My trip to Balos Lagoon kicked off with a boat ride along Crete’s rugged coastline. After that, I tackled a short, rocky hike that definitely got my heart racing.
I’d seen endless photos of those turquoise waters and white sands, but being there—wow, it’s just on another level. Balos Lagoon’s beauty made every step and every minute totally worth it.
Arriving by boat let me skip most of the crowds. I got to enjoy the calm, shallow waters and soak up one of Greece’s most iconic views.
Once I got off the boat, the path led up a steep, rocky trail. That little adventure made the first glimpse of the lagoon even more exciting.
If you’re on the fence about whether the trip is worth the effort, I’ll say this: the views, the water, and the sense of discovery made it unforgettable.
This place really does live up to its reputation.
The Allure of Balos Lagoon
Stunning turquoise waters and wild scenery pull people out to Balos Lagoon. Taking the boat and hiking the rocky paths makes every step feel like part of the adventure.
Why Balos Lagoon Captivates Adventurers
For me, Balos was so much more than just another beach. My journey began with an early boat ride—wind in my face, coastline fading behind me.
Suddenly, the lagoon appeared, almost like a secret slice of paradise. The water glowed in shades of blue and green that looked unreal.
People often say the adventure getting there is what makes it special. The short hike from the dock leads over rough trails and down a rocky slope.
With every step, the view just keeps getting better. Sandy beaches stretch out below, framed by rugged hills and cliffs.
A feeling of remoteness makes Balos different. Even at the start of summer, it felt peaceful, especially if you get there before the crowds.
It’s easy to grab a quiet spot to swim or just gaze out at the shimmering lagoon. I watched little fish dart around my feet, soft white sand between my toes.
What Sets Balos Apart from Other Cretan Wonders
Crete has a ton of beautiful beaches, but Balos stands out for its unusual mix of landscapes.
The lagoon sits where the sea meets a wide stretch of pale sand and wild brush. On one side, the island of Gramvousa rises up, topped with a Venetian fortress.
Here, the water stays shallow and warm, mixing saltwater with freshwater from springs. The colors shift with the sun and clouds, so every hour feels a bit different.
Snorkeling here is a treat—clear water lets you spot shells and tiny sea creatures close to shore.
Unlike places like Elafonissi, Balos feels more isolated. No big hotels, no rows of sunbeds. The natural beauty kind of takes over, and the whole area feels untouched.
Standing in the shallows, I realized this mix of adventure, scenery, and calm was something I hadn’t found anywhere else in Crete.
Choosing the Perfect Route: Boat Journey vs. Hiking Challenge
Getting to Balos Lagoon means picking between two main options, and each gives a totally different vibe.
I realized that choosing between a boat ride or a hike changes the whole experience, depending on your time, comfort, and what kind of scenery you want.
The Thrill of Arriving by Boat
Getting to Balos by boat felt easy and laid-back. Most boats leave from Kissamos Port and cruise across clear water with views of the Gramvousa Peninsula.
On board, I just sat back and let the sea breeze set the mood. The ride showed off the Cretan coastline—sharp cliffs, endless blue water.
Sometimes dolphins swim alongside the boats, and that’s a pretty cool bonus.
The boat drops you off close to the lagoon, so the walk is short and mostly flat. No need to worry about steep hills or rough roads, which is a relief on hot days.
A roundtrip costs about €27 per person, and you can book tickets online or at the dock.
Embracing the Hike: Trails and Terrain
Hiking to Balos feels like a real adventure from the start. I began at the end of a dusty, bumpy road, which meant driving or finding a ride to a small parking lot above the lagoon.
From there, a marked trail winds down the escarpment. The hike is about 2 kilometers and takes maybe 20–30 minutes to go down, though heading back up in the sun is tougher.
Along the way, I passed wild herbs, goats, and rocks overlooking the turquoise water.
At every turn, the view grew wider and more impressive. Hiking down meant I reached the classic panoramic spot that overlooks the whole lagoon—a photo moment I won’t forget.
Good shoes, water, and sun protection are essential for this route, but the reward is that postcard view only hikers get.
