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Beach · Chania, Creta
Lagoa de Balos
The Balos lagoon, at the far northwest of Crete: shallow water in shades of blue and green between the Gramvousa peninsula and Cape Tigani, seen from the top of the access trail, in a protected natural area.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Lagoa de Balos
Balos sits at the tip of the Gramvousa peninsula, in the northwest corner of Crete, about 55 km from Chania. It is a shallow white-sand lagoon, with water in various shades of blue and green, enclosed by Cape Tigani, a rocky hill joined to the beach by a sandbar. The best-known view is from the top of the trail before descending. Opposite is the island of Gramvousa, with a Venetian fortress on top dating from 1579, which resisted the Ottomans and later served as a pirate base.
The lagoon and peninsula are a protected area in the Natura 2000 network, home to the Mediterranean monk seal and sea turtles. Facilities on the beach are minimal: a few parasols and a simple seasonal bar. There is no shade.
There are two ways to get there. By car, from the village of Kaliviani, the paved road turns to dirt for the last 8 km, with potholes and rocks, up to a parking area above; from there the walk down takes about 30 minutes, and the return climb takes longer. By boat, from the port of Kissamos, the day trip usually stops first at Gramvousa to climb to the fortress and then at Balos; it runs in season from May to October, and places fill up in summer.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
A full day, by car or by boat. At the beach, two to four hours.
Best time
From May to October; June and September have fewer people. Arrive before 10 a.m. to get a parking space and see the lagoon in the morning light. On days of strong north wind the water gets rough and the boat may not run; check ahead.
How to get there
About 55 km from Chania. By car, follow the road to Kissamos and Kaliviani; the last 8 km are unpaved, and then a 30-minute walk down. By boat, trips depart from the port of Kissamos in season, with buses from Chania to the port; book in advance in summer.
Tip
Bring water and snacks: there is almost nothing on the beach. Closed shoes for the rocky trail. Rental companies often do not cover damage on the dirt road; read the contract. If you get seasick, prefer the car; if you don't want to drive on a dirt road, prefer the boat.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lagoa de Balos
Can you go to Balos in a regular car?
The last 8 km are unpaved and full of potholes. Regular cars can pass slowly, but many rental companies do not cover damage on that road. Check your contract or opt for the boat from Kissamos.
Where does the boat to Balos depart from?
From the port of Kissamos, about 40 km from Chania, in season (May to October). The trip usually stops first at the island of Gramvousa, with its Venetian fortress.
Does Balos have facilities?
Almost none: a few umbrellas for rent and a simple bar in season. There is no natural shade. Bring water and sun protection.
Is the descent to the lagoon difficult?
It's about 30 minutes along a rocky trail with uneven steps. The return, uphill in the sun, takes longer and is tiring. Sneakers and water are essential.