Beaches on Evia Island

Introduction

With 700 km of coastline and in excess of 60 beaches the island of Evia has more than most countries do, so you should not have a problem finding one that suits you. There are also numerous coves and small sections of coast which are suitable for swimming and sunbathing, but these are often in more remote locations where a 4x4 is the most appropriate form of transport to reach them over the unmade roads. 

There are two blue flag beaches on Evia, Alykes near Drosia and Eretria 3 which forms part of the Hotel Holidays in Evia complex near Eretria. This does not mean that the island’s beaches are not up to scratch, just that the vast majority are not of a size to justify or have the facilities required to comply with the stringent criteria set by the Blue Flag organisation. What is important is clean water and tidy beaches; certainly the seas here appear to have much clearer water than many UK blue flag beaches. This is reinforced by how easily one can get sunburnt when swimming for long periods in the sea, hence the reason why you see so many of the locals wearing their sunhats in the brilliant sun when bathing.

With the topography and coast line of Evia being so different there is plenty of variety with beaches from under 100m in length to over 6.5 km such as the one between Merkouris to Oxylithos which passes Mourteri. Although some beaches are no more than 10m wide it is rare not to be able to find space even at peak summer periods. The best time to enjoy the beaches is during the week when they can be sparsely populated. There are few beaches with fine sand, the norm being a coarse sand intermixed with small pebbles which means making sandcastles is more problematical !  Pebble beaches, like Politika and Rovies, are popular with the Greeks. 

Remember it is illegal to be nude on a Greek beach, except on an official one such as Xhilladou (Chilliadou) on the east coast.  Over the years nudism has apparently declined in Greece and you should recognise the moral values of the Greek family for fabric to be worn still apply, particularly on Evia which is a holiday destination for its country’s inhabitants. So do cover up and respect the local customs. If you are a naturist Evia has it beaches and coves away from it all where you can be yourself.  A quick search on the web will soon provide a choice.

Our guide is split into the three main areas of the island, North, Central and South. The width of the island is such that you can enjoy the sun on the east coast in the morning on one beach and then transfer to another to experience the afternoon sun on the west coast.

Aegean Sea - East Coast

 The favourite sea of the Greeks with its crystal clear water and uninterrupted views out to sea.  However it can be cooler than the others seas, be rougher and be subject to stronger currents. The best time of the day to enjoy the sun is in the morning. In the north part of the island it may well be possible to see the Sporades’ islands.

Evoikos Gulfs - West Coast

 The Northern and Southern Gulfs tend to have warmer seas and have more sheltered beaches which are suitable for families.  Best in the afternoon sun and afterwards you can witness some terrific sunsets with a backdrop of the mainland.

Orei Straights - North Coast

 The north facing beaches look across the strait to the mainland and some of them will have views to the Sporades’ islands.   The sea can be rough on occasions with the predominant northerly wind, though the wind can be very welcome in the summer heat. 

Facilities

 Out of season many beaches will have no facilities available and even in peak periods a number have nothing at all. The more popular beaches usually have several tavernas  / cafes to choose from either adjoining the beach or within 1km. Water sport facilities are rare and  are normally associated with large hotel complexes. The beach with the widest range of facilities is at Alykes.  Loungers and sunshades can be found on some beaches and these can be either paid for separately or the price is reflected in the refreshments you purchase. There are no public toilets which means resorting to the local taverna.  A few beaches have designated parking areas but it is not uncommon to do the Greek thing and just find a space where you can whether it be off road or on the road itself. 

Summary

You are spoilt for choice on Evia and visiting different ones is a good way to explore the island and see other places and attractions.  The sun in Greece is extremely powerful and care is required in ensuring you have the right protection and are not too long in the direct sun.  Enjoy !!