Chios Beaches

Overview

Chios is a fantastic choice for a beach holiday, offering a remarkable variety of coastal experiences. The island boasts over 90 beaches, ensuring every visitor finds their perfect spot. You'll discover everything from unique volcanic black pebble shores to expansive stretches of golden sand, catering to diverse preferences for your seaside escape.

Among the island's treasures is the iconic Mavra Volia, famous for its striking black pebbles. For a classic sandy experience, Karfas Beach is a top pick, especially for families. If picturesque tranquility is what you seek, Agia Dynami Beach offers stunning emerald waters, while Apothyka Beach calls to the adventurous with its activity options. Many other beautiful spots, such as the popular Komi Beach, await exploration, as detailed in our comprehensive guide to Chios's shores.

The waters around Chios are generally crystal clear, inviting you for a refreshing swim. Whether you're looking for lively, organized beaches or prefer to uncover quiet, secluded coves for a peaceful day, the island delivers. This diversity is what makes Chios a truly special destination for beach lovers.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Chios a good destination for a beach holiday?

Yes, Chios is a great destination for a beach holiday, offering a diverse range of over 90 beaches. You can find everything from unique black volcanic pebble beaches like Mavra Volia to long sandy stretches such as Karfas and Komi. The island caters to various preferences, whether you're looking for organized beaches with amenities, secluded coves for tranquility, or family-friendly shores with shallow waters.

Mavra Volia

Karfas Beach

What are the beaches in Chios like, sandy or pebbly?

Chios offers a remarkable diversity of beaches. You'll find famous black pebble beaches like Mavra Volia, beaches with colorful pebbles, golden sand beaches like Karfas, white sand, and mixed pebble and sand beaches. This variety means there's a type of beach to suit almost every preference.

Mavra Volia

Karfas Beach

When is the best time to visit Chios for beaches?

The best time for a beach holiday in Chios is from June to mid-September when the weather is hot and sunny, and the sea is warm enough for swimming. May and late September can also be pleasant with milder weather and fewer crowds, though the sea might be cooler in May. August is the busiest month.

Can you swim in Chios and what is the water like?

Yes, you can definitely swim in Chios. The waters are generally crystal clear and clean across the island. Water temperatures become pleasant for swimming from June to September, typically ranging from 23-24°C (73-75°F) in peak summer. Some beaches, like Mavra Volia, are noted for having cooler waters.

Mavra Volia

What are some good areas to stay in Chios for beach access?

For easy beach access, consider staying in Karfas, which is a tourist-friendly area with a long sandy beach and many hotels. Komi and Agia Fotini (Agia Fotia) also offer accommodations close to their popular beaches. Chios Town provides access to nearby beaches and more amenities, while villages like Emporios (near Mavra Volia) or Lithi offer a quieter, beach-focused stay.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Karfas Beach

Paralia Agia Fotini

Mavra Volia

Which beaches in Chios are best for families with children?

Karfas, Komi, and Lithi beaches are highly recommended for families with children. Karfas offers soft golden sand and shallow waters with many amenities. Komi is a long sandy beach, also with shallow waters and facilities. Lithi beach is sandy, well-organized, and has shallow, calm waters, making it ideal for kids.

Karfas Beach

Do I need to rent a car to visit the beaches in Chios?

Renting a car or motorbike is highly recommended to explore the diverse beaches of Chios, especially the more remote ones. While public buses connect Chios Town to some popular beaches like Karfas, Komi, and Emporios (for Mavra Volia), a car offers much more flexibility to discover hidden coves and travel at your own pace.

Karfas Beach

Mavra Volia

Emporios Beach

Are there organized beaches with sunbeds and umbrellas in Chios?

Yes, Chios has many organized beaches offering sunbeds, umbrellas, and often beach bars or tavernas. Popular organized beaches include Karfas, Komi, Agia Fotini (Agia Fotia), and Lithi. However, there are also many unorganized, more natural beaches if you prefer seclusion.

Karfas Beach

People Also Ask

What is Mavra Volia beach like and is it worth visiting?

Mavra Volia, also known as Mavros Gialos, is one of Chios's most famous and unique beaches, definitely worth visiting. It consists of three coves with large, shiny black volcanic pebbles from an ancient eruption. The waters are deep, crystal clear, and often cooler than other beaches. While not organized with sunbeds, its dramatic landscape makes it a must-see.

Mavra Volia

Are there quiet and secluded beaches in Chios?

Yes, Chios has numerous quiet and secluded beaches for those seeking tranquility. Spots like Agia Dynami, Vroulidia, Apothika, and Didima offer more isolated experiences, often with fewer or no facilities, allowing for a peaceful day by the sea. Exploring the coastline by car can lead you to many such hidden gems.

Agia Dynami Beach

Didima Beach

How does Chios compare to other Greek islands like Samos or Lesvos for beaches?

Chios offers a unique beach experience with its volcanic black pebble beaches like Mavra Volia, which are less common on other islands. While Samos and Lesvos also have beautiful beaches, Chios is often described as having a more diverse range, from pebbly coves to sandy stretches, and is generally considered less crowded than some more mainstream Greek islands, offering a more authentic feel. The choice depends on whether you prioritize unique geology, variety, or specific types of sand/pebble beaches.

Mavra Volia

Are there any tips for visiting Mavra Volia beach?

When visiting Mavra Volia, it's advisable to bring water shoes as the black pebbles can get very hot under the sun. There are limited facilities, so pack water, snacks, and an umbrella for shade. Parking can be difficult during peak season (especially August); consider parking in Emporios village and walking. Remember that removing pebbles from the beach is not allowed.

Mavra Volia

What's the vibe like at Komi beach?

Komi beach offers a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. It's a long, sandy, and well-organized beach popular with both locals and tourists, especially younger crowds on weekends. You'll find numerous beach bars, tavernas, sunbeds, and options for water sports. Despite its popularity, its length usually allows for finding quieter spots too.

Is Agia Dynami beach suitable for a quiet day out?

Yes, Agia Dynami is known as a beautiful and relatively secluded beach, ideal for a quiet day. It features emerald/turquoise waters and a mix of fine sand and pebbles. While it has gained popularity, it generally maintains a peaceful ambiance. There are limited facilities, so it's best to bring your own supplies. Some natural shade is available, but an umbrella is recommended.

Agia Dynami Beach

Are Chios beaches affected by winds like the Meltemi?

Yes, like many Aegean islands, Chios can be affected by seasonal winds, particularly the Meltemi (northerly winds) during summer (mainly July and August). North-facing beaches will be more exposed. However, Chios has beaches facing various directions, so you can usually find a sheltered option. For example, southern beaches or those in protected coves like Kato Fana are often calmer when the Meltemi is blowing.

Kato Fana Beach