The ULTIMATE Guide to Balos Beach: Crete’s Breathtaking Paradise

There is no denying the pull of Balos Beach for the traveler. Situated in Crete’s northwest corner, this is a place that has an uncanny way of drawing in visitors from every corner of the globe.

With its singular lagoon and waters of such clarity they are almost unreal, it is easy to see why Balos is put forward as one of Greece’s more picturesque locales. The combination of unspoilt white sand and vivid turquoise makes for a setting of a piece of paradise.

Then again, one might ask if it is worth the effort to make the journey. We have set out to answer that question in the pages that follow, examining what gives the beach its character and how best to go about getting there. Whether you are wondering what to expect or if it fits with your plans for a Greek island sojourn, our intention is to give you a full picture of the experience. You will find everything from the sort of views on offer to some sound advice on putting together your visit to this fine stretch of coast.

Overview of Balos Beach

Balos Beach: A Jewel of Crete

You will find Balos beach on the far northwest coast of Crete in the Chania Prefecture, a rather out of the way part of the island. It is a fine example of what this region has to offer, situated as it is in the middle of the Balos Lagoon. The lagoon is a protected nature reserve with a reputation for its varied wildlife and the beauty of the terrain. Together with the adjacent Gramvousa Island, the lagoon makes up the Gramvousa-Balos complex.

Why Balos Beach Is So Famous

Balos Beach is famous for its unique combination of natural features. The beach is distinguished by its shallow, turquoise waters that form a lagoon, which contrasts dramatically with the surrounding white and pink sands.

Read Also: The Pink Sand Beaches Of Crete

This stunning color palette, created by the mixing of sea and lagoon waters, is one of the primary reasons for its widespread acclaim.

The beach is also known for its breathtaking views. The surrounding cliffs and hills offer panoramic vistas of the lagoon and the distant Gramvousa Island, adding to the beach’s allure. The natural beauty here is complemented by a serene atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration.

Getting to Balos Beach

Travel Options for Balos Beach

A measure of forethought is needed to make your way to Balos Beach, yet the effort is repaid by the unspoiled surroundings and fine vistas one will find there.

This remote paradise can be accessed in a number of ways; car or boat are the most common, though some may opt for a mix of the two. The following is an in depth look at how to plan your visit.

How to Get to Balos Beach from Chania or Kissamos

Getting to Balos Beach from Chania is a drive of some 50 kilometers (31 miles) to the west. The journey to the town of Kissamos will put in about an hour, give or take, on account of the road and any traffic you may encounter.

For the route, head out of Chania on the National Road (EO90) in the direction of Kissamos. When you are there, look for the local signage that will lead you to the Balos Beach parking area at the end of a gravel road. It is best to be cautious on this stretch; the road is narrow and winds its way along with its share of rough spots.

Once you have parked, the car has to stay put. From here you can make the moderately demanding 1.5 to 2 kilometer (1 to 1.2 mile) trek down to the beach, which is well worth it for the views of the lagoon and the landscape. Alternatively, if you would rather not do the hike, a boat can be taken from the port in Kissamos.

By Ferry Boat

A boat to Balos Beach is another favourite way to make the journey. You will find a number of operators running tours from either Chania or Kissamos.

For the most part, boats put out from the port in Kissamos, with departures from Chania being something of an exception. The trip itself is generally in the region of one to an hour and a half.

There is more to it than just the transit; many of these excursions make time for other sights like Gramvousa Island before allowing passengers to have a swim in the clear water or take in the lagoon and the beach.

If one’s plans are set for the height of the tourist season, we would recommend putting in a booking early on to be sure of a place. It is worth looking over what the different tour companies have to offer in terms of schedule and availability to see which fits the itinerary best.

By KTEL (Public Bus from Chania)

A KTEL bus is a sensible and economical way to get from Chania to Kissamos. With regular departures, the trip will have you there in roughly 75 minutes. It is best to consult the KTEL site for up to date ticket prices and timetables. Do bear in mind that no bus will take you straight from Kissamos to Balos Beach.

