The 10 best beaches on Chios

In short: Chios — the Aegean island that gives the world mastic — is also full of beautiful beaches, from black volcanic pebbles to golden sand and quiet west-coast coves. Here are 10 of the best.

The 10 best beaches on Chios

  • Mavra Volia — famous black pebbles and turquoise water (south).
  • Karfas — sandy and shallow, great for families (east).
  • Agia Fotia — a quiet cove surrounded by cliffs (east).
  • Elinta — a quieter bay with blue water (west).
  • Nagos — green, secluded, good for snorkelling (north).
  • Komi — a long sandy beach with water sports and tavernas (south).
  • Megas Limnionas — sand and pebbles, well organised (near Chios town).
  • Lithi — a relaxed bay famous for its sunsets (west).
  • Daskalopetra — linked to the legend of Homer (near Vrontados).
  • Kato Fana — quiet and natural, near ancient ruins (south).

A closer look at the beaches

  1. Mavra Volia — on the south coast near Emporios, famous for its striking black volcanic pebbles set against crystal-clear turquoise water.
  2. Karfas — just south of Chios town on the east coast, a popular sandy beach with shallow water, ideal for families.
  3. Agia Fotia — a secluded east-coast cove framed by cliffs, with fine sand and a peaceful atmosphere.
  4. Elinta — a quieter bay on the west coast with bright blue water, a lovely spot to escape the crowds.
  5. Nagos — on the green north coast near Kardamyla; its clear waters are excellent for snorkelling.
  6. Komi — a long stretch of golden sand on the south coast, with shallow water, water sports, tavernas and beach bars.
  7. Megas Limnionas — close to Chios town on the east coast, a well-organised beach of sand and pebbles with umbrellas and sunbeds.
  8. Lithi — a relaxed west-coast bay with a harbour and tavernas, famous for its sunsets.
  9. Daskalopetra — near Vrontados, just north of Chios town; the “Teacher’s Rock” here is linked by legend to the poet Homer.
  10. Kato Fana — a quiet, natural beach on the south coast near the ancient sanctuary of Apollo at Fanai.

Our tip

Whether you love to sunbathe, snorkel or chase sunsets, Chios has a beach for you. Pack your sunscreen and a towel — and while you’re exploring the island, don’t miss the medieval mastic villages that make Chios truly unique.

A beach on Chios island

Frequently asked questions

What is the most famous beach on Chios?

Mavra Volia, on the south coast near Emporios, is the island’s most iconic beach, known for its black volcanic pebbles.

Does Chios have sandy beaches?

Yes — Karfas and Komi are among the best sandy beaches, both with shallow water.

Which Chios beach is best for families?

Karfas, near Chios town, has soft sand and shallow, calm water, making it ideal for children.

Where is the best sunset on Chios?

The west-coast beaches, especially Lithi, are famous for their sunsets over the Aegean.

Beach information based on the official Chios travel guide.

Can’t get to Chios this summer? Bring a piece of the island home.

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