Prasonisi is a geographical marvel located at the southern tip of Rhodes. A sandy isthmus connects the mainland to a small island, separating the Aegean Sea from the Mediterranean. The "Meltemi" wind blows directly across this sandbar, creating waves on one side and perfect flat water on the other.
Detailed Wind & Conditions Chart
| Month | Wind Probability | Avg Wind Speed | Wind Name | Wetsuit | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jun - Sep | 90% | 20-30 kts | Meltemi | Shorty | Mixed |
| Oct | 60% | 15-25 kts | Variable | 3/2mm | Mixed |
| May | 50% | 15-20 kts | Meltemi | 3/2mm | Flat |
Data compiled from Windguru and ProCenter Prasonisi records.
Primary Spots
The Flat Side (Mediterranean)
Located on the leeward side of the sandbar.
- Conditions: Offshore wind creates butter-flat water.
- Ideal For: Speed runs, freestyle, and learning (in the shallow area).
- Safety: The wind is offshore. Rescue cover is essential.
The Wave Side (Aegean)
Located on the windward side.
- Conditions: Onshore wind with rolling waves (1-2m).
- Ideal For: Wave riding and jumping.
- Crowds: Usually less crowded than the flat side.
The Meltemi Wind
The Meltemi is a strong, dry northerly wind that blows in summer. In Prasonisi, it is accelerated by the "Venturi effect" as it squeezes between Rhodes and the small island of Prasonisi. This local effect often boosts the wind by 5-10 knots compared to the rest of Rhodes.
graph TD
Meltemi[Meltemi Wind (North)] -->|Squeezes Between Islands| Venturi[Venturi Acceleration]
Venturi -->|Hits| Sandbar
Sandbar -->|Leeward Side| FlatWater[Flat Water Side (Offshore Wind)]
Sandbar -->|Windward Side| Waves[Wave Side (Onshore Wind)]
FlatWater -->|Risk| Drift[Drifting away from land]
Waves -->|Benefit| Safety[Blown back to beach]
Seasonality
- Peak Season (July-August): The Meltemi is relentless. It can blow 30 knots for weeks without stopping. Bring a small wing (3m or 4m).
- Shoulder Season (June/Sept): Slightly less intense, but still very reliable.
- Winter: The wind switches to Southerly. The spot changes completely, and the sandbar often floods, connecting the two seas.
Accommodation & Dining
On Spot
- Ocean Palace: Simple hotel right on the beach. AC and breakfast. Visit Ocean Palace
- Kedros: Basic rooms and a taverna.
Nearby (Kattavia)
- Kattavia Village: 10 mins drive inland. More authentic Greek tavernas and guesthouses.
- Atrium Prestige: 20 mins drive. 5-star luxury resort. Visit Atrium
Schools & Rentals
Full-Service Centers
- Pro Center Rhodos: High-end center with the latest JP/NeilPryde gear. They have three centers on the beach. Visit Pro Center
- Prasonisi Center: Friendly Polish-run center. Visit Prasonisi Center
Travel Logistics
Getting There:
- Fly: Rhodes Airport (RHO) is 1.5 hours drive.
- Drive: The road south is scenic but long. A rental car is mandatory as Prasonisi is isolated.
The Sandbar:
- In winter, the sandbar often floods, turning Prasonisi into an island. In summer, it is a wide sandy beach. Do not try to drive your rental car across the sand—you will get stuck (and fined).
Local Rules & Etiquette
- Swimming Zone: There is a designated swimming area near the beach.
- Right of Way: The flat side gets VERY crowded with windsurfers and kiters. The speed is high. Look before you turn.
- Rescue: Sign up for rescue cover at one of the centers. The offshore wind on the flat side is unforgiving.
Resources
- Prasonisi Webcams - Live view of both sides
- ProCenter Prasonisi Webcam - Live view of the sandbar
- Rhodes Tourism
- Windguru Prasonisi - Forecast
- Rhodes Tourism