Rethymno: Elafonisi Day Trip with Balos Lagoon Photo-Stop

Rethymno: Elafonisi Day Trip with Balos Lagoon Photo-Stop
Location: Crete, Greece
Country: Greece
Rating: 4.1 (34 reviews)
Price: $56 per person
Duration: 8 hours
Supplier: Allcretetours

Traveling in Crete often means encountering a mix of rugged landscapes, gorgeous beaches, and charming villages. This day trip offers a taste of some of the island’s most eye-catching sights—Elafonisi Beach, famous for its pink-tinged coral sands, and the Balos Lagoon, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and panoramic views. For just $56 per person, we spend about 8 hours exploring these natural wonders, starting early from Rethymno, with a professional guide leading the way.

Two aspects stand out as real highlights. First, the opportunity to relax on Elafonisi’s stunning shores, with its shallow waters perfect for swimming and its soft sands ideal for lounging. Second, the photo-stop at Cape Vouxa, where you can marvel at the sweeping views of Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa. These are moments that truly capture how special Crete’s wild, untouched sides can be.

That said, there is a small caveat. The drive up to Cape Vouxa involves an 8-kilometer dirt track in a comfortable 4×4 bus, which might not suit travelers prone to motion sickness or those expecting a smooth ride. Also, some travelers noted a slight lack of coordination at pickup points, which can cause minor delays.

This tour suits those who want a full day of scenic beauty and relaxed beach time without breaking the bank. It’s especially appealing if you’re eager to see multiple highlights in a single day, but don’t want to get caught in overly crowded tour groups. Perfect for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts looking for an authentic experience with manageable logistics.

Key Points

• Stunning Beaches: Relax on Elafonisi’s pink-tinged sands and shallow waters, perfect for swimming and unwinding.
• Breathtaking Views: The photo-stop above Balos Lagoon offers panoramic vistas that are well worth the short walk.
• Natural Exploration: The trip includes exploring Crete’s wilderness and natural beauty, away from urban areas.
• Comfortable Transport: The use of a 4×4 bus for the dirt track ensures a smoother ride up the rugged terrain.
• Flexible Free Time: You get around 2 hours at Elafonisi, enough to relax, swim, or stroll along the shoreline.
• Value for Money: At $56, this tour offers a lot of scenic and relaxing experiences combined, with guides included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins with hotel pickup and drop-off, simplifying the logistics for travelers staying in Rethymno. The guide, who speaks English, leads the journey, setting expectations and sharing insights along the way. We love the convenience of having transportation included, freeing us from the hassle of navigating Crete’s rural roads ourselves.

The duration of 8 hours means plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed, though your exact start times depend on availability. Keep in mind, the tour operates on a flexible booking basis with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind to planning your day.

Elafonisi Beach: Relaxation and Natural Beauty

Arriving at Elafonisi, we’re greeted by soft, white coral sands and shallow, calm waters—ideal for families or those who just want to float and soak in the sun. You’re given about 2 hours of free time, which is enough for a swim, a leisurely walk along the shoreline, or simply soaking up the scenery.

Some reviews mention that the value is good, but a few travelers noted that the pickup process could be more coordinated. Bianca, for example, pointed out that she had to walk 10 minutes from a meeting point and felt the pickup was slightly disorganized. Still, she appreciated the overall experience.

The Scenic Drive to Cape Vouxa

The highlight for many is the ride up the dirt track to Cape Vouxa. This 8-kilometer stretch can be bumpy, but the 4×4 vehicle makes it manageable and adds a bit of adventure. Along the way, you’re treated to views of Crete’s rugged landscape—think rocky cliffs, wild vegetation, and sweeping horizons.

Once at the top, you’ll take a short 20 to 25-minute walk to reach the lookout point. The payoff? Breathtaking panoramic views of Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa island. Many visitors find this moment unforgettable—truly a picture-perfect scene to capture.

More Great Tours Nearby

Balos Lagoon Photo-Stop

At the viewpoint, you can take in the incredible scenery—turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and distant islands. The photo-stop offers a chance to marvel at one of Crete’s most iconic vistas. The experience is about appreciating the raw beauty of the landscape from above, rather than a detailed tour of the lagoon itself, which would require additional time or a boat trip.

Additional Costs and What’s Not Included

A couple of optional extras are available—a boat ride for 30 euros and a 1-euro entrance fee. If you’re a keen photographer or just want a different perspective, the boat addition might be worth considering, though it isn’t included in the base price.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes for the walk, a sun hat, swimwear, water, and light, breathable clothing to stay comfortable. The natural environment is pristine, so it’s worth being prepared.

While the tour provides a professional guide and easy transportation, keep in mind that the pickup points might not be perfectly coordinated, especially if you’re traveling alone or arrive early. That small hiccup aside, the overall experience is satisfying, especially considering the reasonable price.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking a full day of natural beauty and scenic views without the need for multiple bookings. It’s also ideal if you prefer to have transport and guided commentary included, making it easier to relax and focus on the sights.

If you’re someone who loves relaxing beaches and spectacular viewpoints, this tour offers both in a single day. It’s not for those seeking luxury or extensive exploration—it’s designed for a relaxed, scenic experience emphasizing value and authentic outdoor beauty.

Final Considerations

This day trip strikes a pleasing balance between relaxation, scenic beauty, and affordability. For around $56, you get a solid sampling of Crete’s wild side, with enough free time to enjoy the beaches and plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.

While the pickup coordination could improve, the natural scenery and panoramic views more than make up for it. The comfortable transportation and professional guide help keep the experience smooth, leaving you free to enjoy the unfolding landscape.

This tour is best suited for those eager to see Elafonisi’s pink sands and Balos’s iconic views in one well-organized day, especially if they’re traveling on a budget. It’s a great way to check two major sights off your Crete itinerary with minimal fuss and maximum scenic reward.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient for travelers staying in Rethymno.

How long do we stay at Elafonisi Beach?
You’ll have about 2 hours to relax, swim, or explore the beach environment on your own.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, swimwear, water, and breathable clothing for comfort during walking and outdoor activities.

Is there an additional cost for the boat ride?
Yes, a boat ticket costs around 30 euros and is not included in the base price.

How scenic is the view from Cape Vouxa?
You’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa, making the walk worthwhile for photography and sightseeing.

What is the transportation like?
A comfortable 4×4 bus is used to navigate the dirt track up to Cape Vouxa, ensuring a smoother ride over rugged terrain.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How many people are in the group?
The tour size isn’t specified exactly, but guided trips typically range from small groups to larger ones, depending on demand.

Is there a guide during the trip?
Yes, a professional guide who speaks English accompanies the tour, providing insights and assistance.

Is this trip suitable for families?
Yes, especially if your family enjoys beaches and scenic viewpoints. Just remember to bring appropriate gear for a comfortable day outdoors.

This tour offers a fine balance of scenic beauty, relaxation, and value, making it a solid choice for travelers looking to experience some of Crete’s most beautiful spots with ease. Whether you’re snapping photos from above or soaking in the gentle sands, you’ll come away with memorable images and stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: