Playa de Balos

Introduction

If there is a place in the world that embodies the definition of earthly paradise, that is undoubtedly Playa de Balos on the island of Crete, Greece. To speak of Balos is to evoke images of a dreamlike lagoon, where shades of blue and green blend with sand that, in some spots, takes on a delicate pink hue. It is not just a beach; it is a unique ecosystem, a geological wonder, and one of the most impressive beaches in Greece.

We, as beach tourism experts, have visited countless coasts around the globe, but Balos always holds a special place in our memory. Its beauty is so overwhelming that we often struggle to find the right words to describe it. It is a place you must feel, you must see with your own eyes to believe. However, its wild character and status as a protected area mean that visiting requires some preparation and an understanding of its delicate environment. In this article, we will share our experience and everything you need to know to fully enjoy this natural treasure in Chania (Crete).

How to Get to Playa de Balos

Getting to Playa de Balos is part of the adventure and, to be honest, can be a challenge. Its isolation is what has helped preserve its pristine beauty, but also what makes it less accessible than other beaches in Chania (Crete). Basically, there are two main ways to reach this paradise:

By Boat

The most popular and relaxing option is to take a boat from the port of Kissamos. Several companies offer daily excursions that include stops at the island of Gramvousa and, of course, at Balos. Boats usually depart in the morning and return in the afternoon, offering enough time to explore both locations. This route is ideal for those who prefer to avoid driving on difficult roads and a long walk. Furthermore, the approach by sea offers spectacular views of the coast and the lagoon itself from a unique perspective.

During the boat trip, it is common for drinks and some food to be offered on board, although we recommend also bringing our own snacks and water. The advantage of this option is the comfort and the absence of worries about parking or the condition of the road. However, the boats are usually quite crowded, especially in high season, which can detract a bit from the feeling of tranquility one seeks in such an idyllic place.

By Car and on Foot

For the more adventurous, or for those who want more flexibility and to avoid the crowds on the boats, the other option is to drive to a nearby point and then walk. From Kissamos, we will take a dirt road that extends for about 10 kilometers. It is important to note that this road is quite rough and rocky, so a 4x4 vehicle or, at least, a car with good ground clearance is recommended. Many rental cars explicitly prohibit driving on this road, so it is crucial to check the conditions of our rental contract. Additionally, there is a small toll to access the protected area, which contributes to the maintenance of the site.

Once we reach the parking lot, the real adventure begins: a downhill walk of approximately 1.5 kilometers. Although the distance is not excessive, the path is steep and rocky, which requires wearing comfortable and appropriate footwear (let's forget flip-flops for this stretch). The reward, however, is immense. As we descend, the panoramic view of the Balos lagoon unfolds before us, offering one of the most iconic postcards of the Mediterranean. This descent, although demanding, allows us to appreciate the magnitude and beauty of the landscape before immersing ourselves in its waters. The return, of course, is uphill and can be exhausting, especially under the midday sun, so it is essential to carry enough water.

The Sand and the Water

What makes Playa de Balos truly unique is the combination of its sand and its waters. The shallow lagoon presents a range of colors from the most intense blue to crystal-clear turquoise and emerald green, creating a hypnotic aquatic mosaic. This color palette is due to the low depth of its waters, the composition of the seabed, and the way sunlight refracts.

The sand of Balos is equally special. Predominantly fine and soft, it is a dazzling white color, but what distinguishes it is the presence of crushed shell fragments that, when mixed, give it a distinctive pinkish hue in several areas. This phenomenon is more visible at certain times of the year or under specific light conditions, but it always adds a magical touch to the landscape. The type of ground is mostly sand, which makes it comfortable for walking and spreading out our towel.

The waters of the lagoon are exceptionally warm and calm, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy without worries. Being so shallow in much of the lagoon, they are perfect for splashing around, even for the little ones, and for simply letting oneself be carried away by the beauty of the surroundings. Beyond the lagoon, towards the open sea, the water becomes deeper and suitable for swimming. The clarity of the water is such that we can easily see the seabed, inviting exploration with a snorkel mask.

Services and Facilities

Due to its status as a protected area and its wild nature, Playa de Balos does not have a service infrastructure comparable to that of other more urbanized beaches in Chania (Crete). And this is, to a large extent, what contributes to its charm.

The available services are quite basic and, at times, of a temporary nature or managed by private operators who arrive with the excursion boats.