How to Decide Which Route is Right for You
The best way to reach Balos really depends on what you care about most:
| Preference | Best Route |
|---|---|
| Convenience | Boat |
| Lowest physical effort | Boat |
| Iconic panoramic views | Hike |
| Avoiding crowds | Early morning hike |
| Want to see coastline | Boat |
If I just wanted quick beach time and an easy trip, I’d go with the boat. But if I craved those legendary views and didn’t mind sweating a bit, I’d hike.
Weather and fitness matter too. During the hot summer, the boat kept me cool, while spring or late autumn made the hike less exhausting.
I checked my comfort level and my mood for adventure, then picked the route that fit my style.
Experiencing the Breathtaking Landscape Up Close
Arriving at Balos Lagoon by boat felt like stepping right into a postcard. The mix of vivid blue water, rugged mountains, and white sand made every moment feel worth it.
Views from the Water: First Impressions
As the boat got closer to Balos Lagoon, the water turned from deep blue to a clear, almost glowing turquoise.
I felt a rush of excitement watching the shoreline appear—small sandy stretches, pink-tinged shells, and rocky cliffs in the background.
From the deck, I saw the sun hit the water, making it sparkle like something out of a dream.
The lagoon’s colors kept changing as we moved in. Every angle gave me a new shade of blue or green.
Those first views from the water set the stage for the whole day. Even with a few other boats around, the scene felt peaceful and untouched.
If you love coastal landscapes, arriving by boat really is the best way to take in the lagoon’s beauty. The boat ride itself becomes part of the adventure.
Unforgettable Sights from the Hiking Path
After the boat, I still had to hike a short path to the main beach. The uphill trek wasn’t long, but it was steep and rocky in spots.
With every step up the trail, I got a new view of the lagoon and the sea beyond.
Looking back, some of my favorite moments happened on this hillside walk. From above, I could see the full curve of the lagoon, the patchwork of shallow waters, and little sandbars separating the sea from the lagoon.
Wildflowers and low shrubs lined the way, adding pops of color to the rocky ground.
If you’re thinking about skipping the hike—don’t. The views from this path give you a panorama you just can’t get from the water or the beach.
Just wear sturdy shoes and bring water for the climb.
Photo Opportunities You Can’t Miss
At Balos Lagoon, I found photo-worthy scenes everywhere. From the bow of the boat, I snapped shots of the pink sand and the shallow turquoise water.
The hike gave me the best spots for wide-angle photos, capturing the entire lagoon and the dramatic coastline.
My favorite shot came from the highest point on the path, where you can see the gradient of blue water, powdery beach, and rugged outcrops all in one frame.
Early morning and late afternoon gave me softer light, which made the colors pop and cut down on harsh shadows.
I kept my camera ready for surprise moments—goats wandering by, seabirds flying overhead.
Here’s a quick list of shots you shouldn’t miss:
- Looking back at the lagoon from the hiking path
- Close-up of pink sand and shells
- The transition from sea to lagoon at sunset
It’s easy to fill up a memory card here, so bring extra batteries and an empty SD card. Every spot seemed photo-worthy, honestly.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Balos Lagoon Adventure
Balos Lagoon is one of those places where a bit of planning goes a long way. Timing, packing, and a few local tips can really shape your experience at this beautiful spot.
Best Times to Visit for Stunning Scenery
Picking the right time to visit Balos Lagoon makes a huge difference. The lagoon gets busiest in July and August.
If I want to dodge the crowds and enjoy the views, I go for late spring (May to early June) or early fall (September).
Getting there early in the morning works best for peaceful vibes. The water is calm and clear, and the sand sparkles when the sun first hits it.
By midday, tour boats and day-trippers fill the shore, and it’s a whole different scene.
Sunsets at Balos are gorgeous, but keep in mind most ferries and boat tours leave long before dusk. You’ll need your own transport if you want to catch that golden light.
Weather is usually sunny and warm from May through October, but strong winds can show up, making boat rides a bit rough. I always check the forecast before booking.