Getting to Balos Beach from Kissamos:

You can put in an order for a taxi to the parking lot at Balos upon your arrival in Kissamos, though be aware of the expense and the fact that a hike down to the beach is still required from the drop off point.

Or make use of the boat service out of the port in Kissamos for a more scenic and hassle free passage to the beach.

Tips:

• Plan Your Journey: While taking the bus is a budget-friendly choice, the added cost and logistics of arranging a taxi or boat trip from Kissamos to Balos Beach can make this option less appealing.
• Comfortable Shoes: If you decide to hike, wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.
• Weather Check: Always check the weather forecast as conditions can impact both the bus schedules and boat trips.

While taking the KTEL bus is an option, it’s important to consider the additional steps required once you reach Kissamos. Many travelers find it more convenient to either rent a car or take a direct boat trip from Kissamos to Balos Beach.

READ THE ABOVE SECTION CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU TAKE A BUS.

Things To Do & See In Balos Beach

Exploring the Natural Wonders of Balos Beach

Balos Beach is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and unique landscape. This section delves into what makes Balos Beach and its surroundings so extraordinary, and highlights the activities you can enjoy during your visit.

The Unique Features of Balos Beach

There is no denying that Balos Beach is a visual treat. A few things in particular set it apart:

The Turquoise Lagoon – one need only look at the shallow lagoon to see why. The interplay between the lagoon and the sea gives the water a vivid turquoise colour. With such clear visibility and little depth, it is as good a spot as any for a swim or some snorkelling.

Then there is the sand. While mostly white, you will come across patches with a pinkish tinge here and there, courtesy of the crushed corals and shells. It is this kind of detail that makes the beach so picturesque.

For those seeking a vantage point, the rugged cliffs and hills that encircle the beach are hard to miss. They put on a fine display of the lagoon and Gramvousa Island in the distance, not to mention they make for an excellent place to take a photograph.

The area’s natural beauty is further complemented by the nature reserve. One can find all manner of bird life and plant species in the vicinity, much of it well suited to the salty, sandy conditions.

Activities at Balos Beach

There is no shortage of things to do at Balos Beach, with activities to match any inclination.

For a swim, one will find the lagoon’s shallow, clear waters to be ideal. The warm temperatures and lack of rough waves ensure it is a comfortable way to cool off.

Snorkelers are well served here; the visibility in the lagoon is crystal-clear, making it easy to put in some time under the surface and see what marine life is going about its day.

The beach is also a photographer’s paradise. The way the turquoise water plays against the white and pink sands and the imposing cliffs creates some striking contrasts worth putting to film.

And for the hiker, the trails in the vicinity have much to recommend them. Making the trek to the beach is a reward in itself, affording panoramic views of the lagoon and the country beyond.

Nearby Attractions You Can’t Miss

While Balos Beach is a highlight on its own, consider exploring nearby attractions:

• Gramvousa Island: Accessible by boat, Gramvousa Island features a Venetian fortress with panoramic views of the surrounding sea and landscapes. The island’s rugged terrain and historical significance add an extra dimension to your visit.
• Elafonisi Beach: About an hour’s drive from Balos, Elafonisi Beach is famous for its pink sand and clear waters. It’s another beautiful beach worth visiting if you have the time, and it offers a different experience compared to Balos.

Facilities and Amenities In Balos Beach Crete

A Guide to Balos Beach: What to Anticipate and How to Prepare

Balos Beach is a sight to behold, but to have an untroubled and pleasant time at this coastal gem, it helps to be aware of the amenities on offer. Below is some information to put your mind at ease before you go.

Facilities

Do not expect to find organized sunbeds and umbrellas here as you might at other well-known beaches. For a spot of shade or somewhere to put your feet up, you will have to supply your own; a mat, towel and an umbrella are must-haves for a day in the sand.

As for restrooms, there are none on the beach itself. The closest ones are at the parking lot prior to the hike, so make sure to stop in there before setting off on foot.

