Balos Beach and Lagoon Tours and Tickets

You can reach Balos Beach and Lagoon by car or boat. If traveling by car, be prepared for a rough dirt road for the last stretch and then a 20–30 minute hike from the parking lot. Alternatively, boat tours depart from the Kissamos port to take you directly to Balos Beach.

The best time to visit Balos Beach is from late spring to early fall (May to October). Go in the morning to avoid peak tourist crowds, get your choice of beach chairs, and take photos with fewer people in them. Later in the day, around sunset, is nice, too.

No, there are no Balos Beach tickets or entrance fees. However, there is a small fee for parking in the designated parking area, at the top of the hill overlooking the beach. Boat tours to Balos Beach will have their own varying prices, of course.

Balos Beach has basic facilities, like restrooms, beach chairs, and umbrellas. During the warmer months (May to October), a small kiosk sells snacks and drinks. Bring your own water, especially if you’re hiking to and from the parking lot. There are no lifeguards, so swimming is at your own risk.

Yes, you can hike to Balos Beach. The 1.2-mile (2-kilometer) trek down the hillside starts from the parking area and takes about 20–30 minutes. The path is rocky and uneven, so wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, especially for the hike back up.

Yes, Balos Beach is great for families with children—the water is clear and shallow for a long stretch and plenty of spots are sandy, not rocky. If you’re driving and hiking in, be mindful that the trek to and from the beach is a bit difficult for young children.