From black volcanic pebbles to kilometre-long stretches of shingle, and small squirts of golden sand, Chios has got a beach for everyone. With over ninety to choose from they range from organised shorelines with buzzing beach bars to secluded coves at the end of dirt trails ideal for a skinny dip. The sheer diversity can make you feel like you are on a different island everyday but as it is one of the bigger islands some of the beaches can seem remote with little else around and a car or motorcycle is needed to explore Chios properly.

While they are generally clear, the seas can be noticeably cooler than around other islands and rather than turquoise the water tends to be a deep dark blue, perhaps the inspiration for ‘the wine dark’ sea that Homer writes of.

Didima
Meaning the twins, the beach is separated by a rocky spur into two sections. Sand and shingle shores are lapped by lovely clear waters and there is some shade to the rear from a group of trees. Green and fertile, the encroaching cliffs planted with olive and mastic are an enchanting backdrop to a serene and special coastline. There is nothing nearby so come prepared.

Agia Fotini
South of Chios Town, Agia Fotini, or Agia Fotia as the locals know it, is a small pebbly beach for those who like to be near town but don’t like sand. Encircled by green cliffs, the bay is very pretty with clear, sheltered waters that are fronted by tavernas and restaurants. Semi-organised with umbrellas, loungers, watersports and a lifeguard, there is still room to spread a towel down if you want some room. There is free parking within the village.

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