albania tourism beaches

The best beaches of the Albanian Riviera

Jun 24, 2019 • 4 min read

Sandy Drymades beach during summer, on the Ionian Sea, Albania.

Albania’s rugged coastline, with traditional villages nestled in isolated bays and golden beaches lapped by turquoise waters, was a revelation when travellers first started discovering the country during the turn of the century. Since then Europe’s last untouched beaches have changed almost beyond recognition, but there’s still plenty of reason to come here and explore this magnificent coastline where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet.

You may have heard of the Albanian Riviera and its beaches, once catchwords of true backpackerdom – their names were synonymous with unspoilt sands backed by rolling hills covered in olive groves, rustic accommodation right next to the water, and grilled meats and cold beers for the equivalent of a handful of change.

Inevitably that hasn’t endured; asphalt roads now connect all but the most far-flung of the Riviera’s villages, while hotels, restaurants and holiday homes dot the coastline. Today you’re more likely to be competing for beach space with a day-tripping family from Tirana than a crowd of international shoestringers. And yet, despite the Riviera’s transformation, there are still idyllic and breathtaking spots along this craggy coast. Here are some of the very best.

The beach at Dhërmi is one of the most famous in Albania , a dazzling strip of white rock several kilometres long that is lapped by deep blue water. Outside peak season, it’s very quiet, and while the summer months now get very busy, the beach is long enough to find a quiet spot away from the crowds even in mid-August. For explorers, there are lots of coves and smaller bays further along the beach, including the famous Drymades beach, where excellent budget accommodation can be had and a number of smart hotels are found on the beach itself.

This is the first accessible beach on the Riviera after negotiating the incredible descent through the zigzagging Llogaraja Pass . A relatively new access road takes you from the main road to the beach itself, a glorious stretch of white sand sprinkled with a handful of low-key local eateries. Sadly the serenity of this overlooked spot could soon be tarnished somewhat, as building work begins on a sprawling, ugly apartment complex that will change the landscape of the beach and bring an increased number of bathers. But, for now at least, Palasa remains the perfect spot for beach bums wanting to avoid crowds, camp alone on the beach and swim in pristine waters.

South of Saranda , the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera, and within striking distance of the Greek border, Ksamil has an excellent location. The three small islands in its turquoise bay are an easy swim or boat ride away, and there are always fewer people here than on the busier town beach. This is a big tourism centre for locals, and it can get very crowded in summer, but even then the islands offer some respite. Corfu looms across the channel in the distance (this is Albania’s closest point to the Greek island), and the ancient city of Butrint , a Unesco World Heritage Site, is just beyond Saranda, which makes it very easy to combine beach time with some cultural pursuits.

This little charmer of a cove is often overlooked by travellers hurrying towards the bright lights of Saranda, a short distance beyond it. Bunec is quiet and somewhat unusual, with a pebbly white beach divided by a river which runs down from the mountains above. The sunset here is gorgeous, and the beach is a good option for those looking for a bit more comfort while remaining in a pleasingly unspoilt place: both the Bunec Bed and Breakfast and Naza Hotel have smart double rooms right next to the water, and there are a couple of budget campsites and simple cafes here as well. Apart from that, there’s nothing but the silence and the waves – and that’s the whole point.

The sleepy town of Himara is a well-established stop on the tourist trail. Despite its growth in the past decade it hasn’t lost its charm, although the town beach is now crowded in summer. Instead, head 4km south of the town to Llamani beach, a wide, white stone beach backed by rolling hills and with inviting, clear water for swimming. In Himara itself, Potami beach is a good alternative to the main one; you’ll find it just south of the centre, beyond the large rock that cuts the town in two.

The largest unbroken stretch of beach in Albania, 7km-long Borsh is quite a sight as you approach it along the dramatic coastal road leading to the wide plain with the eponymous town spread out before you. Even more remarkable is that tourism has barely touched Borsh, despite its significant community and busy olive-oil production industry – the beach is backed by little more than a few makeshift restaurants and bars. This is inevitably going to change soon, as developers train their sights on the empty lots backing the beach, so come now to enjoy this magical place.

This article was originally published in May 2015 and updated in June 2019.

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The 11 Most Beautiful Beaches in Albania

Thanks to its Riviera and splendid beaches, Albania has become one of the main European tourist destinations in recent years. But which are the most beautiful Albanian beaches? Here is the list of the most popular beaches in the country of Eagles.

The village of Ksamil has numerous attractive beaches, so finding an area you like will not be challenging. Not surprisingly, it is one of Europe’s summer havens and one of the most popular destinations in the Mediterranean, especially in July and August.

The sand is bright, and the sea turquoise and shallow; many bars and restaurants are on the beach. The lido is connected with shuttles from Saranda.

One of the hidden pearls of Albania is certainly the beach of Gjipe. Tourists can go there by boat or car, although in the latter case, they will then have to continue on a stretch of road on foot to the coast.

The beach is surrounded by high rocks, which gives the feeling of being on a secret island, not an ordinary beach. The water is crystal clear with beautiful shades of dark.

Karaburun beach

This beach is within the Karaburun-Sazan National Park, the only marine park in the country. The reserve extends for two kilometers near the bay of Vlora.

The park has Roman ruins and wrecks from the Second World War. The area is ideal for scuba diving due to the cliffs and underwater caves.

With one of the most extended coasts in the south (6 km long), beautiful bays, excellent accommodation, and vibrant nightlife, the beach offers a unique atmosphere for all tourists.

It is one of the largest cities in southern Albania and has a new boulevard full of bars, cafes, restaurants, fast-food outlets, and much more.

The many beaches of Himara and its strategic position – from where all the most beautiful beaches in the south are easily accessible – are just some of the reasons why many visitors choose Himara as a vacation spot.

The old castle, churches, delicious restaurants , traditional houses, and modern tourist services make this place perfect for a 360-degree summer experience.

Saranda is a city on the sea, in front of the island of Corfu. Even in the city, you can take advantage of a swim in a crystal clear sea. The beach is pebbly and well served. On the promenade, there are restaurants and bars for all tastes.

Furthermore, just a short distance from the city center, you can go to other attractive beaches such as the ‘Pasqyrat’ beach.

also read: Best things to do in Saranda

If you visit Himara, it is also mandatory to go to Livadh beach, located only a few kilometers away.

The beach is one of the longest in the country and has become famous for its dark waters and olive trees.

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Albania, Gramë bay, is a beautiful destination to spend the summer days by the sea, near Vlora.

You can only go there by boat and offer camping services. But it is good to remember to bring with you food and water and everything you need for the day because the area does not offer other types of services.

Velipoje Beach

In the north of Albania, almost on the border with Montenegro, the small Velipoje boasts all the characteristics of a perfect seaside town: a long beach, many services for tourists, and typical restaurants where you can taste excellent fish dishes. The country’s real attraction is represented by over ten kilometers of coast bathed by the Adriatic Sea’s clear waters, which overlooks a beach of fine sand, particularly rich in iodine.

Vlora is undoubtedly the tourist seaside resort par excellence of Albania. If you want to spend a holiday in a place that offers you fun and beautiful beaches, this is the one for you. If you don’t want to move to discover Vlora’s surroundings, the city beach itself offers you soft sand and clear waters for a day of relaxation or the sport of your choice.

Along the northernmost coast of Albania, Durres is a pretty seaside resort loved by younger tourists and families with children because of the many entertainments offered on the beaches, the low sea, and the mostly sandy coast.

The city beach is known for the numerous sports activities tourists offer beach volleyball, soccer, bowling, and fishing. But, in Durres’s surroundings, the best-known seaside resorts are Golem and Mali I Robit, two marvelous beaches of clear sand long kilometers, perfectly equipped with bars and umbrellas to ensure visitors’ relaxation.

Quieter and more secluded, but absolutely to be included in the travel itinerary, is instead the Plazhi i Gjeneralit , a small horseshoe-shaped bay nestled between two rocky promontories and surrounded by dense Mediterranean vegetation.

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I would like to visit Albania next year and would like local tour agencies to take me around please could you recommend Albanian tour companies. I am a 76 year old single Australian Woman

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Home » Travel Guides » Albania » 15 Best Beaches in Albania

15 Best Beaches in Albania

It was just a decade ago that travellers really discovered the rugged coastline of Albania .

Its traditional villages burrowed in between golden beaches and isolated bays was an irresistibly charming combination.

Though a lot has changed, the Albanian Riviera is still known for its beauty and as one of the top beach destination spots.

The roads are paved now, making for easy access along the coast where the Adriatic meets the Ionian Sea, and there’s a wide variety of accommodations and restaurants to keep you comfortable.

Albania, and particularly the southern part of the country, has secluded pebble beaches, islands, and a few hidden and pristine sandy beaches.

Come and enjoy the landscape, the fresh seafood, and the marvellous sunsets.

Located in the south of Albania is Saranda . It’s a small town of about 30,000 and is one of the most visited places in the country.

Though it’s not the best on offer when it comes to the beaches, it does make a perfect base camp to explore several beaches and other tourist stops like Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This is where everyone starts.

The food is good and cheap, it’s easily accessible, and has that ideal Mediterranean climate that holiday-ers crave.

Enjoy a walk along the promenade and head up to Lekursi Castle for some fantastic views of the gulf.

Just south of Saranda is the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera. Ksamil is often the first and most exciting day excursion.

The beaches here are some of the only sandy beaches in the country and there are generally less people there.

Many of the beaches are privately owned and charge a small admissions fee but it’s the perfect spot for those looking to be centrally located.

There are three small islands just off shore and make for a fantastic boat ride or swim through brilliant turquoise waters.

This is the place that many Albanians come to during the summer months.

And just across the channel is Corfu, the nearest Greek Island to Albania.

3. The Blue Eye (Syri Kalter)

This is one of those natural wonders that captures our imaginations. And, okay, technically it’s not a beach – it’s a natural spring.

But since it’s discovery travellers have been visiting and marvelling at The Blue Eye, trying to unlock its secrets.

Water bubbles up to the surface at a surprising rate. No one actually knows how deep it is, as divers have only descended to 50 metres.

And if those two facts are not intriguing enough, The Blue Eye is gorgeously, brilliantly blue. And no one knows why.

Locals call it Syri I kalter and love to tell you the legends and origin myths surrounding the spring.

Located near Muzinë in Vlorë County, the area around the spring is a nature reserve full of old oak and sycamore trees.

This is a place for slowing down and enjoying Mother Nature to the fullest.

One of the longest beaches on the Albanian Riviera, Dhermi is a tourist favourite for those looking for a slightly more upscale experience.

Just up the hill from the beach is the village, filled with wonderful stone houses which bring to mind an idyllic bygone era.

The beach itself is a pebble beach surrounded by coastal pine forests.

You have the choice of enjoying the main beach that comes complete with amenities and people watching, or head to the outer lengths where the beach is more pristine and quiet.

While you’re there, be sure to check out Hypapante Church, Panagia Monastery, The Pirates Cave, and Gramata Harbour.

Borsh is a massive beach and at 7km, is the longest unbroken stretch in Albania.

Everyone enjoys the dramatic vista as they come into town from the coastal road.

The village is rather large thanks to the industry that has developed around the many olive groves in the area.

Despite this, one of the best parts of Borsh is that it is still largely untouched by tourism development.

The village is backed by high mountain peaks which add to the ambiance of this laid back village.

The village of Himara is a staple on the tourist circuit and yet hasn’t lost any of the charm that made it this way.

It’s primarily populated by Greeks, and even though they are a minority in Albania, they’ve done a good job of retaining their roots and infusing the village with their culture.

There are several great beaches to check out in Himara. Start with Livadhia, which is about 3km north of town. It’s a wide white stone beach with rolling hills nearby and great surf for swimming.

Potami is also worth noting. It’s on the other side of the large coastal rock that divides the village. It makes a nice change from the main beach without having to go far.

Near to Saranda, Bunec is a beautiful cover often overlooked by travellers. It’s quiet for a start. Definitely not the party beach.

But it’s also divided by a river which begins up in the mountains surrounding the beach. It’s charming and unspoilt and has some pretty incredible sunsets.

Accommodations are good, with camping being a popular option. This is the beach for those seeking the inner silence that comes with the lull of the waves hitting the shore.

This is where the best of both worlds collide.

Lukova is another quiet beach, but the town is a good size with lots of conveniences, which means that you’ve got shopping and nightlife on hand to spice things up.

There are small pristine beaches which are rather intimate as well as the more popular mainstream beaches packed with happy holiday makers.

The combination of the crystal blue Ionian Sea and the green natural surroundings make you feel like you’ve found a little piece of paradise.

Check out Lumra beach, Buneci beach, and Cave beach.

The Llogaraja Pass is an unbelievable zigzag through the mountains.

For those who brave it, they are immediately rewarded with Palasa beach, the first stop on the other side of the pass.

Here the beach is a combination of white sand and rock.

Thanks in part to Llogaraja Pass, there is really very little development here.

There are a few restaurants and cafes that dot the landscape and one nightclub that often draws a crowd, but aside from this, Palasa is the beach for those whose aim is to avoid the crowd.

Pristine waters, camping options, and a quaint village with white houses and a 400-year-old platanus (tree) at its centre await you.

Llogara National Park is also nearby.

10. Jalë Beach

Jalë is a great beach for parties and camping. It’s one of more beautiful beaches in Albania and comes with just about everything you’d want when you’re looking to get the most out of your holiday.

Relaxation, swimming in crystal clear water, long walks, snorkelling, amazing views, and a great night life.

Thanks to the parties and good music, Jalë draws a younger crowd. Nearby you’ll find Livadh beach, Aquarium beach, and Dhermi.

11. Pasqyrat Beach

The gem in the crown of the Albanian Riviera is Pasqyrat beach.

It’s a pebbled beach set a little way off from the village, hotels, and restaurants, which means you’ll feel like you’re further out in nature than you are.

The words most often used to describe Pasqyrat?  Secluded, peaceful, and gorgeous.

12. Golem Beach

Hundreds of thousands come to Golem beach each year, making it the most popular of the Albanian beaches.

It’s one of the preferred destinations for Albanians themselves, not to mention the neighbouring countries of Kosovo and Macedonia.

The road through town stretches along the coast so everything is easy to access.

There’s tons of great eating and drinking to be had.

It’s close to the capital city of Tirana and because of that, the services and amenities available are top-notch.

13. Orikum Beach

Founded in the 6th century by the Greeks, Orikum is the second largest port in Albania.

Once used by Caesar who kept his troops here, today it’s the preferred destination for holiday yachters.

Located between Saranda and Vlora, this is the beach people return to year after year.

It’s clean with fine pebbles, and the restaurants are widely known for the fabulous traditional food that they serve.

Sail to the nearby caves on the Karaburum peninsula for a great day excursion.

Despite the presence of tourism and recent development, this is not a town known for excess – come here to enjoy the nautical life that a port town offers.

14. Gjipe Beach

For nature lovers, the Albanian Riviera offers Gjipe beach.

Hidden by the surrounding mountain, the beach itself is accessible only by asphalt road and set apart from the town.

To reach the beach requires a nice 30-minute trek through the forest that offers fabulous views of the coast. There’s rarely a crowd here.

The beach itself is at the end of Gjipe Canyon, which also offers lots of great hiking.

Despite the seclusion, there are a few amenities like a snack vendor and some straw huts, but you’ll definitely feel like you’re in a personal paradise.

15. Zvërnec Beach

Speaking of personal paradise, Zvërnec beach has the landscape, the blue water, and a small island that combine to provide you with the perfect holiday experience.

The island includes an 18th century monastery in the middle of a pine forest, accessible only by a wooden bridge.

Camp and hike here, lounge and swim here.

It’s a quick 15 minutes from Vlora, but feels like another world!

15 Best Beaches in Albania:

• The Blue Eye (Syri Kalter)
• Pasqyrat Beach
• Golem Beach
• Orikum Beach
• Gjipe Beach
• Zvërnec Beach

The Balkans and Beyond

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The Definitive Guide to the Very Best Beaches in Albania

The Best Beaches in Albania

When you think of Albania, white sandy beaches and dramatic coastlines might not immediately spring to mind. But Albania is full of surprises. The Albanian Riviera is increasing in popularity year on year. Sunbathers seem to be a mixture of day trippers from inland Albanian towns and the occasional tourist from Italy or neighboring Greece.  The unspoiled beaches are growing busier with every enthusiastic blog describing the best beaches in Albania. It’s easy to see the appeal, the rugged landscape is exceptional, the sun is hot, the nightlife is bouncing and the prices are a fraction of those in other European resorts.

Albania is a beautiful country and the choice can be overwhelming. So whether you want to join the crowds or find your own private paradise, here is our guide to the very best beaches in Albania.

The Best Beaches in Albania – Saranda’s Beaches

Located in Southern Albania, Saranda is the largest beach town on the Albanian Riviera with many beaches along its shore. There are three large public beaches near the centre of Saranda.

While there are more scenic beaches within a short distance, the town’s beaches are very convenient and accessible. If you are staying in Saranda and just want to spend a couple of hours sunbathing, these beaches are perfect. The public beaches are free and sun loungers are available to hire for about €2.50. There are also plenty of bars and restaurants along the promenade.

Saranda is only a short ferry ride from Corfu and makes a great day trip for those staying on the Island. The town not only has some of the best beaches in Albania, it also has a deep and ancient history, delicious seafood and some great hiking in the hills overlooking the town, all for a fraction of the price you might pay in Corfu and other European beach destinations.

Being a city, Saranda is more touristy than other Albanian beach resorts. However, it also has many amenities and some great accommodation to offer. Check out our other recommended beaches if you’re looking to go off the beaten track.

Mango Beach, Saranda

Thatched beach parasols line the white sand and look across the sapphire water. Near the very centre of Saranda, Mango beach has a low bustle during the day, but really comes to life at night. There is a lively vibe with some fantastic clubs and bars.

The beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs giving it a more exotic flavor.

The Best Beaches in Albania – Ksamil

One of the most popular summer locations in Albania is Ksamil Beach – a beach lover’s paradise! Just a short trip from Saranda lies the small town of Ksamil with its serene islands, clear green waters and bright white, sandy beaches. It is also very close to the ancient City of Butrint and ranks highly amongst the best beaches in Albania.

Ksamil has several smaller beaches, many of which are owned by bars or restaurants, so it’s often necessary to pay for a sun lounger. Saying that, it will only cost a couple of Euros (or free with a meal or drink in the off season) and you can watch the sunset over the islands with a cocktail in your hand.

Avoid visiting in August as the crowds get a little crazy. However, there are no big chain hotels here and many businesses are family owned. This makes Ksamil feel like a more relaxed and blissful beach location than others in Europe.

Mirror Beach

Between Saranda and Ksamil, this beach lives up to its name. The turquoise water glistens in the sun and the rugged cliffs frame the coastline beautifully. This beach is a lot quieter than others in the area, even in the summer, making it a great option for avoiding the crowds.

One of the most famous beaches in Ksamil but also amongst the busiest in the area. It is definitely best avoided in the summer months of July and August – unless you’re hoping to mingle with other sun seekers. During the rest of the year it is a lovely beach to visit.

The Best Beaches in Albania – Durres Beaches

Further North, and a short drive from the capital Tirana , is the port town of Durres. In this ancient, former capital, you will find a 10km stretch of beach along Albania’s coast.

Durres has long been a popular destination for day trippers from Tirana and for those visiting from land locked Kosovo and North Macedonia.

The town itself has some beautiful historic sites, such as the Roman amphitheater, Venetian castle and beautiful Mosque. Down by the water there is a long promenade lined with great places to eat and drink and a long, elaborate pier. The sand is not as fine and white as that in Ksamil but the water is just as clear.

There is plenty of space in this busy beach town so make sure you take a walk along the sand to find a quieter location.

Golem Beach

Just south of Durres is the town of Golem. It has an easily accessible beach with coarse white sand and lined with beautiful Albanian pine trees. The beach here is popular so there are great services, many places to eat and drink and it’s great for kids.

Kallm Beach

For a beautifully quiet beach, try Kallm, a little to the north of Durres. The waters are warm and shallow and it’s still super close to Durres for convenience.

Bunker Beach

For something a bit different, check out the cold war bunkers at the Cape of Rodon. About an hour away from Durres, this quirky beach perfectly illustrates an intensely paranoid period in Albania’s history. The Bunkerization Project was initiated by Dictator Enver Hoxha in the 1960s and resulted in the construction of over 173,000 bunkers across the country. Several of which still line the shores at the Cape of Rodon

The Best Beaches in Albania – Vlorë

The town of Vlora (Vlorë in Albanian) sits on a bay between the Ionian and Adriatic Seas. When visiting this part of Albania you will be spoilt for choice with so many spectacular beaches. Vlora is the fifth largest city in Albania and there is plenty to see and do here.

The Mediterranean climate here means there are around 300 sunny days per year, perfect for spending loads of time on the beach! The Ceraunian Mountains are close by offering amazing hiking opportunities if you grow tired of the gentle, turquoise waters.

Some of the best beaches in Albania can be found in Vlora County, here are a few of our favorites.

Dhërmi Beach

Heralded as one of Albania’s best beaches and it’s easy to see why. Dhërmi is a small beach in a bay overlooked by the town atop a craggy cliff. The fine, white pebbles are a beautiful contrast to the sparkling green water, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists. However, if you take a walk along the beach you are bound to find a quiet spot, even in the summer.

There are plenty of restaurants serving delicious, fresh seafood nearby.

Drymades Beach

Not far from Dhërmi is Drymades beach. This is like a little piece of heaven. This place is quiet and relaxing and is known for its incredible sunsets across the twinkling water. A great beach if you’re looking for a bit of space and calmness.

Himara Beach, Albania

Possibly one of the most glamorous beaches in Albania, Himara enjoys the sun all year round. Sailing and fishing boats pass in and out of the harbor while the town offers plenty of clubs, cafes and restaurants. Borsh, Porto Palermo and Lukova beaches are also nearby.

Gjipe Beach

Close to Vlora’s other beaches, Gjipe is a bit different. It has barely been touched by development as the surrounding mountains make it less accessible. If you’re up for the 2km hike (1.25 miles), you will be greatly rewarded. The beach is stunning but remains quiet even in the height of summer. This is an amazing spot for those who like to explore and hope to avoid the summer crowds.

This is another, almost, secret beach in Albania. But you have to work for it! There are no roads to this beach so you will need to walk a few kilometers over tricky terrain, or take a boat. Once there, you might just have the whole cove to yourself. Don’t miss the inscriptions on the cliff face dating back to the ancient Greeks!

There are so many exceptional beaches in Vlora country. The following didn’t make the list but need an honorary mention – Zvërnec Beach, Jala Beach, Palasa beach and Bunec beach.

When to Visit Albania’s Best Beaches

As mentioned, summer can get a little wild. The months of July and August can get hot and busy. The mercury will often soar above 40°C (104°F) so Albanians and tourists flock to the coast in an attempt to keep cool.

