Elinda (Ελίντα) is one of the most beautiful and least-visited beaches on Chios, tucked into a sheltered bay on the island's west coast near the village of Elinta. The beach is a wide arc of smooth white and grey pebbles, fringed by pine trees that lean over the water — unusual for Chios, where most beaches are fully exposed. The water at Elinda is exceptionally clear and calm — the bay faces west and is protected from the prevailing north wind (meltemi) by surrounding hills. This makes it one of the calmest swimming spots on the island even when beaches on the east coast are choppy. Elinda is genuinely off the beaten path. There are no road signs directing tourists here, and the approach road is narrow and unpaved for the final stretch. The result is a beach that remains uncrowded even in August, when every other accessible beach on the island is packed. Facilities are minimal: a small seasonal cantina serves cold drinks and basic snacks. No sun lounger rental — bring your own towel and shade. The pebbly shore means the water gets deep quickly, so it's not ideal for very young children. The drive from Chios Town takes about 30–35 minutes, passing through the village of Avgonyma (worth a stop for its views) and descending through pine forests to the coast.
Local Tips
The final 2 km of road is unpaved but fine for any car driven slowly. Park at the small area at the top and walk down (5 min). No shade trees on the beach itself — the pines are along the shore but not overhead. Bring plenty of water and food. Best visited on a weekday in summer.
Reviews (2)
Elinda is everything Karfas is not — peaceful, wild, and completely unspoiled. The water is a perfect blue-green and there were maybe 15 people on the whole beach in mid-July. The drive through the pine forests is beautiful too. A real hidden gem.
Elinda plajını bulmak biraz zor ama kesinlikle değer. Su kristal berraklığında ve çok sakin. Çakıl taşlı plaj temiz, etraf çam ormanlarıyla kaplı. Çeşme'den feribotla geçip kiraladığımız araçla kolayca gittik.