Visitors to Balos Beach (Παραλία Μπάλου) rate it as one of the most beautiful on Crete and maybe even in the world. Balos Beach is west of Chania on a sand isthmus that connects the mainland of Crete with Cape Tigani (Ακρωτήρι Τηγάνι). It’s a drive of 77 kilometers (48 miles) from Gavalochori. The road to the beach is rough and may not be suitable for all passenger cars. Getting to the beach also includes a somewhat steep walk of about 20 minutes down to the beach (and remember that you’ll have to walk back up to get home). The beach can also be reached by boat from the harbor of Kissamos (Κίσσαμος). The beach has minimal amenities, but it does have a restroom and a snack bar. Balos Beach can get crowded, but because it’s so large, you can usually walk a distance and find a place where there are few or no other people.