If you want to avoid the sweaty crowds, the shoulder months are ideal for visiting Albania’s beautiful beaches. June and September are the best months for relaxing sun seeking as the weather is very pleasant and you might end up with a beach to yourself.

Should I Rent a Car to Explore the Best Beaches in Albania?

This is a tricky one, and definitely down to personal preference. Albania’s public transport is cheap and cheerful but far from wide ranging. It is great for travelling between towns and cities but reaching the secluded beaches will be difficult. Saying that, if you can haggle, a taxi driver will take you anywhere!

Hitchhiking in Albania is a popular way to get around and is supposedly perfectly safe. We have not tried this ourselves but have spoken to many successful hitchers.

If you decide to rent a car in Albania, please make sure you take out the full insurance. Drivers in the Balkans have their own unique style… On our last visit to Saranda we spent 3 days in the town and witnessed 2 crashes. Make sure you plan your journey in advance as there are many smaller roads that are not more than dirt tracks.

If you take the plunge and decide that driving is best for you, try SIXT . They are really handy if you are starting your journey in Saranda and are located just beside the port.

Renting a car will provide a lot more freedom and independence and make it easier to avoid the crowds. While exploring, look out for signs pointing to “Plazhi…” meaning beach in Albanian. All along the jagged coastline there are serene, and often secret, beaches. We’re not here to spoil these quiet pieces of heaven by providing exact coordinates. We simply intend to expand your wanderlust.

What to Pack for your Best Albanian Beach Trip

You’re excited about hitting the best beaches in Albania, lounging on the warm sand and listening to the gentle waves brushing the coastline. But you’re in a rush! Here’s a super easy packing list to make sure you don’t arrive in paradise unprepared.

• Sunscreen 
• Sunglasses 
• Bathing suit 
• A good book 
• Beach Towel 
• Cell phone and power bank or charger 
• Frisbee/ball
• Drinking water
• Map downloaded on phone (if you’re going exploring)

Where to go next

Ready for another adventure? Why not travel from Saranda to the Mysterious Blue Eye . A natural spring of unknown depth and incredible beauty.

Final note:  Things change in the Balkans all the time and there is not much information online in English. We would definitely advise checking with a local where possible. We found people to be really friendly and super helpful.

Have you visited Albania? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop a comment in the box, we’d love to hear from you!

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We love to travel and share our Balkan experiences to assist and inspire

Yes, definitely! Where else in the world can you relax beside a nuclear bunker!?

Yes, I would love to get back to Albania too! Hopefully soon…

Albania’s beaches are awesome! But don’t save it for the summer, they’re beautiful all year round

Wow Albania seems to have a lot of great beaches to choose from. I think I would prefer to hit up the more remote ones. I really like the look of the bunker beach!

Alabania is fabulous! I did some hitchhiking there as a solo female traveler and it was relatively easy! Would love to get back and explore more of these beaches.

I had never thought of Albania as a beach destination before. The beaches look beautiful. Hopefully I can spend a summer there soon.

We would love to hear what you think! Cancel reply

30 Best Albania Beaches

The Albania beaches are absolutely beautiful, but nobody knows about it! In Albania, you can still drive along the coastal road and find a little hidden beach. Can you imagine that Albania is that close to Italy, Greece, Montenegro and Croatia, but still unknown!

If you enjoy going on an adventure, discovering hidden beaches and travelling off-the-beaten-path, you will absolutely love the Albania beaches. And to make your Albania beach holidays a little more easy to plan, I have made you a list of the 30 Best Beaches in Albania. This list will help you to select which Albania beaches should definitely be included on your next Albania beach vacation!

Where is the Albanian Riviera?

The Albanian riviera is the 120 km long coastline between the city Vlore and the city Saranda. Although Albania has beaches in the north of the country, the best and most beautiful beaches of Albania are in the south.

The best way to visit the Albanian Riviera is to drive by car along the coastal road. The starting point of the Albanian Riviera is the city of Vlora. From Vlora you can drive the 120 km road down to the city Saranda. Be sure to take your time though, and stop to explore the little hidden beaches along the way! Enjoy your Albanian riviera holidays! And scroll down for Albanian riviera best beaches!

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Which are the large Albania beach towns?

The two large Albanian beach towns are Saranda City and Vlore City. Both cities have a promenade along the bay, with many restaurants, bars, hotels and clubs. Therefore, you can describe both Saranda and Vlora as vibrant, exciting and trendy.

The most famous beach places in the country is Saranda beach Albania. The city is all the way in the south of Albania and close to the Greek border. Many people say that Saranda is the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera. And with the lovely Mediterranean Saranda weather and 325 sunny days a year, you can hardly resist.

The biggest city in the Albanian Riviera is Vlora. The city has a very Mediterranean feel to it; There is a winding road that takes you around the edges of the Bay of Vlore. And there is a lovely promenade along the sea which is lined with palm trees and little cafes.

How to get to the Albanian Riviera?

To visit the Albanian Riviera you have two options. Option one is to fly to the capital city Tirana and drive along the coast to Vlore city. Or option two is to fly to Corfu Island in Greece and to take the ferry boat across the sea to Saranda. Unfortunately, there is no Albanian riviera airport yet.

How to get to Albania beaches from Tirana airport?

The best way to reach the Albania beaches from Tirana airport is to rent a car, book a tour or travel by furgon mini bus. If you do not want to travel the distance, the closest beach to Tirana is Durres, which is just a 45-minutes drive. If you would like to travel from Tirana Albania airport to the Albanian Riviera, you must drive to Vlore city. The roads from Tirana to Vlore are in good condition and some sections of the road are completely new. From Tirana, you should drive along the road to Durres, then continue to Fier and and then towards Vlore. This drive takes you about 4 hours or half a day.

How to get from Corfu island to the Albania beaches?

Corfu Island is very close Saranda in the south of the Albanian Riviera. Therefore, you can fly to Corfu Airport and take a ferry boat across the sea to Saranda. The ferry journey starts from the Port in Corfu and travels across the sea to the Port of Saranda. There are two types of boats. Firstly, the Flying Dolphin high-speed boat, which takes 30 minutes. And secondly, the slower ferry boat, which takes 70 minutes.

1. Saranda Beach Albania

Saranda Albania is a big, vibrant city all the way in the South of the Albanian coast. The city is close to the Greek border and you can see Corfu Island just across the bay. Albania Beach Saranda is the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera. Saranda has a vibrant boulevard along the sea with many bars, restaurants, clubs and cafes.

Moreover, you can use Albanian beaches Saranda as a hub to visit smaller beaches in the area like Ksamil, Monastery Beach, Mirror Beach and Pulebardha Beach. Furthermore, from Saranda you can make day trips to Butrint UNESCO sight, the Blue Eye Albania and Gjirokastra UNESCO sight. Or you can visit Mango Beach, which is a popular beach in Saranda.

How to get to Saranda beach in Albania?

To visit Albania beaches Saranda you can fly to the Greek Island Corfu or you can fly to Tirana Airport. If you fly to Corfu Island, you can book a ferry journey across the sea, which takes either 30 minutes by high speed boat or 70 minutes by ferry boat. The boats from Corfu arrive in the port of Saranda in Albania.

Alternatively, you can fly to Tirana Airport and travel by car to Saranda which takes 6-7 hours. The journey by car is very beautiful, as there are many little hidden beaches that you will see along the way. You may actually really enjoy the trip as you can stop along the way to explore little villages and beaches.

2. Ksamil Beach Albania – Why should you visit Ksamil?

Ksamil is a little beach village with the most beautiful beach in Albania. The beaches of Ksamil are considered the “pearl of the Albanian Riviera ”. The beaches of Ksamil are very idyllic; There is perfect white sand, bright clear blue sea water and little wooden piers leading into the sea.

The best activity in Ksamil is to swim, peddle or rent a boat to visit the three little islands in the bay. If you have always wanted to visit an uninhabited island and if you dream of a paradise beach, then Ksamil is the ideal place for you!

When should you visit Ksamil beach Albania?

The best time of the year to visit Ksamil beach is in late May, June or September. Although Ksamil is not as crowded as Italy, France or Spain in the summer, it is still best to visit right before or after the high season. Because you will simply enjoy it more while it is quite!

3. Ksamil Islands

In front of Ksamil beach, you can find four little islands that you can visit. The islands are uninhibited and the islands are only visited by tourists. You can visit the Ksamil islands by boat, by swimming or by canoe. The most interesting are the twin islands, where two little islands are connected to each other by a narrow strip of land.

What airport should you fly to if you want to go to Ksamil, Albania?

Ksamil is very close to the Greek border, therefore, if you only plan on visiting Ksamil beach, it is best to fly to Corfu Island and take the ferry across the sea to Saranda. The journey by boat will take you between 30 – 70 minutes. From Saranda city you can take a short taxi ride to Ksamil which costs around 10 euros.

What are the best beaches close to Saranda?

If you want to get away from the big city and the crowds in Saranda, there are three little beaches that you can escape to: Monastery beach, Mirror beach and Pulebardha beach. All three are just a short taxi ride away from Saranda.

4. Monastery beach

Monastery beach is one of those beautiful hidden beaches in Albania. To reach the beach, just take a short 20 minute taxi drive from Saranda. From the road on the top of the hill you can look down on the beach, which is completely surrounded by cliffs. The beach is named after a little monastery, which you can visit by hiking up the hill. Moreover, since this little beach is so hidden away between the cliffs, the beach feels very private, relaxed and secretive.

5. Mirror beach

Mirror beach is a little beach located along the road between Saranda and Ksamil. The beach of mirrors is a hidden gem and famous among the locals. You can easily visit the beach by taking a short taxi ride from either Saranda or Ksamil.

Mirror beach has perfect white sand, cliffs surrounding the sea and waves in the sea water. The most beautiful part of this beach is that the sun reflects in the sea water, which makes the sea look like a gigantic mirror.

6. Pulebardha beach

Pulebardha beach is a lovely secluded beach located between Saranda and Ksamil. The water is beautiful and clear. There is a little restaurant on the beach, which serves delicious and fresh food. There is also a big rock in the sea, so you can have a lot of fun jumping in the sea water. The beach is quite rocky, so be sure to bring water shoes with you.

7.Blue Eye of Albania

The Blue Eye of Albania is not really a beach, but it is a natural spring. This magical place is absolutely worth a visit, if you are in Saranda. The Blue Eye is a bright blue spring that looks like a human eye and there is nothing like it anywhere else on the planet. Looking at the spring is very calming and unforgettable. And for the real daredevils, you can jump into the underwater cave from a little platform above the spring. To reach the Blue Eye , drive 30-minutes along the road from Saranda to Gjirokastra until you see the signage.

8. Vlore Beach

The Albanian Riviera starts in the Mediterranean city Vlora. The coastal road curves around the massive bay of Vlore. Vlore is a large city with many restaurants, hotels, bars and clubs. It has a very vibrant and buzzing atmosphere. From Vlore you can drive to the south along the coastal road to visit the other beaches of the Albanian Riviera.

9. Jonufer Beach

Close to Saranda, there are several smaller beaches to the south that you can easily visit by bus or taxi. Examples are Orikum beach, Radhime beach and Jonufer beach.

10. Narta, Zvernec

From Vlore city, you can make a short trip to Zvernec Island. Close to the sea there is a beautiful sandy lagoon. Basically, a strip of sand has blocked some of the Adriatic sea water and created a lake. There is a small island called Zvernec in the water, which you can visit by walking over the wooden bridge. The island is in a very romantic setting and you can visit the little monastery on the island. Zvernec Island is not a beach for swimming, but it is a beautiful location to take pictures.

11. Karaburun Peninsula

The Karaburun Peninsula is a mountain range that leads into the sea. It basically is a gigantic pier into the sea. Along this mountain range, there are these little hidden beaches that can only be reached by boat.

12. Grama Bay

Grama Bay is the highlight of the Karaburun Peninsula. If you are looking for an intimate, hidden beach, then Grama Bay is your spot. In the past, the bay was used as a safe place for ships during a storm. Many ship crews left messages in the rocky cliffs surrounding the bay. Therefore, the Grama bay is also called the Bay of Scriptures. The Karaburun Peninsula & Grama Bay can only be reached by boat or by a long hike from the town Orikum.

The Llogara Pass

When you drive on the coastal road from Vlora towards Saranda, you will drive over the Llogara Pass. The Llogara Pass is the highest point (1027m) on the coastal road. From the pass you have a stunning view towards the sea and the beaches below. You look down on Palase beach and Dhermi beach, which are the first beaches below the pass. Be sure to stop for pictures and if you can have a lunch or a coffee in the restaurant, while enjoying the view.

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13. Palasa Beach

From the Llogara Pass, you drive down the zigzagging coastal road and the first beach you see is Palasa Beach. This little beach is untouched and the perfect place to avoid the crowds. The way you can describe Palase is: quite, serene, secluded and untouched. There are a few low-key family owned restaurants, but that is all you will find on this beach. Palasa beach is close to Dhermi, which is the complete opposite, as it is a cool, party type of beach.

14. Dhermi Beach

Dhermi beach is a vibrant and cool beach, which is very popular during the summer. If you are looking for a beach with vibrant nightlife and young people to hang-out with, then you will enjoy Dhermi. However, if you are looking for a quieter spot, you can walk along the sea, to visit some of the smaller beaches. Some of the smaller coves are incredibly beautiful, like for instance Drymades beach. The village of Dhermi is very charming, with the beautiful traditional stone houses.

15. Drymades Beach

Drymades beach is a smaller bay near Dhermi and one of the most beautiful beaches in Albania. You can take a 10-minute drive from the Dhermi village or walk along the beach. A large rock divides the pebbly Dhermi beach from the sandy Drymades beach. If you are visiting in July or August, Drymades beach is a very good option since it is not crowded in the summer.

16. Jale Beach

Jale is one of the most beautiful beaches, and a great place to get away from the city and relax. The beach is a small cove, with clear blue water and a very tropical atmosphere. Because it is such a small hidden-away place, it makes you instantly relaxed. Jale beach is close to the hillside village Vuno and it is located between Dhermi and Himara. The Vuno village is worth a little trip, if you are interested in a traditional Albanian village.

17. Gjipe Beach

Gjipe is a hidden beach completely squeezed in between high cliffs. The only way to reach the beach is by hiking 30 minutes through nature or travelling by boat from the nearby Jale beach. Because this beach is so hard to reach, it is completely private, secluded and quiet. Gjipe beach is absolutely a hidden gem, if you are willing to do the hiking, that is…

18. Himara Beach

Himara is a touristic beach village in the middle of the Albanian Riviera. You can recognize the beach by the massive rock that cuts the town into two parts. Himara is known for its charming appearance and the many olive trees that grow on the hills. There are several beautiful beaches near the village, for instance, Livadhi beach or Potami beach.

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19. llamani beach.

Llamani is a beach close to the Himare village. What makes Llamani beach special is that the water is partially sweet and cold, because it is filled with underwater mountain streams. There are also several fish swimming in the water. Llamani has all the facilities, like restaurants and clubs. If you are looking for more privacy, you can swim through the water to a smaller beach. This smaller beach can only be reached by sea.

20. Livadhi Beach

Livadhi Beach is a long beach a short drive from the town center of Himare. It is one of the longest beaches in the region and it is a great alternative from the busier beaches in the village of Himare. There are several restaurants, cafes and water sports activities on Livadhi beach.

21. Porto Palermo Beach & Castle

When you drive down the road from Himare, you will see the impressive Bay of Porto Palermo. In the middle of the bay there is a small peninsula with a Medieval Castle. Make a quick tour through the castle, because on the rooftop, you can make stunning pictures of the bay. On the peninsula, there is a small strip of beach and it is possible to make a boat trip through the bay.

22. Borsh Beach

Borsh is famous for being the largest beach in Albania. When you are driving down the coastal road and you first see the never-ending beach, it is a very impressive sight. Although Borsh beach can easily be reached by car or taxi from Saranda and Himara, it is still untouched by tourism. If you appreciate space and privacy, you will really enjoy Borsh.

23. Lukova Beach

Lukove is one of the best beaches near the city of Saranda, therefore, it is the perfect escape from the more crowded beaches. Along the coastline of Lukova, there is a variety of smaller beaches and a larger beach called Cave beach. Lukova is known for its natural beauty, since it has beautiful greenery, olive trees and crystal clear blue water. There are a few small restaurants on the beach, that serve Mediterranean and Local cuisine.

24. Bunec Beach

Bunec is another little cove beach, which is really close to Saranda. This beach is known for its lovely waves, silence and the beautiful sunset. A gorgeous river runs down from the mountains above and divides the beach into two halves. Bunec is the perfect place if you are looking for a quiet and charming spot in the proximity of Saranda city.

25. Pogradec Beach

Pogradec is not located near the sea, but it has a lakeside beach. Lake Ohrid is a massive lake on the border between Albania and Macedonia. On the Albanian side of the lake, you can visit the small town of Pogradec. You will enjoy Pogradec is you like travelling off-the-beaten path and you enjoy places with very few tourists. You can also visit the nearby springs of Drilon. The springs of Drilon and and take a lovely boat trip on the water surrounded by beautiful nature.

26. Durres Beach

Durres is one of the most conveniently located beaches in Albania, because it is only a 40 minute drive from the capital city Tirana. Therefore, visiting Durres is a good option is you are travelling by bus and taxi only, rather than a car for instance. When you visit Durres, you can expect a popular beach city. Which means many restaurants, hotels, bars, beach chairs, parasols and little shops. If you enjoy a vibrant and lively atmosphere, then you will enjoy Durres.

27. Spille Beach

Spille Beach is a lesser known, but beautiful beach near Tirana. The drive from Tirana city to Spille beach is around 1.5 hour, because you have to pass Durres and Kavaje, before reaching Spille. The beach is around 3 kilometres long, it is spacious and it has perfect white sand. It is a popular place to visit for families and a great alternative to the more crowded and vibrant Durres.

28. The Bay of Lalzi

The Bay of Lalzi or in Albanian Gjiri i lalzit is a lovely quiet beach close to Tirana. If you prefer to stay away from the crowds at Durres in the summer high season, then you will really enjoy Lalzi. Whereas Durres has tons of restaurants, Lalzi has only one small restaurant on sight. There are parasols and chairs on the beach, but only a few are taken. For a relaxing beach day trip from Tirana, the Bay of Lalzi is a great choice.

29. Shengjin Beach

The beach of Shengjin is about a 1.5 hour drive from Tirana, close to the town Lezha. Shengjin beach has a very long and stretching coastline. Therefore, it is the perfect location for a morning or evening beach walk. Both the beach and port of Shengjin are enclosed by a lagoon. Although Shengjin is well-known among the locals, there are not many tourists visiting. Therefore, if is still quite even in the middle of the summer.

30. Rana e Hedhun Beach

Rana e Hedhun beach is a very unique beach in Albania. Because the beach of Rana e Hedhun is a large sand dune on the slope of a mountain. The beach of Rana e Hedhun is located to the north of Tirana. From the capital city it is about a 1.5 hour drive to Rana e Hedhun. The beach is only 3 kilometres from Shengjin and close to the city Lezha.

The best words to describe Rana e Hedhun are “unexplored” and “untouched”. The coast is beautiful, because you will see the sand of the dune melt from the mountain into the sea. If you are not up for a swim, simply bring a picnic and enjoy the lovely view.

What is the best time to visit the beaches in Albania?

Albania has 260 days of sunshine a year, therefore, good weather is pretty much a given. The best time of the year to visit is between April and October. Albania’s high season is in July and August. But do not be afraid to visit, because Albania’s tourism high season is not busy compared to other European countries. However, it is also very nice to visit either in April – June or in September – October. If you have the opportunity to visit in June or September, you will really enjoy beaches like Ksamil, Mirror beach, Monastery Beach and Jale Beach, because you will find only a handful of people there.

I am an Albania Tour Guide , who organizes 1-day, 2-day or multiple day private tours in Albania . I arrange your transportation and I am your English speaking guide. So that, you get to experience the most beautiful places in Albania! Kind regards, Manon

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I am an Albania Tour Guide , who organizes 1-day, 2-day or multiple day private tours in Albania .

15 Best Beaches in Albania to Visit in 2024

When you think of the best beaches in Europe, countries such as Greece, Italy, and Croatia probably pop to mind. Yet, a common theme among these destinations is that they can be overcrowded and over-priced.

However, what if I told you that there was a county with beaches that could rival all of these destinations while being very affordable and a lot less touristy?

Welcome to Albania!

The Albanian coastline stretches for 450km and covers the Adriatic and Ionian Sea , making it one of the best reasons to visit the country . This Mediterranean gem is nestled between Greece and Montenegro and is home to some simple outstanding beaches. After spending several weeks exploring the Albanian Riviera, we’ve rounded up the 15 best beaches in Albania that you simply HAVE to visit.

15 Best Beaches In Albania

1)     bora bora beach, ksamil.

As you may guess by the name, Bora Bora Beach, or Plazhi Bora Bora, is a true paradise and is easily one of the best beaches in Albania. With white sand and crystal clear blue water, this gem of a beach is located in the heart of the Ksamil coast.

If you’re after the perfect Albanian beach destination, with luxury hotels that don’t break the bank , plenty of amenities, restaurants and bars, and the most stunning beaches, Ksamil is for you!

Known as the ‘Pearl of the Ionian’, Ksamil is the perfect location to soak in the delightful Mediterranean sun. As well as a relaxing place to sunbathe with a good book, Bora Bora Beach is also a great place for snorkeling, with schools of fish to be seen even in the shallows. You can also rent a boat or paddleboard and explore the three beautiful small islands just off the shore of Ksamil. Bora Bora Beach is the perfect place to spend the day for the whole family. 

2)    Plazhi i Pasqyra, Ksamil

“Plazhi i Pasqyra” or Mirror Beach is heralded as one of Albania’s best beaches, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and unique features. Nestled along the scenic Albanian Riviera, just north of Ksamil, Mirror Beach lives up to its name with pristine turquoise waters that reflect the surrounding landscape like a mirror. 

The beach is characterized by its fine white pebbles, creating a picturesque setting against the backdrop of lush green hills.

The tranquility of Mirror Beach is further enhanced by the absence of extensive development, allowing nature to take center stage. The lack of bustling tourist infrastructure adds to the charm, attracting those who seek a peaceful escape amidst the beauty of the Albanian coastline.

3)     Dhermi

Dhermi is a picturesque seaside town located a short distance north of Himara. The town itself is a beautiful coastal gem, with highlights including the Mosque of St. Mary and the cobblestone streets of the Old Town. However, the main attraction of Dhermi is the stunning beach that lies just a short walk from the Old Town.

Dhermi Beach is one of the best beaches in Albania due to its stunning crystal blue sea and multiple restaurants and café that line the beach. Whilst it has a laidback vibe in the daytime, the beach comes alive in the evenings, with cocktail bars and a vibrant atmosphere that is hard to not be drawn to. Dhermi has the best mix that will make it appeal to every type of traveler.

