Balos Beach and Lagoon
Crete, Crete
Bridging the gap between the Gramvousa Peninsula and Cape Tigani, Balos Beach and Lagoon is a pocket of paradise. Framed by a backdrop of steep cliffs and rocks, as well as incredible pink- and white-sand beaches, the startlingly blue lagoon offers visitors an idyllic waterfront escape. Unsurprisingly, Balos Beach is one of Crete’s most-photographed natural beaches.
The basics
The best way to experience the area is on a Balos Beach tour by boat. Admire an ideal perspective of the exotic beach lagoon, its stunning backdrop of steep rocks, and the Mediterranean Sea. A typical full-day tour begins at Rethymnon, Georgioupolis, Kolymbari, or Chania. Continue on to discover the caves around Kissamos Bay, the beautiful beaches of Gramvousa Island, and the famous castle of Gramvousa. And when it comes time to cool down, dive into the lagoon’s turquoise waters.
Things to know before you go
Between April and October, visitor facilities include restrooms, a beach café, and sun beds.
Visitors arriving by road need to pay a small entrance fee to enter the Balos Reserve and parking area.
Don’t miss the island of Gramvousa and its castle—the Venetian fortress is located atop a steep rock and can be reached on a 20 minute hike.
How to get there
Balos Beach is located along the Gramvousa Peninsula on the northwest coast of Crete, around 35 miles (56 kilometers) from Chania and 11 miles (17 kilometers) from Kissamos. Daily ferries run from the port of Kissamos port to Balos. It’s also possible to travel by 4WD, following a dirt road from Kaliviani along Cape Gramvousa.
When to get there
Summer is the most popular time to visit Balos Beach, though the secluded beach can get crowded—especially in July and August. For peace and quiet, make an early start and arrive before the crowds descend upon the lagoon.
Snorkeling and scuba diving at the Balos Lagoon
The Balos Lagoon is a Natura 2000 reserve, where monk seals and loggerhead sea turtles might be spotted. It’s a prime spot for swimming and snorkeling. Scuba diving—another popular activity around the lagoon—gives visitors the chance to explore the wreckage of an English landing craft.
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