Getting to Balos Lagoon | Western Crete

Nestled on the northwestern coast of Crete lies a natural wonder that pulls visitors from around the world to its crystal-clear waters, pristine coastline, and rugged landscape: Balos. Often referred to as a paradise on earth, Balos is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the unparalleled beauty and tranquility of western Crete in Greece.

If you're planning a trip to this beautiful corner of the world, here's everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.

Getting There

Balos Lagoon is located in the Chania region of western Crete, approximately 56 kilometers northwest of the port town of Chania. While there are several ways to reach Balos, the most popular options are by car, boat, or hiking.

  • By Car: If you prefer the freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a car is the great option to visit the island. From Chania, follow the signs towards Kissamos (also known as Kastelli). Once you reach Kissamos, continue driving towards the village of Kaliviani, where you'll find the road to Balos or the parking area for the ferry.

    If you’re driving to Balos, there is a small entrance fee (under 10 euros) to access the road to Balos. The closest road access point is Balos Beach Parking. It’s quite an adventure! The lagoon is located at the northwestern most part of an uninhabited peninsula. The narrow road to the Balos Beach parking area runs along the side of a cliff for at least 30 minutes with little to no protection from the drop below (at least as of the time of this writing).

    The Balos Beach parking lot is located at the top of the viewpoint of the lagoon. From there, it is at least a 20 minute hike down a rocky, sandy path to get to the beach area (and then back up when you’re ready to head out).

    I’d recommend planning to arrive early and leave late to avoid running into two-way traffic scenarios on this narrow road during the high season.

  • By Boat: Another great way to reach Balos Lagoon is by taking a 38€ boat excursion from Kissamos. The Balos/Gramvousa Cruise runs from mid-April until the end of October leaving at 10:40am and returning by 6pm. There are typically drinks and food available for sale on the cruise ship.

    The scenic cruise goes along the coast, allowing you to admire the rugged cliffs and stunning landscapes and making a short stop at ruins of the Gramvousa Fortress (15th century Turkish) before arriving for an afternoon at Balos.

    Note: Since you are arriving to Balos at sea level, you will have to make the hike up/down to the view point if you want a photo with a full view of the lagoon.

    You can access the Kissamos port to embark by driving to the port of by taking a bus from the bus station in Chania. Learn more about navigating Crete by bus and find access to bus schedules here.

  • By Hiking: For the adventurous souls, hiking to Balos Lagoon offers a unique. The trail starts from the village of Kaliviani and takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace. Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding countryside.

Viewpoint from the top of the Peninsula

Gramvousa Fortress (visitable by boat)

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Balos Lagoon is during the spring and early summer months (April to June) or the early autumn (September to October) when the weather is warm, and the crowds are thinner. July and August are the peak tourist months, so expect larger crowds and higher temperatures during this time.

What to Bring

  • Sun Protection: The Mediterranean sun can be intense, so be sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from sunburn.

  • Swimwear and Towel: Don't forget to bring your swimsuit and a towel to enjoy a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Balos Lagoon.

  • Water and Snacks: While there is a small shack with concessions now available near the beach, options are limited. It's a good idea to bring your own water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized throughout the day.

  • Camera: With its stunning vistas and Instagram-worthy scenery, Balos Lagoon is a photographer's paradise. Don't forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the beauty of this natural wonder and if you have waterproof camera, all the better since the water is crystal clear.

  • Umbrella and a chair if you want to carry them around. There’s little to no sun protection at the lagoon. There are very few chairs and umbrellas available for rent on site.

Exploring Balos Lagoon

Once you arrive at Balos Lagoon, take some time to explore its coastline, turquoise waters, and beautifully rugged rock formations. Here are some highlights not to be missed:

  • Swimming and Snorkeling: Take a dip in the shallow, crystal-clear waters of the lagoon, or grab your snorkeling gear to discover the colorful marine life that inhabits the area. If you’re taking the boat cruise, there’s also a sunken pirate ship to explore.

  • Hiking: If you're up for a bit of adventure, hike up to the nearby cliffs for panoramic views of Balos Lagoon and the surrounding coastline.

  • Relaxing on the Beach: With its soft white sand and shallow waters, Balos Beach is the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun.

  • Exploring the Island: Take a leisurely stroll around the small island located at the entrance of the lagoon and discover a charming little chapel.

  • Look for Pink Sand: While it’s not a main feature of Balos, you can find small pockets of gorgeous pink sand.

Conservation Tips

A good practice for Travelhers is being a good steward of God’s creation. It's important to respect the natural environment and help preserve the beauty of Balos Lagoon for future generations. Here are a few tips to minimize your impact:

  • Pack Out What You Pack In: Take all of your trash with you when you leave and dispose of it properly to keep the beach and surrounding area clean.

  • Stay on Designated Paths: Stick to marked trails and paths to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems and habitats.

  • Avoid Disturbing Wildlife: Keep a respectful distance from any wildlife you encounter and avoid feeding or touching them.

  • Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Choose sunscreen that is labeled as reef-safe to protect the delicate marine life in the lagoon.

last thoughts:

A Balos Beach Day is an unforgettable adventure that will leave you mesmerized by the natural beauty of creation and Crete. Whether you visit by car, boat, or on foot, take the time to soak up the breathtaking surroundings and appreciate the wonders of this hidden gem in western Crete.

Destinations and ExperiencesAshley Penny