Balos Beach

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From Kissamos Port: Boat Cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa

From Kissamos Port: Boat Cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa

Depart from Kissamos Port and sail for about an hour in the bay. Approach the island of Gramvousa and then Balos or vice versa, depending on the itinerary route . Cruise against a stunning backdrop of steep cliffs and rocks, incredible secluded beaches, and infinite blue. Have the chance to see a large cave, which is thought to be an ancient shipyard. At the end of the bay, sail between Gramvousa Island and Cape Vouxa. Soak in the scenic landscape against the backdrop of Valenti, Pontikonisi, Balos Lagoon, and Imeri Gramvousa. Depending on the itinerary, first destination is Gramvousa and then Balos or vice versa. Arrive in the small port of Gramvousa and enjoy the magical environment created by Cretan nature, the legends, and the area's turbulent history. See the beach is adorned by a lonely shipwreck. See the famous castle of Gramvousa, the highest point on the island that sits atop a steep rock. Enjoy a swim in the area next to the Church of Agioi Apostoloi. After a stop at Gramvousa, get back on the boat to head to Balos. Listed as one of the world's best beaches, this exotic beach lagoon is situated between the Gramvousa Peninsula and Cape Tigani. Balos is one of the most famous beaches of the world. Words cannot describe the impressiveness of this place. Nothing can describe what you are about to feel when you see this. When you get to swim in the crystal clear, emerald waters, relax and admire the view of the rare natural beauty of the landscape, the sea, the coast, the rocks and cliffs that rise before you!

Chania: Balos Gramvousa Cruise with Transfer and Boat Ticket

Chania: Balos Gramvousa Cruise with Transfer and Boat Ticket

Experience a full-day boat trip to the westernmost part of Crete and visit two of the most famous landmarks, Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. Be picked up by an air-conditioned bus at a pickup point close to your hotel and you be driven to Kissamos Port. There you will board a large comfortable boat with an open deck and a bar-restaurant. Enjoy your cruise along the coast and see the dramatic rock face from the water. The boat after an 1-hour trip will approach Gramvousa Island or Balos Lagoon (depending on the itinerary). Gramvousa Island used to be a pirate's cove. Choose to hike for 20 minutes to the Venetian castle which is built on a steep 137m high rock. Enjoy panoramic views over the Aegean Sea and unique landscape from here. You may also swim in the area next to the chapel of Agioi Apostoloi. After the boat will depart for the lagoon of Balos, which will be reached after approximately 20 minutes. Balos is characterized as one of the best beaches in the world. Words cannot convey the wild beauty of your eyes. You will admire the white and in some places the pink sand, the turquoise waters, and the natural beauty of this unique place. You will have the opportunity to stay in this paradise and swim.

Limeniskos: Gramvousa and Balos Speedboat Tour with Drinks

Limeniskos: Gramvousa and Balos Speedboat Tour with Drinks

Hop onboard a speedboat that is built for a swift and steady navigation and set off from Limeniskos over sparkling waters to the island of Gramvousa. Feel the wind in your hair get closer to the island's distinctive cliffs which rise dramatically from the water. Admire views a Venetian fortress perched atop the island's highest point. From a distance, appreciate the strategic position of the fortress and imagine its historical significance. Once on land, you can explore Gramvousa Island during an hour-long stop. Go for a 20-minute hike to the fortress, take a stroll on the beach, or look for the local flora and fauna that form the unique ecosystem of the island. Get back on the boat for the transfer to the mesmerizing waters of the Balos Lagoon. Plunge into shallow, calm waters that have a striking turquoise hue. Be greeted by the refreshing coolness of the sea. Have the option to relax on the beach or wade in the surreal-looking waters. Bring along your snorkeling gear to spot damselfish, wrasse, and maybe even a curious octopus hiding in the crevices. If you're lucky, you might spot loggerhead turtles gliding gracefully through the water. Return to your meeting point in Limeniskos with unforgettable memories of your adventure to Gramvousa Island and the Balos Lagoon.

Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Luxury Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Embark on a luxurious semi-private sailing catamaran cruise from Kissamos port to two of Crete's most iconic destinations: Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. These extraordinary locations are among the highlights of the island, offering breathtaking views and pristine waters. Our catamaran cruise provides a more private and relaxed experience, avoiding the rush and crowds typical of these popular spots. Perfect for travelers of all ages, this cruise is a haven for families, friends, couples, and solo adventurers. Little ones will delight in the adventure of sailing, while adults can enjoy a serene day of exploration, fun, and relaxation. Your journey begins in the morning with a warm welcome from our professional crew, featuring fresh coffee, tea, and local pies. As the day unfolds, unwind on the spacious deck, bask in the sun, or enjoy the shade while savoring unlimited soft drinks, white wine, and beer. Stay connected with free onboard WiFi and immerse yourself in a pleasant atmosphere with music tailored to enhance your mood. Our first destination, the enchanting Balos Lagoon, is a piece of paradise with its turquoise waters and soft sandy shores. Here, take a refreshing swim, snorkel, paddle on our SUP boards, or capture Instagram-worthy moments with our fun inflatable flamingo. Light snacks, including a variety of Greek cheeses and seasonal fruits, will keep you energized. Next, we stop at Gramvousa Island, a place of rich history and stunning scenery. You can explore the island on your own, swim in its inviting waters, or simply relax on the deck and sunbathe. While you enjoy the surroundings, our crew will prepare a delectable Mediterranean-style lunch on board featuring fresh salads, seafood, meat, and a homemade dessert. A special kid-friendly meal ensures that the little ones are well taken care of too. As we sail back to Kissamos, reflect on your unforgettable day of exploration and relaxation. Share your photos, unwind on the deck, and enjoy the serene beauty of Crete's coastline. This cruise is an exceptional way to discover the island's iconic sites, create lasting memories, and enjoy a day of luxury and fun in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations.