4)     Borsh Beach

Arguably the most beautiful beach in Albania, and one of our favorites, is Borsh Beach. Stretching for 7km, this remote sandy beach lies between Himara and Saranda and is a favorite among locals. With a small selection of delicious restaurants that are scattered along the beachfront, Borsh Beach is a great place to relax and break up the drive to Himara.

As one of the last remaining beaches in Albania that isn’t overrun with beach umbrellas, this is the perfect place to relax and spread out your belongings while still having the peace of mind that your stuff is safe. 

Borsh is perfect if you want a beautiful place to relax in the sun, whilst getting a true local experience.

5)     Gjipe Beach

As one of the most remote beaches in Albania, Gjipe Beach is worth the effort that you have to put in to get there. Only accessible by either a 2-kilometer walk or by 4×4, we’d recommend getting there as early as possible as it can get quite crowded as the day goes on.

There is a small selection of restaurants and wagons where you can get some food and drinks, but the options are quite limited, so make sure you bring some food and water for the hike up and down.

Once you reach the small beach, there are plenty of things to do. You can hire a kayak or paddle board to explore the water, hike up Gjipe Canyon, or simply relax in the warm sun and take in the beauty of the Albanian Riviera. Due to its remote location, Gjipe Beach can be considered one of the best beaches in Albania.

6)     Aquarium Beach

Only accessible by walking from either Livadhi Beach or Jale Beach, this hidden cove is a great place to unwind and enjoy the Albanian weather. Unlike most beaches in the country, this hidden paradise isn’t littered with sun-loungers and restaurants. Make sure to bring all the food and water you may need for the day, as there are no facilities on the beach to buy any.

Just north of the town of Himara, this beach is an ideal place for someone who wants to escape the crowds of the cities and larger beaches. There are also some cool rock formations that you can climb and jump off into the inviting crystal blue water. 

We’ve honestly never seen water this crystal clear, turquoise, and sparkling. It’s incredibly beautiful.

We would recommend getting to the beach as early as possible, as by midday the beach can become quite busy, particularly for its small size.

7)     Livadhi Beach, Himara

Another beach located just a short distance from the coastal town of Himara is Livadhi Beach. This beach also spreads over a few kilometers of coastline, meaning that there are some areas where you can enjoy some peace, allowing you to set up your beach town and relax on the sand, rather than paying for a sun-lounger.

From this beach you are also able to go on a few hikes to explore the surrounding area, for example, you can reach the nearby beaches of Aquarium Beach and Jale Beach. Another hike takes you inland to the 3,500-year-old Himara Castle, where you can learn a bit about the area’s history, whilst taking in stunning views of Livadhi Beach.

Livadhi Beach also offers a range of restaurants and bars, as well as a few accommodations options including hotels, guest houses, and camping.

8)     Porto Palermo Beach

Another one of the best beaches in Albania is Porto Palermo Beach lying just 6-kilometers south of Himara. This small beach joins the Albanian mainland to Porto Palermo Castle. This secluded spot is a great place to relax and enjoy watching the fishermen sail out to sea.

This small bay is unspoiled with limited facilities. However, there is a nearby restaurant and café where you can relax and get great views of Porto Palermo Castle with a cold refreshing drink.

The fortress which sits upon the rocks overlooking the sea was built by Ali Pasha during the 19th century. For a small fee, you can explore the fortress and learn more about its fascinating history.

9) Shpella e Pëllumbave, Ksamil

One of our favorite beaches in Albania is Shpella e Pëllumbave. Located a short drive north of Ksamil town center, this hidden paradise is not on most tourists’ radar. Accessible by walking down a hillside and some steep steps, this beautiful beach needs to be added to your Albanian itinerary.

As one of the only non-private beaches in Ksamil, there is no need to rent a sun-lounger. However, there is still a small café where you can buy some food and drinks. 

For sunset, we would recommend climbing the steps to the viewing platform over the beach, as the view from here is incredible. Shpella e Pëllumbave is the best place to watch the sunset over the sea. We’ve never seen a sunset as beautiful as we did here.

10)  Plazhi Ksamil

Ksamil is one of the best towns along the Albanian Riviera, just south of the city of Saranda. Scattered with multiple picturesque beaches, this is a great place to spend a few days soaking up the Mediterranean sun.

With pure white sand beaches and calming turquoise water, there are many ways to enjoy your day, from swimming, kayaking, and taking a boat ride to the three nearby islands. 

Each beach in Ksamil has its unique charm, but our personal favorite has to be beach number 9. This beach is located a little further south than some of the other beaches, making it a little more remote and a little less touristy.

Whether you want to spend a day or a week there, you will never get bored when you are visiting Ksamil. There are countless bars and restaurants where you can enjoy some delicious Albanian cuisine and watch a beautiful sunset over the water. 

Ksamil has to be home to some of the best beaches in Albania.

11)  Palasa Beach, Vlorë

Located in the town of Vlorë, just north of Dhermi, sits Palasa Beach. Stretching along the sea next to the winding Llogara Pass, this is one of the most beautiful beaches in Albania.

We’d highly recommend driving the Llogara pass, which is arguably the most beautiful road in the whole of Albania, with winding roads and incredible views overlooking the stunning Palasa Beach.

With a few restaurants, cafes, and even a nightclub, this is a great place to enjoy a day or two. This beautiful Albanian beach is relatively quiet, but by no means any less stunning than any other of the beaches on this list.

There are some small pools along the beach, which are shallow and calm, making it perfect for children to explore.

12)  Golem Beach

Despite its name, Golem Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Albania. Located just 27 kilometers from the capital of Tirana, Golem Beach is a large and popular beach for locals and tourists alike, particularly in the summer months.

With clear water and golden sands, this is a great starting point for any trip exploring the Albanian Riviera. The water is shallow, allowing kids to be able to dip their toes in the inviting Ionian Sea. You will be spoilt for choices when it comes to bars, restaurants, and hotels, with amazing options for everyone. 

Golem Beach makes the perfect day trip from Tirana for those wanting to swap the hectic city with a day of tranquility by the sea.

13)  Drymades Beach

Calm turquoise water and a long stretch of sand. That is what meets you when you arrive at Drymades Beach. This is arguably one of the best beaches in Albania due to its laidback atmosphere and stunning natural scenery that surrounds the beach.

With a long stretch of golden sand, complemented perfectly by crystal-clear turquoise waters, Drymades Beach is surrounded by lush green hills, creating a picturesque backdrop that enhances its beauty.

What sets Drymades apart is its relatively untouched character compared to some more commercialized beaches. The absence of excessive development contributes to a more authentic and peaceful experience. The transparent waters are perfect for snorkeling and swimming, whilst the scenic coastline is ideal for strolls. 

This beach is also one of the best places to watch the sunset along the whole of the Albanian Riviera, as the contrasting orange and blue create an outstanding view that you simply need to witness for yourself. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy when you visit. Whether you’re traveling with a family or with a partner, this beach has it all.

14)  Lukova Beach

Lukova Beach earns its reputation as one of the best beaches in Albania through its unique combination of natural beauty and a tranquil atmosphere. Tucked away along the Albanian Riviera, just north of Saranda, Lukova Beach is the perfect mix of peace and tranquility. 

Many tourists do not even realize this beach exists! With sapphire blue water to swim in, and plenty of space along the beach to relax, this has to be one of the most tranquil beaches in Albania. 

Lukova is situated against a backdrop of rolling hills and olive groves, with a lack of commercial development that keeps the beach pristine. This is one of the best places for a relaxing escape along the Albanian Riviera. 

15)  Potam Beach

Last but certainly not least is Potam Beach, located near Himara and Dhermi at the northern end of the Albanian Riviera. With a stunning mountain backdrop and unique red pebbles that line the enticing Ionian Sea, this is not a beach to be missed.

With a large range of beach bars and restaurants to choose from, you will never get bored of exploring whilst trying the delicious Albanian cuisine. There are lots of activities to do when visiting Potam Beach, from kayaking to hiking, keeping you entertained for days

Albania Beaches FAQs:

Are there sandy beaches in Albania?

Yes, whilst many beaches in Albania consist of smooth pebbles you are still able to find beautiful sand beaches scattered along the coastline. Our favorites include Livadhi Beach and Dhermi Beach.

What is the best time to visit the Albanian Riviera?

There is no bad time to enjoy the beautiful beaches of the Albanian Riviera! We’d recommend visiting during the warm summer months of June, July, and August to get the best weather. However, you will have to share the beach with many other tourists which might not be for everyone. 

If you want a more peaceful experience then we would recommend visiting during the shoulder season of April to early June, or September and October when the weather is still a lot warmer than in other places in Europe, and you won’t have to battle your way through the crowds to get a spot on the beach.

What is the best way to get around Albania?

The roads that run along the Albanian coast are truly stunning. To fully appreciate the beautiful country, we would recommend driving in Albania . 

There are public transport options, that will allow you to explore the main coastal towns, but if you want to explore the more secluded spots, then driving is the way to go.

Does Albania have nice beaches?

This is a very easy question to answer. YES. The Albanian coast stretches for hundreds of kilometers, with picturesque beaches scattered throughout. People often say this is the ‘Maldives of Europe’ and it is easy to see why.

If you are after stunning beaches where you can relax all day long, while enjoying warm weather, then Albania is the place for you. With plenty of beaches to choose from, there will be no bad choice when it comes to deciding where you will stop on your trip to Albania .

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The Best Beaches in Albania for Uncrowded Shores and Idyllic Resorts

While a number of different mountain ranges run along the eastern side of Albania , its southwestern coast is home to paradisiacal beaches where the sun shines, umbrellas provide some needed shade for beachgoers, and the Mediterranean laps the shore. While its sandy stretches were long a secret compared to more popular neighbors like Croatia and Greece , increasingly the world is getting out. The beaches of Albania could become a summer romance that you’ll never forget.

Small and captivating, with fine white sand, Grama Bay is hidden between steep cliffs and surrounded by lush vegetation. The easiest way to visit it is by sea given its remote and isolated location. It offers exactly what you’d want to find on your Albanian beach vacation including the glistening turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. Don’t miss the ancient inscriptions on nearby rocks that date back to Roman and Greek times.

Plazhi i Ri and Uji i Ftohtë beaches, near Vlorë

These two beaches are the gateway to the Albanian Riviera—at its northern end—and a fitting start to this roundup of the best beaches in Albania .

Vlorë, located just over 90 miles from the Albanian capital, Tirana, is a port town where the Ionian and Adriatic Seas meet and miles of sand and cliffs run along the coast. The town attracts a variety of tourists who find different beaches and atmospheres for every taste. If you are looking for a lively party scene, the beach bars of Plazhi i Ri await. If you prefer something less crowded then head to the charming and more secluded Uji i Ftohtë.

Llaman, in Himarë

Himarë, the next village on the Riviera as you head south, has two very different sides. In addition to being a popular beach resort, there’s a quiet village where life goes on as it long has, with fishermen gathering in traditional tavernas after a day at sea. It’s a true reflection of the best of Albania—open to international travelers but not forgetting about its roots.

The best place to enjoy the sun and sea near Himarë is at Llaman, a beach that’s very popular with locals. Nestled between two hills, this pebbly cove is an ideal spot to put down your towel and then marvel at the Mediterranean.

Buneci sits in the shadow of Sarandë and many travelers skip it, drawn to the bright lights and festive atmosphere of its southern neighbor. Those who choose to spend a few days in Buneci, however, will find an almost deserted white pebble beach that is as beautiful as any near Sarandë.

While it has some basic tourist infrastructure, this beach town remains relatively undeveloped. There are a few traditional cafes and a hotel, but you’ll still be able to hear the lapping of the waves—and who needs anything more than that?

In Drymades you will find fine sand, white pebbles, and centuries-old olive trees, but also colorful sun loungers and umbrellas, trendy beach bars, and a range of accommodations, from modest bungalows to five-star hotels. It is considered by many to be the coolest beach in Albania.

Although its name may not be familiar to those who haven’t visited Albania yet, Dhërmi is one of the most famous beaches in the country. It was long a secret guarded by locals who enjoyed the miles of sands here to themselves. This urban beach is also one of the largest in Albania and even in the middle of August you won't have a hard time finding a space to put down your towel.

Adventurous spirits will also want to explore the coves and caves nearby, including Drymades, one of the few that can rival Ksamil’s claim to the title of Albania’s most beautiful beach .

The big kahuna of tourism on the Albanian Riviera, Sarandë, is also one of the most popular destinations in the Balkans with an atmosphere that often feels similar to that found in many of Spain ’s Mediterranean resorts. The city is experiencing a construction boom, and the hills behind the sea are dotted with hotels and apartment buildings in the process of being built.

A little over four miles of undisturbed beach is the main appeal of Borsh. Just south of Qeparo, the route to Borsh is dazzling, punctuated by cliffs and coves on one of the country’s most dramatic coastal roads.

The beach, surprisingly one of the least visited in Albania, is surrounded by olive trees and gentle hills. It’s a glimpse of a Mediterranean of yesteryear, which has managed to survive in its pure, untouched state.

Ksamil Islands

If we had to draw up a list of the best of the best of Albania’s beach destinations, the Ksamil Islands would at least be among our top three, if not in the top spot. This archipelago, 12 miles from Sarandë, is more than just a postcard image. Instead it feels like something from a dream: four wooded islands in the middle of an unbelievable turquoise sea.

While you likely will be won over after viewing them from a distance, wait until you reach the white-sand beaches (a rarity in an area where pebbles are more common). As you look out at the horizon, you’ll see a number of other islands that appear so close that you’ll want to reach out and touch them.

Qeparo is one of the most under-the-radar and least visited beaches on the Albanian Riviera. This photogenic village has two cliffs with views of the Mediterranean and it’s a scene that’s waiting to be captured on canvas—or on Instagram with, of course, no filter needed.

While word is getting out about Albania’s beaches, Qeparo’s beach manages to remain a secret. If you travel there you may find that you won’t come across any other tourists from beyond the region.

Do not be scared off by the size of Durrës, the second most populous city in Albania. In addition to including some notable Roman sites, like the amphitheater, the baths, and the aqueduct, it is blessed with a stretch of beach about six miles long—you’re guaranteed to find a sun lounger where you can lay your towel.

On Albania’s southern coast, near the village of Dukat, you’ll find a little-known beach called Gjilekë. The fact that it is so hard to get to has helped to preserve its pristine and uncrowded atmosphere. It is only accessible by boat or walking for almost half an hour along a path that starts in the village of Gjilekë and crosses an imposing canyon. Once you arrive, you’ll sit below its high cliffs with crystal-clear waters in front of you.

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Exploring Albania’s Best Beaches: Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations

Welcome to Albania, a hidden gem in the Balkans that is just waiting to be explored. If you are a beach lover, you are in for a treat as this country boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. In this article, we will take you on a journey through Albania’s top 10 must-visit beaches. From the crystal-clear waters of Dhërmi to the vibrant Saranda beach, we guarantee that you will fall in love with Albania’s pristine beauty, uncover hidden gems and experience unforgettable moments. So pack your sunscreen, get ready to bury your feet in the sand and let’s dive into the best beaches that Albania has to offer!

• The Pristine Beauty of Dhërmi Beach

Discovering the Crystal-Clear Waters

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Dhërmi Beach , located in the Albanian Riviera , is known for its tranquil and crystal-clear waters , as well as its luxurious beach resorts . With its pristine blue waters and white sand beaches , Dhërmi is a paradise for those looking for a relaxing beach vacation. In addition, the beach is relatively off the beaten path, making it a perfect spot for those looking to escape the crowds.

The crystal-clear waters of Dhërmi Beach are perfect for swimming , snorkeling , and diving . The beach is also surrounded by stunning rock formations , making it a great spot for hiking and exploring . For those who enjoy fishing, the beach offers a great opportunity to catch fresh seafood.

The beach is also perfect for those looking for some adventure . With its calm waters , visitors can try paddleboarding , kayaking , or even rent a speedboat to explore the surrounding coastline.

Dhërmi Beach is known for its luxury beach resorts that offer visitors a chance to relax and unwind in the lap of nature. These resorts have amenities like swimming pools , spas , and fitness centers , making it a perfect place for those looking for some pampering.

The beach also offers a range of accommodation options , from budget-friendly guesthouses to high-end villas . Visitors can indulge in some of the local delicacies and wines at the restaurants in the beach resorts or venture out to nearby towns to explore the local culture.

The pristine beauty of Dhërmi Beach makes it an ideal destination for those looking for a peaceful vacation amidst nature.

Although Dhërmi Beach is the most popular beach in Albania, there are several other beaches along the Albanian Riviera that are worth visiting. Drymades, Himara, Jala, Llaman, and Ksamil are some of the other beaches that offer stunning vistas and unique experiences.

Himara , a small coastal town, offers a mix of cultural and natural experiences . Visitors can explore the historic castle ruins, visit traditional olive oil mills, and hike in the nearby mountains. Jala Beach is perfect for thrill-seekers , with its wide range of water sports activities, including windsurfing and jet skiing.

Llaman Beach, although small, offers a range of activities like beach volleyball, fishing, and boat tours. For those who love history, Porto Palermo is a must-visit destination. The secluded bay is home to a historic castle that was once used as a military base.

Overall, the Albanian Riviera offers a range of beaches and experiences that make it a perfect destination for your next beach vacation.

Albania is a hidden gem that’s worth exploring.

Gjipe Beach is a hidden gem that can be reached by a hike or by boat. Despite its secluded location, it boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine white sand beaches that are practically empty. For those willing to take the hike, the views along the way are a breathtaking reward in themselves.

One of the best things about Gjipe Beach is the sense of tranquility and seclusion that it offers. Away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist hotspots, you can relax and unwind without the crowds. The beach has all the necessary amenities, including a restaurant, toilets, and showers.

If you are looking for a secluded paradise , Gjipe Beach might just be what you’re looking for. The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs on both sides , adding to its sense of otherworldly beauty. You can swim in the cool, refreshing waters or sunbathe on the pristine white sands .

There are also plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Whether you prefer hiking, swimming, or just soaking up the sun, Gjipe Beach has something for everyone . It’s the perfect destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation in equal measure.

If you’re planning to visit Albania, Gjipe Beach is a must-see destination . It’s the perfect spot for those who want to enjoy pristine natural beauty without the crowds . With its crystal-clear waters, soft sands, and surrounded by towering cliffs, Gjipe Beach is undoubtedly one of the best kept secrets in Albania’s Riviera .

So if you want to experience the hidden coves and secluded paradises of Albania’s coast, make sure to add Gjipe Beach to your itinerary. You won’t regret it!

Jale Beach is the ultimate destination for those seeking a beach party experience like no other. This stunning beach is located on the Albanian Riviera and features crystal clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches . Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities, including swimming, snorkelling, paddleboarding and more. Jale Beach is also renowned for its lively nightlife scene , making it the perfect place to let your hair down and have some fun after a day at the beach.

If you’re looking for a beach party, Jale Beach is the place to be. This iconic beach is known for attracting party lovers from all over the world. The beach is lined with bars and clubs that come alive at night, playing a variety of music to suit all tastes. Visitors can enjoy refreshing cocktails and dance the night away under the stars. This is the perfect place to let loose and have some fun !

But Jale Beach is not just for partygoers. It’s also the perfect place to relax and unwind . Visitors can rent sun loungers and umbrellas and soak up the sun while enjoying breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby , offering a variety of local Albanian cuisine and international dishes. And for those looking to explore the area, there are many hidden gems waiting to be discovered, including secluded coves and picturesque fishing villages.

Overall, Jale Beach is the perfect destination for those seeking sun, sand, and a good time . With its stunning natural beauty and vibrant nightlife scene, it promises visitors an unforgettable experience.

Ksamil Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Albania, located on the Albanian Riviera. The beach is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sand . The beach is usually crowded during the summer months, but it is worth visiting for its breathtaking views .

Ksamil Beach is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea. The beach is surrounded by greenery and hills , which makes it a perfect spot to explore the natural beauty of Albania.

The clear waters of Ksamil Beach make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling . You can hire a boat and explore the nearby islands , or take a dip and swim to the small islands located just off the beach. The beach is perfect for families with children , as the water is shallow and safe for swimming.

One of the highlights of visiting Ksamil Beach is the chance to taste the local Albanian cuisine and wine . The area is known for its fresh seafood , and you can find many restaurants serving delicious dishes made from freshly caught fish . You can also try the local wine, which is produced in the nearby vineyards .

Visiting Ksamil Beach is a great way to experience the best of Albanian summer . The beach is perfect for sunbathing , swimming , and relaxing , and there are many activities to enjoy in the area. You can rent a bike and explore the nearby hills, or take a tour of the local villages and towns .

Ksamil Beach is just one of the many beautiful beaches located on the Albanian Riviera . While you are in the area, you can also explore other beaches like Dhërmi, Drymades, and Himara . Each of these beaches has its own unique charm and beauty , and exploring the Albanian Riviera is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Albania.

Ksamil Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Albania. With its crystal-clear waters, stunning views, and delicious cuisine, it is the perfect place to relax, swim, and explore the natural beauty of Albania.

Albania is a country that remains lesser-known to many tourists. However, it boasts natural beauty and serene beaches, particularly along the Albanian Riviera . Livadhi beach, located in Himara , is one of such gems that offer unspoilt natural beauty and perfect sunsets .

Livadhi beach is a secluded beach, providing a peaceful and laid-back atmosphere to visitors. The beach’s sands are soft and white , making it a perfect place to relax and sunbathe . The crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea also offer an excellent opportunity for swimming and snorkeling . Livadhi beach’s natural beauty is well preserved, and visitors will be amazed by the unique landscape and breathtaking beauty of the beach.

Livadhi beach provides the perfect romantic ambiance for couples seeking a peaceful vacation spot . The sunset at Livadhi beach is one of the most alluring features of this beach. The unique shades of warm colors that paint the skyline make it a spectacle that is worth witnessing. Visitors can choose to view the sunset from the beach or from the hills that surround the beach.

Visitors can also explore the local cuisine and wine while on vacation. There are restaurants and cafes on the beach serving fresh seafood and local wines. Visitors can also rent a car and discover other undiscovered beaches in the region. Himara, the nearest city, offers a mix of cultural and beach experiences, complete with historical monuments and markets with fresh seafood. Albania is a perfect destination for individuals seeking quality vacations at affordable prices .

If you are looking for a peaceful retreat with clear blue waters and stunning mountains , look no further than Palasa Beach in Albania. This hidden gem is one of the best-kept secrets of the country and offers a truly tranquil experience for visitors.

The waters of Palasa Beach are crystal clear and calm , making it the perfect spot for swimming and other water activities. The surrounding mountains provide a scenic backdrop and add to the peaceful atmosphere of the beach. Whether you want to spend a lazy day sunbathing or take a refreshing dip in the ocean , Palasa Beach is the perfect destination.

