Best Greek islands for family holidays - A map for you and your family
The best islands for family holidays are those that combine shallow, safe beaches, easy access, food options for children, and attractions that appeal to both kids and adults. In the Dodecanese, Rhodes is the ideal base — and from there you can take day trips to 7 additional islands by ferry.
What makes an island ideal for family holidays?
A family-friendly island should offer three key things:
- Shallow and safe beaches for young children
- Easy access — direct flight or ferry without multiple connections
- Activities and attractions suitable for different age groups
KEY INSIGHT
Large islands offer more infrastructure. Smaller islands offer peaceful, uncrowded beaches. The ideal solution for families is to combine both: a large island as a base and day trips to smaller islands for variety.
The best Greek islands for family holidays
1. Rhodes — the ideal base for families
Rhodes is the largest island of the Dodecanese and one of the top family destinations in Greece. It offers long sandy beaches ideal for children (Ialyssos, Faliraki, Tsambika), the UNESCO-listed Medieval Town, the Valley of the Butterflies, and many hotels with child-friendly facilities. In addition, from Rhodes you can take day trips to 7 nearby islands.
Kos is the third largest island of the Dodecanese, known for the Asklepieion, the Hippocrates Tree, and extensive sandy beaches. Its flat terrain makes cycling ideal for families. Kos has the longest cycling path in the Aegean.
3. Patmos — history and tranquility
Patmos is the “Island of the Apocalypse”, featuring Chora, the Monastery of St. John (UNESCO), and quiet beaches. Ideal for families seeking a relaxed pace with cultural interest.
4. Symi — the most photogenic island
Symi is ideal for a day trip from Rhodes. Its colorful harbor is one of the most impressive in Greece. Suitable for children who enjoy walking and food experiences — less suitable for very young children due to uphill paths.
A very interesting day trip you should book is Rhodes to Symi! - Here are the details
5. Chalki — shallow beaches, minimal traffic
Chalki has almost zero car traffic and shallow beaches that are extremely safe for young children. Pondamos beach is a 10-minute walk from the port. Available as a day trip from Rhodes.
Tilos is the world’s first zero-waste island. Ideal for children who love nature — the Paleontological Museum with dwarf elephants is a unique experience. Abandoned village, 19 wild beaches, complete tranquility.
Walking into the Stefanos crater is an experience children remember for years. Suitable for older children. Extra caution needed for very young children near geothermal vents.
The Rhodes–Nisyros day trip will surprise you! See all details here!
8. Kastellorizo — a unique experience
The easternmost island of Greece, with 584 residents. The Blue Cave, the colorful harbor, and the island’s serenity make this a bucket-list trip. Suitable for children who love the sea and boats.
Bonus: Kalymnos for active families
Kalymnos is globally known for climbing and diving. Ideal for families with older children looking for activities — the sponge-diving history is unique.
Have you decided your next trip? — Book online here and secure your seat!
Why Rhodes is the ideal base for family holidays?
Rhodes combines everything in one island and serves as the perfect starting point for day trips:
- Direct flights from all over Europe
- Large hotels with family-friendly facilities
- Access to 7 islands via day trips with Dodekanisos Seaways
- Sandy beaches, shallow waters, safety for children
- UNESCO Medieval Town — a real-life fairytale for all ages
5 things to remember
- Rhodes is the ideal base — a large island with infrastructure and access to 7 day trips.
- Chalki and Tilos are best for young children — shallow beaches, no traffic.
- Nisyros and Kalymnos are ideal for older children seeking experiences.
- All day trips depart from Rhodes port with Dodekanisos Seaways.
- Book in advance online — ferries fill up in summer.
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Frequently asked questions
Which island is best for very young children under 5?
Chalki (shallow beaches, no cars) and Rhodes beaches (Ialyssos, Tsambika). Avoid Nisyros for very young children due to uneven terrain at the crater.
Do we need a car in Rhodes?
For Rhodes and larger islands, yes — it is convenient. For day trips (Symi, Chalki, Nisyros, Tilos), no — the islands are small and easily walkable.
How much does a day trip from Rhodes cost?
Check the current price list on 12ne.gr or contact (+30) 22410 70590.
Which islands does Dodekanisos Seaways connect from Rhodes?
Symi, Kos, Kalymnos, Chalki, Tilos, Nisyros, Kastellorizo, Astypalea. See the full list at https://www.12ne.gr/en/one-day-trip.