Chania/Almyrida: Balos Gramvousa Day Trip with Boat Ticket

Chania/Almyrida: Balos Gramvousa Day Trip with Boat Ticket

Admire views of the Tersanas Cave and Vouxa Cape on this sightseeing cruise to the Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. Enjoy the convenience of the included air-conditioned bus transfer from centrally-located meeting points at locations in Chania and the areas surrounding it.  Be picked up and relax in climate-controlled comfort on the drive to the Kissamos port. Your tour leader will collect the boat fee from you and provide you your boat tickets which allow you skip-the-line. Take in views of the majestic Tersanas cave from the water which is said to be an ancient shipyard. Enjoy views of the geological formations that have formed on the stunning cliffs of the Vouxa Cape. Snap pictures of the unique landscapes of the Imeri and Agria Gramvousa islands. Sail for approximately 1 hour until you reach the Balos Beach where you can cool-off with a refreshing swim in turquoise waters.** Continue to Gramvousa island where you can explore the hilltop, 16th-century Venetian castle which was a pirate base in the 19th-century, and you can see an old ship-wreck. Return to your starting point at the end of your tour.  **As of 13/07 you can disembark normally on the beach!

Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Meal

Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Meal

Sail with us on board a modern and luxurious sailing yacht and discover one of the most exotic and mesmerizing places in the world. Our journey begins at the Port of Kissamos where our Crew will warmly welcome you on board. After boarding is complete you will be given a short safety briefing and our crew will also answer any questions you might have about the cruise while you enjoy a refreshment. After departure you will be able to lay on the comfortable deck sunbeds of our yacht or sit in the large outdoor cockpit area and enjoy the stunning views of Gramvousa cape as you sail along the coastline. Sailing to our first destination will take around 1-1.5 hours. After arriving to Gramvousa island you will have around 1.5 hours of free time to explore the hidden treasures of the area or simply enjoy the refreshing water diving from our yacht. Disembarkation will be possible either directly from the dock if unoccupied or with the smaller tender boat that will accompany you throughout your cruise for your convenience. As you return on board you will be welcomed by our luxurious menu freshly prepared by our staff with the finest local ingredients. Serve your plate with any delicacies you like from our buffet and refresh yourselves with our unlimited drinks. About 30 minutes later you will cruise towards the iconic Balos lagoon, a true paradise on earth. When the boat docks you will once again be able to disembark with our tender boat and reach the beach or if you prefer to enjoy the waters in more privacy you can dive from our yacht. You will have again around 1.5 hours in Balos before we start our sailing back to the port. During our 2 stops, you will be able to try our snorkeling and stand-up paddle boarding equipment according to the instructions of the captain so feel free to request it from him. After arriving back at the port our Crew will help you disembark and wish you farewell hoping to see you again in one of our future adventures! We look forward to welcome you on board for an unforgettable experience!

From Kissamos Port: Boat cruise to Balos lagoon

From Kissamos Port: Boat cruise to Balos lagoon

We depart from the port of Kissamos, with soft music playing in the background, and sail for about an hour in the homonymous bay, against a stunning backdrop of steep cliffs and rocks, incredible secluded beaches, and the infinite blue. You will have the chance to see a large cave, which is thought to be an ancient shipyard. At the end of the bay, you will see an impressive geological phenomenon. Over time, Crete’s western side is rising, and its eastern side is sinking. This phenomenon takes place due to the movement of the African tectonic plate under the Eurasian plate. The ancient coastline can be traced over the rocky shores. Balos is listed as one of the best beaches in the world. This exotic beach-lagoon and rare natural monument is situated between the Gramvousa peninsula and Cape Tigani. Words cannot describe the impressiveness of this place. Nothing can describe what you are about to feel when you see this. When you get to swim in the crystal clear, emerald waters, relax and admire the view of the rare natural beauty of the landscape, the sea, the coast, the rocks and cliffs that rise before you...!

