A sandbar lagoon of shallow turquoise water at the north-west tip of Crete.
Balos lies on the Gramvousa peninsula, reached by boat from Kissamos, about 40 km west of Chania, or by a dirt road to a car park above the beach followed by a steep walk down. Water is warm and shallow in the lagoon, and the beach has sunbeds, umbrellas and a kiosk. Boat tours usually include a stop at Gramvousa fortress.
| Distance | About 55 km north-west of Chania |
|---|---|
| Getting there | Boat cruise from Kissamos port (about EUR 50-60 (approx $57-69) per adult) or car on a dirt road, then a steep walk |
| Difficulty | hard |
| Best season | May to October |
| Address | Balos Lagoon, 734 00 Kissamos, Crete, Greece |
Amenities
- Sunbeds and umbrellas (paid)
- Beach kiosk
- Boat access from Kissamos
- Dirt road to upper car park
Good to know
- Best for
- photographers, swimmers, families, sunbathers
Location
Balos Lagoon, 734 00 Kissamos, Crete, Greece
35.5810, 23.5870 View on map
Highlights
- Sandbar lagoon of shallow turquoise water
- Boat cruise from Kissamos with a stop at Gramvousa fortress
- Dirt-road approach to a viewpoint car park above the beach
- Warm shallows suited to wading
Tips for visiting
- Take the boat from Kissamos port for the easiest access, about EUR 50-60 per adult
- If driving, expect an unpaved road and a steep walk down from the upper car park
- Bring water and sun protection, as the kiosk is the main source of refreshments
- Boats usually arrive in late morning, so early or late arrival by road is quieter
- Wear sturdy shoes for the descent
When to visit
May, June and September to October give pleasant weather with fewer boats. Midday in high summer is the most crowded.
Frequently asked questions
How does a visitor reach Balos?
Visitors take a boat cruise from Kissamos port or drive a dirt road to a car park above the beach and walk down steeply.
Does the boat trip include Gramvousa?
Boat tours usually include a stop at Gramvousa fortress before or after the Balos lagoon.
Are there facilities at Balos?
The beach has paid sunbeds and umbrellas and a kiosk.