Crete, Greece

Balos Beaches

Overview

Welcome to the wild west coast of Crete, home to some of Europe's most spectacular beaches. The crown jewel is undoubtedly Balos lagoon, a world-famous natural wonder with shallow turquoise waters and dramatic scenery. Reaching this paradise requires some effort, either by boat or a scenic drive and hike down the Gramvousa peninsula, but the breathtaking views are an unforgettable reward for most visitors.

Beyond the iconic lagoon, the region boasts other must-see shores. Many make the journey to Elafonissi, famed for its unique pink sands and shallow, warm waters that create an almost tropical feel, offering a different kind of beauty compared to Balos. For easier access combined with stunning sunsets and organised facilities, the expansive sands of Falassarna are a popular and highly-regarded choice. And right in the nearby town of Kissamos, the main hub for exploring this area, Paralia Mavros ฮœolos offers convenient seaside relaxation ideal for families staying locally.

These highlights only scratch the surface of what this stunning Cretan coastline offers. Many beaches here retain a wonderfully untamed character, set against rugged landscapes known for their natural beauty. Whether you seek dramatic lagoons, vast sandy stretches, or convenient town beaches, you'll find diverse options. Explore our full guide to discover even more coastal gems waiting for you near Balos and Kissamos.

FAQ

Is Balos beach worth the effort to get there?

Most visitors find Balos lagoon's stunning natural beauty, unique landscape with shallow turquoise waters, and wild feel worth the journey. However, getting there involves either a potentially challenging drive on an unpaved road followed by a hike, or a crowded ferry trip. Consider your tolerance for crowds and difficult access when deciding.
Balos
Balos

Is Balos beach suitable for families with young children?

Balos can be suitable, especially the lagoon side with its very shallow, warm, and calm waters, which are ideal for toddlers and young children. However, access can be challenging: the hike down from the car park is steep for little legs, and ferries can be crowded. The boat trip avoids the hike but requires managing kids on a potentially long boat ride. There are limited facilities, so bring everything you need.
Balos
Balos

What's the best way to get to Balos beach: car or boat?

Both have pros and cons. Driving offers flexibility with timing (arrive early/stay late to avoid crowds) and stunning views from above, but involves navigating a rough, unpaved road (often not covered by rental car insurance) and a 20-30 minute hike down (and back up). The boat trip (usually from Kissamos) is easier physically, often includes a stop at Gramvousa island, but operates on a fixed schedule, arrives with large crowds, and offers less time at Balos itself.
Balos
Balos
Gramvousa Beach
Gramvousa Beach

How difficult is the drive to Balos beach?

The drive involves several kilometers on a rough, unpaved, bumpy dirt track along the edge of the Gramvousa peninsula. It's generally manageable with a regular car if driven slowly and carefully, but many rental companies prohibit taking their cars on this road, voiding insurance. High clearance vehicles are better suited. Parking at the end can also be challenging during peak season.
Balos
Balos
Gramvousa Beach
Gramvousa Beach

Where is the best area to stay to visit Balos beach?

The closest town with ample accommodation and amenities is Kissamos (also known as Kastelli), which is also the departure point for the Balos ferries. Staying in or near Kissamos minimizes travel time. Chania is a popular base, about an hour's drive away. There is no accommodation directly at Balos itself.
See the full list of accommodation options here.
Balos
Balos

Is there a hike down to Balos beach if you drive? How hard is it?

Yes, after parking, there's a walk/hike down a rocky path and steps to reach the beach. It takes about 20-30 minutes down and perhaps slightly longer and more strenuous coming back up, especially in the heat. The views during the walk are spectacular. It requires decent footwear (not flip-flops) and moderate fitness.
Balos
Balos

Which is better, Balos or Elafonissi?

Both are famous Cretan beaches with turquoise waters but offer different experiences. Balos is a lagoon with dramatic wild scenery, accessed by boat or a rough track/hike. Elafonissi is known for its pink sand, is more easily accessible by car, and is generally more organised with more facilities. Balos often feels more rugged and unique geographically, while Elafonissi feels more like a traditional (though stunning) beach. Both get very crowded.
Balos
Balos
Elafonissi
Elafonissi

What are the facilities like at Balos beach?