Unlike some of the other beaches in Albania, Palasa Beach is relatively unknown to tourists , making it the ideal getaway for those who want to avoid the crowds. You can relax and unwind in a serene environment without having to fight for space or deal with noisy crowds. The beach is pristine and largely untouched , providing visitors with an authentic experience of the natural beauty of the Albanian coast.

While Palasa Beach is primarily a destination for relaxation and watersports , there are plenty of opportunities to indulge in gastronomic delights . Local restaurants and cafes offer a variety of dishes made with fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients . You can also enjoy a glass of local wine while taking in the stunning views of the beach.

In conclusion, Palasa Beach is one of the most tranquil and serene destinations in Albania that should not be missed. From the calm and clear waters to the authentic Albanian cuisine , this hidden gem is sure to provide visitors with an unforgettable experience.

Saranda is a quaint little beachside city located in the heart of the Albanian Riviera . It is a popular tourist destination, known for its pristine beaches , crystal-clear waters , and rich history and culture . The city is surrounded by mountains on three sides, offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea . Saranda is a great place to explore if you want to immerse yourself in the Albanian lifestyle and experience the warm hospitality of the locals.

The most iconic landmark is the ancient city of Butrint , a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 7th century BC. The city boasts an impressive collection of ancient ruins and artifacts , including a Roman theater , an acropolis , and a bathhouse .

If you are interested in Albanian history and culture, Saranda is also home to the Ethnographic Museum , which showcases traditional Albanian clothing, weapons, and jewelry . Additionally, the city has a bustling market where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs .

Some of the most popular beaches near Saranda include Dhermi Beach , Drymades Beach , and Gjipe Beach . Dhermi Beach is the most famous and has plenty of options for accommodations, dining, and nightlife . Drymades Beach boasts stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking sunsets . Gjipe Beach is a hidden gem tucked away in the mountains , only accessible via a hike or boat ride .

Other beaches worth mentioning include Himara Beach , Jala Beach , Llaman Beach , Porto Palermo Bay , and Ksamil Beach . Himara is a charming little town with a beautiful beach and great cultural attractions. Jala Beach is known for its water sports and adrenaline-fueled activities. Llaman Beach is a small beach with no accommodations , but it has many options for dining and activities . Porto Palermo Bay is a secluded bay with a historic castle and crystal-clear waters . Lastly, Ksamil Beach is a picturesque beach with three small islands accessible via swimming or boat ride .

Overall , Saranda is the perfect place to explore if you are looking for an affordable beach vacation with rich history and culture. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore the vibrant Saranda beach and the surrounding Albanian Riviera.

If you’re looking for a secluded beach to unwind and recharge, Shën André Beach is the perfect destination in Albania. Located in the southern region of the country, also known as the Albanian Riviera, this beach is a hidden gem with natural spring water and stunning natural beauty .

Shën André Beach is surrounded by green hills and crystal-clear blue water that makes for breathtaking scenery . The beach is known for its natural spring water , which is believed to have healing properties , making it the ultimate destination for relaxation .

You can take a stroll along the beach and appreciate the unspoiled nature or explore the area’s surroundings by hiking the hills . For those looking for more adventure, you can also rent a boat and explore the hidden coves and caves .

One of the best things about Shën André Beach is that it is secluded and rarely crowded . You can enjoy the tranquility and privacy , making it the ideal destination for solo travelers, couples, or families who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

You won’t find any loud clubs or high-end restaurants here, but there are a few local seafood restaurants that serve fresh seafood dishes with a Mediterranean touch . There are also a handful of cozy guesthouses and vacation rentals nearby that offer a cozy and comfortable stay .

Overall, Shën André Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty and unique experiences .

Located in the western part of Albania, Spille Beach is a hidden gem that offers a unique experience for those seeking to explore the underwater world. The crystal-clear water, colorful coral reefs, and diverse marine life make this beach an unforgettable destination for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.

The waters of Spille Beach are home to a wide variety of marine life, including barracudas, stingrays, and octopuses. Scuba divers will have the opportunity to explore the depths of the Mediterranean Sea and discover the beauty of the underwater world. For those who prefer snorkeling, the shallow waters near the beach offer amazing views of colorful fish and coral reefs.

To ensure the protection of the marine ecosystem, diving and snorkeling activities are regulated by the Albanian government. Therefore, before diving, visitors are requested to obtain a permit from the local authorities and follow the guidelines set for the activity.

Besides the rich marine life, Spille Beach offers other aquatic wonders worth exploring. Visitors can rent a kayak or a paddleboat to explore the coastline, enjoying the scenic views of the beach and the crystal-clear water. Another popular activity is fishing, where visitors can try their luck and catch some of the local fish species.

In addition to the aquatic activities, the beach is also an ideal spot for sunbathing, relaxing, and enjoying the warm Albanian weather. Visitors can bask in the sun or enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear water.

In conclusion, Spille Beach is a hidden gem that offers a unique experience for those seeking to explore the underwater world. The diverse marine life, colorful coral reefs, and aquatic wonders make this beach a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Albania.

Spille Beach is located approximately 15 km south of Durres, Albania’s second-largest city. Visitors can rent a car from Durres or take a taxi to Spille Beach. Alternatively, they can take a bus from Durres to Shijak and then take a minibus or a taxi to Spille Beach.

For those who prefer a more adventurous option, they can hike to the beach from nearby villages. The scenic hiking trails offer stunning views of the Albanian coastline and the Mediterranean Sea.

Albania’s Vlorë Beach is a must-visit destination for beach lovers . With its sparkling turquoise waters and beautiful white sand , coupled with the bustling seaside city , Vlorë is a perfect getaway to relax and unwind .

The crystal-clear waters of Vlorë Beach are perfect for a refreshing swim , snorkeling , or diving . The beach is well-maintained and pristine , and the views of the sea are simply breathtaking . Visitors can also rent a boat or take a cruise to explore the coastline and swim in hidden coves and bays .

For those seeking adventure , there are several water sports to try, like jet skiing , parasailing , kayaking , and paddleboarding .

Vlorë city is a charming and lively destination with plenty of restaurants , bars , and cafes to enjoy. The city is steeped in history and culture , and there are many interesting sights to see , including murals , museums , and ancient ruins .

The city is also famous for its seafood , and visitors can sample some mouthwatering local dishes at the beachfront restaurants .

For those who want to explore beyond Vlorë, hiring a car is a great option. The drive along the coastline is scenic , and there are many hidden beaches and coves waiting to be discovered.

Overall, Vlorë Beach is a gem in the Albanian Riviera and is an excellent choice for an affordable beach vacation. With its pristine beaches , sparkling waters , lively city , and rich culture , it’s no wonder that Vlorë is becoming one of Albania’s most popular destinations.

Albania boasts several breathtaking beaches that are yet to be discovered by many travelers. However, there is one region in Albania that stands out for having the best beaches, and that is the Albanian Riviera.

The Albanian Riviera is a stretch of coastline that runs from Vlore in the north to Saranda in the south. It is a perfect holiday destination for travelers looking for a combination of stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an authentic Mediterranean experience.

Dhermi Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the Albanian Riviera. This stunning beach is surrounded by high mountains, which provide a breathtaking view of the Adriatic Sea. Visitors to Dhermi Beach can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters or relax under the sun in the soft white sand.

Another must-visit beach on the Albanian Riviera is Saranda. This sandy beach is located in the charming coastal town of the same name. The beach offers a range of water activities, including jet-skiing, kayaking, and parasailing. Visitors can also explore the town of Saranda, which is home to several bars, restaurants, and shops.

A visit to the Albanian Riviera is not complete without a trip to the town of Himara. This town boasts some of the best beaches in Albania, including Livadh Beach, which is a long, sandy beach with crystal-clear waters. Himara is also home to several restaurants and bars that serve fresh seafood and traditional Albanian dishes.

In conclusion, the Albanian Riviera is undoubtedly the best region in Albania for beach lovers. From Dhermi Beach to Saranda and Himara, this stretch of coastline offers some of the most stunning beaches in the world. So, pack your bags and head to the Albanian Riviera for a memorable summer holiday.

The stunning beauty of Albania’s coastline is no secret. With crystalline waters and breathtaking landscapes, it is a paradise for nature lovers and beachgoers alike. While there are many gorgeous beaches to choose from, the most stunning beach in Albania is undoubtedly Dhërmi Beach.

Located on the southern coast of Albania, Dhërmi Beach is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. The beach boasts long stretches of soft golden sand and clear turquoise waters, making it the perfect spot to relax in the sun or go for a swim. The beach is surrounded by olive trees and rugged cliffs, further adding to its natural beauty.

One unique feature of Dhërmi Beach is the stunning rock formations that rise out of the sea. These dramatic formations are a sight to behold and offer a striking contrast to the soft sand and gentle waves. They are also a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, with plenty of colorful sea life to admire.

Another reason why Dhërmi Beach is so special is its serene atmosphere. Unlike some of the more popular beaches in Albania, Dhërmi is relatively quiet and peaceful, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of their surroundings.

Overall, Dhërmi Beach is the most stunning beach in Albania , offering a unique combination of natural beauty, tranquility, and adventure. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day soaking up the sun or an exciting underwater adventure, Dhërmi Beach has something for everyone.

Albania may not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking about beaches, but it actually has some hidden gems along its 476 km coastline. The best part? Many of them are still undiscovered by mass tourism, making them perfect for those looking for a more relaxed and authentic experience.

One of the most famous beaches in Albania is Ksamil, located in the south of the country. Its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches make it a popular destination for both locals and foreigners alike.

Another great option is Dhermi beach, situated in the Albanian Riviera. It offers stunning views overlooking the Ionian sea and is surrounded by lush vegetation. Additionally, visitors can also explore nearby villages and taste delicious traditional Albanian cuisine.

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Gjipe beach might be your best bet. It’s only accessible via a hiking trail, but the effort is well worth it. This secluded beach is surrounded by impressive cliffs and offers a peaceful atmosphere.

Overall, Albania has a lot to offer in terms of beaches. From lively resorts to hidden coves, there’s something for everyone. So, if you’re planning a beach vacation, don’t overlook this picturesque and unexplored country.

" } }, [{ "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the most stunning beach in Albania?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "

The stunning beauty of Albania's coastline is no secret. With crystalline waters and breathtaking landscapes, it is a paradise for nature lovers and beachgoers alike. While there are many gorgeous beaches to choose from, the most stunning beach in Albania is undoubtedly Dhërmi Beach.

" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does Albania have good beaches?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "

If you're looking for something off the beaten path, Gjipe beach might be your best bet. It's only accessible via a hiking trail, but the effort is well worth it. This secluded beach is surrounded by impressive cliffs and offers a peaceful atmosphere.

Overall, Albania has a lot to offer in terms of beaches. From lively resorts to hidden coves, there's something for everyone. So, if you're planning a beach vacation, don't overlook this picturesque and unexplored country.

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11 Magnificent Beaches in Albania: A Beginner’s Guide to the Albanian Riviera

When it comes to beaches in Europe, it’s usually Croatia’s sparkling Dalmatian Coast or maybe Portugal’s Algarve that first come to mind.

Albania , on the other hand, is normally associated with splendid castles and ancient ruins. But this underrated and often misunderstood country is also a coveted destination for beach lovers – and depending on when and how you visit, it can be a budget-friendly alternative to more popular stretches of coast to the north and south.

The secret of Albania’s Mediterranean-style beaches is definitely out: The Albanian Riviera attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists every year who come to laze on golden sands (or pebbles!) and splash in turquoise water.

With 450 kilometres (280 miles) of charming coastline extending down the Adriatic from Montenegro to the Ionian coast, there are a gamut of beaches in Albania, each with its own character and appeal. This list brings together 11 of the very best beaches to add to your Albania itinerary plus other tips for planning your visit.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

What is the Albanian Riviera?

The Albanian Riviera, known locally as Bregu , is the stretch of coastline along the Northeastern Ionian Sea that runs through Vlore and Saranda in Albania’s southwest, right down to Butrint National Park and the border with Greece.

This section of coast is home to Albania’s finest beaches plus a range of other things to do including natural wonders (caves and underwater springs), quaint coastal villages, stunning views of olive groves, ancient ruins – and even a disused nuclear bunker or two!

Some beaches in the south have deep waters for diving, while others have pristine water with gentle currants for swimming. Beaches themselves range from fine pebbles to golden sands.

The city of Saranda is the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera. There are a number of Saranda beaches, but this area can naturally be quite busy so it’s a good idea to explore further afield if you’re in search of quieter, more pristine coves and bays.

The best beaches in Albania

Down for some time in the Albanian sun? Here are 11 of the finest Adriatic beaches you shouldn’t miss.

Gjipe Beach

Located 65km hours south of Vlore between Drymades and Himara, Gjipe Beach is a rare example of an unspoiled Albanian beach. That’s mostly thanks to its secluded location. The small beach at Gjipe is hidden at the end of Gjipe Canyon, a spectacular landscape of rocky terrain. The dirt road is rough so you’ll need a 4WD to drive all the way down to the shore, otherwise it’s a 30-45 minute walk from the parking area. Bring good shoes.

Gjipe is a pebble beach with warm, crystal clear waters ideal for swimming. Kayaks and SUPs can be rented in summer, but it’s a good idea to bring your own umbrella. There are a few cafes and restaurants in the area.

Gjipe Beach epitomises Albania’s natural beauty and the feeling of serenity that’s difficult to find elsewhere on the coast. It takes a bit more time and effort to get here, but it’s well worth it.

Get there: 1.5-2 hours drive from Vlore. Parking costs 200-300 LEK.

Where to stay: There are no hotels on the beach but for a rustic experience, you can rent a tent for the night at Gjipe Eco Campground . A simple breakfast is included.

Dhermi Beach

Just north of Gjipe, Dhermi Beach (Dhërmiu Beach) is another pebble beach that’s often referred to as one of Albania’s most gorgeous spots. It is located in the village of Dhermi and is known for its dazzling turquoise waters, smooth white pebbles and impressive rock formations.

Dhermi Beach is a popular summer destination for Albanians and tourists alike. Compared with Gjipe, it’s much easier to reach, which makes it a good choice for families (just be mindful of the currants here, which can be strong). It is a very popular beach though, so some forward planning is required to ensure you get a spot.

Facilities are great – sun loungers and umbrellas are available to hire and there are plenty of cafes, restaurants and accommodation options nearby. At night, the bars light up and Dhermi transforms into a big beach party.

The drive down to Dhermi from Vlore via the winding coastal road is absolutely spectacular. Be sure to set aside some extra time to take photos of the coastline from the Panorama Llogara viewpoint .

Get there: 2-hour drive from Saranda or 1.5-hour drive from Vlore.

Where to stay: Sofo Hotel Dhermi is a short 250m walk from the beach and offers private parking.

Filikuri Beach

If you’re looking for a more secluded beach that’s perfect for unwinding after exploring Albania’s ancient ruins, Filikuri Beach (Plazhi Filikurit) might be exactly the thing.

Located between Potami Beach and Llaman Beach, Filikuri is a hidden treasure of the Albanian Riviera – that’s despite being only a few kilometres south of the popular town of Himare. High cliffs shelter the small Filikuri Bay, and the turquoise waters here are gentle and perfect for swimming.

Privacy comes at a cost: This beach is only accessible by boat or kayak. If you’re feeling brave, there is a steep path down from the high cliff behind the beach, but it’s mostly unmarked and quite treacherous. The easier option is to kayak from Potam Beach. Make sure you bring your own water and food since there are no facilities in the area.

This hidden gem is perfect for visitors who want to find a secluded spot on the Albanian coast and relax in silence away from the hustle of the summer crowds. Though it may be difficult to access, once you find your way down to Filikuri Beach, the natural beauty will take your breath away.

Get there: 10-minute drive from Himare + hike or 15-20 minutes by kayak from Potam Beach.

Where to stay: It’s best to visit this beach from Himare. Stonevilla Buta in Himare offers beautiful, authentic rooms with private balconies and sea views.

Ksamil Beaches

Located at the southern end of Albania, around 15 minutes from Saranda, the town of Ksamil – dubbed the ‘Pearl of the Ionian’ – is Albania’s southern capital of sun, sand and sea.

There are a number of small and mid-sized beaches in the heart of town where you can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee from one of the many restaurants and cafes. The west-facing beaches here hug the northern end of the Greek island of Corfu and have a similar vibe as a result. For something more adventurous, there are four islands off the coast of Ksamil that you can explore by boat or kayak.

Ksamil Beach (the main beach) has clear, brilliant blue waters and fine stones. It’s ideal for families who prefer the convenience of beach resorts – facilities are well-appointed and there are countless activities available, including boat rides and pedal boating. The downside is that it can be quite busy. Further afield, the Ksamil Islands offer more secluded swimming beaches and coves.

You should plan to spend at least a couple of nights in this area – it’s a treasure trove of fascinating archaeological ruins and spectacular biodiversity. The ancient city of Butrint with its Roman ruins is the gateway to the southern part of Ksamil Beach, while the Albanian Blue Eye, Syri i Kaltër , and the beautiful market city of Gjirokaster are only a 30 and 90-minute drive away respectively.

Get there: 15-minute drive from Saranda.

Where to stay: Vila Eriseld has tidy rooms and lush gardens walking distance from both Sunset Beach and Cocoa Beach.

Palasa Beach

Located in Vlore County along the Llogara Pass, Palasa Beach (Plazhi i Palasës) is a beautiful beach with pristine clear waters and a scenic backdrop of forests and cliffs. The water here is clear and deep, while closer to the shore the shallow pools and calm currants are ideal for children.

This beach has a remote feel but still offers many conveniences, including a number of restaurants and bars. Make sure you visit this beautiful beach if you plan an outing in Llogara National Park – Palasa Beach is just a short drive from the mountains.

Get there: 10-minute drive from Dhermi.

Potam Beach

Like Palasa, Potam Beach is located at the northern end of the Albanian Riviera close to Himare and Dhermi. It’s very close to Llamani Beach so you can easily visit both in one day.

Potam Beach has a mountain backdrop and is surrounded by lush trees. The beach is shaded for much of the day, making it a great escape from the heat. Round stones are easy on the feet, and the water is quite tranquil. There is a big range of beach bars and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a cold drink while admiring the breathtaking views.

Get there: 5-minute drive from Himare.

Where to stay: Sea Apartments Himare offers self-contained suites steps from Potam Beach and has a popular onsite restaurant.

Drymades Beach

Drymades Beach (Drimadhë Beach) is just south of Palasa, close to the village of Dhermi. In many ways this is the quintessential Albanian beach: Calm turquoise waters, a long stretch of white sand, and rows upon rows of thatched beach umbrellas. Towering mountains and olive groves give this area a spectacular green backdrop.

One of the more interesting features of this beach is the large rock formation that splits the sandy beach from the pebbly one. Drymades is noted for its dramatic sunsets, so be sure to visit in the late afternoon.

Where to stay: Drymades Bungalows has cute seaside shacks with a big outdoor lounge area and direct beach access.

Jali Beach (AKA Jala Beach or Plazhi i Jalës) is hands down one of the best Albanian beaches for swimming. Compared to the many other beaches in the area, it stands out for its extremely clear water that has a brilliant blue, shimmering hue. On top of that, Jali Beach is home to some of Albania’s best beach clubs. There are a number of cool bars and clubs here too, making it a great beach destination for nightlife.

The club plays music all day long with spectacular views over the water, while visitors can enjoy cocktails or other refreshments. There are also beach chairs and umbrellas available to rent if needed!

Get there: 20-minute drive from Dhermi.

Where to stay: At the southern end of the beach, Social Camping JAL is an extremely popular accommodation with budget-friendly bungalows, a campground and a pleasant outdoor lounge area.

Borsh Beach

Borsh Beach (Plazhi i Borshit) sits in the centre of the Albanian Riviera, close to Qeparo village . At 7 kilometres, it’s the largest beach in Albania. White pebbles, clear azure water and gorgeous views of Albania’s coastal mountains are just some of the perks.

Fringed by olive trees and easy to reach by car (parking is available almost directly on the waterfront), this is a convenient beach option and an ideal place to stop for a couple of hours as you drive along the coastal road. Borsh Beach is popular among locals and tourists alike, but it’s not too crowded or noisy. You can enjoy the silence of nature here while taking in the fresh air and scenery.

If you want to stay longer, there is a good range of guesthouses and apartments along the waterfront, plus a campground and several restaurants.

Get there: 1-hour drive from Dhermi or Saranda.

Where to stay: Hotel Erviliano is a delightful mid-range hotel on the beachfront with private parking.

Buneci Beach

A little further south on the way to Saranda, Buneci Beach (Plazhi i Bunecit) has a very long stretch of sandy shore that is perfect for sunbathing or relaxing in peace. It’s never too crowded, and the long jetty is extremely picturesque, framed by a scalloped coastline of mountains and bays.

The beach has bright turquoise waters, fine white sand, and spectacular views of Albania’s Ionian Sea coastline. There are plenty of restaurant and cafe options nearby. The best thing about Buneci is that it’s less crowded than other nearby beaches, which means you’ll never have trouble finding a spot to set up your beach umbrella.

Get there: 45-minute drive from Saranda.

Where to stay: Holiday Home Ali is set in the town of Piqeras, 10 minutes from Bunec Beach. The self-contained cottage is sweet and homely, and the gardens with sea views are spectacular.

Mirror or Pasqyra Beach

Mirror Beach in Saranda is another gem near Ksamil. In the Albanian language it’s called Pasqyra (Plazhi i Pasqyrave) which means ‘mirror’ – the name comes from the unique way the glistening sea reflects the sunlight.

The main feature of this beach is its bright blue waters and soft white sand which turns to small pebbles as you move offshore. Pretty rock formations provide a bit of privacy. You can snorkel out to Pasqyrave Island to explore the marine life and underwater grottoes.

However, this beach gets extremely busy during the day in summer so it’s recommended to visit in the late afternoon/early evening instead. That way you’ll have a better chance of finding a car park and a place to sit – and you’ll be treated to a magical sunset as well.

Where to stay: Santa Oliva Suites in Ksamil is a three-minute walk from Mirror Beach and boasts a huge outdoor terrace with sea views.

Albania beaches FAQ

Does albania have nice beaches.

Of course! The Albanian Riviera is home to some of the best beaches in the Balkans and in Europe. Albanian beaches are known for their white sands, clear waters and picturesque mountain backdrops.

Remember that Albania is an up-and-coming beach destination so if you’re used to visiting Greece or Croatia for example, it might not meet all your expectations. Treacherous roads, overcrowding and pollution are still big issues, but the country is slowly making progress.

Which beaches in Albania are sandy?

While many beaches in the north are composed of round pebbles, softer sand beaches can be found in and around Ksamil. Dhermi Beach and Bunec Beach feature white sand.

When is the best time to visit the Albanian Riviera?

The peak summer months of June, July and August bring big crowds to this part of Albania. It’s best to avoid peak season as prices go up and it can be difficult to find both a car park and a place on the beach to throw down your towel.

