Balos Beach and Lagoon

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.

Ways to explore

Jeep trips run to Balos Beach and Lagoon, but a great way to experience it is from the water: Options include catamaran cruises, speedboat trips, and even Jet Ski rides. As Balos is in the west of the island, many tours start from Chania, but you can also visit from Heraklion, Rethymno, or other Crete hot spots. Many boat trips also take in Kissamos Bay, the beautiful beaches of Gramvousa Island, and the Gramvousa Fortress, a Venetian castle.

Accessibility

Balos Beach and Lagoon is not wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

The walk to and from the parking lot may be too much for young children.

What to pack

Water, reef-safe sunscreen, towel, cash for the entrance fee

What to wear

Wear a hat and coverup over your swimwear, as there’s no natural shade and the sun can be fierce. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a good idea if you’re arriving by road as the track from the parking lot is steep and rocky.

Not allowed

Don’t bring your bikini and change at the beach; make like a local and wear it under your clothes.

Amenities

Restrooms, loungers, café (in season)

Address 

Balos Beach is located along the Gramvousa Peninsula on the northwest coast of Crete, around 32 miles (52 kilometers) west of Chania and 9 miles (15 kilometers) north of Kissamos.

Driving

The road to Balos Beach is dirt, but some travelers do manage it in hired cars. From Chania, take the E65 coastal highway west to Kissamos, swing briefly inland, then follow the road north past Kaliviani and along the Gramvousa Peninsula. Note that the beach is a bit of a hike from the parking lot and parking fills up quickly.

Public transportation

There’s no public transportation to Balos Beach, but there are a range of cruise options from Kissamos in season.

Best times to visit

For peace and quiet, make an early start and arrive before the crowds descend upon the lagoon.

Best days to visit

Balos Beach and Lagoon is a popular destination on any day of the week.

Best months to visit

Summer is the most popular time to visit Balos Beach, but be aware that it can get especially crowded during July and August.

Special events

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