mas (stin ee-YAH mass) Cheers (when clinking glasses)

• Poli orea (poh-LEE oh-REH-ah) Very beautiful (perfect for complimenting your taverna host's cooking)

Nearby Resorts

If you fancy exploring beyond Kalithea, these nearby spots are well worth a look:

• Faliraki Rhodes' party capital with legendary nightlife, brilliant beaches and one of Greece's best water parks. Perfect for groups after a bigger night out or families wanting a day of waterslide thrills.

• Rhodes Town The island's cultural heart, featuring a UNESCO-listed medieval Old Town, the Palace of the Grand Master, buzzing New Town nightlife and the beautiful Elli Beach.

• Kolymbia A peaceful resort with a eucalyptus-lined main avenue, easy access to Tsambika Beach and Seven Springs, and a more relaxed pace for families and couples.

• Lindos Whitewashed lanes tumbling down a hillside, a 3,000-year-old Acropolis, rooftop restaurants, and St Paul's Bay below. One of Greece's most photographed villages.

• Pefkos Chilled-out beach resort with Blue Flag beaches, family-friendly tavernas, and a quieter pace. Popular with families and couples after a low-key escape.