Spring (April, May, early June) and autumn (September, October) are ideal – the crowds are thinner, the water is clean, and the temperatures are warm enough for swimming but also appropriate for hiking in the surrounding national parks and mountains.

Where is the best place to stay on the Albanian coast?

The larger cities of Vlore and Saranda offer a good range of accommodations plus a huge number of restaurants and cafes. Both make for a good home-base to explore the beaches up and down the coast.

 If you prefer nature and seclusion, however, it’s a good idea to stay in one of the small towns or villages on the riviera. Dhermi and Himare are both good options.

If you prefer to beach hop, most have at least a few guesthouses and camping options near the waterfront. Larger beaches have more luxurious hotels and family resorts.

What is the best way to get around Albania?

Albania’s coastal roads are absolutely magnificent. While public transport connections (furgon minibuses and coaches) are available, it’s a great experience to hire your own car and drive around the Albanian coast.

See this Albania road trip itinerary for route inspiration, and search for a rental car on Local Rent (prices start from 16€/day).

Albania Travel Guide

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15 amazing beaches in Albania you can’t miss

• Post author: Andrew D'Amours
• Post published: August 16, 2024
• Post category: Travel inspiration / Trip itineraries & destination discoveries
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Missed out on a European beach summer vacation? Prepare one for next year! You should consider Albania, an increasingly popular destination thanks to its breathtaking coastline, vibrant culture, and affordable prices. I loved this country, which is located just north of Greece, both times I visited it, and it has a unique history of being closed off from the world for decades.

The country’s gorgeous coastline is more or less 380 kilometers long, with 284 km on the Adriatic Sea and 96 km on the Ionian Sea. Albania’s beaches are beautiful — I can’t deny that — but as I’m not a beach person, I found even more enjoyable to explore the rest of this awesome country on my epic Albania road trip itinerary . 

There’s so much to discover in Albania, so I highly recommend exploring beyond the beaches, too, in order to discover the best destinations in Albania . 

Here are 15 amazing beaches in Albania you can’t miss.

1. Ksamil Beach

Ksamil Beach is located near the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint and is one of the most popular beach destinations in Albania. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy shores, picturesque small islets, and a wide range of amenities (plenty of restaurants, bars, and accommodation), it’s easy to understand why Ksamil is often considered the best beach in Albania . 

This summer destination is for sure the most highly frequented by families but also other travelers (especially during peak season) who go there to sunbathe, snorkel, and take boat trips to the islets . The village of Ksamil is a dreamy location in Albania that you should not miss! 

2. Gjipe Beach

Located on the Albanian Riviera, Gjipe Beach is a secluded beach that is really worth the detour if you’re searching for tranquility and peace of mind. Its location between massive cliffs creates an intimate atmosphere away from the crowds and the noise. Gjipe is accessible via a scenic hike through a canyon or by boat. 

Camping on Gjipe Beach is permitted so many people bring their tents and stay overnight to enjoy the beautiful scenery in the early hours of the morning. Swimming there feels like in a dream. There are caves at the far end of the beach if you are feeling a little adventurous but be careful of the tide.

3. Dhërmi Beach

Dhërmi Beach is a large beach on the Albanian Riviera coast located south of Dhërmi, between the towns of Vuno and Himara. With the mountain on the backdrop and lots of sun loungers and umbrellas, it’s a lovely spot to soak up the sun or partake in a variety of water sports.

On clear days, you can even see the Greek island of Corfu (approximately 2 kilometers away)!

4. Drymades Beach

Also on the Albanian Riviera, near the village (and main beach) of Dhërmi, Drymades Beach is famous for its incredible sunsets and idyllic blue waters. It’s also close to Saranda, making it more accessible and popular with visitors. On the beach, you’ll find white pebbles as well as golden sand.

It’s a great place for kayaking , scuba diving , and paddle boarding. Restaurants and cafés in the area serve delicious seafood dishes and traditional Albanian cuisine. You’ll also find beach clubs where you can dance the night away. 

5. Palasa Beach

Palasa Beach is the northernmost beach of the Albanian Riviera, a beautiful place where the sea meets the mountains. The water is among the clearest you’ll ever see! Of course, several businesses are now using such a stunning place to please travelers, but there is still a free public beach.

Palasa Beach is a bit far from everything, about 8 km from Dhërmi and 78 km from Saranda. During the summer months, it hosts music festivals and beach parties.

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6. Jale Beach

If you find yourself in Southern Albania, more precisely near Himarë , Jale Beach is worth a visit! It’s also not too far from Gjipe Beach and the Llogara Pass . Go early (the earlier the better) because it tends to get crowded in the afternoons. There too, the water is crystal-clear and the beach bars serve tasty food and delicious cocktails. 

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Diving enthusiasts can explore underwater caves and rock formations. There are hotels, guesthouses, and even designated camping areas nearby. The region is also known for hosting nice summer music festivals. 

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7. Borsh Beach

Borsh Beach is surrounded by mountains and is quieter than others on the Albanian Riviera. It’s 7 km long (it’s the largest beach in the south of the country) so there is plenty of space for everyone. Looking up, you can spot Borsh Castle from there. 

A few beach bars are open in July and August, but services are more limited when it’s not summertime. It’s the perfect place for long walks to unwind or to watch the sunset. You can also rent a jet ski or go on a boat trip.

8. Pulëbardha Beach

Pulëbardha Beach is found between Saranda and Ksamil. You can easily reach it by taking a bus that runs every hour between Saranda and Butrint. It’s a 20-minute walk from the bus stop. For an amazing view of the clear turquoise water, you should try the Pulëbardha Beach restaurant . You can even spot Lekursi Castle in the distance.

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Down on the beach, hidden behind the rocks, there’s another really nice beach bar. You can also rent beach beds and umbrellas there. Arrive early because the beach is not very big and it tends to become crowded. 

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9. Livadhi Beach

Livadhi Beach is a large beach in Himara on the southern coast of Albania. It’s located down the hill from the old town of Himara Fshat . The beach can be reached by car and there is parking available for visitors. There is a public part of the beach as well as privately operated areas.

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The beach is very popular among locals and travelers for its natural sand and beautiful surroundings. Located on a bay, it offers a nice view of the green hills all around, with Himara Castle visible on top of one of the hills. If you’re planning to spend the night, there are various accommodation options available, such as hotels, guesthouses, and campsites.

10. Himara Beach

The town of Himara is located between Saranda and Vlora in the Albanian Riviera. The town has not 1 but 4 beaches stretching around the entire bay: Spile Beach , Marachi Beach , Prinos Beach , and Potam Beach . 

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Spile is the main public beach directly in front of the town with many bars and restaurants. There is a pier from which you can jump into the water as well as do boat tours. Marachi Beach is popular for water sports and Prinos Beach is equipped with sunbed rentals and beachside cafés. Potam Beach is more secluded.

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11. Qeparo Beach

Qeparo Beach is the only beach in the village of Qeparo, surrounded by olive groves and magnificent views. It’s located between Porto-Palermo and Borshi Beach . A pedestrian promenade runs along the beach, lined with numerous restaurants on its opposite side. Everything is nearby! 

If you want a calm day chilling by the ocean, visit this location when the peak season is over! On the beach, you can rent beach beds with umbrellas or bring your own towel to claim a spot on the public beach.

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12. Rana e Hedhun Beach

Rana e Hedhun Beach is situated only 3-4 kilometres from Shëngjin. Access to the beach is typically done by foot from the nearby village. The name “Rana e Hedhun” translates to “Thrown Sand” in English. It refers to the impressive dunes that you’ll find there.

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These dunes rise to 50 meters high and are a result of strong winds blowing sand from the shore towards the mountain. Going to the top of this hill is a great workout and the view is amazing, especially at sunset.

13. Filikuri Beach

Situated close to Himara, Filikuri Beach can only be reached by boat (you can rent one from different places) or via a hiking path from Potam Beach in Himara. You’ll find this gem between the beach of Potam and the beach of Llaman. 

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If you want to spend an entire day in Filikuri, make sure to bring enough food and plenty of water with you because there is no shop on the beach.

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14. Spille Beach

Located near the town of Kavajë, Spille Beach is a very long sandy beach surrounded by a pine forest. The waters are shallow, clear, and calm, making it ideal for swimming, especially for families with children.

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Several beachside restaurants and bars offer local and international cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Albanian dishes. Sunbeds and umbrellas are also available for rent.

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15. Narta Beach

You’ll find Narta Beach near the city of Vlora in southern Albania. If you’re hoping for fine golden sand and clear, shallow waters, you’re in luck! The Narta Lagoon is perfect for birdwatching, with species like flamingos and pelicans.

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Nearby attractions include the historic Zvernec Monastery on Zvernec Island, accessible by a wooden footbridge.

FAQ — Frequently asked questions about Albanian beaches

Here are a few commonly requested answers.

Where is Albania located?

Located in the western part of the Balkan Peninsula, Albania shares a border with Greece, North Macedonia, Kosovo, and Montenegro.

The country is nicknamed “Land of the Eagles” and has a population of 2.8 million (about half of British Columbia) and a land area of 29,000 km² (a bit more than half of Nova Scotia).

Which part of Albania has the best beaches?

The southern part (especially the Albanian Riviera) is famous for having the best beaches in the country. 

But Albania has plenty of beautiful beaches, from the smallest to the liveliest seaside towns, from the most popular spots to the most hidden coves. It’s actually quite a challenge to find out the exact number of beaches in this nation. 

Which beach in Albania has the clearest water?

Ksamil Beach is often cited as having some of the clearest turquoise water in Albania. It is located close to the town of Saranda and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint. Other beaches known for their crystal-clear waters include Gjipe Beach, Palasa Beach, and Jale Beach. 

Is it better to stay in Ksamil or Saranda?

You should stay in Ksamil if you prefer a quieter, more relaxed beach holiday with stunning landscapes. Saranda is perfect for those who want a vibrant atmosphere with more dining, shopping, nightlife, and entertainment options. 

What is Albania like for a beach holiday?

Albania is gaining popularity as a beach holiday destination, with countless beaches including popular and secluded ones. If you love water sports and nightlife, you won’t be disappointed. 

The local culture and hospitality, combined with the low cost of living, add to the overall nice experience.

Which Albanian beach looks like the Maldives?

Ksamil Beach in Albania is frequently compared to the Maldives because of its crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and charming small islands located near the coastline. It’s a piece of tropical paradise in Europe!

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Albanian beaches are renowned for their white sand, crystal-clear waters, and scenic mountain views. It’s a perfect destination for a memorable beach vacation!

What would you like to know about the most amazing beaches in Albania? Tell us in the comments below.

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Featured image: Ksamil, Albania (photo credit: Polina Rytova)

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List of the best beaches in Albania [with drone shots]

This article on the best beaches in Albania was first published in November 2018 and updated in June 2020. 

I bet that if you think of Greece or Spain , a beach vacation is something that comes to mind. What if I told you that the beaches in Albania are some of the nicest in Europe and have yet to be discovered by anyone beyond the Balkans or the locals?

That’s right, Albania has some beautiful beaches that come in every shape and form. There are white sand beaches, gravel beaches, rocky beaches, scenic beaches below sharp cliffs, island beaches, empty beaches, umbrella beaches, hotel beaches…

You name it and Albania probably has it. A little known fact about Albania is that it has some of the least developed rivieras in Europe – perfect for exploring desolate enclaves of paradise. 

Albania is a relatively small country. It takes about six to seven hours to drive the length of it, I know because I did it, and because it is a primarily coastal country (although it has stunning mountains and is 70% covered in them) bordered by the Adriatic Sea, beaches abound.

However, the country has yet to be discovered by mass tourism and, while umbrellas and sun loungers do not lack, you are most likely only going to find other Balkan neighbours and maybe some Greek and Italians besides the locals.

I came to Albania in search of the elusive beaches and drove all the way to the southern part of the country, to what is called the Albanian Riviera and, in particular, to the beaches near Sarande and Butrint, near the border of Greece, to find out whether the myth of Europe’s last isolated beaches was true or not.

What is more, for a truly thorough assessment, I not only walked the beaches, I also photographed them from the aerial view of my drone. So you can decide for yourself if the beaches in Albania are worth it of your next vacation. Use this guide of Travel in Albania along with my beach guide for a truly great trip.  Or this guide if you’re planning a complete road trip around Europe .

P.S. We have also written about all the best beaches in Southeast Asia and other parts like the ones in Thailand ,  Vietnam ,  Indonesia , Singapore , Macau , the Philippines and South Africa if you want some wanderlust and inspiration beyond Europe. Or go closer to home and explore the amazing beaches in Montenegro or Malta .

The most convenient beach in Albania – Durres

Some of the most popular beaches in Albania can be found near the capital of Tirana , around the coastal city of Durres. This is also the only place where you can actually find some premium resort-style hotels (for now), although do not expect to see the development that you find elsewhere. Albania has yet to experience the luxury tourism boom of neighbouring Montenegro .

Durres is a good place to stop if you only have one day and want to head to the beach. Here the beaches are longer and near the city and the Roman Amphitheatre and ruins the city is famous for. Even at the beginning of September, Durres is quiet. Make sure not to miss the many sights! Here is my complete guide to Durres Albania for all the insider information. 

How to get there : Durres is about a 45min drive from Tirana and one of the most popular day and weekend beach getaways from Tirana. There are buses going there and renting a car is easy and affordable. There are also tours of Durres that come with a professional guide so you can explore the ancient sites with a knowledgable informant. Depending on how much time you have to spare, you can either go on a 5 hour guided tour or a 10 hour guided tour that also includes a delicious wine tasting. 

Facilities : Durres is a proper city so you will find everything you need there. Parking is easy as there is plenty of space on the street (for free) and the city is quite large.

The most beautiful beaches in Albania – Ksamil

Albania’s most famous beaches are in the southernmost part of the country , right by the UNESCO site of Butrint , and in front of Greece’s island of Corfu: Ksamil Beach.

Ksamil is famous because it is scenic, picturesque and has real crystalline waters of the turquoise that you see elsewhere in the Balearic Islands or Greece. The main town of Ksamil is complemented with some small islands that are just a short boat ride away and are often just reached on a paddleboard.

The beaches are truly popular with the locals and the few Kosovar, Greek and Italians who have heard of their beauty. Expect to find them filled with umbrellas and sun loungers in the summer months, as most other Albanian beaches, but these ones are worth it.

The water of Ksamil is clean and clear and the sand is fine and white, something that is not that common in Albania. From the sky, the islands and the main beach in the mainland, look beautiful.

On the ground, it is a bit of a party . There are families, couples and groups of friends having fun. Loud music pumping, bars and restaurants and lots of people enjoying a full day on the beach.

Because the beaches stretch all around the town of Ksamil, there are a few options, some with just parasols and sun loungers, some adjacent to beach clubs. Take your pick of the place that gives you the best vibes. Ksamil is one of the best beaches in Albania, without a doubt.

How to get there : Ksamil can be reached by road and there are regular buses from Saranda. I drove there on my road trip and it is easy to find as there is only really one coastal road in Albania. Ksamil is about 15-20min drive from Saranda.

Facilities : Ksamil is big and entirely devoted to beach goers. You can find beach umbrellas and sun loungers for rent, restaurants, shops selling all sorts of beach wear and items, bars with music, and anything required for a fun day at the beach.

The Albanian beach without a beach – The Blue Eye

Not actually a beach per se, but more a spring , The Blue Eye is a natural phenomenon whereby water bubbling from a spring deep down creates the illusion of a blue eye, hence the name.

I had seen a lot of photos of it, but they were all pretty misleading, so I decided to fly the drone to give you a better perspective of what to expect. The following photo gives an idea of the area and the couple of shacks selling snacks and renting equipment.

The Blue Eye is often included in round ups of the best beaches in Albania because there is water, and a sort of sand around it. But you can’t swim or sunbathe here .

I had thought that we would be able to get into the water but actually, you are not allowed and can only watch it from a distance or from a small platform right above the eye. The area can get really crowded in the weekends and summer months so you will be practically queuing to take your photos in the main spots like the platforms shown on the photo above.

I saw some people dipping their feet in the really cold (judging by their face) water, but nothing more. There is quite some shade around and it is usually very lush and green, so it invites relaxation. Outside of the peak summer months it is probably a very quiet part of Albania.

How to get there : The Blue Eye is located about 45min from Saranda or Gjirokaster and can be reached by public bus or by car. I drove there and had to pay an entrance fee at the bridge that crosses the stream. There are regular buses stopping by the road but the walk from the drop-off point to the Blue Eye can take up to 30min in the heat of the summer on an unsealed road. Bring water.

Facilities : You can find some parking space at the entrance with a few cafeterias. In the peak season, or in weekends, you will have to park on the unsealed road that leads to the Blue Eye as the parking gets full. There are camping tents for hire and hiking trails around plus additional activities available. This is a common place for local families to come spend the day so bring a picnic basket or buy some food and chill among the greenery and the sounds of the water. If you don’t know what to eat in Albania, here’s our article on the best food in Albania . 

One of the most remote beaches in Albania – Poda Beach

You will actually see signs for Poda Beach on the main road leading to Saranda but you will probably not realise that it is pretty remote .

Getting there requires a quick but bumpy drive off the main road and down the hill to a sun lounger and umbrella-filled beach that cannot be easily seen from the road .

Poda Beach is popular because it is quieter than the main beaches in Ksamil and still has the white fine sand that makes the area popular. Often touted as a secret, it is not really one, yet you can expect a nice experience than in larger and busier Ksamil and a more scenic day surrounded by the hilly, rocky coast.

How to get there : Look at the Google My Map I created and follow the signs from the main beach, there are large billboards advertising the beach bar.

Facilities : There is a beach bar with the usual drinks, food and bathrooms and umbrellas and sunbeds for rent. Parking is available.

The reflective beach of Albania – Mirror Beach or Pulëbardha Beach

You may hear of Mirror Beach being referred to by visitors as one of the nicest beaches in Albania but then you may realise it is not easily found on Google Maps. I found it and here I am showing it to you!

Mirror Beach is locally known as Pulëbardha Beach and it is a pretty and isolated beach that is hard to reach , narrow and less crowded than other places.

While you will find a couple of rows of sun loungers and umbrellas here, you can also bring your towel and enjoy the beach for free. Because of its secluded and protected location by the side of a cliff, you will feel like you are miles away from busy Ksamil.

How to get there : To get there you need to follow the signs for Poda beach and then veer off to the right and follow the road to the beach. This is a gravel road, unpaved but fine to drive with a regular car, I did it with my reliable Opel Astra.

Facilities : There is a bar where you can buy food and drinks and umbrellas and sunbeds for rent. Parking is available.

The capital of the Albanian Riviera – Saranda Beaches

Saranda is considered by many as the capital of the Albanian Riviera. It is the most developed part of the coast in the south of the country and has a long and scenic beach. This is one of the most popular getaway destinations in the country and has a lot of tall apartment blocks and a nice promenade.

I found Sarande to be much prettier than Vrole, the other main town on the Albanian coast. There is a fishing feel to it, with lots of smaller boats and fishermen along the main promenade, and it looked like it was something more than just a tourist town, albeit completely empty beyond the peak summer months .

The beach in Saranda is pebbly and does not have much sand , but the fact that the city is surrounded by hills and in the shape of a bay gives it a very picturesque feel. There are also lots of shops, restaurants and bars in town so you can take your pick without running out of options if you are staying there longer.

Because Saranda is quite big (by Albanian beach town standards), you will find lots of accommodation options and proper restaurants . As a coastal, originally fishing village, Saranda has great seafood and fresh fish brought in daily so make sure to indulge in what is otherwise not as common elsewhere inland in the country.

If you are visiting the town make sure to go up to the castle. It is not as big or pretty as other castles in Albania like the fortress/castles in Gjirokaster or Berat , but provides great views over the town below. And you also get to snap a scenic bunker shot by the main entrance, peering like a hidden eye of the mountain.

How to get there : There are lots of buses that go to Saranda from pretty much anywhere in Albania but I would suggest to explore the area by car so you have full freedom. Driving in Albania is not for the faint-hearted, so you will need to brace yourself, but it is totally worth it. Saranda is also pretty spread out so without a car you will be walking a lot, or need buses. To go up the castle, you could walk it, but I would think it could take up to an hour depending on where you are based, and it is a really steep walk in the hot summer months, without any shade. I would strongly recommend you to cab it if you don’t have a car.

Facilities : As this is a proper town, there are all the facilities you need. The beach is gravely but there are parasols and sun loungers for rent pretty much all along and the odd beach club style restaurant where proper food is served.

The largest beach in Albania – Vlora Beach

Vlora is a much developed and relatively proper city in Albania. Vlora beach stretches really long and has a wide promenade along the sea with lots of palm trees and benches . This is a touristy beach town, if there ever was one in Albania. In fact, it reminded me a lot of Benidorm in Spain.

Think of tall apartment blocks, beach/summer themed stores and a lot of people in the summer, but practically nobody in the winter.

Vlora feels like it was created for the sole purpose of summer months . Already at the beginning of September it was almost deserted, its long beach practically empty.

While there are a few beach clubs along the beach, many parts of it are devoid of umbrellas and sun loungers, a rarity in Albania. However, Vlora does not have the best beaches in Albania.

The sand is darker, and the the water, while clean, is not as clear and crystalline as in Ksamil or some of the other great Albanian beaches on this list. However, it is easy to access with direct highway links from Tirana, so it is a popular escape for the locals.

How to get there : Great road all the way from Tirana. You can also get there by bus but driving is better. It’s also about an hour’s drive from the Apollonia Archeological Park if you want to explore this beautiful area. 

Facilities : Pretty much anything you need. Choose one of the beach clubs for comfy sunbeds or even cabanas, food and drinks.

Hidden gems along the Vlora coast – Vega/Paradise Hotel Beach

Driving south from Vlora towards Kanine and Radhime you will find lots of beach clubs along the way with funky names like Coco Bongo, St. Tropez or Vega. Some of them are pretty and merit a stop .

Here you will often find s emi-artificial beaches where gravel or pebbles have been brought and placed on top of concrete narrow strips, the locals love to enjoy the sea at every opportunity. The beach is practically nonexistent on some of these small beach clubs but they are scenic and the water is of an incredible azure blue.

How to get there : Driving from Vlora you will find all the beach clubs including this one, on your right hand side, just look out for the billboard or use Google Maps.

Facilities : Beach Clubs have everything you need to spend the day.

The Albanian beaches with the most beach clubs – Kanine Beach and Radhime Beach

Often highlighted as one of the best beaches in Albania, I found both Kanine and Radhime underwhelming . They are easy to reach as they are just next to Vlora, so probably that is why they are so popular.

The beaches here are mostly gravel, not even pebble , and while the water can be very clear and blue, the beach experience does not compare to the more beautiful beaches in the south. The sand is coarse and it is not very pleasant to walk on gravel. The locals don’t seem to mind, tough cookies they are!

Look out for the smaller beach clubs all along the coast, in smaller coves and rocky spots, for more scenic alternatives. Check out the rest of the beaches in Albania on this list for more beautiful options.

