Rhodes: 2-Day Sea Kayaking and Hiking Combo Activity

This detailed review explores a popular two-day adventure in Rhodes that combines sea kayaking along breathtaking coastlines with guided mountain hikes through charming villages. Offered by Trekking Hellas Rhodes, this experience is designed for travelers seeking both adventure and authentic immersion into the island’s natural landscapes. We love how it seamlessly blends water-based exploration with inland trekking, allowing you to see Rhodes from different perspectives. One thing to keep in mind is that the activities don’t have to be done on consecutive days, offering flexibility to fit into your travel plans.

This experience is particularly well-suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate outdoor activities, scenic views, and local culture, but it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or who are taller than 195 cm or heavier than 100 kg. Overall, it offers fantastic value for the price of $126 per person, especially considering all equipment, guided insights, and meals included.

Key Points

• Multi-faceted experience: Combines sea kayaking and mountain hiking over two days, ideal for active travelers.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like those praised in reviews enhance the experience with local insights.
• Flexibility: Activities can be done in any order, with options for different start times, including mornings or sunset hikes.
• Spectacular scenery: Expect stunning views from both the water and mountain peaks, including panoramic vistas of Turkey and nearby islands.
• Authentic local touches: Homemade picnic meals and visits to historical sites add a genuine flavor.
• Small group setting: Limited to 16 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

Exploring Rhodes from the Water: The Sea Kayaking Experience

On the first day, you’ll head out from Kathara Beach, where the trekker’s journey begins. This part of Rhodes is a treasure trove of secluded beaches and impressive rock formations—perfect for paddling enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As you glide along in your kayak, you’ll pass by iconic landmarks such as Anthony Quinn Bay, famously named after the actor from “The Guns of Navarone.”

The guides, like the highly praised team mentioned in reviews, are experts who know the ins and outs of the coastline. They bring a wealth of local knowledge, making the trip informative as well as adventurous. Expect multiple opportunities to swim and snorkel at Ladiko and Traounou Beach, two spots celebrated for their clear waters and rocky coves. The inclusion of a homemade picnic at Traounou adds a sense of genuine hospitality—something many travelers appreciate for the authentic touch.

Covering about 9.5 km during the paddling portion, this activity lasts around five hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed. The calm waters and protected bays make it suitable even for those with minimal kayaking experience, though you should be comfortable in the water and have a sense of adventure.

Reviewers highlight the scenic beauty of the route, with one mentioning, “Lunch on the kayak tour was probably my favorite meal on holiday,” which emphasizes the combination of great views and tasty, homemade food. The tranquility of the journey, especially during the return, allows you to truly appreciate Rhodes’ untouched coastline.

Mountain Trails and Cultural Gems: The Hiking Adventure

The second day transports you inland to the charming village of Salakos, situated on the foothills of Mount Profitis Ilias—the third-highest peak on the island. The drive itself offers a scenic glimpse of Rhodes’ fertile landscapes and authentic village life. Once there, you’ll undertake a beginners-friendly hike along well-maintained trails, shaded by ilex, pine, and olive trees—perfect for escaping the summer heat.

From the mountain summit, you’ll enjoy panoramic views spanning the Aegean Sea, Turkey’s coastline, and nearby islands—an experience that’s both awe-inspiring and humbling. The highlight at the top is the statue of Elafos and Elafina, symbolizing the male and female deer, and the former Italian hotels built nearly a century ago by Italian colonists, adding historical intrigue to the natural beauty.

On the way down, your guide will take you through sites like the Villa de Vecchi (former Italian Governor’s residence) and the Byzantine Church of Profitis Elias, which add a touch of historical richness to your walk. The trail is approximately 5.5 km, and the pace is leisurely enough for beginners to enjoy the scenery and learn about Rhodes’ diverse past.

The hike offers a welcome break from the coast, with shaded sections providing relief from the sun. Reviewers like Katie praised the guides’ extensive knowledge, noting how well-organized and accommodating they are: “Both guides were fantastic, so much knowledge of the area!” This kind of expertise makes the hike not just a walk but an insightful journey into Rhodes’ geography and history.

