#165 European Rank
Balos Lagoon
Crete, Greece•Aegean Sea• Best Season: May, June, July, August, September, October
Photo: dronepicr (CC BY 2.0) · Wikimedia Commons source
EDITORIAL SCORE
4.64/ 5.0
SEA TEMPERATURE
25.4°C
August 30-year average
DAILY BUDGET
€44/day
SAND & SHORELINE
Pink Sand
Shallow & Gentle
Sea Temperature by Month
30-year monthly averages for Crete · NOAA satellite dataSwipe 12 months ⇄
Warm Bathwater
Jan
16.0°C
Air 22°C
Feb
15.4°C
Air 23°C
Mar
15.5°C
Air 25°C
Apr
16.4°C
Air 28°C
May
18.6°C
Air 31°C
Jun
22.0°C
Air 34°C
Jul
24.6°C
Air 36°C
Peak
Aug
25.4°C
Air 36°C
Sep
24.5°C
Air 34°C
Oct
22.8°C
Air 31°C
Nov
20.4°C
Air 27°C
Dec
17.9°C
Air 24°C
Swimmability Window · NOAA Climatology
Swimmable 6 Jun – 7 Nov (>21°C) · 154 days
30-year NOAA satellite climatological mean (1991–2020).Explore all Greece Sea Temperatures
Score Breakdown
Scenery & Setting4.7 / 5
Water Clarity & Cleanliness4.7 / 5
Sand & Shoreline Quality4.9 / 5
Atmosphere & Safety4.6 / 5
Accessibility & Entry Ease4.5 / 5
Affordability & Fair Pricing4.6 / 5
About Balos Lagoon
A shallow, blindingly bright lagoon at Crete’s wild north-west tip.
Key Beach Facts
Official Records•Access: Excursion boat from Kissamos Port or a dirt road followed by a 25-minute scenic cliffside descent hike.
•Protected Status / Environment: Natura 2000 designated Special Protection Area; nesting habitat for Caretta caretta turtles and monk seals.
•Notable Feature: Spectacular natural lagoon with shallow turquoise water, white and pink crushed-shell sand, and views of Gramvousa island's Venetian fortress.
Official Tourism Authorities:visitgreece.gr
Amenities & Facilities
Bathrooms
YesShowers
NoFree Parking
YesFood / Tavernas
NoGood for Kids
YesDog Friendly
NoLifeguard on Duty
NoSunbed & Umbrella Rentals
YesNatural Cliff/Pine Shade
NoWheelchair Accessible
NoSnorkeling & Watersports
NoNudist / FKK Friendly
NoGetting There & Local Notes
Getting there:
Located near Crete. Accessible via regional coastal roads (35.588°N, 23.588°E).
•Warm, shallow, and calm water.
•Wild peninsula.
Nearest Airport & Transit Gateway
CHQ / HER · 40m driveScenic drive along the Northern Crete coastal highway.
Are you a Venue Owner or Promoter at Balos Lagoon?
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Frequently Asked Questions about Balos Lagoon
What is the water temperature at Balos Lagoon?
The peak summer sea surface temperature at Balos Lagoon averages 25.4°C (78°F), based on 30-year NOAA satellite climatology.
What type of coast or sand is Balos Lagoon?
Balos Lagoon is classified as a pink sand shoreline located in Crete, Greece.
Is Balos Lagoon good for families with kids?
Yes, Balos Lagoon is suitable for families and children with manageable water entry.
Are there parking and facilities at Balos Lagoon?
Free parking is available. Restroom facilities are present.
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