How to get there : Driving from Vlora you will first reach Kanine and then Radhime, they are just along the coast.

Facilities : The public beaches have sun loungers and parasols and there are plenty of beach clubs to choose from for more convenient facilities

The most heavenly of the beaches in Albania – Monastery Beach

Monastery Beach is between Ksamil and Saranda and located below St George Monastery , hence the name. What makes it most picturesque is the crescent shape and the cliffs around it.

Because of its harder-to-reach location, you can expect it to be a hidden beach with far less crowds . The high season in Albania is, however, pretty busy, so you can’t expect to be there alone, there will be others and there will be the popular sunbeds and umbrellas.

The beach here is pebbly so you should wear proper footwear, but the water, and with everywhere else in this area, is clean and clear, great for a swim.

How to get there : The beach can be easily accessed from the main road off a turn that is signposted. Or simply follow my Google My Map.

Facilities : Like all the other beaches in the area, you can expect sun loungers and umbrellas plus a couple of bars where you can grab food and drinks.

A bit of Greece in Albania – Himara Beach

Himara is a very unique town and beach in Albania which is mostly inhabited by bilingual Greeks and flanked by the 2,000m high mountains on one side and the Ionian Sea . It was this protected location which allowed the Greeks to defend themselves from the Ottoman Empire relentlessly for centuries.

The area boasts nice beaches and a cute historical town and castle up on the hill. The promenade in Himara is pleasant, as are all the Greek restaurants. It is a relaxed enclave and far from the tourism that may fill the beaches in other parts of the Riviera, as it takes longer to reach.

If you find Himara too busy, go 3km north towards Livadhia beach which is beautiful and usually less crowded.

How to get there : The beach is down from the town which is up high and you can either walk or drive.

Facilities : Sun lounger and umbrellas are available as are food, drinks and snacks.

For pebbles and crystal clear waters – Dhermi and Drymades Beach

Dhermi Beach is located very near Himare town and is similarly populated by ethnic Greeks who speak a dialect that is not used anywhere else. It can be found halfway between Vlora and Saranda, in the Albanian Riviera.

In Dhermi town there are two beaches, Dhermi and Drymades, both of which are pebbly but have crystal clear waters. Drymades is smaller and harder to reach so tends to be favored by those who want something a bit more special. Both are great beaches in Albania that you can’t miss.

How to get there : You can drive from the main road to the beach.

Facilities : While there are facilities, you may not find the sun loungers and umbrellas taking over like in other beaches.

The longest beach in the Ionian Sea – Borsch

At 7km, Borsch has the longest beach in the Ionian Sea that goes on for as long as the eye can see, and is unexpectedly far less developed than other parts of the Albanian Riviera. Here, you can easily find a spot that is less crowded and not filled with umbrellas so this is the place to come for an off-the-beaten-path beach in Albania.

How to get there : Borsch beach can be easily accessed from the road.

Facilities : There are a few restaurants and bars along the beach, but you won’t find the level of amenities of other places, people come here to get away from that.

A completely hidden gem – Gjipe Beach

This is perhaps the only hidden gem of a beach in Albania . Why?

Because it is hard to reach and you need to walk for 30min along the coast on a basic path to reach it. This way, it has survived the development. The parasols have made it there though!

Gjipe beach gets its name from the canyon that ends on the beach. You can visit it, and hike the area, with appropriate gear.

How to get there : You need to walk for half an hour to reach the beach from the paved snaking road. So park your car and bring proper shoes.

Facilities : There is a beach hut, umbrellas and some sun loungers but at a smaller scale than elsewhere in Albania.

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23 Best Beaches in Albania (Plus Secret & Island Beaches!): 2020 Guide

The beaches in Albania are one of Europe’s best-kept secrets: as stunning as Greece’s or Croatia’s, yet a fraction of the price.

Most of the most beautiful Albanian beaches are clustered around Saranda and the Albanian Riviera, which stretches through the coastal regions of Saranda and Vlora. However, the north of Albania does has a few pretty beaches as well that are less well-known, such as Shengjin Beach with its beautiful sand dunes, Rana e Hedhun.

While many people have covered writing about the best beaches in Albania, we’ve thrown in a few secret beaches as well as island beaches (yes, Albania does have a few islands!) that you can visit for a more off the beaten path Albanian beach experience.

Note that Albania is getting more popular year by year, and as a result, things along the coast change quite rapidly, as Albanians try to meet the demands of tourists. While we do our best to keep this content up to date, we welcome feedback from your experience visiting Albania’s beaches so we can keep this resource as useful as possible!

Best-Known Albanian Beaches

Saranda beaches.

There are actually several beaches right near Saranda, the largest city in Southern Albania, all with crystal clear waters, with amenities to make your beach trip extra comfortable. Most beaches in Saranda have sunbeds, loungers and umbrellas for you to rent so you can relax comfortably and not worry about getting too much sun.

We won’t detail every beach individually here, because they’re all really close and offer similar amenities. Some of the most popular Saranda beaches are Pasqyra (also known as Mirror Beach), Pulebardha Beach, and Monastery Beach.

Do note that these beaches can be crowded, full of a lot of tourists and locals during the summer peak season – and even more so on weekends! Most beaches have ample parking if you’re traveling around Albania with your own rental car, which is quite convenient, though be prepared as some have paid parking.

Ksamil Beach

Ksamil Beach is located in Southern Albania, just south of Saranda and above the Roman ruins at Butrint, one of Albania’s two UNESCO sites.

There are plenty of beautiful beaches in this area, but Ksamil is quite popular with locals (and it tops the list of Albanian beaches for foreign tourists too!) because of its clear waters and four small islands – all with their own beach! – which you can even swim out to.

Boats are also available to take you there if you’re not a confident swimmer, or if you don’t have a dry bag to bring your belongings in while you swim otu to the islands.

As Ksamil Beach is one of Albania’s highlights, be aware that it can get very crowded, especially around the month of August, so it is best to avoid it in August if you don’t want to feel suffocated by the crowds or not be able to find a free sun lounger. The beach itself is also a bit on the small side, so you’d want to show up early enough to grab a spot.

The small islands in Ksamil can be reached by boat or even by swimming, and you can easily view them while sitting on Ksamil Beach – which is why Ksamil is so popular, that view is hard to beat! Two of the four small islands are connected to each other by a sandbar, which is why people call them the Twin Islands of Ksamil.

What’s so great about Ksamil is the availability of restaurants, cafes, and bars – it’s very commercialized, yet its original beauty is still preserved. Public transportation to the beach is also easily available from Saranda, so it makes it a perfect destination for a quick beach escape.

Borsh Beach

This Albanian beach is probably one of the country’s most beautiful — a hard task, as there are so many to choose from! It is said that it is also the largest beach in Albania, and judging by the looks of it, I’d believe it!

There are rolling hills visible from the beach, full of beautiful forest which adds a contrast to the gorgeous blue waters of Borsh Beach. It’s on the way from Saranda to Himara, about 20 minutes north of Saranda.

Despite its immense beauty, this beach is never all too crowded: mostly because you have so much space to spread out on, so it’s quite easy to get a patch of coastline all to yourself.

There are several restaurants (we love Solymar and recommend them!) long this stretch of coastline, all with ample parking. Many restaurants have music playing to add to the summer vibes as you swim or just bathe in the sun. Sunbeds and loungers are priced around 250-300 lek (around $2.50 to $3 USD) for the day as of 2018, but prices may have increased since then.

The road to get here is smooth and easy, which makes your travel very stress-free! If you plan on staying for the night, there are mostly budget accommodations available. There are also spots for campers and trailers – all you need is a perfect bonfire to make some s’mores or grill up some steak or freshly caught fish!

Palasa Beach

This beach has a rocky coastline with a soft pebbled beach that is around 1.5 kilometers long, with some of the most beautiful sea you can imagine. There are some cafés and restaurants serving up delicious seafood and Albanian food nearby, so you won’t have the hassle of preparing a picnic before you go.

Do note that the roads leading to the beach zigzag all over the place, so if you’re prone to motion sickness as I am, just make sure to bring some motion sickness pills to help you. However, if you’re in it for the adventure, then you will enjoy the views and the arduous road to get there. Lounges and umbrellas are available, but you would need to rent one. They are priced at 500 lek per day as of 2019.

A new beach bar was recently added, where you can get some drinks or a cold beer to enjoy in the sun. It is a total escape from the town of Palase and you may also visit the Llogara National Park which is nearby. If visiting Llogara National Park, check out SkySport there, which offers amazing paragliding flights over the Riviera!

Durres Beach

This beach is quite a favorite from locals coming from Tirana and of course, Durres itself. Locals from neighboring Montenegro and Kosovo also often come, as it’s an easy drive from both countries.

Durres gets quite crowded during the summer season because of its economical prices and very accessible location, close to the main highways in Albania. There are also some stunning beachfront hotels here, great to splurge on if you plan on staying in Durres: imagine staying in a hotel where you can wake up to spectacular views of both the city skyline and the Adriatic Sea!

Comfortable loungers are everywhere and you can also dine in some of the cafés and restaurants along the coast. Bring some watershoes or sandals that can go in the water, because the beach is primarily pebbly and some rocks are slippery. Sunscreen can be very expensive in the stores here, so if you don’t want to get burned by the hot sun, bring one!

Shengjin Beach

This beach is located in Lezha in northern Albania and is both a beach and a port with a lot of history. It is also very accessible because the beach lies just beside the main road!

Prices are also very economical (especially the rooms and accommodations) as this is outside of the main Albanian Riviera stretch, perfect for a budget-friendly vacation.

The waves are usually still in the morning, but around afternoon or evening the winds and waves start to show up. It would be perfect to go for a morning walk just when the sun starts to rise!

In the summer afternoons, it can be a little noisy around some of the more commercial areas in the beach, due to the loud music the shops and restaurants play – best for people who love a fun party vibe rather than quiet relaxing.

There are options for restaurants around, but the best ones are of course, the seafood restaurants! Since you are already in town, you may also visit some of the local bars and admire how charming they are! If you want a beach bed Mykonos-style, check out the hip beach bar at Sueno Beach – the beds are pricy for Albania, but oh so comfortable and Instagrammable!

And of course, you can’t miss its gorgeous sand dunes, called Rana e Hedhun, which means “thrown sand.” These sand dunes slope dramatically directly into the sea, creating a beautiful contrast between the land and sea. Plus, as so many beaches in Albania are primarily pebbly, it’s lovely to have some soft sand to sink your toes in!

Qeparo Beach

This is a small beach in Qeparo, nearby Porto Palermo and Borsh – so it’s ideal if you want to do a day beach-hopping around the Albanian Riviera.

Despite the Albanian Riviera’s growing popularity, there are still areas that are not commercialized: Qeparo is one of them. Plenty of people simply lay out their towels and relax so they don’t have to pay for sun loungers, but they are available (as well as parasols) if you want to beat the heat — just ask for one at the section of the beach, which also has two delicious restaurants.

Make sure that you are able to bring cash with you because there are no ATM’s in the area, and you don’t want to ruin a great day at the beach when you run out of money. It is also easily accessible via the National Road – making it ideal for road trips!

This beach is not quite as popular as others in the area, but it offers a great blend of quiet vibes, beautiful views, some basic amenities, plus hotels and accommodations nearby if you plan on staying for the night.

If you still have time, you can also check the so-called ghost village of Qeparo – you will see historic buildings and architecture that is beautifully preserved as if lost in time. However, there are still a few locals who live here, so it’s not totally a ghost village – it is still remarkable, though!

Orikum Beach

Orikum Beach is located south of Vlora, in a small town with the same name. It has a long beach with both sand and pebbles.

This lovely Albanian beach has retained much of its unspoiled beauty despite the presence of commercial establishments like hotels, restaurants, and shops. Transportation is easily accessible by bus, though you could also rent a car or hire a taxi from wherever you’re staying in the Riviera.

Note that there are no ATMs near the beach, so it’s best to first stop in the city center, then you can get some cash or maybe buy some snacks at the supermarkets.

Gjipe Beach

Gjipe Beach is considered as one of the most beautiful paradise-like beaches in the entire Albania. It is another exotic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The best part about being in this beach is the exclusivity due to its remote location – you might end up seeing less than 10 people. It can only be reached by car (or taxi) and it is truly an off the beaten path. It is very close to Himare, just around 16kms and around 30-40 minutes (as long as you don’t get lost!). If you’re planning to spend a night at Jale Beach (which is nearby), you can get here by boat. It has rocky cliffs with unique formations carved out by the ocean waves, plus there are also caves here, where you can explore, swim and keep yourself well shaded from the heat of the summer sun. Everything is just perfectly magical here, and if you were cast adrift on this beach, you wouldn’t mind!

Secret Beaches in Albania

Shpella beach.

Shpella Beach (which means Cave Beach) is located near Lukova, one of the most beautiful villages in Albania. The roads to get here zig and zag quite a bit, so you need to bring some motion sickness pills if that will make you dizzy.

There are also plenty of beautiful olive and orange trees found in the vicinity: an Albanian Garden of Eden, if you will!

The coast of Lukova has several beaches, though Shpella is the largest and best for swimming. Some beaches are just small strips of sand, and other parts of the coast are just forested area.

The waters have a cool blue color and taking a dip in the pure, salty seawater can truly energize you during your vacation. It can have some local tourists during the summer season, but it’s usually not so crowded — it is truly a jewel that’s worth seeing.

Krorëz Beach

A beautiful virgin beach near the heart of Saranda, that has an awesome tranquil ambiance. You may reach this wonderful location by boat from Kakome Beach, where there are several cheap boats during the day. If you have the energy, you can also go by foot from Lukova Beach, which is about a 5-kilometer hike.

Because it’s not possible to get here directly with a car (a boat or a long hike is required), it’s extremely beautiful and undisturbed. People who want a quiet and less crowded beach should definitely give it a visit. There are some huge rocks and fine white sand with a backdrop of the green mountains.

Boat trips, hiking, and camping are some of the most popular activities here. Sometimes the beach will be almost totally empty and you won’t see more than a few people. Long walks are required to get to the beach from the town if you choose to hike, and the trail is a little rocky – some say it can take up to around 2 hours. Once you get there and see those views, though, you’ll surely find it’s all worth the walk!

Itan Kreyziu Beach

The location of this beach can be quite difficult to reach, but it’s worth it! Once you are there, you will be amazed by the extremely clean blue waters of the sea and the pebbly shore.

It is truly an escape and who would have thought that something like this could be found so close to Saranda – only about 2 kilometers away! You won’t find any chairs or loungers here, so you must bring one if you can (or lay out a towel, though it’s not so comfortable on a pebbly beach like this). However, the solitude and stunning views make it worth it!

Portonovo Beach

Portonovo Beach near Zvernec is a popular destination for tourists who want to escape the crowds and are tired of all the highly-trafficked beaches along the Albanian Riviera. Despite how quiet it is, it is only 15 minutes from the heart of Vlora, and the water here is just electrifyingly beautiful and clear.

Some areas of the beach have rock formations and also huge rocks that have been eroded from the crashing sea waves. There is also Narta Lagoon here, where you will find a wooden bridge that will lead you to Zvernec Island, where you can explore a monastery!

On some areas of the beach, you will see beautiful rock formations that seem like they have been swept by the changing tides and rushing waves of the sea. It is also another peaceful escape and you will love the beautiful isolation it gives you, because of its magical and unique beach and off-the-beaten-path location.

Kakome Beach

Located in Delvine District (a former military area), this private beach boasts white sand and pebbles and azure blue waters. There’s also a lot of lush vegetation growing here and a picturesque mountain view.

Some investors wanted to use the location for tourism and build a hotel, but the villagers of Nivice protested to keep it free for all to use without havign to pay, and the project was stalled.

Come prepared with all that you need for the day because there are no shops or restaurants here, so bring water and food with you. You may also want hike on the nearby hill in the area so you can get a good view of the entire bay! If you still have time and want to hop onto a nearby beach, you can definitely visit Krorezi Beach: occasional boats leave from here, so it’s a great way to pair the two stunning beaches!

This is one of the most incredible wonders of nature you will see from Vlora! If you can, it is best to reserve an entire day to enjoy Grama Bay and camp overnight here.

There’s a lot of history and culture located in the town of Grama, so it’s worth visiting the town as well as its stunning cerulean bay.

Note that it is quite difficult to hike here – the trails appear to just have been made haphazardly by people coming to visit the beach, rather than by any organized fashion. Do not forget to bring food, water, and important stuff with you like sunscreen with you, as the location is quite remote and you won’t find a place to buy anything!

However, it’s all worth it. The rocky cliffs, crystal blue water, and the mountains with their shrubs all combine to create one of the most stunning sceneries in Albania – a true nature lover’s paradise.

Cape of Rodon

This rocky cape is where you will also find the Rodoni Castle (which is in ruins) with a long stretch of beach and several resorts. The trail is a little grassy and unkempt, but once you’re there, you will truly fall in love with its sandy beach and turquoise waters!

You may also want to visit the small church, the Monastery of St. Anthony, as it has historic pieces that make it one of the most famous churches in all of Albania. Every 13 th of June, patrons of St. Anthony will flock to the church. It also has a nice view from there.

There are some restaurants and makeshift cafes here, so if you fail to bring some food then you’ll be fine! A must-try are the food shacks selling grilled seafood – yummy and all so fresh! With all its enchanting beauty, it will make you wonder why this beach doesn’t have plenty of visitors (even though it’s only an hour away from Tirana).

Playa del Este Karpen

Rocky and dusty roads lead you to Playa del Este Karpen in Golem – it can a bit hard to find, so make sure to follow the road signs or you will end up getting lost!

There are usually few people on this remote beach, as it is not possible to get here by public transportation. There are sun loungers and beds plus umbrellas available and a restaurant and bar to keep you full if in case you get hungry or thirsty for some cocktails.

Rates are a little high compared to other places along the coast, but knowing Albania, even the pricy beaches in Albania are quite affordable.

Gjeneralit Beach

This is also known as the General’s Beach (as its name translates to in English). The way to get to this beach can be quite difficult due to the roads (what’s that phrase about the bumpiest roads leading the most beautiful places? Whatever it is, it applies here!)

It still boasts a beautiful clean beach for tourists and locals to enjoy. It is next to Spille Beach, another lovely beach in Albania, and you can get a good view of the Albanian mountains as you frolic in the sand and dip in the crystal water.

There’s one restaurant, with so-so reviews, so it would still be best to bring some food and drinks with you… but considering the price, it is very affordable and can make it less hassle for you to bring food. Spille Beach (below) also has more food and restaurant options, if that’s a better choice for you!

This is probably the best option for adventurous travelers who want to take the road less traveled that leads to a majestic destination: a beach set in a pine forest and groves of olive trees, swoon!

Spille Beach

The beach has very fine sand (even if it’s not like those white beaches). This is located close to Gjeneralit Beach; it it is quite small, but you will see some decent accommodations here. So, you might want to include this when you visit the neighboring beach, or plan to have lunch here before you go to Gjeneralit!

There are plenty of free showers and sunbeds, loungers and umbrellas for rent. There are several hotels and restaurants here and the buildings are not too tall, so you still get to see the greenery behind.

What’s good about the fine sand of the beach is that they rake it every day so you won’t step on sharp pebbles (something that you’ll notice is hard to find in Albania!). Try to bring a mosquito repellent lotion or spray if you plan on staying for the night — the mosquitos are quite pesky during that time.

Island Beaches in Albania

Sazan island beach.

This is the largest island in Albania, and it actually was a military base for decades before recently being converted into a tourist attraction.

There is a lot of mystery surrounding this isolated military island. Some even say that there are secret tunnels and technology to withstand a nuclear attack…. and if you think about how neurotic Hoxha was, with his hundreds of thousands of bunkers scattered around the country, you’d realize that’s probably

After the decades isolation, it took time before some tourists realized the remote beauty of the island that has remained untouched for many years.

You will also see historic military buildings and of course, the beautiful and peaceful beach. The shore has small white rocks from shells and dead sea corals that have been drifted by the waves. You won’t see a crowd here and there is a small cave that leads you to the other side of the island with a lovely view!

Kunë Island Beach

If you are a fan of watching birds (it is Important Bird Area [IBA], which includes threatened species) and lovely blue coastlines, then you should visit this stunning island.

You will also find it inside the Kune-Vain-Tale Nature Park (which is a protected area). It lies in the Adriatic Sea, and there have been recent conservation and expansion efforts so that the residents can use the resources available.

The shoreline has beautiful cliff rocks and blue waters that hit the fine sand. Some areas of the beach have huge polished rocks where you can just sit and admire the skyline meeting the blue sea. Hopefully, the efforts to preserve the beauty of this island will continue. There are also a few people who camp here – especially those who want to watch the birds in their natural habitat!

Tongo Island Beach

The island is located in the southern part of Albania in the Ionian Sea. It is very rocky (with specks of lush vegetation) and it is best to visit the island on board a speedboat, which you can arrange from Ksamil or Saranda.

The waters are extremely clear and some tourists visit to go fishing because of the rich sea life here. Swimming is absolutely lovely here – the water is clean and refreshing! You will love how quiet and peaceful the beach is – very few and sometimes there’s even none!

It has one of the most romantic sunset views in all of Albania. From here, you will also see a good panoramic view of the mountains and the sea. If you’ve hired a boat, you may wish to ask them to also add Stillo Island (since it is near Tongo Island) and enjoy swimming off of its pure, clean shores. It is another island that was once part of Albania’s military zone that is now being converted into a beautiful nature spot.

It’s also actually just a few hundred meters away from the Greek mainland, which is wild!

Zvernec Island

The island is home to the Zvernec Monastery, which was built somewhere between the 13 th and 14 th century. What’s so cool about traveling to this island is that it is connected by a narrow wooden bridge to the mainland of Albania in the town of Zvernec!

The island is small but it is packed with sights you can’t miss. The monastery is named after St. Mary and it has Byzantine-inspired architecture and art. You may also check out the pine forest inside the island and enjoy the fragrant smell as you walk along the trails.

Taking a nice swim on the island is also possible, but admittedly, it is not quite as beautiful as the main beach, Zvernec Beach.

Originally from California, Allison has been living in Bulgaria for the last two years and is obsessed with traveling around the Balkans. She has been published in National Geographic, CNN Arabic, Matador Network, and the Huffington Post. She loves befriending dogs, drinking coffee, geeking out about wine, and cooking food from around the world.

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The Family Vacation Guide

17 of the Best Beaches in Albania

posted by Ellie Wraith on August 25, 2023 // last updated on September 11, 2023

A region with ancient origins, Albania is a fascinating country historically and geographically. From tall mountains to the coasts, Albania is an excellent place for a family vacation. 

The weather varies greatly depending on elevation, but if you’re looking for the best beaches in Albania, expect a warm Mediterranean climate along with some subtropical areas in the southwest. 

Albania has two distinct coastlines, one along the Ionian Sea and the other along the Adriatic. The Adriatic Coast hosts sandy beaches, while the Ionian Coast has rocky shores littered with tiny pebbles. 

