Beaches
There's no question that Hios has the best beaches in the Northeastern Aegean. They're cleaner, less crowded, and more plentiful than those of Samos or Lesvos, and would be the envy of any Cycladic isle.
The fine-sand beach of Karfas, 7km (4 1/4 miles) south of Hios town, is the closest decent beach to the town center; it can be reached by a local (blue) bus. The development of tourism in this town, however, ensures that the beach will be crowded.
The most popular beach on the south coast is Mavra Volia (Black Pebbles), in the town of Emborio. Continue over the rocks to the right from the man-made town beach to the main beach. Walking on the smooth black rocks feels and sounds like marching through a room filled with marbles. The panorama of the beach, curving coastline, and distant headland is a memorable sight. Buses from Hios town or Piryi (8km/5 miles away) run regularly to Emborio. A short distance south is the south coast's best beach, Vroulidia, a 5km (3-mile) drive in from the Emborio road. This white-pebble-and-sand beach, in a rocky cove, offers great views of the craggy coastline.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.