Bali (Crete) Beaches

Overview

Bali, Crete, is a charming coastal village known for its series of sheltered, sandy coves with clear, greenish waters. This makes it an appealing destination for those seeking calm seas, particularly families with children, as the waters are generally tranquil and suitable for swimming. Unlike its Indonesian namesake, Bali in Crete offers a relaxed, traditional Greek village atmosphere. The beaches are the main draw, and their location within coves provides good protection from the strong 'meltemi' winds that can affect other parts of Crete.

Among the editor's picks, Livadi Beach stands out as the largest and most visited, offering ample space and easy access. For those seeking picturesque scenery and excellent snorkeling opportunities, Karavostasi Beach, with its dramatic cliffs, is a top choice. In the heart of the village, Limani Beach provides convenient access by the harbor, surrounded by numerous amenities. Families often gravitate towards Varkotopos Beach due to its shallow, calm waters and family-friendly facilities. Many visitors also enjoy exploring Mythos Beach, often described as a more secluded option.

While these are some highlights, Bali offers several other spots to enjoy the sun and sea, all detailed in our longer list of beaches. The compact nature of Bali means that its various beaches are generally within walking distance of each other, though the terrain can be hilly in places. The water at Bali's beaches can sometimes feel cooler than at other Cretan beaches, a unique feature attributed to freshwater springs flowing into the sea from the nearby Psiloritis mountain range. Its location also makes it a good base for exploring the wider Rethymno region.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Bali Crete good for a family holiday?

Yes, Bali is considered a great destination for family holidays. The beaches are located in coves, making the waters calm and suitable for children. Varkotopos Beach, in particular, is noted as family-friendly with shallow waters. Many accommodations in Bali also cater to families, offering amenities like family rooms and kids' pools or activities.

Varkotopos Beach

Can you swim in Bali Crete and what is the water like?

Yes, you can swim in Bali, Crete. The area features several beaches in sandy coves with clear, greenish waters. The bays are generally sheltered, resulting in calm waters, which are ideal for swimming. Some people note that the water can feel cool due to freshwater springs from the Psiloritis Range flowing into the sea.

When is the best time to visit Bali Crete for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Bali, Crete is generally considered to be from late spring (May-June) to early autumn (September-October). During these shoulder seasons, the weather is warm and sunny, the sea is comfortable for swimming, and the beaches are less crowded than in the peak summer months of July and August. However, July and August offer the hottest weather and warmest sea temperatures, though it will be busier.

What are the beaches in Bali Crete like? Are they sandy?

The beaches in Bali, Crete are primarily sandy and located in a series of coves. Livadi is the longest sandy beach, while Varkotopos also has sand and is particularly good for children. Karavostasi, another popular beach, is also sandy. The coves help to keep the waters calm.

Livadi Beach

Varkotopos Beach

Karavostasi Beach

Are there hotels directly on the beach in Bali Crete?

Yes, there are several hotels and apartments located very close to or directly on the beaches in Bali. For example, Bali Star Hotel is mentioned as having direct access to a sandy beach. Niriides Beach Apartments and Bali Beach Hotel & Village are also noted for their beachfront or very close proximity to the beach. Many accommodations are situated within the small coves, offering easy beach access.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

How do you get to the beaches in Bali, Crete?

Bali is located on the main national road connecting Heraklion and Rethymno, making it accessible by car. Driving from Heraklion takes about 45 minutes to an hour, and from Chania, it's about an hour and a half. Public buses also service Bali from Heraklion and Rethymno, with the bus stop typically being a 15-minute walk to the beaches. Once in Bali village, the different beaches are generally within walking distance of each other, though there can be some hills.

Is Bali Crete very windy? Are the beaches sheltered?

Much of the appeal of Bali's beaches is that they are generally sheltered from the strong northerly 'meltemi' winds that can affect other parts of Crete. Being located in coves, the waters are usually calm, making them suitable for swimming even when other nearby beaches might be too rough. Livadi beach, being in a more open bay, can be more exposed to winds than the other, more secluded coves like Varkotopos or Karavostasi.

Livadi Beach

Varkotopos Beach

Karavostasi Beach

Which is the quietest beach in Bali Crete?

While all beaches in Bali can get busy, especially in peak season, Karavostasi Beach is often described as being more tucked away and potentially offering a more secluded feel compared to the main Livadi beach. It's the northernmost beach and requires a short walk from the harbour. Some sources also mention Mythos beach as a 'secret' beach accessible via stairs from Mythos Apartments.

Karavostasi Beach

Livadi Beach

People Also Ask

Is Bali (Crete) a good place for a party holiday?

Bali, Crete is generally described as a relaxed and quiet fishing village, ideal for families and couples seeking a peaceful holiday. While there are bars and tavernas, the nightlife is typically low-key and centered around these establishments rather than large, pulsating nightclubs. Some sources mention a lively nightlife scene with spots like Mambo Beach Bar and Star Bar, but it's not typically considered a major party destination like Malia or Hersonissos.

Malia

What's the difference between Livadi beach and Karavostasi beach in Bali Crete?

Livadi is the first and longest beach you encounter in Bali, located in a more open bay, making it potentially more exposed to wind. It's well-organized and often bustling with plenty of beach bars. Karavostasi is the northernmost beach, smaller, wider, and situated in a more dramatic setting between cliffs. It's considered one of the best spots for snorkeling in Bali and can feel more intimate, though it can also get crowded due to its beauty.

Livadi Beach

Karavostasi Beach

Is it easy to walk between the different beaches in Bali, Crete?

Yes, it is possible to walk between the different beaches in Bali, as the village and its coves are relatively compact. A walk of about 2-3 kilometers can take you to all the main beaches. However, be aware that the terrain can be hilly in places, with some steep inclines between coves.

Is Bali (Crete) similar to Bali, Indonesia?

No, Bali in Crete is very different from Bali, Indonesia. Bali, Crete is a small coastal fishing village in Greece, known for its sheltered coves and relaxed atmosphere. The name 'Bali' in Crete is thought to originate from the Turkish word for 'honey' or 'fish', or from the ancient name 'Astali', and has no connection to the famous Indonesian island.

What are some local quirks or things to know about the beaches in Bali, Crete?

One notable feature is that the water at Bali's beaches can sometimes feel cooler than other Cretan beaches. This is attributed to freshwater springs from the nearby Psiloritis mountain range flowing into the sea. Also, while the beaches are generally well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, some, like Livadi, may have limited free space to sit on your own towel, especially during peak times. The village itself is built around several coves, giving each beach a slightly different character and level of shelter.

Livadi Beach

Is Bali (Crete) a good base for exploring other parts of Rethymno?

Yes, Bali's location on the north coast, roughly midway between Heraklion (approx. 45-50km away) and Rethymno (approx. 30-35km away), makes it a convenient base for exploring the wider Rethymno region and even parts of Heraklion. The main national road is easily accessible, allowing for day trips to nearby attractions, towns like Rethymno with its Venetian old town, and other beaches.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Are there watersports available at Bali Crete beaches?

Yes, various watersports are available at the beaches in Bali, Crete. Activities often mentioned include jet skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, banana boat rides, and snorkeling. Some beaches, like Livadi, have water sports centers where you can rent equipment or book activities. Diving is also popular due to the clear waters, with dive centers operating in the area.

Livadi Beach