Here I’ve collected the day trips that reach Crete’s two famous western beaches, Balos lagoon and pink-sand Elafonisi, without the brutal drive. Most Balos boats leave from Kissamos port and fill fast in high summer. Elafonisi’s pink comes from crushed shell and shows in patches, so hunt along the waterline.
Yearning for an unforgettable maritime adventure?
Most Popular★ 4.2“We had SUCH a fun day on this trip, the boat crew were super nice & the beaches we visited were stunning. I took my 3year old & we did take a pram for her, but just be aware, you can't really take the prams…”
★★★★★★★★★★
6,755 reviews7 hoursFrom $47
Check Availability →Read my full review →
Prepare for a day of paradise on Elafonisi Island, where pink sand beaches and protected wildlife areas await - but that's just the beginning.
★ 4.5“Mona & George were beyond gracious, hospitable, timely, informational and patient. Elafonisi is very beautiful in October. Two lounges could be rented for the whole day for €20. An inexpensive beer is less than four euros and an ice cream is four euros. The beach…”
★★★★★★★★★★
2,014 reviews450 minutes - 12 hoursFrom $38by PLATANOS TOURS
Check Availability →Read my full review →
Discover the beauty of Crete with this full-day Balos and Gramvousa cruise, including transfers, guided commentary, and ample time to explore stunning beaches and historic sites.
★ 4.1“The sights are amazing, the ferry is comfortable and has clean toilets, the whole experience was faultless.”
★★★★★★★★★★
1,009 reviewsby Quality Travel
Check Availability →Read my full review →
Navigate the enchanting waters of Kalyves and uncover the mystery behind the extra boat ticket that holds the key to an unforgettable experience.
★ 4.2“I really enjoyed the trip with a stop for snorkelling and discovering the island. Guys who work there are truly amazing and helpful. 2 hours is just enough. Thanks for raki!”
★★★★★★★★★★
992 reviews10 - 12 hoursFrom $23by PLATANOS TOURS
Check Availability →Read my full review →
Discover the enchanting allure of Elafonissi Pink Sand Beach from Rethymno, where nature's wonders await to mesmerize your senses and spark your curiosity.
★ 4.7“Best trip. Both the guide and the driver were professional. Everything went perfect❤️”
★★★★★★★★★★
989 reviews11 hoursFrom $31by Markidis Travel
Check Availability →Read my full review →
Cruise to Crete's captivating Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island for a day of enchantment—discover the allure that awaits on this unforgettable adventure.
★ 4.1“Absolutely loved this day trip and would 100% recommend. Pick up was on time, ferry to the island was great with a cafe/bar on board and both stops were beautiful with amazing views! I’d advise doing the walks to the viewpoints on both Gramvousa and…”
★★★★★★★★★★
925 reviewsFrom $47
Check Availability →Read my full review →
Get ready to uncover the hidden gems that lie beyond the pink sands of Elafonisi Island, as this day trip from Rethymno promises an adventure like no other.
★ 4.4“We had a trip to Elafonisi beach which was beautiful. We had Taki as our tour guide and Nikos as our driver, both of which were excellent! Takis information and instructions were great! Nikos driving got us to each location safely and on time, with…”
★★★★★★★★★★
799 reviews9 - 10 hoursFrom $28by PLATANOS TOURS
Check Availability →Read my full review →
Explore Crete’s stunning Elafonissi Beach with a full-day guided tour from Chania, including village stops, delicious local food, and plenty of beach time.
★ 4.5“Ingrid’s voice is so calming and she made the trip very relaxing. Dimitri is the BEST DRIVER in Crete.”
★★★★★★★★★★
744 reviews10 hoursFrom $37by TourMaster
Check Availability →Read my full review →
Journey into the enchanting world of Elafonisi Beach, where pink sands and crystal-clear waters await - but what hidden gems lie beyond the horizon?
★ 4.5“Our guide was very informative about the area and how to enjoy it best!”
★★★★★★★★★★
731 reviews13 hoursFrom $64by Cretan Odyssey
Check Availability →Read my full review →
Discover the stunning natural beauty of Balos Lagoon on Crete with this boat cruise from Kissamos Port, including sea swimming and scenic views.
★ 4.2“Cruise was very nice and well worth taking boat vs driving from Chania/Kissamos. Driving takes longer and then you have a long walk down the mountain to the beach versus a 20 min drive to Kissamos and a short walk from the pier where the…”
★★★★★★★★★★
678 reviews5 hoursFrom $42by CRETAN DAILY CRUISES
Check Availability →Read my full review →
An extraordinary adventure awaits in the Rethymno Area, where Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay reveal a mysterious boat ticket extra that promises to captivate and enchant.
★ 4.3“At first arived a big and very comfortable with conditioner bus. Guide was very pleasant and tell us all needed information about our tour. The views were magical ❣️We climbed on the rock to look from the top. Water colours are magical. Water im Balos…”
★★★★★★★★★★
594 reviews10 - 12 hoursFrom $20by PLATANOS TOURS
Check Availability →Read my full review →
Nestled in the Mediterranean, the journey to Balos and Gramvousa Island begins with turquoise waters and promises an unforgettable adventure - are you ready to explore?
★ 4.4“It was an amazing experience, Balos and Gramvousa island are breathtaking. Eva was a very good guide, involved in every aspect of the tour, giving us interesting informations and making sure we have good time.”
★★★★★★★★★★
590 reviews12 hoursFrom $64by Io Tours
Check Availability →Read my full review →
Journey through the crystal-clear waters of Gramvousa and Balos on a speedboat tour filled with drinks and surprises.
★ 4.8“Wonderful experience and a great way to visit Balos and Gramvousa in a small group and in short time. Our guide was very nice and polite. I would definitely recommend this tour.”
★★★★★★★★★★
577 reviews3 hoursFrom $99
Check Availability →Read my full review →
Explore Crete's stunning west coast on a full-day cruise from Heraklion, including Balos Lagoon and Chania Old Town—great value and authentic scenery.
★ 4.4“Great day, worth the early start, Balos is beautiful, guide was great and informative. The only thing that let it down was the bus, the seats were so uncomfortable and for such a long journey it would have been better if the seats were more…”
★★★★★★★★★★
526 reviews14.5 - 16 hoursFrom $88by Cretan Odyssey
Check Availability →Read my full review →
Discover Crete’s famed pink sands on a comfortable, well-organized bus trip to Elafonisi, including stops in a charming mountain village, with plenty of free time to relax and explore.
★ 4.4“The guide, Ms. Paraskevi was very kind, and tried to explain us best as she could.”
★★★★★★★★★★
512 reviewsFrom $31.62by Quality Travel
Check Availability →Read my full review →