Kalithea Tourist Resort

The tourist resort of Kalithea (sometimes also spelled Kalithéa or Kallithea) is situated on the rugged coastline in the northeastern part of the island of Rhodes, about 10 km south of the capital city of Rhodes and only about 2 km north of the lively and very popular tourist resort of Faliraki. Kalithea, however, remains a quiet holiday resort, only livelier among the hotel resorts in its northern part and then around the famous tourist destination of Kalithea Spa.

Kalithea's tourist facilities are very good and seem to be sufficient for the needs of the many tourists in the area. There are a variety of shops and a number of restaurants and taverns in the centre, often offering a variety of Greek specialities and delicacies, which many visitors will be pleased to see. Other services such as car rental, post office, pharmacy, etc. are also available.

Village of Kalithea (Calathies)

The resort takes its name from the original small village of Kalithea, whose narrow streets still invite you to stroll and explore even the more remote parts. The oldest written mention about the area dates back to the second half of the 15th century and refers to the village as 'Calathies' or 'Calaties'. The name of the village was probably derived from a plant called 'kolythos' or 'kolytea', which thrived in the area, especially in the past. However, even today, the area is rich in all sorts of flowers and plants and in spring it is a real beauty.

Walking around, tourists can also come across many nice sights. We can recommend, for example, the church of the "Transfiguration of the Saviour" dating back (according to experts' estimates) to the 16th century or the "Eleousa Monastery", located in the eastern part of the village. While two coats of arms from the time of the knights greet visitors at the entrance of the monastery, the interior of the building is decorated with unique murals.

Kalithea Beach and other beaches in Kalithea

The eponymous Kalithea Beach is a small sandy beach, which is quite narrow, but covered with beautifully fine sand and equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas. With its gradual entry into the sea and gentle breeze, it is suitable for families with children. In the same bay lies the famous spa of Kalithea.

Most of the coastline of Kalithea is very rugged and mostly rocky, but on the other hand, the sea in this area is very clean and clear. It is therefore not surprising that the bays here are particularly popular with divers and lovers of underwater life in general. There are also several diving schools here.

However, the most beautiful small bays have been modified to make them more accessible for tourists. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available to visitors and each beach organised like this has its own beach bar, which it is named after - you can try Kokkina Beach, Oasis Beach, Tasos Beachor Nikolas Beach, for example.

Kalithea Spa and tips for nearby excursions

A popular tourist destination are the former seaside thermal baths of Kalithea ("Thermai Kalythiai"), situated in a small rocky bay with crystal clear water and sandy bottom. The architecturally very interesting bath houses were built in 1929, when the Italian architect Pietro Lombardi designed the famous fountain, the square, the entrance to the complex and the sanitary facilities. The baths were in operation until 1967, since then they have sadly fallen into disrepair, but in the 21st century, they have undergone extensive renovation. You can swim and snorkel in the bay and there is also a diving school. The spa houses are located in a beautiful setting full of pine trees, sun loungers and umbrellas are available on the shore of the bay and there is a bar and a nice restaurant located near the beach to refresh visitors. There is an entrance fee (in 2020 the entrance fee was €5 and the spa was open from 9:00 am).

With its proximity to the capital city of Rhodes, we must not forget to mention this beautiful historic town with its many valuable historical monuments that are a legacy of its long and interesting past. But the city has not fallen asleep in the ancient times and today it is one of the modern European cities. So visit both the "Old Town Rhodes" and the "New Town Rhodes" and get to know the capital city from both sides. The Acropolis of Rhodes with the remains of beautiful ancient buildings is also very interesting.

For whom is Kalithea suitable

The advantage of Kalithea is its location and good transport accessibility. There is a regular bus service to the capital city of Rhodes and the nearby resort of Faliraki, so you have both the beautiful capital city with its sights at your fingertips, as well as more shopping, entertainment, lively nightlife, etc. On the other hand, the resort of Kalithea remains quiet.

The Kalithea area is very beautiful in spring when everything is in bloom. In summer, the local bays are popular, as they are calm, usually nicely heated and above all crystal clear.

However, the tourist activity is mainly in the hotel area in the northern part of the resort, otherwise the area is quiet to deserted. A larger number of visitors also head for the bay with the Kalithea Spa and the Kalithea Beach.

More touristic destinations of Rhodes

Close resorts: Faliraki, Koskinou (Reni Koskinou), Rhodos (city)

Most favourite resorts of Rhodes: Afandou, Archangelos, Faliraki, Ialyssos, Ixia, Kalithea, Kiotari, Kolymbia, Koskinou (Reni Koskinou), Lardos, Lindos, Rhodes (city)

Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Rhodes.