GREN

Balos

Chania · Crete
IconicSandShallow water
🚻 Toilets

Amenities from OpenStreetMap — they may have changed and the list is not exhaustive.

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Live from Open-Meteo
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✓ Manually calibrated shoreline

The orientation of the shore and the shelter of the bay were checked one by one on the map for every beach — they are not derived automatically.

The Gramvousa lagoon, known as Balos, forms an impressive landscape with white sand and shallow, turquoise waters. Access is either by boat from Kissamos or via a dirt road and path. The bay is naturally protected, while the western orientation offers beautiful sunsets.

Wind & waves: when to go

Real shoreline from OpenStreetMap at a fixed scale so the diagrams are comparable with one another — the dot marks the beach.

The beach faces west. With easterly winds the air flows offshore and the water near the shore stays flat; with westerly winds the sea builds up waves onto the beach. The bay is naturally well sheltered — conditions often remain swimmable even on breezy days.

🌅 Sunset over the sea: all year round

The shore faces west (290°), so all year round the sun sets within its field of view, over the water.

An estimate based on the orientation of the shore — a headland or island opposite may hide the horizon.

Frequently asked questions

Is Balos beach suitable for children?

Yes — the water deepens gradually, making it one of the better choices for small children.

When is the sea calm at Balos?

On days with easterly (offshore) winds or no wind at all. Thanks to the sheltered bay it is one of the safer bets in the area on windy days.

Is Balos an organized beach?

No — it is an unspoiled beach with no facilities, so bring water and shade with you.

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Nearby beaches in Crete

ElafonisiChaniaFalasarnaChaniaPreveliRethymnoPlakiasRethymno

If you like Balos, try…

VoidokiliaMessiniaalso shallow and iconic, also faces westSimos (Elafonisos)Elafonisosalso shallow and iconic, different regionMatalaHeraklionalso iconic and sandy, also faces westKolymbithresParosalso shallow and iconic, equally sheltered

Coordinates: 35.582, 23.588 · Shore faces: 290° (west) · Area: Chania, Crete · Shore type: Sand

Data: Open-Meteo · Mapping: OpenStreetMap · Page last updated: 2026-08-15