Chios has more than 60 beaches, but most visitors see the same five. With a car, you unlock the south and west coasts — where locals go when they want quiet. You only need a 4x4 for one of them; you do need the willingness to leave the main road for a bit.
1. Vroulidia — the southernmost in Chios
Two small coves with white pebbles and water of an incredible colour, hugged by cliffs. Leave the car above and walk a short path down (5'). Go in the morning — shade comes early in the afternoon. There's no canteen, so bring water.
2. Elinta — sunset in the west
A large pebble beach with shallow water facing west — one of the few spots in Chios where the sun drops into the sea. Ideal for a slow afternoon of swims and then a drink at the small bar.
3. Agia Dynami — small and divine
A few metres of sand and rocks with crystal water, beside a little chapel. Barely any people even in August. Bring a mask — the seabed is one of the cleanest on the island.
4. Didyma — the "twin" coves
Two adjacent little beaches with coarse pebbles. The last 2 km are a dirt road — slowly in a compact, easily in an SUV. The reward: you'll almost certainly have it to yourself.
5. Lithi — fishing village with sand
If you want a beach with facilities but no crowds, Lithi is the answer. Golden sand, shallow for kids, and tavernas on the water with fresh fish. It pairs perfectly with Elinta on the same day.
Practical tips for beaches by car
Fill the tank early. Inland and in the west, petrol stations thin out.
Bring water and shade. Half of these have no canteen — an umbrella in the boot saves the day.
A compact is enough for four of the five. Only Didyma benefits from a compact SUV. See the 7 sights of Chios to pair a beach with a village.
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