Bali

Bali is a tiny seaside village on the northern coast of Crete, halfway between Rethymno and Heraklion, that offers an unforgettable experience for yachtsmen. It is located within the Rethymnon region, about 30 kilometers east of Rethymno town, on the site of the ancient city of Astale and the harbor of Axus, of which little remains.

Despite Bali’s long history, until recently it had been a sleepy little fishing village for many decades. Today, it has been perfectly curated by the municipality and locals to cater to the swaths of tourists who arrive each summer.

Now, there are several sandy, well-organized beaches with facilities for sunbathing and a multitude of water sports. The calm, protected waters of the bays are favored by families with children as well as boats that wish to anchor. The rugged cliffs that hug the Sea of Crete create a stunning backdrop for photos and relaxation. Though the name of the village is identical to that of the island of Bali in Indonesia, the Bali in Crete is pronounced by emphasizing the last syllable.

The Atmosphere of a Tiny Tourist Resort

Bali exudes a charming and laid-back atmosphere that instantly captivates visitors. The village retains its traditional character, with quaint whitewashed houses clinging to the cliffs overlooking the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea. The warm and friendly locals welcome visitors with open arms, creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere that beckons exploration.

The modern quadrants of the village have been specifically designed with tourism in mind, so there are ample restaurants, bars, tavernas, hotels, and other services available. There is even a lively club that keeps the party going through the night.

Sailing and Anchorage Conditions

For yachtsmen, Bali offers favorable wind conditions, making it an ideal destination for sailing enthusiasts. The island benefits from a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters. The Meltemi winds, which usually blow from May to September, create steady breezes that add an exhilarating touch to the sailing experience. The waters are generally calm and clear, ensuring smooth navigation and safe anchorage options.

Though there is no marina, the main bay is an excellent place to anchor, with good holding and protection from most winds. It's easy to take a dinghy to shore, where ample offerings line the waterfront, from boutique shops to Cretan restaurants. It is exposed to the Meltemi, so extended stays may not be advisable. There is a small fishing jetty where smaller vessels can tie off in rougher weather.

The Charmingly Intimate Beaches of Bali

Bali boasts an array of stunning beaches that cater to every preference. The beaches are known for their warm, crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and breathtaking surroundings. Each beach offers vibrant beach bars, parasols and sunbeds, and other services. Bali is especially known for its wide variety of water sports activities that include jet skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, banana boating, and many others, and each bay will have many equipment rental options. These beaches do tend to get crowded with tourists, especially in the peak months of July and August.

Livadi Beach is one of the larger ones in the area, with sandy shores and steady waves. It is well organized, with many rental businesses, beach bars, and inflatable play equipment. This area is known for great snorkeling, diving, and windsurfing as well. It is not one of the calmer anchorage points, however, so it should be accessed by land.

For those who’d like to remain close to the main harbor, Bali Beach, also called Limani Beach, is right next to the breakwater. It is a very sheltered bay with calm, shallow waters enclosed by the amphitheatrical hills and the charming heart of the village itself. This locale is well organized, with many equipment rentals and options for refreshments. It can be reached with a short dinghy ride from the harbor or even a quick swim.

Another popular bay in Bali is Varkotopos Beach, directly south of the main harbor. This beautiful, well-organized bay is perfect for families with little wind and waves. The sandy shores also offer a wide area of shallow water for safe wading. They also regularly set up a large inflatable playground structure in the shallows. This is another spot that is best approached by land.

To the north of the main harbor is the tiny yet stunning Karavostasi Beach. Also known as Evita Bay, it is considered Bali’s most beautiful beach. It is enclosed on nearly every side by dramatic, rugged cliffs, which perfectly frame the calm cerulean waters. It is accessible from the village center by hiking trail and is well organized with parasols and one beach bar.

Things to Do: Caves, History, Villages, and More

Aside from water sports and sunbathing, Bali offers a myriad of activities to engage in. Visitors can explore the local markets and boutiques, where they can find traditional crafts, handmade souvenirs, and locally produced goods. History lovers enjoy a visit to the historic monastery of Agios Ioannis, perched on a hilltop, where they can immerse themselves in the spiritual ambiance. For the more adventurous, the rugged surrounding landscapes offer opportunities for hiking and exploring hidden caves.

There are actually quite a few caves in the area. The most famous one is Melidoni Cave, also known as Gerontospilios, and it has great historical and archeological importance. The cave features huge stalactite and stalagmite formations in its many chambers, and the main chamber is a staggering 20 meters high. It can be visited with a 10-kilometer journey from the harbor into the countryside.

If travelers choose to use Bali as a base for other travel, there are many Cretan gems nearby. Rethymnon City and its famous Old Venetian Town are perhaps the most famous in the area. There is also the ancient city of Eleftherna, which has many fascinating ruins; the Arkadi Monastery, a baroque church with a small museum, which was instrumental in the Cretan resistance against the Ottomans; and the villages of Margarites and Spili, where travelers can enjoy the work of local artisans and experience rural Cretan culture.