Chapter 1 of 7
Snakes in Rhodes: give them space
Yes, we have snakes in Rhodes. To put that in perspective, in three years of living here and exploring the island, I hadn't seen a single one in the wild. They want to avoid you as much as you want to avoid them.
If you do see a snake on a path, my advice is firm: just stop and give it plenty of room to move away. I can't believe I have to say this, but do not try to get a close-up photo or poke it with a stick. Just wait at a safe distance or turn back.
- Wear proper closed-toe shoes for countryside walks, not flimsy beach flip-flops.
- Watch where you put your feet and hands around rocks and vegetation. Don't stick your hand into a gap you can't see into.
- Please don't turn over rocks looking for creatures. You're a guest in their home.
- Keep your children close and teach them not to run up to any animal they see.
Chapter 2 of 7
Sea urchins: check rocky entries before stepping in
Sea urchins are quite common around our rocky coastlines. Trust me, stepping on one is a painful way to ruin a holiday, so the solution is simple: look before you step.
Before you wade in, take a moment to actually look at the seabed. I always scan for a clear, sandy path between the rocks. If I can't see the bottom clearly, I'll walk a few metres down the beach to find a safer entry point. I would never just walk in blindly.
- Pause at the water's edge to find a clear place for your feet.
- My rule is simple: never stand on submerged rocks you can't see properly or reach into underwater crevices.
- Water shoes are a good idea for rocky beaches, but they are not magic armour. You still need to avoid stepping directly on an urchin.
- With kids, I recommend showing them exactly where it's safe to go in, rather than letting them scramble over slippery rocks.
Chapter 3 of 7
Jellyfish and unfamiliar marine life: look, don't handle
We sometimes get jellyfish. If you see warning signs on the beach or notice other swimmers getting out, pay attention. If there's a lifeguard, I'd ask them before getting in.
When you're snorkelling, my advice is to adopt a strict 'look, don't touch' policy. You don't need to know if a fish can sting to know you shouldn't be trying to grab it. Enjoy the beautiful marine world from a respectful distance; don't chase or corner anything.
A clear seabed is only one part of a safe swim
Being able to see the bottom is good for avoiding animals, but it doesn't mean the sea is safe. Honestly, strong currents and rough water are a much bigger risk here than any creature. Always respect the beach flags and lifeguard instructions. Never dive into unknown water, and please, keep young children within arm's reach.
Chapter 4 of 7
Insects: prevent bites and avoid disturbing them
You'll definitely meet mosquitoes, bees, and wasps in Rhodes. When you're eating outside, my practical tip is to just glance in your drink before you take a sip. You'd be surprised how often a wasp goes for a swim in a Coke.
For mosquitoes, repellent is your best friend. Use it according to the instructions, especially for children. Here's what I do: apply sunscreen first, let it absorb, and then apply repellent over the top.
In your room, using the air-con, fan, or window screens is the most effective approach. A citronella candle isn't a magic force field. For all my tips on this, see my specific guide on avoiding mosquito bites in Rhodes.
Chapter 5 of 7
Cats and other unfamiliar animals: friendly is not an invitation
You will see cats everywhere, especially around tavernas and harbours. They're part of the island's charm. But even if a cat rubs against your leg, please remember it isn't your house pet.
Let them come and go. My advice is never to pick them up, corner them for a photo, or feed them from your hand. For children, a simple “look, don’t grab” rule is the easiest way to keep everyone safe and happy.
If you see an animal that seems injured, the best thing you can do is contact your hotel or a local animal welfare group. Please don't try to catch it yourself; you could get hurt or make its injury worse.
Chapter 6 of 7
Getting help after a bite, sting or puncture
If you suspect a snakebite, get medical help immediately. Do not waste a single second trying to identify or capture the snake. The same goes for any animal bite or scratch that breaks the skin—get professional advice.
For a painful sting or puncture from something in the sea, I'd advise seeing a professional rather than trying out 'cures' you hear on the beach. A local pharmacist can give you excellent advice for non-emergency concerns.
The pan-European emergency number is 112; you can also call 166 for an ambulance. If someone has breathing difficulties, collapses, or is getting rapidly worse after contact with an animal, call for help without delay. Be ready to give your exact location.
If you're not sure how serious a bite or sting is, start at a pharmacy. I explain how the system works in my guide to finding pharmacies and hospitals in Rhodes.
Chapter 7 of 7
Before a walk or swim: your quick check
My final piece of advice is to be sensible. Match your precautions to what you're doing. You don't need to be on high alert for sea urchins when you're hiking in the mountains.
If you have other practical questions about your trip, I've probably answered them. You can browse the full list in my Rhodes practical travel questions section.
- Countryside walk: I wear closed shoes, watch my footing, and keep my hands out of hidden gaps.
- Rocky sea entry: I always inspect the bottom, pick a clear route, and avoid stepping on marine life.
- Outdoor meal or evening: I keep repellent on hand and check my drink for insects before I sip.
- With children: I supervise them closely and make sure they know not to touch unfamiliar animals.
- If an injury happens: I know my location so I can get the right medical help quickly.
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Frequently asked questions
Are there snakes in Rhodes?
Yes, but they are shy and want to avoid you. In three years living here I haven't encountered one in the wild. If you do see one, just give it plenty of space. Never try to handle it, and get immediate medical help for any bite.
Do you need to identify a snake before deciding what to do?
Absolutely not. Your only job is to keep a safe distance. If a bite happens, getting to a doctor is the only priority—don't waste a second trying to play snake-expert.
Do you need water shoes at every beach?
No, not at every beach. On a pure sand beach, they're pointless. I find them useful on rocky or pebbly shores for comfort and grip. But even with them on, you must watch where you're stepping.
Should you report an animal near a hotel entrance?
Yes, definitely. Don't be a hero. If an animal is somewhere it shouldn't be, keep yourself and others away, and tell the hotel staff right away. Let them handle it.