Balos Lagoon

A picture-postcard landscape of fine white sand and a sea with truly limpid waters: this is the Balos Lagoon, one of the best beaches to be found on Crete. An unspoilt environment where the beach meets a still wild nature, making this a true paradise that, for some, is second only to another magnificent beach on Crete, Elafonissi.

In the lagoon, shells and corals over time have broken into tiny pieces and joined the sand, which therefore appears pink in places. Close to the coast for tens of metres, the sea water is warm, clear and very shallow, characteristics that make it suitable for children. Moving away from the coast, towards the end of the lagoon, the sea is deeper and the water cooler, making it a suitable place for those who want to snorkel.

Some species of flora and fauna have found their ideal environment here, including birds such as Eleonora’s falcon and cormorants that nest in the nearby caves. Sightings of the Mediterranean monk seal and the loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta are rare.

There are beaches here equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas, although the rental facilities rarely open before ten in the morning. Alternatively, you can explore quieter parts of the bay and choose a free beach. Unfortunately, the lagoon is a very popular destination and therefore in high season it can be very crowded, so you might consider planning your visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

How to get to Balos Lagoon

The Balos Lagoon is located in the westernmost part of Crete, north of the Gramvoussa peninsula. To reach the Balos Lagoon you have two options: arrive by boat or by car.
From the harbour of the nearby town of Kissamos, ships depart daily that can take you to this place of outstanding natural beauty in almost an hour.

As an alternative to the boat, you can consider reaching the place by car. From Chania, it takes about an hour and a half to reach this little piece of paradise by first taking a motorway, then a long stretch of dirt road and finally a final piece on foot. It sounds complex, but getting here by car will give you a spectacular view of the Gulf of Kissamos from above. For the last part of the route to be done on foot, it is best to wear a pair of comfortable trainers and, as it is all under the sun, we advise against walking it during the hottest hours of the day.

Where to stay in the area

One of the best towns to stay in to reach the Balos Lagoon is definitely Kissamos. Boats leave from this town to access the Lagoon and it is from here that all those from Chania who decide to reach Balos by car pass through. Kissamos is about 17 km from the Lagoon and less than 40 km from Chania and can be considered a perfect base for visiting the western part of the island of Crete.

As an alternative to Kissamos, you can consider staying in the small village of Kaliviani, located a couple of kilometres east of Kissamos on the road to Balos beach. This village surrounded by olive groves and agricultural fields is characterised by a quiet, family atmosphere and is therefore an ideal place for a relaxing stay.

Recommended Accommodation in Kissamos and Kaliviani