Hovolo is one of Skopelos’ most striking coves — emerald water hemmed in by forest, no facilities, and a setting that rewards visitors willing to make a modest effort to reach it. Access is from Neo Klima (also called Elios), the small coastal village on the west coast, via a short walk or by boat.
Getting there
The most practical approach is from Neo Klima (Elios), a small village on the main west coast road about 18km from Skopelos Town. From the village, a coastal path leads to Hovolo in approximately 10–15 minutes on foot — short but requiring some sure-footedness over rocks. The path is manageable in good sandals; proper shoes are better. Alternatively, water taxis and day-trip boats from Skopelos Town include Hovolo as a stop — the easiest option for families or anyone who prefers not to navigate the coastal path.
The beach
Hovolo is smaller than the west-coast organised beaches — around 100 metres of coarse grey pebbles in a cove enclosed on both sides by forested rock. The water enters immediately and runs deep; this is a place for confident swimmers and snorkellers rather than paddling families. The colour of the water — an intense emerald-green caused by the depth and the light — is particularly vivid in mid-morning when the sun is directly overhead.
Why it stands out
Hovolo stands out because it resists organisation. There are no loungers, no music, no rental kiosk. People who make the trip tend to bring their own supplies and stay for several hours. The combination of a short approach and a genuinely remote-feeling setting makes it one of the more satisfying beach experiences on the island — a rare thing to find within 10 minutes of a village.
Practical tips
- Base yourself at Neo Klima (Elios) — approximately 18km from Skopelos Town, about 25 min drive
- Bring all food, water, and sunscreen — nothing is available at the beach itself
- The coastal path involves some rock scrambling — closed-toe shoes are safer than sandals
- Boat trips from Skopelos Town: several operators include Hovolo; ask on the port
- No shade infrastructure at the beach — plan for morning or late afternoon visits
- Snorkelling: the right-hand rocky margin of the cove has good marine life
Also in This Section
- Panormos — The island’s largest organised bay — calm water, tavernas, and easy beach access.
- Milia — Long white-pebble beach with some of the clearest water in the Northern Sporades.
- Kastani — Intimate pine-fringed cove — the Mamma Mia! filming location on the west coast.
- Stafylos & Velanio — Two connected coves steeped in Minoan mythology, 4km south of Skopelos Town.
- Agnontas & Limnonari — A working fishing harbour for lunch and a beautiful double cove for the afternoon.
- Glysteri — The closest beach to Skopelos Town — 4km north, good snorkelling, seasonal taverna.