Where to Eat and Drink

Given its remoteness, Balos has no permanent vendors, nor will you come across any cafes or restaurants on the shore. We would advise packing in your own provisions to keep your thirst and hunger at bay.

If you are in the mood for a proper meal before or after your visit, the towns of Kissamos and Chania are worth the trip. They have everything from fine dining to more informal places where one can put in an order for fresh seafood and Cretan specialties.

What to Pack

The summer sun is unforgiving, so come armed with good sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat and high-SPF sunscreen. You should also take along ample water and some light fare such as nuts or fruit to maintain your energy.

Finally, leave the flimsy sandals and flip-flops behind. The walk to the beach is not arduous, but the ground is uneven enough that you will want to wear something with adequate support.

Overall Convenience

Balos Beach’s natural and unspoiled setting means that amenities are minimal. This adds to the beach’s charm but requires a bit of preparation on your part. With a little planning, you can enjoy the beach’s stunning beauty without missing out on comfort.

Dining Options Near Balos Beach

Dining Near Balos Beach

You will not find any restaurants on Balos Beach proper, but that is no problem at all. The town of Kissamos is close by and has more than enough to satisfy an appetite. For those looking for a good meal to have before or after a day at the beach, we have put together a short guide to some of the better options in the area.

Restaurants in Kissamos

As the nearest town to Balos, Kissamos has a good selection of where to eat. Some of our recommendations include:

To Stachi – This is a very likable taverna with a welcoming air and the kind of local flavours one expects from Crete. It is well suited to a pre- or post-beach dinner. Try the home-made moussaka and tzatziki or some of their fresh seafood.

Kritamos Restaurant – If you are after first-rate service and quality ingredients, this is the place. They put a modern spin on traditional Greek fare. Make sure to order the local wines and their seafood platter.

Avra – With its position by the port, Avra is ideal for a more laid back meal with a view of the harbour. The menu is a mix of Mediterranean and Greek cooking; the grilled fish and salads are particularly good.

Things To Know Before Visiting Balos Beach

Essential Tips for a First-Rate Visit to Balos Beach

A successful trip to Balos Beach is about more than simply making your way to the location. With the right preparation, the experience can be all the more enjoyable. Here are some recommendations to help you make the most of it.

When to Go

Balos is something of a hotspot in the summer, so if you want to steer clear of the crowds and have a bit of peace, time your visit for early morning or late afternoon. The shoulder seasons of late spring and early autumn are also good options for pleasant weather without the throngs of people.

In terms of weather, May through October is usually ideal; the sea is calm and temperatures are warm. Do check the forecast beforehand, however, as a spell of wind or rain will put a damper on any beach plans.

What to Pack

You will need high-SPF sunscreen given the intensity of the sun here, along with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and other coverings to prevent a burn.

There being no vendors on the beach itself, it is wise to bring your own water and snacks that are easy to transport. For the hike in, leave the flip-flops at home; the uneven ground calls for supportive sneakers or hiking sandals.

And do not neglect your swimwear, towel and snorkeling equipment should you wish to get in the water. A beach umbrella is a good idea too since there is no shade to be had.

The Hike In

From the car park to the sand is roughly 1.5 to 2 kilometers (around a mile) and will take you 20 or 30 minutes. It is a straightforward walk but has its steep sections, so wear the proper shoes and keep up your fluids. The trail affords some fine vantage points over the beach and the landscape, so allow yourself a moment to stop and take in the view or put a few photographs behind the lens.

Accommodation Options – Where To Stay Near Balos Crete

Best Hotels in the Vicinity of Balos Beach

Selecting where to put down your head can make all the difference to a trip to Balos Beach. You will not find any hotels right on the sand, but the surrounding towns of Kissamos and Chania have plenty to offer. The following is a guide to some of the better options, depending on what you are looking for.

Hotels Near Balos

In Kissamos

Kissamos Hotel – For those who like to be near the port and the departure point for boat trips to Balos, this is a handy spot. The rooms are comfortable and you are never far from a good meal in Kissamos.

Hotel Elea: Just a short drive from the parking at Balos Beach, this property combines modern facilities with the kind of hospitality one expects in Crete. It makes for a fine base from which to see what the area has to offer.

Platanias Palace: A little way out of Kissamos but still an easy drive, this is for the traveler wanting something more upscale. The accommodations are luxurious and come with fine views of the sea.

In Chania

Casa Delfino Hotel: This boutique hotel in Old Town Chania has an air of elegance about it. To stay in Chania is to have the historic city and its shopping and restaurants at your disposal.

Samaria Hotel: Found in central Chania, the Samaria is well placed for the city’s attractions and has all the modern conveniences. It is a sound option if you wish to mix in some of Chania’s nightlife with your day at Balos.

Serenissima Boutique Hotel: Another Old Town gem that marries luxury with a touch of history. From its central position you can easily get out and about to the local eateries and shops.

To stay in Kissamos or Chania?

It comes down to preference. Make for Kissamos if you want to be close to the trailhead and boat tours for Balos; the atmosphere is more relaxed and it is simply convenient. On the other hand, Chania is further away but gives you the chance to explore one of the island’s most attractive cities and enjoy a more urban setting with its wider array of amenities.

Final Thoughts – Balos Beach Crete

Is Balos Beach Worth the Visit?

Balos Beach is undeniably one of Crete’s most spectacular natural wonders, offering a blend of breathtaking landscapes, pristine waters, and a unique beach experience. Here’s a final overview to help you decide if this remarkable destination is right for your travel plans.

There is no question that Balos Beach deserves a place on any itinerary. Here is what makes it so compelling:

For the sheer beauty of it, the beach is hard to beat. One is met with an unmissable visual display of dramatic cliffs, white and pink sands and turquoise water. The shallows and the lagoon are ideal for a bit of swimming or snorkeling, not to mention some good photography.

It is also a welcome escape from the bustle. You will find a certain serenity at Balos, particularly in the early or late hours of the day. Its somewhat out of the way position and the absence of commercialism give the place a quiet charm that persists even with its high profile.

Then there is the element of adventure. Whether you put in the work for the hike down to the shore or make your way over to Gramvousa Island, the natural setting provides plenty of scope for outdoor pursuits and well earned scenic views.

Things to Take Into Account

Balos Beach is not for those in search of a plush beach day. There are no organized facilities here, meaning one will not find sunbeds, umbrellas or food vendors. Visitors should be ready to supply their own necessities and make the necessary arrangements; for some, the lack of amenities and the hike required to get there may be off-putting.

Then there is the matter of logistics. Whether you opt for a boat or to walk, reaching Balos demands a bit of forethought. It is wise to factor in your mode of transport, the weather and what you need to have on hand for the day.

Do not forget that this is a protected nature reserve. The natural appeal of the area has to be left intact. Show some respect for local conservation by heeding the rules, keeping to the marked trails and treading lightly on the environment.

A comparison of Balos Beach with the rest of Crete

For those with an appreciation of natural beauty, a visit to Balos Beach is essential. The place has a way of putting other, more built-up spots to shame with its unspoiled waters and singular character.

Then again, if one’s priority is convenience and good amenities, there are other parts of Crete that will be more to your liking. A sensible approach is to put down in Chania for the facilities it offers and make of Balos a day trip.

Overall Recommendation

For those who want to put in the effort to see one of Crete’s finest and most unspoiled spots, a trip to Balos Beach is well justified. The place has a way of being both memorable and rewarding thanks to its singular landscape, quietude and natural beauty. All it takes is some forethought and an eye for the outdoors to make of it the highlight of your time in Crete.

In short

One could call Balos a true gem of the island. It is where you will find an environment that is as untouched as it is serene. Be you a nature lover or an adventurer of sorts, or just after a fine beach, what Balos has to offer is hard to forget.

Do yourself the favour of planning ahead for the journey and come to appreciate the splendor of this remarkable destination.

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