Tsambika Beach: Golden Sand Beneath the Monastery Hill

Long, broad and backed by a dramatic rock, Tsambika is regularly counted among the most beautiful beaches on Rhodes. Its fine golden sand stretches out beneath rows of colourful little flags marking the tavernas and beach-sports centres, and the whole scene has an easy, sun-drenched character that draws people back year after year.

A beach of two worlds

Tsambika has a charm built on contrasts. On the sand below, it’s all sunbathers and beach life on what feels like a dream shore; on the rock above, pilgrims make their way to the miraculous Marian icon of the monastery. It’s one of the loveliest beaches on the island’s east coast and a favourite stop for excursion boats, so you’re never short of company or atmosphere.

Everything for a day on the sand

The beach is well set up for a full day out: watersports, beach showers, sunloungers and umbrellas to hire, plus several tavernas and snack bars, and room to play beach volleyball. One word of warning — this is one of the warmest spots on the island, and in the hot months the sand heats up so much that crossing it really calls for sandals.

The chapel on the rock

Rising 240 metres straight up from the bright white sand is the steep rock crowned by a small white chapel, the Kyra Panagia Tsambika. A steep road followed by an equally steep stairway leads to the top. The chapel has long been a place of pilgrimage for women hoping to conceive — the same legend that gives the neighbouring monastery its enduring fame. Climb it for the story, or simply for the spectacular view back down over the beach.