Published: 14:43 BST, 31 August 2026 | Updated: 19:22 BST, 31 August 2026
A picturesque beach in Greece has been dubbed 'hell on earth' after it was overrun by a mass of tourists.
Video footage taken from Balos Beach, on the north-west tip of Crete, showed it inundated with countless visitors.
Even as the whole shoreline was filled with tourists, more kept arriving via boat.
So many people were on the beach that no one could move. Balos Beach is famed for its turquoise waters and beautiful views, which draw thousands to it every year.
Local media reported that authorities are working to limit the number of people who are allowed to visit the beach at a time, to preserve the environment.
Proposals suggest that only 1,200 people are allowed on the shoreline every three hours, whether they arrive by boat or by car.
Many spots across Greece have been flooded with holidaymakers this summer.
Over in Santorini earlier this month, rowdy tourists were seen forming snaking queues through the island's streets.
Video footage taken from Balos Beach, on the northwest tip of Crete, showed it inundated with countless visitors
Even as the whole shoreline was filled with tourists, more kept arriving via boat
So many people were on the beach that no one could move
Balos Beach is famed for its turquoise waters and beautiful views, which draw thousands to it every year
Dubbed the most Instagrammable location on the Greek island, two-hour-long queues have caused carnage in the quaint alleys of Oia, the famous cliffside village – all in pursuit of the best angle featuring the famous blue-domed Orthodox Greek churches.
Desperate for the perfect shot, there were dozens of selfie-hunting holidaymakers queuing around the winding corners as early as 7am, rushing to the famous viewpoint that has been touted by influencers on TikTok as the best location for a photo.