What’s Included and Practical Details

For the $126 price point, this tour offers excellent value considering everything included. The kayak trip provides all necessary equipment, a guide, souvenir photos, and a delicious homemade picnic, which makes the experience feel truly special. The hiking day includes snacks, guiding, and all the insights you could want.

You’ll meet at the Trekking Hellas Rhodes Base at Kathara Beach in Faliraki, and the tour ends back at the same location, making logistics straightforward. If you prefer, pickup options from various areas like Rhodes Town, Ixia, or Kremasti can be arranged, helping busy travelers fit this adventure into their schedule.

Both activities can be booked independently or on the same trip, with the flexibility to choose the order and timing—ideal for customizing your Rhodes adventure. The guided tour operates in small groups, limited to 16 people, ensuring a personal feel and ample opportunity for questions and interaction.

What to Bring and Tips for the Trip

Pack practical, comfortable clothing suited for outdoor activities, including sturdy shoes for hiking and water shoes for kayaking. Sun protection is essential—think sun hats, sunscreen, and light windbreakers for potential breezes. Also, bring water, a towel, swimwear, and a daypack for your essentials.

Note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or individuals over 100 kg or taller than 195 cm, highlighting the activity’s focus on active participation. The hiking is scheduled as a morning or sunset trip depending on the season, adding flexibility for different travel plans.

Authentic Insights from Participants

One reviewer summed it up well: “Both guides were fantastic, so much knowledge of the area,” emphasizing the value of expert guiding. They also appreciated the well-organized nature of the tour and the variety of scenery—beaches, rock formations, mountain views, and historical sites.

Another mentioned, “Lunch on the kayak tour was probably my favorite meal on holiday,” underlining the authentic, homemade aspect that elevates this experience beyond just a physical activity. The small group size ensures you get personalized attention and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the surroundings.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Adventure?

This 2-day Rhodes combo offers a well-rounded way to explore the island’s natural beauty and cultural highlights, making it perfect for active travelers who love being outdoors. It’s especially good for those who want to see both the coast and inland villages, with guides providing local insights along the way.

The experience’s value shines through the included equipment, meals, and personalized group setting. If you’re craving a mix of adventure, scenic views, and authentic local touches—this activity ticks all the boxes. It’s best suited for adventurous souls comfortable with physical activity but not for those needing mobility assistance or with very tall/heavy frames.

This tour provides a memorable, well-organized, and authentic Rhodes experience that balances fun, learning, and stunning scenery—leaving you with great photos and unforgettable memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, both the kayaking and hiking trails are suitable for beginners, with well-maintained paths and calm waters. The guides are experienced and will support all abilities.

Can I choose the order of the activities?
Absolutely. You can decide whether to do the kayaking or hiking first, and activities are flexible across different days.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, windbreaker, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, water shoes, and a small daypack are recommended.

Is the tour available all year?
Sea kayaking can be arranged any day of the season. Hiking can be scheduled as a morning trip during spring and autumn or as a sunset tour in summer.

Are meals included?
Yes, a homemade picnic lunch is provided during the kayaking day, and a snack is included on the hiking day.

Is transportation provided?
Meeting points are at Trekking Hellas Rhodes Base at Kathara Beach, with optional pickups available from many Rhodes locations.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 16 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

How long is each activity?
The kayaking trip covers about 9.5 km over 5 hours, and the hike is approximately 5.5 km, suitable for leisurely exploration.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for people taller than 195 cm or over 100 kg, and those with mobility issues should consider this.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
Sea kayaking is flexible seasonally, while hiking can be scheduled in the morning or sunset depending on the time of year.

This Rhodes combo tour combines the thrill of paddling along stunning coastlines with the tranquility of mountain trails, making it a fantastic choice for those wanting an active, authentic, and scenic escape in Greece.