Balos Beach and Lagoon

Overview

Balos Beach and Lagoon is a stunning natural attraction located on the northwest coast of Crete. Known for its turquoise waters, white sand, and dramatic cliffs, it offers a picturesque setting for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.

Balos Beach is renowned for its unique beauty and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The lagoon's shallow waters and soft sand make it ideal for families and nature lovers.

Beach Lagoon Hiking

Location

Address

Balos Beach and Lagoon, Kissamos

Neighborhood: Kissamos

Coordinates

35.541600, 23.860700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free (boat tour additional cost)

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

May-September

Best Time of Day

Morning

Fewer crowds, better lighting for photos

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

Full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild

• Wildflowers
• Mild temperatures

summer

Hot

• Clear waters
• Long daylight hours

autumn

Mild

• Fall colors
• Cool breezes

winter

Cold

• Peaceful atmosphere
• Cozy cafes

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book boat tour ahead
Bring swimwear
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

Swimwear Sunscreen Water

seasonal

Jacket Umbrella

not allowed

Glass containers Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate for hiking

• Strong sun
• Uneven terrain

Medical facilities: First aid available at facilities

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Cards

Currency

Euro

Typical Costs

boat tour €20

parking €5

food €10

drinks €5

Dress Code

Casual, swimwear, Comfortable shoes for hiking, Sandals, hiking shoes, Inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1 month
• Official website, local tour operators
• 48 hours
• Boat tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Balos Beach Guide

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Tour information, Tickets

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Beach cafe, Visitor center

Charging Stations: Beach facilities

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Chania International Airport

Distance: 50 km

Travel Time: 1 hour

taxi

€60 1 hour

public_transport

€15 1.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 40 km

bus

€5 1 hour

taxi

€40 40 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique natural beauty, family-friendly

Historical Significance: Area has been a popular spot for centuries

Insider Tips

Visit early for best photos
Local tavernas offer great seafood

Local Recommendations

• Try local seafood at the beach cafe
• Ask for guide Nikos

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Yasas

thank_you Efharistó

where_is Pou einai

how_much Poso kanei

beautiful Omoorfó

ticket Eisitirio

Guide Languages: Greek, English, German

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Balos Lagoon

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide-angle for landscape

Result: Stunning lagoon views

#BalosBeach #Crete #Greece

Photography Rules

allowed areas Beach, lagoon, hiking trails

prohibited areas Private properties

flash photography Allowed

commercial photography Permit needed

drone policy Restricted, permit required

tripod policy Allowed with permission

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Gramvousa Island

Distance: 10km

Walking: Not walkable

Type: Island

Falassarna Beach

Distance: 15km