Beach
Balos Lagoon
Chania, Crete
About Balos Lagoon
Balos is a shallow, sheltered lagoon at the north-western tip of Crete, on the Gramvousa peninsula. It is usually visited either by daily boat from the port of Kissamos or via an unpaved road followed by a descent on foot. The lagoon has very shallow water and limited shade; facilities are minimal.
Balos Lagoon on the map
Where to eat near Balos Lagoon
Reserve your table on Woltaro
More to see around Chania
Thing to doHike the Samaria Gorge
A full-day one-way hike through the Samaria Gorge, ending with a boat transfer from Agia Roumeli.
Thing to doBoat trip to Balos and Gramvousa
A day boat trip from Kissamos port to the Gramvousa islet and the Balos lagoon.
BeachElafonissi Beach
A protected beach and islet in south-west Chania, part of the Natura 2000 network, known for its shallow water and pink-tinted sand.
AttractionSamaria Gorge
A 16 km gorge in the White Mountains National Park, walked one way from Omalos to Agia Roumeli.
BeachFalassarna Beach
A wide, west-facing sandy bay in western Chania, next to the ancient city of Falassarna.
VillageLoutro
A small south-coast village with no road access, reached by boat or on foot.
BeachSeitan Limania
A narrow rocky inlet on the Akrotiri peninsula, reached by a steep unmarked footpath.
AttractionChania Old Venetian Harbour
The Venetian-era harbour of Chania, with the Egyptian lighthouse and the old town behind it.
Information source: Region of Crete official tourism portal · last checked 16/09/2026
Good to know
- Is Balos Lagoon worth visiting?
- Balos Lagoon is one of the beach highlights we list in Crete. This page covers what to know before you go and which restaurants are nearby.
- Where can I eat near Balos Lagoon?
- Nearby restaurants are listed on this page. Those already on Woltaro can be booked online; the others are shown for reference with their address and map location.
- When is the best time to visit Balos Lagoon?
- Shoulder season, late spring and early autumn, is generally quieter and cooler than midsummer, when popular spots in Crete are busiest around midday.
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