Facilities are limited. There are sunbeds and umbrellas for rent (often selling out quickly), operated seasonally. There are usually a couple of small cantinas selling basic snacks, drinks, and sometimes coffee, but options are limited and can be pricey. There are basic toilet facilities available, sometimes requiring a small fee. It's best to bring your own water, food, and supplies.
Balos
Balos

People Also Ask

Is Balos beach usually windy?

Yes, Balos, like much of western Crete, can be very windy, especially in July and August when the Meltemi wind often blows. The wind can whip up sand and make relaxing uncomfortable. The lagoon side is generally more sheltered than the open sea side. It's wise to check the wind forecast before going, although conditions can change.
Balos
Balos

What is the water like at Balos lagoon? Is it good for swimming?

The water in the main lagoon area is very shallow (ankle to knee-deep in many places), calm, and exceptionally warm, making it perfect for wading and for small children. Proper swimming is better on the outer side of the sandbar, facing the open sea, where the water is deeper and cooler, though it can be wavier and subject to currents.
Balos
Balos

When is the best time of day to visit Balos to avoid crowds?

To avoid the worst crowds, especially during peak season (July-August), aim to arrive very early in the morning (before 10 AM) if driving, before the first ferries arrive around midday. Alternatively, stay later in the afternoon after the ferries have departed (usually around 4-5 PM). The middle of the day is typically the busiest.
Balos
Balos

What should I bring with me to Balos beach?

Definitely bring water, snacks/lunch (as options are limited and pricey), sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Good walking shoes are essential if driving and hiking down. Water shoes can be useful for exploring the lagoon. Bring cash for parking (if driving), sunbeds, toilets, and cantinas. Don't forget your camera for the amazing views!
Balos
Balos

How much does the ferry to Balos cost?

Ferry prices can vary slightly by company and season, but typically range from around โ‚ฌ25 to โ‚ฌ35 per adult for the round trip from Kissamos, often including the stop at Gramvousa. There might be discounts for children. Check current prices with the ferry operators (e.g., Cretan Daily Cruises) as they can change.
Gramvousa Beach
Gramvousa Beach
Balos
Balos

Are there really goats trying to get into cars at Balos?

Yes, it's quite common to encounter goats near the parking area and along the track leading to Balos. They are known to be curious and may approach cars or people looking for food. It's advisable to keep car windows closed and not feed them.
Balos
Balos

Can you visit Balos beach in the off-season (e.g., October, May)?

Yes, visiting Balos in the shoulder seasons (like May-early June or late September-October) can be very rewarding with fewer crowds and milder weather. However, ferry services may be reduced or stopped entirely outside the main tourist season (check schedules). The road remains accessible (weather permitting), but facilities like cantinas and sunbed rentals might be closed or have limited operation. The weather can be less predictable.
Balos
Balos

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The fastest way to find the best Balos Beaches

Balos Beaches Map

Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Balos: Weather Today

๐Ÿ“… Monday, November 3, 2025
It's an average beach day in Balos. The air temperature will reach a high of 23.9 ยฐC. The sea is a pleasant 22.4 ยฐC, with small waves. Expect a fair amount of cloud cover throughout the day. The wind will be light, so it won't be too disruptive.
๐ŸŒฌ๏ธ

Air

Low / High20ยฐC/23.9ยฐC
Feels Like (High)25.7ยฐC
๐ŸŒŠ

Sea

Sea Temperature22.4 ยฐC
Wave Height0.5 m
๐ŸŒง๏ธ

Rain

Rain Chance8%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
๐ŸŒž

Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:49/17:28
Sunshine Hours9.7 hrs
UV Index4.7
Cloud Cover53%
๐Ÿ’จ

Wind

Speed10.9 km/h
Gusts17.6 km/h
DirectionE

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