Both Balos beach and Elafonissi beach are amazingly beautiful and very popular tourist destinations in Crete.
Balos is known for its stunning turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and picturesque landscapes. It is located in the northwest part of Crete and is famous for its lagoon, which is often referred to as one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. It has a more rugged and remote feel compared to Elafonissi, and getting there requires a short hike or a boat ride. Elafonissi, on the other hand, is located in the southwestern part of Crete. It is renowned for its pink sandy beach, crystal-clear waters, and shallow lagoon. It is relatively more accessible compared to Balos and is a popular destination for families and beach enthusiasts. The beach itself is quite large and has a more vibrant and lively atmosphere.
Visiting Balos
If you decide to visit Balos have in mind that:
1. It is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, with turquoise waters, white sand, and stunning landscapes. The lagoon at Balos is often described as a paradise on earth.
2. To reach the beach, you have the option either by boat or on a hike.
3. It is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. The picturesque scenery, vibrant colors, and unique geological formations that you see during the boat trip provide ample opportunities for capturing stunning photographs.
4. The beach is not easily accessible. You either need to take a ferry from Kissamos or through a hike. The journey can be challenging for individuals with mobility issues or those who prefer more convenient transportation options.
5. If you choose to access the beach by boat you will have the chance to visit also the Gramvousa castle.
6. Although it is considered more remote, it can still get crowded, especially during the peak tourist season. If you prefer a quieter experience, it’s best to visit during the low season or arrive early in the day.
7. It is a natural and unspoiled beach, which means there are limited amenities available. You won’t find many facilities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, or beachside tavernas. It’s essential to bring your own supplies, including food, water, and sun protection (In case you choose the boat option a lot of these amenities are offered on board).
8. The weather conditions can sometimes be unpredictable, particularly during the windy season. It’s important to check the weather forecast and be prepared for potential changes in conditions.
Visiting Elafonissi
If you decide to visit Elafonissi have in mind that:
1.It is famous for its stunning pink sandy beach, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and picturesque landscape. It offers a unique and visually captivating experience.
2. Compared to Balos, it is relatively more accessible. It has a well-developed infrastructure and can be reached by car or bus. The ease of access makes it a convenient choice for many travelers.
3. It offers a range of amenities and facilities to enhance your beach experience. You can find sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and beachside tavernas where you can relax, enjoy refreshments, and indulge in local cuisine.
4. It is a popular destination for families due to its shallow and calm waters. It provides a safe and enjoyable environment for children to swim and play.
5. It is a highly popular tourist destination, especially during the peak summer season. It can get crowded, particularly in the central area of the beach. If you prefer a quieter experience, it’s advisable to visit during the low season or try to arrive early in the day.
6. Due to its popularity, it can lack the sense of seclusion and privacy found in more remote beaches. You may need to share the beach space with a significant number of visitors.
7. While it is undoubtedly beautiful, the popularity of the beach means it may not provide the same level of tranquility and solitude as more secluded destinations.
8. Like any beach destination, it is subject to weather conditions. Strong winds can occasionally affect the area, making swimming or sunbathing less enjoyable. It’s recommended to check the weather forecast before your visit.
In summary, many visitors consider a trip to Balos well worth the effort due to its unparalleled natural beauty and unique experience and Elafonissi remains a highly sought-after destination due to its unique beauty, accessibility, and family-friendly atmosphere as it offers a range of amenities and facilities that cater to the needs of various travelers.
Both places are stunning in their own way, so you can’t go wrong with either choice. Each place has its own unique charm, and the choice ultimately depends on your preferences.
Related Excursions:
