About Elias Beach

Elias (also called Elia or Helias) is one of Skiathos’s most remote beaches — and one of the best-looking. Located 16 km west of Skiathos Town on the island’s far western coast, it’s a sandy cove completely surrounded by lush green hills that create a natural amphitheatre. The setting has an almost tropical feel — clear water, golden sand, and dense green vegetation cascading to the shoreline.

Getting There

By Land

There is no proper road to Elias. Some adventurous visitors reach it via dirt tracks on quad bikes or 4x4 vehicles, but the route is unmarked, rough, and difficult to find. Not recommended for standard vehicles.

By Boat

Elias is best reached by sea. It faces west-southwest into a protected cove. From Skiathos Port, a 30HP rental boat reaches Elias in approximately 50–55 minutes, navigating the full length of the north coast and around the western tip of the island. The journey itself is spectacular — you’ll see the entire wild, undeveloped northern coastline.

Transfer

A transfer from Skiathos Town takes about 40–45 minutes. Cost: approximately €55–70.

The Beach

Elias is approximately 200 metres of golden sand, with exceptionally clear water. It’s partly organized — a small seasonal beach bar provides drinks and basic food, and there are a few sunbeds. The surrounding hills provide natural shelter and shade at different times of day.

Facilities

Limited sunbeds (€8–10 per set, seasonal)
Small seasonal beach bar (June–early September)
No full taverna
No showers
Natural shade from surrounding vegetation

The Atmosphere

Elias has an exotic, castaway feel. The dense green hills that wrap around the cove isolate it visually and acoustically from the rest of the island. You’ll hear nothing but the sea, the cicadas in the hills, and the occasional boat. It’s one of the most peaceful and beautiful places on Skiathos.

Boat Anchoring Tips

The cove offers good shelter once inside. Anchor in 3–5 metres on sand. The cove is relatively small — on busy days, boats may anchor in tiers. Arrive early to secure the prime position closer to shore.

Nearby Beaches to Combine

Mandraki (1 km east, 5 minutes by boat) — larger sandy beach with a taverna
Agistros (2 km east, 8 minutes by boat) — lush green setting, golden sand
Krifi Ammos (approximately 3 km west) — hidden sandy cove, very isolated
Kechria (5 km east) — pine-backed pebbled cove with snorkelling

What Sea Skiathos Offers

Self-drive no-license boat rental: One of our most recommended full-day adventures. Pack everything you need for the day — there are no shops out here.
Skippered west-coast discovery tour: Full-day expedition covering Elias, Mandraki, Agistros, and Krifi Ammos. Your captain navigates the exposed coastline and finds the best spots.
Water taxi: Direct transfers to this remote paradise. We’ll return to collect you at your chosen time.

Best Time to Visit

Calm, clear days (wind under 2–3 Beaufort): The west coast is exposed. Choose your day carefully.
June and early July: Before the peak summer rush. The beach bar is open. You may be the only boat.
September: Water is warmest. Fewer boats. The light is golden.
Morning (before 11am): Best chance of glassy water. The cove catches morning sun beautifully.
Avoid: Windy days. This is a long boat journey — do not attempt in rough conditions.