Must-Pack Essentials for the Day
Packing smart made my day at Balos way better. The sun gets intense, so I always bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
There’s a good bit of walking, so comfortable sandals or sturdy shoes are a must—flip-flops just don’t cut it on rocky paths.
Towels, swimwear, and a change of clothes make the visit more relaxing. The walk to the beach can be dusty, so I pack wet wipes and tissues.
There’s not much shade, so a small umbrella or compact sun shelter helps a lot.
Here’s a quick list of essentials:
| Item | Why Bring It? |
|---|---|
| Sunscreen (SPF 30+) | Keeps sunburn away |
| Sun hat and sunglasses | Protects your face and eyes |
| Water (2L/person) | You’ll need it on hot days |
| Sturdy footwear | Rocks and sand need good shoes |
| Snacks | No shops if you arrive early/late |
| Towel and swimsuit | For swimming and drying off |
| Light jacket | For wind or chilly moments |
Food, Facilities, and Responsible Travel
After a boat ride and a hike, nothing beats a picnic. I’ve learned food options at Balos are really limited or sometimes nonexistent.
During high season, a small canteen might pop up, but usually it’s just snacks and drinks. If I want a proper lunch, I bring sandwiches, fruit, and lots of water.
Toilet facilities are basic and near the boat dock, but they can be crowded or out of order. I always carry hand sanitizer and extra tissues, just in case.
Balos sits inside a protected nature reserve. I take all my trash with me and follow the posted rules.
I never take shells or plants as souvenirs. Quick tip: biodegradable wipes and reusable water bottles help keep your waste down.
Local Insights to Enhance Your Experience
Getting to Balos by boat is convenient and gives you awesome views of the coastline. I usually book my ticket ahead of time, since ferries from Kissamos can sell out—especially during peak season.
If you want more freedom, private boat rentals are an option, but remember to factor in return times and weather.
Once you’re ashore, the short hike from the boat landing to the lagoon can be rocky and uneven. I take it slow and wear comfy shoes.
If you want that panoramic view from the photos, a short but steep hike up a well-worn path leads to an amazing lookout.
I always greet local staff and fellow hikers with a friendly “kalimera” (good morning). People appreciate politeness and might even share a tip or story.
If you plan well and respect the area, Balos Lagoon can feel both adventurous and wonderfully relaxed.
Is It Really Worth the Journey? (Spoiler: Absolutely!)
Balos Lagoon asks for a bit of effort, but you’ll get those wild blue-green waters and coastal views that just stop you in your tracks. The trip there—by boat or on foot along the rough path—ended up becoming the best part, honestly, not just something to get through.
Personal Reflections on the Balos Experience
I went with the boat route from Kissamos. As we glided past the rocky coastline, I watched the water change color beneath us.
Even with a bunch of people around, I felt the anticipation build up. The salty air and mountain views made the trip feel special.
When we docked, I had to cross a short, sandy stretch over some rugged ground. Sturdy shoes really helped, since every step brought a new view—pale sand with hints of pink from crushed shells, gentle waves at my feet, and the steep hills in the distance.
The calm out there felt almost unreal, like the world slowed down. Some parts got tough, especially when the wind kicked up or the sun felt relentless.
But honestly, it was all worth it. Not just for the classic photos, but for that feeling of being completely present in such a wild place.
Memories That Make the Effort Unforgettable
Some moments from Balos Lagoon have stuck with me way more than any postcard or souvenir ever could. I waded through the crystal-clear water and watched tiny fish dart around my legs.
After the hike, a cool swim washed off every bit of tiredness. I flopped onto the sand and just listened to the wind for a while.
The bright blue water against the pale sand looked absolutely stunning. With Gramvousa Island in the distance, I suddenly felt so small—in a good way. It was like I’d managed to leave all my usual worries behind for a bit.
Locals picnicked under the sun. Families wandered through the shallow lagoon, and for a few hours, time just seemed to slow down.
Packing tip: I’m really glad I packed extra water, sunscreen, and a hat. The sun feels especially strong out here, and there’s not much shade at all. Honestly, it’s those little comforts that can turn a tough journey into one of your favorite memories.
