8Balos Lagoon, Crete – Greece

Balos is a masterpiece of color—the water ranges from milky turquoise to vivid emerald, blending into tones so surreal they feel painted.

This lagoon sits between rugged cliffs and a wild peninsula, creating a panorama that feels untouched by time. Wade through warm, shallow waters that look like they were filtered through sunbeams and crushed seashells.