Balos Lagoon: The Heavenly Gem of Crete

Balos is widely regarded as the most photographed beach in Crete, acclaimed for its turquoise waters, untamed natural beauty, and stunning exotic landscape. The Gramvousa peninsula surrounding the area is a protected habitat within the Natura 2000 Network, recognised as a landscape of exceptional natural splendour.

Just over an hour's drive from Chania, Balos Beach can be quite crowded on hot summer days, so it's important to be prepared for long queues. 

Additionally, the journey involves traversing an approximately 8-kilometre dirt road, so caution is advised. Once you park your car, it takes around 20 minutes to descend to the beach, excluding the numerous stops you may make along the way to capture the magical views in photographs. 

Alternatively, you can also reach Balos Beach by boat from the port of Kissamos.

Photo 1 by Marina Vernicos

Photos 2 - 7 by @nick.haji

Photos 12-20 : incrediblecrete.gr

Photos 21-23: Discoverkissamos