From Heraklion: Cruise to Balos Lagoon and Chania Old Town

From Heraklion: Cruise to Balos Lagoon and Chania Old Town

Morning Pick-up: Start your adventure with a convenient pickup from Heraklion or nearby areas. Relax on a comfortable bus ride to Kasteli Port, located on the western side of Crete. Depending on your hotel’s location, the journey takes around 4 hours. A short 20-minute stop will be made along the way for restrooms, refreshments, and snacks. 1st Stop: Kasteli Port (around 4 hours from Heraklion) Arrive at Kasteli, the departure point for your boat trip to the Gramvousa Peninsula and Balos Lagoon. Get ready for an unforgettable 5-hour cruise! 2nd Stop: Cruise to Balos Lagoon Sail along the impressive Gramvousa Peninsula and see the historic fortress before arriving at the stunning Balos Lagoon. Enjoy plenty of time for swimming in the crystal-clear waters, walking on the golden sand beach, and exploring the unique natural surroundings. Lunch: The boat’s restaurant and snack bar will be open throughout the cruise, offering meals and refreshments for purchase (lunch not included in the tour price). 3rd Stop: Return to Kasteli (end of cruise) After a memorable experience at Balos, the boat will return to Kasteli port. Your bus will be waiting to take you to the final stop of the day: Chania. 4th Stop: Chania (2 hours) Explore the charming town of Chania, famous for its picturesque old town and stunning Venetian harbor. Enjoy 2 hours of free time to stroll through the quaint streets, visit local shops, or relax at a seaside café. End of the tour – Return to resorts: After your visit to Chania, relax on the return bus trip to Heraklion. Drop-off time will vary depending on traffic and your hotel location.

Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Speedboat Cruise with Snorkeling

Kissamos: Balos & Gramvousa Speedboat Cruise with Snorkeling

Explore the exotic Balos Lagoon and the mesmerizing Gramvousa Island on board the most prestigious Rib boat in Crete. Choose between a private or shared tour, and opt to include hotel pickup and drop-off. Either begin your journey from your hotel or Kissamos Port, where you will meet your crew that will swiftly help you get on board and will offer a few safety tips and rules for the upcoming adventure. After starting the engines you will experience the thrill of speed cruising trough the Cretan Sea. First you will pass by the coastline of the Gramvousa cape offering the most stunning picturesque views. After about 30 minutes of cruising you will arrive to your first destination, the legendary Gramvousa island. Our experienced captain will anchor the boat to the closest point possible for you to disembark but keep in mind that you might have to swim or walk a few meters inside the water in order to reach the land. You will have about 1.5-2 hours in the island so please make sure not to get carried away by the natural beauty and be back in time in accordance to the directions of the captain. After everyone is back on the boat you will then depart for the next exciting destination. If you thought Gramvousa Island is impressive as soon as you arrive in Balos Lagoon you will be stunned by the unique beauty of this heavenly place found only in this part of the world. The boat will once again anchor as close to the beach as possible and you will be able to swim or walk to the shore in the water or simply enjoy the crystal turquoise waters diving from our boat's comfortable deck. You will have about 1.5-2 hours again before departure. Finally you will depart and cruise back to the port of Kissamos feeling the cool breeze of the sea beautifully completing this memorable experience. Throughout the whole cruise you can enjoy unlimited refreshments from our open ice cooler (except during cruising in high speeds when you will be asked to be seated).We look forward to welcome you on board for an unforgettable experience.

From Kissamos: Balos Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Lunch

From Kissamos: Balos Gramvousa Sailing Cruise with Lunch

Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Aegean Sea and admire stunning views as you sail for Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. Take time to swim and explore these incredible locations at your own pace, and savor a traditional lunch prepared onboard. Start your morning at Kissamos port and board your elegant sailboat. After a short safety briefing from your skipper, set sail on a relaxing cruise for Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. Admire the spectacular views of the Cretan coast. Learn a bit about sailing on the trip with the help of your skipper. Relax on board as you help yourself to soft drinks, beer, and fresh fruit. Arrive at Balos Lagoon and soak up the sun on the pristine shores of Balos Beach or go for a swim. Next, disembark on Gramvousa Island and hike to the extraordinary castle built to admire the panoramic views of the horizon. Take your time exploring this rugged island or practice your snorkeling on the beach. At noon, head to the shaded area on deck and enjoy a delicious lunch cooked on board. If it's too hot, take a break and chill out in the cabins. Finally, relax onboard as you head back to the port at Kissamos.

Other Sightseeing Options in Balos Beach

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What people are saying about Balos Beach

Overall rating

4.2 out of 5 stars
4.2
4.2 out of 5 stars
(3,890 reviews)
5 out of 5 stars

Very nice overall. Would be better if we could stay for more than an hour at Balos but it is fine.

5 out of 5 stars

Incredible, it was a dream landscape, we loved the island of Gramvoussa with its castle.

5 out of 5 stars

It was a great trip that was very well organized. We would do the trip again anytime

5 out of 5 stars

Beautiful. Unfortunately, far too many tourists, but I would go again

5 out of 5 stars

The lovely waves rocked the boat, even though it was large.