Balos Beach in Crete – a piece of heaven on earth. One of the most famous beaches worldwide and Crete’s best sights, Balos Beach and Lagoon are definitely the top destinations you should visit.  A unique scenery with turquoise waters and white pink sand that makes it a dream spot on the island.  If you are looking for a trip to Balos, this guide will give you all the necessary information. So, are you ready to explore one of the island’s beautiful landscapes?

Picture by: dr911

Information about Balos Lagoon

Globally known for its natural beauty, Balos Beach in Crete is located on the northwestern side of Chania. It is between Cape Gramvousa and the small Cape Tigani, while below there is the mountain rage Platiskinos. Moreover, it is one of the most photographed beaches in Crete and every tourist guide allocate it to the top destinations. But let’s see why this beach is so unique!

The lagoon is famous for its blue waters which come in contrast with the natural raw Cretan scenery. During summer months, there are thousands of tourists who visit it and most of the times it is overcrowded. However, if you don’t like crowds, the best months visiting it are May and end of September. And do not worry – it is still really hot for swim!  But the thing that makes it so special is the unique white and pink sand because of the thousand crushed shells on the coast. The sea is very shallow and warm, ideal for children. Beyond the rocks of the mountains the waters are deeper and colder which making it perfect for snorkeling.

Furthermore, the lagoon and the wilder area are under the Natura 2000 program with rare species of flora and fauna.  Some of the rare species are Eleonora falcons, shags and cormorants’ nest in the caves. One of the most famous and protected species are the monk seal and the loggerhead sea turtle, Caretta Caretta.

How to get to Balos Beach

By boat

The easiest way to go to Balos Beach is by boat. Crown cruises Crete is the easiest and most comfortable way to visit the famous Beach of Kissamos. Starting from the small town of Kissamos Bay, the first tour is Balos. The beach captures your heart immediately, once with the dreamy view and then with the swimming spot.  More specific, you will have the chance to see the wild shores of Gramvousa and the marks from their 6–9-meter lift after a strong earthquake in 365 AD. And if you are lucky, you might see dolphins swimming next to you.  Then you will be able to swim in the exotic beach of Gramvousa islet.

By car

You can also access Balos Beach by car and driving to the northwest coast of the island. From there, follow the signs till the parking lot and then take a 30-minute hike down to the beach. It is very important to note that the road can be quite rough, so it is highly recommended to have a 4×4 vehicle. Additionally, during the high season it is advisable to arrive early in order to avoid the crowds. The hike down to the beach is steep and can be challenging, so it’s important to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water. However, the view from the top is rewarding. A breathtaking view of the turquoise waters and a stunning landscape that will remain in your memories forever.

Picture by: Jacub Michankow

Information about Gramvousa Islet

The island of Gramvousa is 2 miles northwest of Balos Lagoon. It has a rich history, as it was a fortress during the Venetian occupation of Crete during the 16th century. More specific, there is a legend that the fortress has been used by the pirates as there was a great treasure in there. There is also an old wreck that has been abandoned many years ago near the beach and has become a characteristic part of the scenery.

Today, Gramvousa Islet is a popular tourist destination, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning views. Visitors can reach the island by boat from Kissamos, a nearby town on the mainland. On the island, they can explore the ruins of the Venetian fortress and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline.

The Balos Beach area, including Gramvousa, are home to a unique ecosystem and rare flora and fauna, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. The area is also known for its vibrant marine life and is a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Tips for your visit to Balos

So, if you’re planning a visit to Balos beach in Crete, there are a few tips that can help you make the most of your experience. Here are some tips for visiting one of the most beautiful beaches:

1. Arrive early: It can get very crowded, especially during the high season. So, it’s best to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and secure a good spot to park your car and at the beach.
2. Wear comfortable shoes. If you plan to hike down to the beach, make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the path can be rocky and steep in some places.
3. Bring enough water and food. There are no restaurants or shops at Balos Beach, so make sure to bring enough water, food and snacks to last you for the day.
4. Protect yourself from the sun. The sun at Balos Beach can be intense, so make sure to bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself.
5. Respect the environment. The Beach is a protected area, so make sure to respect the environment and don’t leave any trash behind. Also, do not remove any shells or other natural souvenirs from the beach.

Following these tips will ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to one of the most stunning beaches in the world.

Picture by: lorenzoantonucci

Crown Cruises to Balos Beach

A boat trip to Balos Beach with Crown Cruises is a must-do experience for anyone visiting the island of Crete. To begin with, the tour typically starts in the morning with a comfortable and spacious boat. Along the way, passengers will enjoy stunning views of the Cretan coastline and the clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea. After a scenic journey, the boat arrives at Balos Beach. Stunning turquoise waters, pristine white sand and dramatic rocky landscape all around you. Visitors have much time to explore the beach, take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters and relax under the Mediterranean sun.

The tour also includes a stop at Gramvousa Islet, where passengers can climb to the top of the Venetian fortress for panoramic views. The islet is also a popular spot for hiking and birdwatching. Throughout the trip, passengers can enjoy delicious local food and drink on board, including traditional Cretan cuisine and refreshing drinks. The friendly and knowledgeable crew provide interesting information about the history and ecology of the area, making the journey both entertaining and informative.

Conclusion

Overall, a boat trip to Balos Beach in Crete with Crown Cruises is an unforgettable experience. Offering a unique combination of natural beauty, history and adventure, it is highly recommended for anyone visiting Crete. Enjoy boat trips and explore the best beaches in Chania with us! Do not hesitate to contact us as we are more than happy to share with you the secrets of our island. Experience sea life in the most luxurious way.