When we think back to our time in Lindos, one of the places that really stayed with us was St Paul’s Bay. Just below the whitewashed village, this small, horseshoe-shaped cove is one of the prettiest spots in all of Rhodes.

It’s where golden sand meets calm turquoise water, framed by rocky cliffs and overlooked by the Acropolis of Lindos above. And tucked inside the bay are two lovely beaches – Mikros Gialos Beach, lively and social, and Agios Pavlos Beach, smaller and more peaceful beside the chapel.

We didn’t have time for a full beach day here, but after passing the bay twice on our way to and from Lindos, we knew it was somewhere we’d love to return to.

Finding St Paul’s Bay

Both times we visited Lindos, we parked just before the bay and walked past it on the way into the village. Parking was straightforward – large car parks near the beach charged around €7 a day, or you could park a little higher up by the main road for free if you didn’t mind a short walk down.

Even in October in Rhodes, when the island is quieter overall, St Paul’s Bay still felt alive. The beaches were busy, the restaurants open, and people were swimming, sunbathing, or chatting over drinks. You could tell this is one of those places that keeps its charm all year round.

We saw it both in daylight and again later in the evening, when the lights of the bars and tavernas glowed softly across the water. It’s beautiful at any time of day, but in the early evening it takes on a calm, golden glow that’s hard to forget.

Mikros Gialos Beach – The Lively Side Of The Bay

Mikros Gialos is the busier of the two. The name literally means “small beach,” though it’s the livelier section of the bay.

This side is lined with comfy sun loungers and umbrellas, a beach bar and restaurant, and music drifting through the air. The vibe is relaxed but upbeat – people chatting, swimming, and enjoying the sunshine. The water is clear and calm, perfect for a dip or snorkel, and small boats bob gently in the bay.

Even though we didn’t have time to swim this trip, we stayed long enough to soak up the atmosphere. It’s easy to see why this spot draws such a crowd. It has that balance of energy and ease – lively but not loud, stylish without being pretentious.

The water looked incredibly inviting, and there were plenty of people floating, swimming, and paddling near the shore. It’s the kind of place you could easily spend a full day: start with a morning swim, have lunch at the beachfront restaurant, then stretch out on the sunbeds for the afternoon.

There’s a cool, social feel to Mikros Gialos Beach. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or families who want to enjoy the sea but still have a bit of atmosphere around them.

Agios Pavlos Beach – The Chapel Side

On the opposite side of the bay sits Agios Pavlos Beach, home to the small white Chapel of St Paul that gives the bay its name. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Rhodes – and for good reason. The little chapel, perched right by the water, creates a postcard-perfect scene framed by cliffs and blue sky.

This is the quieter side of the bay, often chosen for weddings and romantic ceremonies. The beach area here is smaller, but it has its own charm. There are sun loungers set up neatly on the sand, and a restaurant where people stop for lunch or a drink after a swim.

The water here is glass-clear and incredibly calm, protected from the wind by the surrounding natural rocks. It’s easy to see why it’s a favourite for snorkelling and swimming.

From above – especially if you’re looking down from the Lindos Acropolis – you can see the whole of St Paul’s Bay curving around like a heart-shaped lagoon, with the chapel on one side and the lively Mikros Gialos on the other. It’s a spectacular sight.

Memories From The Sea

We actually got to see St Paul’s Bay from the water on our previous trip to Rhodes, when we joined the Hippo Submarine excursion that departs from the jetty here. It was such a fun experience – cruising out from the bay, looking back at the chapel and cliffs, and seeing just how small and sheltered the bay really is from the sea.

That trip gave us a different perspective of the place before we ever saw it properly on foot. Returning this year and walking around the beaches tied it all together – the same turquoise water, the same dramatic cliffs, but now with the sound of chatter, music, and clinking glasses floating across the bay.

Swimming & Scenery

The beauty of St Paul’s Bay is how calm and protected it feels. The water is shallow for a good distance, perfect for swimming and safe for children. Because of the shape of the bay, waves are rare, and the clarity of the water is incredible.

Even standing at the edge, you can see the pebbles beneath your feet. The backdrop of cliffs makes it feel enclosed and private, even though it’s such a popular spot.

And from almost anywhere around the bay – whether standing on the sand, sitting in a café, or looking down from Lindos – you can see the Acropolis of Lindos rising above, connecting the beach to the island’s ancient past.

Why It’s So Popular

It’s easy to understand why St Paul’s Bay attracts so many visitors. It has everything people come to Rhodes for: beauty, history, good food, and the perfect sea.

For couples, it’s romantic and scenic, especially on the chapel side, where weddings often take place. For families, the calm water and amenities make it ideal for a relaxed beach day. And for travellers who like a bit of atmosphere, Mikros Gialos provides exactly that – a beach with life and energy without losing its charm.

Our Thoughts & Plans To Return

Even though we only visited briefly this time, we all said the same thing as we walked back to the car: next time, we’re coming back for a full day.

We’d love to spend time swimming in the bay, lounging on the sunbeds, and trying one of the restaurants for lunch or dinner. It’s one of those places that instantly draws you in and makes you wish you had longer.

We saw people enjoying the water right up until sunset, and the view of the bay lit up in the evening was beautiful – calm water reflecting the lights of the restaurants and the glow from Lindos above.

Next time we visit Rhodes, we’ll definitely plan a whole day here, splitting time between both beaches to enjoy the contrast – lively Mikros Gialos for the buzz and atmosphere, and peaceful Agios Pavlos Beach for the quiet beauty beside the chapel.

Practical Tips For Visiting St Paul’s Bay

If you’re planning a visit, here are a few helpful things to know:

• Getting There: St Paul’s Bay is just below Lindos, about a 5-minute walk from the main car parks.
• Parking: Expect to pay around €7 for a day in the main car park, or look for free spaces higher up the hill.
• Beach Setup: Both beaches have organised sunbeds, umbrellas, and restaurants right by the sand.
• Water: Calm and clear, great for swimming and snorkelling.
• Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon if you prefer it quieter. Evenings are lovely for photos as the lights come on.
• Facilities: Restaurants, bars, and toilets are all nearby, making it easy to stay for the day.

Final Thoughts

St Paul’s Bay is easily one of the most beautiful spots on the Greek Island of Rhodes – small enough to feel personal, yet lively enough to spend the day enjoying the beach and the sea.

Whether you want to swim, relax, or simply take in the view, it’s a must-see stop on any trip to Lindos. The mix of calm water, dramatic cliffs, and the contrast between its two beaches makes it unforgettable.

Next time, we’ll definitely be back – swimsuits packed, ready to finally dive into those turquoise waters and spend a day soaking up everything that makes St Paul’s Bay so special.

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• Exploring Rhodes Old Medieval City
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