Pili Beach is located one kilometer from the center of its namesake village in northern Evia. Boasting rich natural beauty and sufficient infrastructure, it’s a popular summer destination for both local Euboeans and Athenians, for both day trips and extended stays.
Pili Beach forms a crescent, stretching about 1,000 meters in length and 50 meters wide on average. It features dark coarse sand and fine pebbles. The water is crystal-clear and deep, like much of Evia’s Aegean coast. However, nestled within one of the most sheltered coves in eastern Evia and further protected by a long breakwater covering nearly half the mouth of the inlet, waves are minimal even during the meltemi season.
The beach faces north, where the Sporades Islands are visible across the blue Aegean horizon. In summer, ferry connections link the nearby port of Mantoudi to them. Behind the beach rises the steep, forested Mount Pyxarias, whose summit can be reached via a trail from Pili—or more easily from the nearby Vlachia.
Off to the sides of the main beach lie the more private coves of Karvouna and Chaleps on the eastern edge of the bay, and Tiganakia to the west.
Ruins of abandoned magnesite extraction and processing facilities from the 19th century are scattered along the shoreline. Behind the tavernas stands a 14th‑century Byzantine chapel dedicated to St. John the Theologian (circa 1350). Nearby hills contain remnants of a medieval castle, and archaeologists have found evidence of Mycenaean-era habitation in the area.
Legend speaks of a bandit named Lempesis who once used a cave within Pili Bay as his base to plunder northern Evia. After his death, many have searched—unsuccessfully—for his cave and the legend‑of‑a‑treasure hidden within. If you’re into diving and treasure hunting, give it a shot—you might luck out.
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How to Get There
From Chalkida, take the road toward northern Evia via Prokopi, then turn right toward Pili. The beach lies 10 km from Prokopi, 60 km from Chalkida, and 135 km from Athens—about 1–2 hours’ drive. There is no direct bus to Pili. The village also has a small port for sailboats and other small vessels.
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.
Accommodation
The following charming beachfront lodging is available:
Also, these two are higher up in the village:
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Food
On Pili Beach, you’ll find two tavernas (Aristos and Archipelago), a souvlaki canteen, and two cafés (Angeliki and Kavos). All are clustered where the road from the village meets the beach’s eastern end. In the village itself, you’ll find many more restaurants, cafés, and shops. Recommended spots are Balkania and Efthymia.
Photos
View (and feel free to use) all my photographs from Pili Beach in higher resolution.