There are plenty of swimming spots to enjoy along either sea, but we recommend visiting at least one in each area to see the diversity of the best beaches in Albania. 

Borsh Beach

Buneci beach, dhërmiu beach, filikuri beach, gjipe beach, golem beach, ksamil beach, livadhi beach, lukova beach, narta beach, palasa beach, pasqyrave beach, qeparo beach, saranda beach, shëngjin beach, spille beach.

A small village on the Ionian Sea welcomes visitors to explore the area’s beautiful natural and cultural sites. Borsh is not only famous for its beach but also for The Castle of Borsh , that’s origins can be traced back to antiquity. 

Since Borsh is a tourist hub, there are many places to stay and eat in the village, including lots of beachside options for lodging and dining!

Borsh Beach provides dozens of canopies with seating for guests, which is great since this beach is covered with small pebbles rather than soft sands. 

Swim in the bright blue waters of this beach or grab a cocktail and just relax. There’s plenty of room to rest and have fun at this Albanian tourist destination for the whole family.

Next on our list of the best beaches in Albania is Buneci Beach, which is around a thirty-minute drive from Borsh. These two beaches share many qualities like sparkling clear water and rugged hills up to the coastline. 

One of the key differences between the two is that Buneci is significantly less busy. This beach is located between two villages rather than right alongside one. Expect a more isolated stay here, but the beach won’t be deserted either. 

There are fewer amenities beachside, but that’s part of the appeal of Buneci! If you add this gorgeous beach to your itinerary, schedule some time to walk along the rocky shores and up through the hills for some panoramic views. 

Despite being less populated than other beaches, there are some nice accommodations in the surrounding area, including two beachside resorts. 

Another pebbly beach on the Ionian Coast, Dhërmiu Beach, is a pristine place to spend a day on the water. Named after the nearby village, this beach is one geared towards tourists. 

While this beach is popular, it certainly isn’t overcrowded. The main area has a lot of places to eat, hotels to stay at, and beach clubs where you can rent seaside seating. However, there are isolated spots to find along the beach if you want some solitude. 

Something to note if you’re looking for a quiet vacation is that hundreds people like to have fun on this beach, including a music festival during the summer. There’s still plenty of space for everyone here but be prepared to share space with active beachgoers at peak times for tourism.

Overall, Dhërmiu Beach provides a lovely place for everyone to enjoy the clear waters at this location. 

Filikuri Beach is one of the most secluded on this list of best beaches in Albania, but it’s still worth the visit. However, getting to this beach can be a bit of a challenge. 

Most people arrive by boat to this rocky beach against the cliffs, but it’s also possible to hike to the location from Potam Beach. 

The downside to the private location is there aren’t any facilities at Filikuri Beach . Despite the lack of amenities, Filikuri Beach is one of the most peaceful beaches in Albania, making it an excellent stop for you and your family. 

Since this beach is on the Ionian Sea, you’ll be walking along a rocky shoreline. Bring reliable footwear, especially if you hike to this location. 

Another secluded beach along the Ionian Coast, Gjipe Beach, stands out from other beaches in this area for a few reasons. Despite being along the rockier coast in Albania, this beach has lots of white sand! 

If you’re driving to the beach, be prepared for a twenty-minute walk down to the water. Gjipe Beach has some facilities at the bottom, including restrooms, showers, and areas to buy food and drink. 

Kids love Gjipe Beach for the caves along the cliffs at this beach. It’s a very peaceful place to enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Albanian Coast.  

From the beach, you can walk to the Gjipe Canyon, a great area to explore and climb impressive boulders – this is a fantastic place worth the visit if you stop at this beach. 

A long stretch of water along the Adriatic Sea, Golem Beach is sandy and highly developed. You’ll find many resorts and hotels right along the coast, many of which provide complimentary seating on the beach. 

The water here is shallower further out than beaches on the Ionian Sea, so it’s an excellent place for lounging and relaxing. Many people bring floats to enjoy the water, but if you forget, keep your eyes open for vendors along the beach.

What visitors like most about this beach is the proximity to so many places to stay and eat. If you’re in for an all-inclusive vacation, there are tons of nearby resorts right along this beach to choose from. 

Even if you stop along Golem for a day trip, you’re sure to enjoy the beach, just be prepared to share space with lots of other visitors. 

Jale Beach is another favorite among travelers to Albania. This area along the Ionian Sea is populated with places to eat and drink. There are several resorts on this beach as well. 

The cliffs here come right down to the beach, creating small rocky coves in the water that are perfect for snorkeling! 

The hills surrounding this beach make it look picturesque, so while this is a popular place, remember that this is a small beach. Arriving in the morning is an excellent way to get the spots you want at Jale Beach. 

People flock to this pebble beach for brilliant views of the coastline. There’s also camping available near and on the beach here. It’s a beautiful place to spend some time right along the sea. 

For a bustling experience along the shore of the Ionian Sea, visitors come to Ksamil Beach. The beach itself is breathtaking with crystal clear blue waters. 

The water here gets deeper quickly, making Ksamil Beach one of the best for swimming. There are many amenities on the beach, too, if you want to kick back and relax. 

The beach and town of Ksamil are a part of Butrint National Park . This park not only holds natural wonders like the beaches, hills, marshes, and forests but also ruins and structures from the history of the area. 

Families should take some time to explore this park to learn more about this region’s vibrant history and tour a reconstructed Venetian castle. 

Livadhi Beach on the Ionian Sea is a secluded beach with many areas to explore. There are populated portions with hotels and bars, but the beach still has room for everyone. 

Rockier portions of the beach are great for swimming, snorkeling, or jumping into the water. Many visitors opt to boat around this beach to observe sea caves and olive grove-covered hills. 

Head up to the high cliffs above Livadhi Beach for a spectacular view below. The best spot for this is historic Himara Castle!

While parts of this structure dating back to ancient times are in ruins, other areas of the castle have been incorporated into the village here and are still in use. 

This Albanian beach is spacious with plenty of seating to claim whether you’d like to rent chairs or bring your own. Many of the most popular restaurants are set up along the beach here too. 

The rolling hills here give way to striking cliffs making for a unique shoreline. It’s a great spot to try sea kayaking to see all the little alcoves. 

The main beach has small pebbles and deeper waters than some of the other best beaches in Albania. So whether your family likes to swim or tan in the sun, there’s something for everyone to do here. 

Before heading down to the beach, look at the tiny Greek Orthodox church. Despite being so small, it’s undoubtedly a picture-worthy stop to add to your list. You can also snap a picture below and get some of the beach’s iconic cliffs in frame. 

Narta is a great lowkey beach for families with kids. There’s lots of sand to play in alongside shallow waters making Narta Beach a great place to relax and have fun.

There are chairs available for rent at reasonable prices, and the parking is free. There are a few options for food and drink along the beach. 

Narta is a great place to watch golden sunsets frame Sazan Island offshore. Plus, there are many forested areas next to the beach to see!

If you find yourself part of Albanian, check out St. Mary’s Monastery, a restored building dating back to the 14th century. This island attraction is just nine miles north of Narta Beach and is accessible by bridge. 

Palasa is a peaceful beach with few distractions from the area’s natural beauty. The mountains frame the background of the beach but don’t provide any natural shade, so bring an umbrella to this beach!

The water here sparkles and shines bright blue, but because of the shape of the land here, expect stronger waves than on other beaches. The rocky shore is one of the best places to watch the tide come in. 

The nearby cliffs are worth visiting if you want to take a boat tour of the region. Many rock layers here make the area’s geography so distinct. 

Something else to anticipate is the further development of Palasa Beach. Down the shore, you’ll find other beaches with more restaurants and hotels. This beach is a little more sparse in terms of amenities but might not be for long. 

A cliffside beach close to interesting offshore rock formations, including a small island, is the perfect Albanian beach for your vacation. Pasqyrave Beach has prime conditions for swimming and snorkeling!

The pebbly beach has lots of seating and a bar on-site, so there’s less here as far as choice for food and drink but still some. 

The drive down to the beach can be somewhat challenging. It might be better to park above the beach and walk down to save yourself the hassle. 

Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, and so are jet skis if your family is up for some high-speed adventure. If renting a spot doesn’t sound like your style, head to the far ends of the beach to set up a place for yourself. 

This beach is the centerpiece of Qeparo, a village built right into the cliffside above the sea. The village impresses before you even get to the shore with its architecture and brightly colored flowers. 

Qeparo Beach is part of the region known as the Albanian Riviera, known for its beautiful vistas and vibrant tourist scene with lots of nightlife. The beach provides a refuge from the high-paced energy of some parts of the village. 

There’s ample space to rest here and room to set up your umbrellas. One of the best features here is the sandy beach itself. Most other beaches here are pebble covered, which is typical for the Ionian Sea. 

Qeparo Beach is one of the best for views and taking walks along the line to look at the spectacularly clean waters and nearby hills. 

Saranda Beach stretches along the town of Sarandë, highly developed with vacation rentals and resort-style hotels. 

The beach isn’t particularly wide, and each hotel has its area for seating, but there’s still plenty of room to walk along the water. Many little shops, bars, and restaurants dot the beach walkways.

If you’re traveling with kids who like boats, they will love this location! The Port of Saranda is adjacent to the beach, so you’ll see everything from yachts to fishing boats here. 

Head inland just a few blocks to discover some interesting archeological remains from centuries past. Saranda Beach is a great place to learn about Albania. 

One of the most popular beaches in Albania, Shëngjin Beach, has lots of infrastructure up to the waters of the Adriatic Sea.  

There are plenty of options for seating here, whether you’re looking to rent or set up space for yourself. While most of this beach is highly populated, if you keep walking along the shore, there are some areas for families to spread out. 

The sea here is shallow, and the shores are sandy – this is the perfect place to play and enjoy the water, but if you want to swim, other Albania beaches might suit your tastes better.

If you enjoy eating out on the water, there are many options at Shëngjin Beach, including local vendors selling snacks. While this beach may be crowded during the summer, it’s worth sharing the space for all the amenities provided in this area. 

Spille Beach is an excellent place for families to lounge with lots of room to spread out. The area down to the beach is separated by a forest making the beach seem somewhat secluded from the rest of town. 

These pine trees right next to the beach provide a great place to get out of the sun. It’s a great place to walk and look around. 

There are hotels and restaurants on this beach too, so expect a lot of traffic during peak times. On the plus side, there are lots of vendors, so if you forget anything on your way to the beach, you can probably buy it right on the sand. 

Spille Beach ranks among the best beaches in Albania for its calm and warm waters, making it another great place to bring kids to swim! 

The best beaches in Albania are all over the country, from the rocky, rugged shores of the Ionian Sea to the sandy beaches of the Adriatic. 

There’s something along the Albanian coast to suit everyone’s tastes, whether you like swimming, shopping, or eating out. Plus, beaches provide great starting places for unforgettable boating and snorkeling adventures. 

In most cases, you won’t be able to visit all these amazing beaches in one trip. Pick the ones that fit your family and save some time to check out this country’s rich cultural heritage and the stunning Albanian Alps!  

More about our TFVG Author

Ellie Wraith

Ellie love to seek out an adventure with her travel buddy, Merlin the Dachshund. Being on the road is her vibe, and exploring out of the ordinary locations is dear to her heart.

About Ellie Wraith

• 11 Stunning Beaches Albania

The 17 Most Stunning Beaches in Albania

From sandy lagoons and unspoilt sands to the glories of the Albanian Riviera, here is Culture Trip’s selection of the most stunning beaches in Albania .

Albania’s southern coastline is a photogenic corner of the country: a place of hamlets woven with cobblestoned streets and small Orthodox churches speckling the terrain. Inland there’s more in store – peaceful natural springs near Saranda, lake shores near the Macedonian border. Most importantly, beautiful beaches are in no short supply, rivalling nearby Greece with their white purity and transparent Adriatic shallows, where you can holiday for half the price.

Natural Feature

This might just be Albania’s best-loved beach town, a gash of tropical blue glimpsed as you crest the dramatic Llogara Pass and see it spread below. It’s certainly one of the most frequented beauty spots along the Albanian Riviera, but despite that it hasn’t lost its charm. There are several corkingly lovely stretches near the town, among them Livadhi, a bay of fine white pebbles edged by olive trees; and Potami, attractively spread between the sea and a river.

The city of Vlora, the third largest in Albania, commands a bay where the Ionian Sea merges with the Adriatic. A town of historic merit, where independence was forged, it’s your gateway to some of the country’s finest untouched beaches. From Vlora port, with Teuta Boat Tours, you can hit the unspoiled bays of Karaburun and Sazan, but if you’d rather go it alone, drive in a southerly direction and flop on the shores of Radhime or Orikum. Both are textbook examples of Albanian coast, radiating brilliance in toothpaste-white-and-blue.

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If you’re exploring the Cape of Rodon and Dhermi, one of the best places to go swimming in the vicinity is the Insifa Beach. It stands out with its wooden beach cabanas and its excellent restaurant where you’ll dine on delicious fresh seafood (the seafood spaghetti comes highly recommended).

Recommended by Feride Yalav

Narta, Zvernec

Bridge, Monastery, Natural Feature

Syri I Kalter

Technically Syri I Kalter is not a beach, but a natural spring – the name translates literally as “blue eye”. But that’s not important. This gorgeous, seemingly fathomless spot is the perfect place for an intimate, untroubled swim, in one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the country. It is located along the road between Saranda and Gjirokaster and – believe us – you’ll kick yourself if you don’t stop, only to be teased by postcard images of this amazing natural phenomenon later.

Lying just south of the port city of Durrës, this 8km (5mi)-long stretch of sand has room for everyone. Most people don’t venture much further than the blocks of sun loungers and parasols closest to the little village centre of Spille, but push along a little bit to the north or south and you’ll quickly find the crowds thin – which makes staking out your own semi-private patch in the sand easy. There are restaurants and cafes strung all the way along, too, so you won’t need to go far for a snack or mid-afternoon espresso.

The trick to getting the most out of this part of Albania’s popular northern coast is to come towards the end of the shoulder season. In late May and early June, the beach of this resort town is a wide, empty swathe of dusty-blonde sand, sloping gently into a shallow, rippling sea. There are plenty of sun loungers about, and you can nab one for around £1, but they’re not packed onto every available square inch of sand, as you’ll find they are in peak summer.

In the quieter southern end of Albania, this beach is a bit of a hidden treat, with smooth, bone-white shingle sloping into mirror-smooth water with dramatic mountainous views in either direction. It’s rather like having a slice of the Amalfi Coast , but for half the price. It’s both smaller and less accessible than neighbouring Borsh beach, which actually works to its benefit – you’ll be left alone to relax amid the gentle frothing sound of waves rolling up the pebbles, and the music playing in the beachfront apartments behind you.

It’s like the Seychelles meets the Med here, where palm trees planted in the golden sand shade rows of sun loungers, and a walkway on stilts snakes out across the water to a tiny island and restaurant. It’s a 35-minute drive south from Durrës, and most sun-seekers looking for a beach will have pulled off at Durrës or Golemit, so it’s usually pretty quiet, even in peak season. And if you can’t get to stretch out on one of those rentable recliners, there’s still plenty of beach to go around.

Wedged into a gap in the hills between Himarë and Porto Palermo is this small but perfectly formed beach: a must-stop at the southern end of the coastline. The water is so clear it feels as if you’re looking through a magnifying glass as the shallows idly lap the fine shingle. In peak season, tiki parasols shade rows of sun lounges laid out on the central swathe of beach, while there’s space at either end to lay your towel down if you don’t fancy forking out the small fee.

Alex Allen contributed additional reporting to this article .

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17 Incredible Albania Beaches to Visit in 2024

Last Updated on March 14, 2024

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To be completely honest, Albania beaches have some of the most beautiful beaches that I had ever seen in Europe.

You know those stunning beaches that are so blue you can see through to the bottom?

Well, that’s what ALL Albania beaches are like! Yes, every single one!

The Albania seaside is packed full of beaches with soft sand and pristine waters and is a great location for a beach holiday. There are so many Albania beach destinations you’ll struggle to see all of them in one visit!

But what are the best beaches in Albania? And what’s the best way to enjoy them? Read on, and find out!

Table of Contents

Does Albania have nice beaches?

Yes it does! When it comes to Albania tourism, beaches are one of the country’s biggest draws. If there was competition to determine the world’s best beach, Albania would be a strong contender.

One of the greatest things about all the nice beaches in Albania is that most of them are completely untouched, which makes them even more special, especially during the summer months.

Now that I have lived in Albania for over four years, I have had the privilege to visit nearly every single beach there is along the Albanian Riviera.

No north Albania beaches here – for me, the best beaches in north Albania can’t compete with those in the south!

Here’s the list of the best Albania beaches that are guaranteed to leave you speechless from a certified now-local!

Whether you want to visit the most popular beaches in Albania like Ksamil Beach and Dhermi beach (and they are considered the best beaches in Albania for a reason) or find secluded hidden gems like Gjipe Beach or Palase Beach, there is an Albania beach vacation here for everyone.

Does Albania have beaches? You bet it does! Also, remember to check out my Albania Travel guide for even more on this stunning country!

Albania beaches Map

Use the Google map here to find all the Albania beaches I talk about in this blog post.

Make sure you save this map onto your phone so you can use it to find all the best beaches to visit in Albania throughout your Albania holiday. r4

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17 of the Most Beautiful Albania Beaches

1. Jale Beach

Nestled in the Albanian Riviera is the secluded Jale Beach. If you’re looking for an Albanian beach getaway from any bustling city, then Jale Beach is a great place to do that.

It’s one of the best secluded beaches in Albania! There’s nothing more to do than relax and party along the beautiful Albanian coast.

Some of the most luxurious beach bars and hotels are here – it’s definitely a seaside destination for the rich and famous seeking out an Albania quiet beaches vacation!

It’s not too far from the beautiful hillside village of Vuno if you’re looking to visit a traditional Albanian village.

Where to stay in Jale Beach

Within Jale there is not a huge amount of accommodation options but here are a few ideas in case you do decide to stay and enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches of Albania.

Luxury accommodation

Folie Marine Beach Hotel & club

If you’re wondering where to go in Albania coast for luxury, then this is it!

This is one of the most beautiful locations for a hotel and the Folie Marine Beach hotel also offers 3 restaurants and swimming pool and everything you would need for a real beach getaway.

Mid-range accommodation

Rea Boutique Hotel

This accommodation is basic but meets all the needs of a summer getaway. The local area is also filled with coffee shops and restaurants.

The staff are incredibly friendly, and they serve a delicious breakfast too!

Budget accommodation

Social camping

If you’re on a budget and want an adventure, why not camp?! Social Camping Jal offers tents and also a bungalow if you fancy something a wee bit more luxurious.

They do an incredible free breakfast here and the staff are friendly and always willing to help.

2. Monastery Beach

If you’re looking for the best beach towns and beach resorts, Albania has got you covered.

When visiting the Southern city of Saranda then you must take a quick trip to Monastery beach. It’s not far out of the city, on the road to the popular Albanian beach town of Ksamil .

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5️⃣ Lifestraw Water Bottle : Skip paying for bottled water and instead get a Lifestraw Bottle that you can refill anytime anywhere! 💦 It transforms dirty water into safe drinking water by removing bacteria and parasites with its filtration system inside the bottle. Plus for every product purchased, a school child receives safe water for a year . Click here to grab yours .

You also have the option to walk up to the monastery on the hill which I highly suggest you do to get beautiful views of the Albanian coast and Saranda (one of the best Albanian coastal towns) in the distance.

Don’t forget to check out my big list of things to do in Saranda here .

3. Drymades Beach

Only a 10-minute drive away from Dhermi village, a newly popular Albanian beach getaway destination in the  Albanian Riviera , is Drymades – one of the best famous beaches in Albania due to its gorgeous golden sands. 

This long stretch of coast is very beautiful – Albania sandy beaches are like that!

As for footwear when roaming around the beach, I wore these sandals and they were very supportive!

Drymades is one of the top beaches in Albania during the summer. This location is filled with trendy bars and usually is a hot spot for music festivals too.

Where to stay in Drymades

Luxury accommodation in drymades.

Elysium Hotel

This hotel is a luxury accommodation option that has a swimming pool, shuttle service right down to the beach and friendly staff.

It’s located just above Dhermi Beach, so you get a view of the beach as well as the mountains above.

Mid-cost Accommodation in Drymades

Drymades bungalow

This is the place to be during the summer, and it’s in one of the best beach towns in Albania.

With fantastic accommodation options including bungalows, wooden rooms and stone rooms, friendly staff and a fun vibe throughout.

Highly recommended!

Budget Accommodation in Drymades

Nino’s Guesthouse

This place has a great view and is only a 3-minute walk to the beach. It’s affordable and the staff are incredibly friendly.

4. Palase Beach

Palase beach is definitely in the top 10 beaches in Albania. All you need is your favourite sandals, some snacks, and sunscreen and you could spend all day here.

Right before you go on the Llogara pass through the national park is Palase beach, one of the best hidden beaches Albania has to offer, and possibly the most beautiful.

You cannot visit Albania without visiting Palase Beach – one of the nicest beaches in Albania (and to some, the definitive nicest beach in Albania)!

I highly recommend visiting the Llogara National Park while you’re in the area. You gain stunning views of the Albanian coast from the top too.

5. Mirror Beach (Pasqyra)

Located not far from popular Ksamil Beach is one of the best beaches in south Albania called Mirror Beach.

I would highly recommend checking Mirror Beach out as it’s one of, if not THE most beautiful beach in Albania.

In the afternoon you will have actual waves which are always fun and very uncommon on Albania beaches.

There’s no accommodation nearby but it makes for a great day trip from Saranda.

There is a restaurant at Mirror Beach, Albania so if you wish to eat some seafood and enjoy the long coastline you can do so.

TOP TIP: The road down to this beach is narrow and is a dirt road. Be careful of other cars coming up and down, especially during the middle of summer when it gets busy.

6. Ksamil Beach

I cannot make a list of the best Albania beaches and not include Ksamil Beach!

I do recommend visiting Ksamil but just beware, this is called the gem of the Albanian Riviera which means this place is SUPER busy during summer.

Many people believe it to be the best sandy beach in Albania!

Prices are made for tourists although still affordable, and during the busy season, it’s full of people and sunbeds.

However, you really cannot visit Albania without visiting Ksamil Beach, just so you can see why it’s called the most beautiful beach in Albania.

If you can, I recommend visiting in the off-season but when it’s still relatively warm (April- early June and September – November).

If you avoid visiting during the peak season, you’ll miss the summer rush, and get to enjoy one of the best Albania beach towns more to yourself!

Get my 170+ page comprehensive Albania guidebook on Amazon

📌 This book is perfect if you’re planning on travelling Albania, or if you have already arrived (like an expat), and you want to explore more of the beautiful country and get to know the hidden gems.

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Ksamil Beach is what made me fall in love with the amazing beaches in Albania in the first place!

