Bali is a tranquil coastal gem fringed by calm waters and dotted with hidden coves. It’s a favourite among travellers seeking a peaceful atmosphere and scenic views of the surrounding hills.
Introduction & Setting
Tucked into a series of coves on Crete's north coast, Bali is a scenic seaside village that feels like a well-kept secret. It's the kind of place you stumble upon and immediately unwind, struck by the beauty of emerald-green bays and quaint whitewashed houses spilling down the hillsides to the sea. Despite sharing its name with a far-off Indonesian island, Crete's Bali has a distinctly Greek charm and a laid-back ambience all its own. Historically, it was a quiet fishing hamlet (and yes, one origin of the name “Bali” is said to come from the Turkish word for “honey”, hinting at the area's past honey production). Today, Bali has evolved into a boutique resort village, popular, yet managing to remain low-key and welcoming. When I first drove down the winding road into Bali, the panoramic view of its four turquoise bays literally made me gasp. I knew I was arriving somewhere special, and that feeling lasted my entire stay.
Beaches & Hidden Coves
Bali's crown jewels are its beaches, each tucked into its own cove with a distinct feel. Closest to the village centre is Livadi Beach, the largest, where soft sand and shallow waters make it great for families. Here you'll find sunbeds, tavernas, and a cheerful buzz of activity, yet even at “busy”, Bali's beaches never felt overrun. Walking east, you come to Varkotopos Beach, smaller and very child-friendly with fine sand and usually calm waters, protected from winds. This became my favourite morning swim spot, and I'd often have it nearly to myself at 9 AM, the sun just cresting the headland. Next is the harbour and Bali's main village beach (sometimes called Limani), right by the quaint fishing pier. It's pebbly, but perfect for snorkeling around the rocks – I spotted rainbow wrasse and even a shy octopus there one afternoon. Finally, furthest out (and my top pick) is Karavostasi Beach, a picturesque cove with crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Framed by cliffs and with just a couple of tavernas nearby, Karavostasi has an almost private feel. I spent an entire lazy day there, alternating between naps under an umbrella and dips in the refreshing sea. Bali's unique geography (set in a west-facing bay) means the sea is often calm like a lake, plus, fun fact, the waters are a bit cooler due to freshwater springs mixing in, very refreshing on hot days.
'Crete 151' - Attribution: Pat NearyVillage Strolls & Attractions
Beyond the beaches, Bali invites exploration on foot. A single narrow road connects the different levels of the village. Strolling it, you'll pass bougainvillea-draped courtyards, small shops selling local honey and olive oil, and cafes with views to die for. Don't miss walking up to the Panagia Charakiani Church on the hillside west of the harbour. I hiked up around sunset – the church was closed, but the panoramic view of all of Bali's coves below, bathed in golden light, was nothing short of magical. Culture-wise, Bali is more about simple pleasures than grand sights. One delightful find was a family-owned ceramics workshop just outside the village (ask locals for “Keramion”).
Dining by the Sea
In Bali, virtually every meal comes with a sea view. The waterfront tavernas are clustered around the central harbour and beaches, each offering incredibly fresh seafood and Cretan specialities. My most memorable dinner was at Taverna Karavostasi, up on a ledge above Karavostasi Beach. As dusk fell, I dined on grilled swordfish that tasted just hours out of the water, with a side of horta (wild greens) drizzled in lemon and local olive oil. The lights of the village twinkled across the bay, an utterly romantic setting. Down by the harbour, Taverna Psaropoula stands out for its classic Greek menu. I loved their garlic prawns and clay-pot lamb. During the day, beach snack bars serve gyros, salads, and cold beers to keep you fuelled between swims. There's also a charming bakery in the village centre where each morning I grabbed a fresh cheese pie and a frappe coffee to start the day. As for nightlife, Bali isn't about clubs – head to Rethymno or Heraklion if you need that. Evenings here are mellow, perhaps enjoying a cocktail at a chill bar, or listening to a bouzouki player at a taverna. In Bali, night-time entertainment is low-key and often spontaneously communal.
Where to Stay
Bali offers accommodation from budget to boutique, many clinging to the hillsides with splendid views. Bali Star Resort Hotel, near Varkotopos Beach, is a popular mid-range choice – modern rooms and a great pool, but still family-run warmth. For a luxurious retreat, Filion Suites Resort & Spa sits above the village with sweeping views and a shuttle down to the beaches. Note that because Bali is spread over slopes, some hotels involve stairs or steep paths, so if mobility is an issue, choose one by Livadi Beach on flatter ground. The trade-off for those elevated rooms, though, is the panorama – one I cherished every single day.
Insider Tips & Tidbits
Bali's location (roughly 30 km east of Rethymno, 50 km west of Heraklion) makes it a convenient stop if driving the island's north coast. Many visitors arrive as a day trip, but staying overnight reveals its soul. Parking can be tight in the village centre in high season; thankfully, much of Bali is pedestrian-friendly. Wear comfortable shoes for the inclines, and do wander into the upper old village (Epano Bali) – it's quieter up there, with friendly locals who may invite you to taste their home-grown grapes or show you around the tiny folklore display in the old school.
For explorers, the surrounding region has gems: the Melidoni Cave (with stalactites and a poignant history from Ottoman times) is a short drive, and the pottery village of Margarites is not far either. One of my sweetest memories was one morning watching fishermen in Bali's harbour bringing in their catch – a local taverna owner haggled good-naturedly over some fish, then later that evening served that very catch to a table of us with exuberant pride. In Bali, you feel the rhythms of a village that, despite its popularity, remains intimately connected to the sea and land. It's a place where I left a piece of my heart, or perhaps, took a piece of Bali's peaceful spirit with me.
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