Tucked into the far northeastern edge of Evia, the village of Ellinika sits quietly on a pine-strewn hill, surveying a dramatic curve of Aegean coastline. From this unassuming inland perch, a short descent leads to the settlement of Agios Nikolaos and one of the most unique beach clusters in northern Evia: a quartet of small, scenic coves—Agios Nikolaos, Myrochorafo, Agios Ioannis, and Mavrikas—strung like pearls along the shore, each separated by rocky fingers that extend into the sea.
These beaches aren’t widely known to tourists, but they’re loved by those who return summer after summer for their fine sand, deep blue waters, and that rare feeling of being surrounded by land, sea, and history in equal measure.
Hi! I’m Dimi, tour guide and writer of this blog. I offer affordable, custom private tours (hiking or driving) around Evia. If you need any help exploring the best of the island, get in touch.
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How to Get to Ellinika
Ellinika is located about 97 km from Chalkida and 176 km from Athens. The drive takes just over three hours from the capital. From Chalkida, you’ll follow the main road toward northern Evia, passing through Prokopi, Mantoudi, and Agia Anna. Road conditions are generally good.
Getting to the beaches from the village is straightforward by car, with a paved road leading down to the coastal settlement of Agios Nikolaos just 2 km below. A small parking area serves the main beach, and from there, short footpaths and rocky walkways provide access to the smaller coves. There’s no public transport, which adds to the area’s low-key charm and means you’ll need your own vehicle to explore at your own pace.
If you’re planning a road trip on Evia and haven’t got a car already, you can compare some of the best rental deals here.
Where to Stay in Ellinika
Accommodation around Ellinika is extremely limited, with just a handful of small lodges and private rentals serving the area. If you’re planning a summer visit, it’s essential to book well in advance—places tend to fill up quickly, especially given the beaches’ growing reputation.
One of the most convenient and comfortable options is Paradeisos Apartments, located close to the shore at Agios Nikolaos. It offers clean, well-kept rooms with kitchenettes and balconies, perfect for longer stays. Another excellent choice is Green and Blue View, set slightly higher up with sweeping views over the coastline, surrounded by greenery and just a short drive from the beach. Both offer peace, privacy, and a direct connection to the natural beauty that defines this part of Evia.
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Agios Nikolaos Beach & Islet
The best-known of the four beaches is Agios Nikolaos, named—like the coastal settlement and the small islet just offshore—after the stone chapel that sits atop the islet with its red tiled roof. The beach itself curves around a calm, sandy bay, where the sea remains shallow for several meters before deepening gently. From the shore, the islet feels close enough to touch, and it’s easily reachable with a short swim across clear, blue water. The chapel, visible from anywhere along the bay, lends a quiet dignity to the scene, anchoring the beach’s identity in both geography and tradition.
To the west, beyond the main beach, a series of smaller, more secluded coves can be reached by walking across the low coastal rocks. These mini-beaches offer a quieter retreat for those willing to explore a bit further—less crowded, a little wilder, and perfect for a more solitary swim beneath the same sweeping Aegean sky. The view from the beach is nothing short of iconic: Aegean blue in every direction, the sky often dotted with birds gliding between Evia and the nearby Sporades islands of Skiathos and Skopelos.
Agios Ioannis, Myrochorafo & Mavrikas
Just beyond Agios Nikolaos beach, the coastline breaks into a series of smaller, more secluded coves—Myrochorafo, Agios Ioannis, and Mavrikas—each separated by rocky outcrops that extend into the Aegean. These beaches are less known and tend to be quieter, drawing visitors who prefer a bit more privacy and a less structured beach experience. They’re accessible via narrow roads or walking paths over the rocks from the main bay. Though close in distance, each cove has its own distinct feel, shaped by the curve of the shore and the rhythm of the sea.
A Coast Shaped by Myth and Memory
The beaches below Ellinika aren’t just beautiful—they’re steeped in story. According to local tradition, the name Ellinika (meaning Greek) traces back to the Greek fleet that anchored here before the legendary naval Battle of Artemisium in 480 BCE. That, in contrast to the neighboring Vasilika (meaning royal), which is believed to have been the anchorage of the royal Persian fleet.
The nearby hill known as Kastradaki houses a little-explored archaeological site where 6th-century BCE fortification walls still stand, built of porous stone and over three meters high in places. This ancient presence adds a layer of depth to the landscape: when you swim in the bay, you do so beneath cliffs once watched by warriors.
Where to Eat
All the dining options in the Ellinika area are centered around the beach settlement of Agios Nikolaos, just steps from the sand. The selection is small but satisfying, with a focus on fresh seafood and simple, well-made meals in relaxed, scenic settings. These are my recommendations:
- Barba Stathi’s Fish Tavern is the go-to place for a proper seaside meal. Known for its grilled fish, fried calamari, and generous seafood platters, it pairs honest cooking with a breezy outdoor terrace that looks directly onto the bay.
- Okialos Bar offers a more casual setting—great for a coffee, cold beer, or light snack between swims. With lounge-style seating and a laid-back vibe, it’s an ideal spot to cool off or wind down as the sun sets over the sea.
Places to Visit nearby
- Vasilika – Just inland from Ellinika, this quiet village is historically linked to the area, said to be named after the Persian royal fleet (“Basilikos Stolos”) that once anchored off its coast. It’s a good stop for a glimpse into local rural life and scenic inland views.
- Metaxa Bunker – Near Artemisio, this little-known WWII-era military installation offers a stark contrast to the beachscape. Built as part of Greece’s defensive line, it’s now a point of historical curiosity tucked in the forested hills above the sea.
- Pefki – A more developed seaside town to the north, Pefki has a long promenade, boat trips to the Sporades, and a wider selection of shops and tavernas. It makes a good half-day trip if you’re craving a bit more activity.
- Istiaia – The administrative center of northern Evia, Istiaia offers practical amenities, a local market, and a chance to explore one of the region’s oldest towns. Its central square and old-school cafes offer a low-key, authentic Evian atmosphere.
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Photos
View (and if you want use) all my photographs from Ellinika in higher resolution.
