Balou Lagoon

The exotic Balos Lagoon, at Cape Gramvousa, is the top attraction in Chania and a must-see. It is located in the northwest of the Chania prefecture, 56 kilometers from the city and 17 kilometers from Kissamos. The lagoon is formed between Cape Gramvousa and the small Cape Tigani, below the Platiskinos mountain range.

Balos beach stands out for its turquoise waters, pink sand and wild natural landscape. Thousands of visitors prefer it in the summer, arriving mainly by boat from the port of Kavonisi, Kissamos. Although popular on TripAdvisor, it is not among the best beaches in the prefecture of Chania.

The lagoon has white-pink sand and exotic, shallow, warm waters, ideal for children. At the beach, the waters are deeper and colder, offering ideal conditions for snorkeling. Balos is a Natura protected area, hosting rare flora and fauna.

If you don't like crowds, avoid visiting in July and August. Prefer to arrive early in the morning, before the boats, to enjoy a few hours of peace in this heavenly environment. However, note that the seabed is muddy and the shallow waters can produce an unpleasant odor due to microorganisms. Sea currents can also bring garbage or tar.

At Balos Lagoon, you will find umbrellas, sunbeds, water sports and a small canteen. Prices for sunbeds start at 15€ per set with umbrella, while space is limited so you can bring your own umbrella.

Balos can be reached by boat or by car and hiking. Visitors can take the boat from the port of Kissamos, with a duration of 45 minutes and a ticket cost from €29. If you prefer to drive, you will drive carefully on the dirt road that starts from Kaliviani, paying €6 for road maintenance and protection of the area. There is a parking lot with a fee of €2, where you will also find a toilet with a fee of €1. From there, you will walk 1 km. on a path for about 20 minutes until you reach the lagoon.

The panoramic view of the lagoon and the nearby island of Gramvousa is stunning, but the climb back to the parking lot is tiring. We recommend sports shoes, water and a few things with you.