Sailing to the exotic waters of Balos Lagoon feels like escaping to a tropical paradise on the edge of Europe. This breathtaking wild beach features a shallow lagoon of warm, white and pink sand situated between the Gramvousa Peninsula and Cape Tigani. The water displays an unbelievable spectrum of colors, changing from bright emerald green to deep sapphire blue as the depth shifts across the sandbars.
Most travelers arrive by ferry, which also stops at the historic island of Gramvousa, where you can climb to a spectacular Venetian castle perched on a high cliff. The panoramic view of the lagoon from the sea or from the high walking trails is one of the most photographed vistas in Greece.
One fun fact people love:
Prince Charles and Princess Diana famously visited Balos Lagoon on their private yacht during their honeymoon in 1981.
Where in Crete is it?
Located on the far northwestern tip of Crete, in the region of Chania.
How to reach:
Accessible by taking a daily cruise boat from the port of Kissamos, or by driving along a rough, unpaved dirt road followed by a steep walk down.
Best time to visit:
June to September for warm swimming temperatures and calm sea conditions.
Best time of day:
Morning hours on the first ferry departure of the day to enjoy the lagoon before the main crowds arrive.
Entry fee:
The ferry ride from Kissamos costs approximately 30 to 35 EUR per person, plus a small 1 EUR municipal fee for environmental preservation.
Commute difficulty:
Moderate; the boat ride is relaxing, but driving the dirt road requires extreme caution and a steep hike back up the cliff.
Things nobody tells you about this place:
- The wind at Balos can be incredibly strong, blowing sand everywhere, so secure your belongings and wear sunglasses.
- Rental car companies explicitly prohibit driving on the dirt road to Balos, meaning any damage to your vehicle will not be covered by insurance.
- There are very few amenities at the beach, so bring your own shade, snacks, and water if you plan to stay all day.