Where to stay in Ksamil

Hotel Ardiani

This hotel is located right on the beachfront so if you want to sleep with the Ksamil beaches on your doorstep, then pick this hotel!

There is a daily buffet breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, and an onsite restaurant too.

Poseidon Hotel

One of my favourite Ksamil hotels, it features balconies with incredible views and is perfect for a romantic getaway.

Hotel Mira Mare

This modern hotel is located right in the center and nearby to the beautiful Ksamil beaches.

7. SHPELLA LUKOVE BEACH

In the small village of Lukove, lies one of the best Albania beaches near the city of Saranda.

Shpella Lukove beach is nice if you want to get away from the tourists in Saranda in the summer and there are lots of places for camping also!

💛 Anita’s Top Recommendations: Check out these incredible tours in the local area!

👉 Take a sightseeing tour: Explore some of Albania’s best attractions and learn more about the countries extensive history.

👉 Attend a hiking trip: Walk through narrow alleys, explore unspoiled areas and discover hidden gems.

👉 Try out an authentic cooking class: Head to the local market, choose fresh produce and cook up a delicious dish!

There are a few different restaurant and bar options here so it’s easy to get a bite to eat along the Albanian coast.

On the road down to Lukove beach, there are also other turn-offs to some wild Albanian beaches which look beautiful too. However, if you don’t have a 4×4 then don’t bother as the road is very bad.

8. Livadhi Beach

Near the small town of Himara is, in my opinion,  of Himara is, in my opinion, the best beach in Albania’s Himara region, and one of the best beaches in Albanian Riviera: Livadhi Beach.

It’s very beautiful and quiet compared to the rest of the country but you’re still so close to the town of Himara – one of the best beach cities in Albania – if you need a bit of action!

There is limited accommodation and food options here, however it really is one of the must-see south of Albania beaches to visit during the summer.

This Albanian beach is simply beautiful and there’s always space to sit without the need of a sunbed. If you plan on leaving the beach, check out my guide on amazing things to do in Himara .

Where to stay in Himara

Luxury Accommodation in Himara

Two great options, if you’re looking for a luxury experience in the small seaside city of Himara, is Scala Bungalows and Sea View Hotel.

Mid-budget accommodation

There are plenty of apartments and rooms to rent in Himara, during the summer & wintertime.

One of the best options is Lazaris kwstas Rooms. This option is right by the beach and just a short walk away from some of the most popular attractions.

Two of the best hostels to stay at in Himara is Himara Downtown Hostel or Himara Hostel . Both are great options when visiting Himara.

9. Borsh Beach

Borsh Beach has the longest stretch of beach on the Albanian Riviera. This makes it one of the top Albania beaches because there’s lots of space to relax without people being so near you!

It is extremely beautiful and very relaxing at Borsh Beach.

Make sure while you’re there you visit the castle on the hill. It is about 15 minutes drive from the Albanian coast, but worth taking a break from the beach.

Borsh is also known for its delicious olive oil so if you see someone sell it don’t the side of the road, make sure you try it!

10. GJIPE BEACH

Gjipe Beach is another beautiful Albanian beach with a unique twist, it’s located nearly in between a beautiful canon! This secluded beach is worth the trek.

You can drive all the way to the parking lot then either walk to Gjipe Beach or if you have a 4wd vehicle you can drive right down to the Albanian seaside.

It’s not recommended to drive down to Gjipe Beach if you don’t have a 4wd vehicle as the road is quite bad and literally on the edge of a cliff.

The hike from the main road to Gjipe Beach is 4km long or from the parking lot it’s only about 2km. Gjipe Beach is a very beautiful secluded beach, the most unique out of all the Albania beaches!

There are a couple of places where you can grab a bite to eat and a drink if you wish.

11. Dhermi Beach

The popular Albanian Riviera beach town of Dhermi is home to many beautiful Dhermi beaches and inlets, and some many visitors will tell you that it is the best beach town in Albania.

Dhermi makes a great base to explore other nearby Albanian beaches and villages too.

From Dhermi Beach you can easily access Drymades Beach, a beach I recommended above. You are also close to Palase Beach and Gjipe Beach!

Dhermi Beach is one of the more popular Albania beaches on this list, but there are many other beaches nearby to check out if it gets too busy!

12. Porto Palermo

Although small, Porto Palermo is a lovely Albanian beach that is located right next to Port Palermo castle which is worth a visit. There are abandoned army buildings nearby too.

I have seen people camp in the carpark as it’s a nice little quiet cove to enjoy the summer’s warmer weather.

If you’re after a “secret beach”, Albania has provided one for you here.

13. Bunec Beach

Bunec Beach is a great little place for a stopover or to camp if you have the equipment.

There’s not much around as Bunec is a very small village on the Albania coast, but that doesn’t stop it from having one of the best beaches Albania has to offer.

Bunec Beach can be recognized by the long platform that stretches from the middle of the beach, all the way out to the crystal clear water.

14. Qeparo Beach

Qeparo is one of my favourite places along the Albania Riviera. This Albanian beach is small and so is the village that comes with it. There are two parts to Qeparo – upper and lower.

Obviously lower Qeparo is where the beautiful beach is at.

Make sure if you visit lower Qeparo to take a look at upper Qeparo, a half-abandoned village that is perched on top of the mountain. It’s very beautiful and a great spot for some well-deserved relaxation. 

Where to stay in Qeparo

If you would like to stay in the lower part of Qeparo, you can pick from a few different options. One of the best places to stay is Farmhouse Qeparo .

15. Marachi Beach

Marachi Beach is a small pebble beach in the Albanian Riviera coastal city of Himara (Himarë in Albanian), and is one of the more modest of the Albania top beaches list but still makes for the perfect place to enjoy the calm waters. 

However, no list of “Albania best beaches” would be complete without it in my opinion!

The beach is located in the south of the city and is a bit quieter than the centre beaches of Himara. Marachi Beach is also one of the best places along the Albanian coast to see the sunset.

16. Grama Bay

Grama Bay is one of the very best beaches in Albania. There’s just one catch: this beach can only be accessed by a long walk (over 8 hours) or there are boat rides that you can take.

But if you’re looking for the best Albania hidden beach, Grama Bay is worth the effort.

Located in Karaburun National Park, this is a newly discovered Albanian beach and because it’s so secluded it’s a great option and one of the must-visit Albania hidden gems.

However, it won’t be one of the most quiet beaches in Albania for long as many boats and tours are already starting to get a taste of Grama Bay.

There are also some other incredible Albania beaches in Karaburun National Park but to access them you will need a boat or a good pair of hiking shoes and camping equipment.

For now though, this is still a fantastic Albania private beach option. Grama Bay and its surroundings are truly the best hidden beaches in Albania!

17. Llamani Beach

Llamani Beach is located just outside of Himara and is a great cove to relax in and enjoy the view.

The water is incredibly clear and you have access to comfortable sun loungers and a few restaurants along the Albanian seaside.

This is one of my favourites near Himara and one of the most beautiful beaches in Albania.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes it does! Albania beaches are some of the most beautiful and relaxing in the world.

Most Albania beaches are sand beaches, though there are also pebble beaches, especially in the south.

That’s up for you to decide, although I would say that whichever they are, they will be on the list here!

Yes! From beaches to historical monuments, there are so many family-friendly activities to enjoy in Albania.

When it comes to European destinations, Albania is one of the cheapest to visit. Which makes this location ideal for solo travelers.

That’s my list of the best beaches in Albania! Tell me below which of these Albania beaches you would love to visit.

Other articles you will love:

• Guide to the Albanian Riviera: The Best Beaches in Europe
• South Albania Itinerary: 10 Days in the Albanian Riviera!

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HI Great post!!..

I would like to visit ksamil and Gjipe beach… do you know how could i get Shkodër from gjipe?

What about vlore I notice you have not mentioned it ? Does it have nice beaches ? Is it worth staying there ?

Hi Fozzia! Vlora has nice beaches – The ones in the city are okay but the best ones in my opinions are between the city and a place called Radhime (Bora bora beach & Vega being the best and the others around there)

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Best 21 Albania Beaches

• Gjipe Beach
• Dhërmi Beach
• Ksamil Beach
• Bunec beach
• Livadi Beach
• Mango beach
• Himarë Beach
• Borsh Beach
• Drymades Beach
• Llamani Beach
• Lukova Beach
• Qeparo Beach
• Albania beach map

Albania was pretty much the last bastion of communism in Eastern Europe and until very recently not even considered as a holiday destination. As such it is one of Europe's last frontiers of tourism with plenty of opportunity to discover unspoiled and relatively undeveloped beaches along its rugged Ionian coastline.

Sitting just across the Adriatic Sea from Italy and bordering Greece to the south Albania doesn't disappoint in terms of natural beauty and a rich history. It offers much of what other Mediterranean destinations do yet at a fraction of the price. Admittedly it can be a little rough around the edges but this is a small price to pay to enjoy such beauty without the crowds of mainstream tourism.

The Best Albanian Beaches...

1. Gjipe Beach // Albanian Riviera

Gjipe beach is set along the same stretch of the Albanian coast as some of the other most popular, highly rated beaches on the Riviera. Located between the resort beaches of Drymades and Himara the beach at Gjipe has barely been touched by development.

2. Dhërmi Beach // Albanian Riviera

Dhërmi beach is often cited as the finest beach in Albania - hard to argue with this when this is where Albaninian prime ministers allegedly come to holiday! It isn't hard to see why. Set in a small bay, the village clings to the high sloping cliffs which rise up from the beach.

3. Grama Bay // Albanian Riviera

4. Ksamil Beach // Albanian Riviera

You will often hear the beaches of Albania's Riviera coast compared to the Ionian islands of Greece, and for obvious reasons. Ksamil is located just across the border from Greece and within a stone's throw of the beach-lovers paradise of Corfu.

5. Bunec beach // Albanian Riviera

Bunec Beach is a quiet, yet beautiful, spot near Saranda in Albania. With a backdrop of mountains  it offers an opportunity to get in touch with the natural beauty of Albania. 

6. Livadi Beach // Albanian Riviera

Albania is something of an underrated gem with many stunning locations along its coastline, with the crown in its jewel being Livadi Beach.

7. Mango beach // Albanian Riviera

A lovely convergence of sapphire sea and sun-kissed sparkling white sand, Mango Beach in Sarande is one of Albania's best-kept secrets. Sitting at the southern tip of Albania, bordering Greece, Mango Beach is a perfect slice of sweet Southern Mediterranean bliss.

8. Potami // Albanian Riviera

Looking for a an Albanian beach with something for everyone? Potami Beach is one of the biggest beaches in the Himarë area, offering a unique blend of Greek and Albanian culture beneath clear blue skies overlooking sun-kissed sand.

The name Potami translates as "river" from Greek and the water that runs through here is crisp, cold, and refreshing, springing up from exclusive underwater springs that flow year-round. 

9. Himarë Beach // Albanian Riviera

10. Borsh Beach // Albanian Riviera

Situated on the southern end of Albania's Riviera coast is the impressively long stretch of Borsh beach. There are around 7 kilometres of fine white pebbles facing into the turquoise-blue waters of the Ionian Sea.

11. Jalë Beach // Albanian Riviera

Call it Jale, Jali or Jala - whichever you choose - this certainly was one of the finest little beaches along the Riviera coast. The water here is crystal clear with a vivid azure hue. In fact it is said that this is some of the clearset water on the coast owing to the bay's currents which makes it perfect for a spot of snorkelling or diving.

12. Drymades Beach // Albanian Riviera

Drymades Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on the Albanian Riviera. It is a secluded slice of paradise featuring a natural rock formation that divides it in half. One side is full of white pebbles and the other is brushed with silky golden sand.

13. Llamani Beach // Albanian Riviera

The name Potami translates as "river" from Greek and the water that runs through here is crisp, cold, and refreshing, rising up from exclusive underwater springs that flow year-round. 

14. Lukova Beach // Albanian Riviera

For an unparalleled view of the clear blue Ionian Sea and glittering sandy coastline, you find it hard to beat Lukova Beach. One of the most popular beaches on the Albanian Riviera, it offers incredible views of the Mediterranean along with one of the most hospitable beach hotspots in the country.

15. Qeparo Beach // Albanian Riviera

Situated on the magnificent Panormi Bay, Qeparo Beach is roughly 13 kilometres from Himara . It is backed onto by the small but relatively famous village of the same name, which is divided into old and new sections and hides a variety of surprises include a castle that once belonged to leader Ali Pasha.

• Albania beaches map
• Albania beaches pictures

Albania Cities

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10 Hidden Gem Beaches in Albania Without Crowds

The Albanian coast can be one of the most extraordinary places to visit, but only if you take advantage of knowing where to go and which places to avoid . As much as we’d like to believe that every beach and destination along the Albanian riviera is perfect, it’s unfortunately not the case. By following the masses, you may end up visiting the most popular beaches in Albania, which just so happen to be our least favourite. Meanwhile, it’s the wild, secluded and hidden gem beaches in Albania that are the ones worth travelling to and are sure to amaze you.

In this guide, we’re letting you in on the list of the best hidden gem beaches in Albania and how to visit them.

• Is Albania a Hidden Gem?

Where to Go for (Quieter) Nice Beaches in Albania

Does albania have sandy beaches, are there free beaches in albania, map of hidden beaches in albania.

• Borsh Beach
• Lukova Beach (Gjiri Blu or The Old Anchor)
• Buneci Beach
• Porto Palermo
• Kico Meniko
• Aquarium Beach
• Palasa Beach
• Dhërmi (Bar Restaurant Shën Nikolla)
• Gjipe Beach

How to Visit Albania’s Best Hidden Gems

Albania hidden gems travel resources.

The Essentials for Visiting Albanian Beaches

🌞 While Ksamil and Sarande are very well-known, they’re not where you’ll find the best beaches in Albania. Consider Himarë or Dhërmi as two overall better and low-key alternatives during the summer.

🥾 The very best secret beaches in Albania require a walk or hike . If your main priority is to avoid big crowds, the effort is worth it!

🚙 If you’re getting around in a rental car , be aware that many secluded beaches are difficult to get to along unpaved roads in a small vehicle.

⛱ Beaches are often split into two sections – paid and free . Be mindful of where you sit if you’re not interested in renting an umbrella and sun chair.

🗣 English is not always spoken, particularly in less frequented corners of the country. Learn a few Albanian phrases prior to your trip!

🇦🇱 You May Like: Unique Things to Do in Albania

Is Albania Still a Hidden Gem?

Even as the admiration for Albania as a vacation spot grows, we would still consider the whole of Albania to be a hidden gem. If you know which places to avoid and where to go instead , Albania can effortlessly be an underrated destination. Only certain parts are truly crowded and overrun by tourists during the peak season. The Albanian Riviera is massive and fortunately, it’s still possible to find many hidden gems and lesser-known beaches that are just as beautiful and far more enjoyable. You just have to be open to venturing off the beaten path .

We suggest ditching the popular places in Albania you may read about online or see photos of on your feed. The golden rule is: If you’ve seen too much about it, it’s very likely already overexposed to other tourists.

Visiting the most well-known destinations in Albania is, in our honest opinion, not worth it. Somehow, a handful of spots in Albania managed to receive attention for being home to the best beaches in the country. We’ve personally toured the Albanian Riviera multiple times and can confirm: Ksamil and Sarandë are not Albania’s best .

If you are the type of traveller who doesn’t enjoy crowds and prefers free or wild beaches over beach clubs , consider these areas for your next beach holiday in Albania.

All of these alternative destinations also feature a beachfront town with many options for waterfront accommodation, restaurants, and activities. So naturally, they are not ghost towns during the summer but still experience a fraction of the number of tourists than Albania’s southernmost corner.

👍 You May Like: A Review of Ksamil Beaches

For people who truly want no sight of crowds, we recommend staying in the hills above the coastline. Albania’s hillside villages ( Piqeras and Lukovë are the cutest!) have many guesthouses, apartments and villas that have perfectly unobstructed views of the sea below. They cost much less than beach properties and are still within a short drive to multiple beaches. This is the ultimate option for travellers who want a relaxed and lowkey beach holiday in Albania without the herds and hoopla of beach culture.

Beaches along the Balkans coastline are not known to have primarily sandy beaches. The shorelines of Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania are mostly comprised of pebbles, coarse sand, or rocky coves. This doesn’t apply everywhere in Albania but it’s one of the reasons why Ksamil and Sarandë are so popular because they have countless sandy beaches.

The beaches south of Sarandë are the only ones to be distinctly sandy when compared to the remainder of the Albanian Riviera. If you are a “sandy beaches only” connoisseur and will accept nothing less, you can depend on visiting Sarandë and Ksamil .

However, it isn’t impossible to find a sandy beach in the northern half of southern Albania. The main public beaches in both Dhërmi and Himarë happen to be sandy . Also, finer sand tends to reveal itself at many beaches as you’re entering the water but isn’t present on the part of the beach you lay out on.

Albania has many lesser-known beaches that are completely free to enjoy. Still, there are options, and even the best secluded beaches in Albania are commonly a mixture of both paid and free . This means that although the entire beach is public, there may be a bar or two that sets up their own equipment as rentals, but it doesn’t mean you have to use them. To lay out on a beach for free in Albania, simply steer away from the beach club’s property and join the other beachgoers who have their own towels laid out.

This shared real estate model applies mostly everywhere in Albania but not in Ksamil and Sarandë. These are two particular areas of the Albanian Riviera where you must pay for a spot at the beach club in order to access the beach at all. Free beaches in this part of the country do not exist. Personally, it’s hard for us to get on board with any beach that requires an entry fee, but we completely understand the popularity of them. If you are traveling without any beach equipment, it’s just easier to visit a beach club and rent a sun bed and umbrella.

The best hidden gem beaches in Albania mentioned in the list below are all free to visit without compulsory admission.

🌊 You May Like: The Best of Himarë Beaches

🗺 You May Like: Albania Road Trip Guide

10 Amazing Hidden Gem Beaches in Albania

1. borsh beach.

The immediate coastline of Borsh Beach extends for over 5 km . That’s a whole lot of surface area and opportunity to find a hidden corner of the beach all to yourself. There are plenty of sections along Borsh Beach that are entirely unfrequented without a beach club in sight.

Head to the southernmost edge where the main road ends and you’ll be greeted with the ruins of a watchtower partially submerged offshore. Borsh Beach is a pebble beach with free street parking right along the shore.

🛌 Where to Stay Near Borsh Beach

Borsh Beach Apartments (Rated 8.5) – Book with Booking.com

Guest House Luiza (Rated 9.0) – Book with Booking.com

Sole Luna Hotel (Rated 8.5) – Book with Booking.com

2. Lukova Beach (Gjiri Blu or The Old Anchor)

On Google Maps, you’ll see Lukova Beach and Beach Lukova within the same few kilometers of shoreline. Do not make the mistake of going to Beach Lukova because it is substantially more crowded, dirty, and overflowing with paid clubs. Instead, make sure you head to Lukova Beach near The Old Anchor campsite (south end) or Gjiri Blu (northern end). Both of these areas are free, clean, and very quiet . There is a small paid section named “Rivers Beach” but it is very lowkey and you can even use the outdoor shower for free.

To get here, you must hike or drive down an unpaved road. The dirt road is not difficult and can be completed by a regular car as long as you drive slowly.

🛌 Where to Stay Near Lukova Beach

Hotel Vila Kafe (Rated 9.0) – Book with Booking.com

Helen Apartments (Rated 9.6) – Book with Booking.com

Eduard Lagji Apartament (Rated 9.3) – Book with Booking.com

3. Buneci Beach

Near the Bunec Beach Resort, the beach is filled from one side to the other by umbrellas and sunbeds. However, on the opposite south end of the beach, you are free to lay out anywhere for free and without crowds. After spending a day at the beach in peace, stop at Bar Restaurant Bushi for an unbelievably affordable and delicious seafood dinner.

Buneci Beach is particularly unique because it features an ice cold stream of fresh spring water which makes for the quickest way to cool down between tanning sessions.

🛌 Where to Stay Near Buneci Beach

Piqeras Relax Guest House (Rated 8.7) – Book with Booking.com

Hotel Panorama Piqeras (Rated 9.3) – Book with Booking.com

Villa Luiza (Rated 9.4) – Book with Booking.com

4. Porto Palermo

The bay of Porto Palermo is home to a number of severely underrated hidden gem beaches in Albania. Many tourists may visit Porto Palermo for the notable castle and fortress overlooking the sea, but will miss the multiple gorgeous beaches hiding in plain sight.

The only downside to Porto Palermo’s beaches is their names on Google Maps. They are often non-existent or duplicates and makes it confusing for first time visitors. Use the locations of the links below to determine exactly which ones are the best beaches to visit.

⛱ Read More: A Full Guide on Porto Palermo Beaches

Porto Palermo Beach – A free beach with small pebbles and a restaurant/bar on site.

Mateus Beach – One of the top three best beaches in Albania and prime definition of a hidden gem. You must hike or take a 4×4 vehicle to get there.

Beach – An exclusive beach club with only a handful of spot available but at a fantastic value with food and drink service.

Mini Plaża – This tiny inlet can be your own slice of paradise if you arrive early enough to claim the spot.

🛌 Where to Stay Near Porto Palermo

Farm House Qeparo (Rated 9.9) – Book with Booking.com

Vila D Boutique Hotel (Rated 9.1) – Book with Booking.com

Karos Hotel Llaman (Rated 9.1) – Book with Booking.com

5. Kico Meniko

Nestled in a rocky cove along the coast of Himarë is this restaurant and untraditional beach club. There is no gradual entrance into the water and instead, features an elevated terrace with umbrellas and sun beds for rent. Kico Meniko is not a place you stumble upon without looking and you must walk here.

Although the water is as lovely as those you’d find in the town of Himarë, the star of Kico Meniko is the humble family-operated restaurant which overlooks the sea. There is no menu, no fuss, and just excellent straightforward seafood dishes. The combination of the food, view and atmosphere makes it one of the most unique places along the Albanian Riviera.

👍 Read More: Best Beaches and Things to Do in Himarë

🛌 Where to Stay in Himarë

Mihalis Apartments (Rated 9.1) – Book with Booking.com

Rea Boutique Hotel (Rated 9.3) – Book with Booking.com

Ionian Seaview (Rated 8.9) – Book with Booking.com

6. Gjiri Guma

The small bay of Gjiri Guma is often passed by people heading to the better-known Aquarium Beach down the road. Gjiri Guma is equally worthy of a visit, with its peaceful location and crystal clear water that’s great for snorkeling . This is a wild beach with the exception of a modest beach bar which sells beverages and light snacks during the peak season. More commonly, you’ll see a handful of camper cars that spend the night directly on the beach.

From the hustle and bustle of Jale Beach, you can hike to Gjiri Guma in just 15 minutes.

🛌 Where to Stay Near Jale Beach

Shotgun Hostel (Rated 9.0) – Book with Booking.com

Dimitri Hotel (Rated 9.2) – Book with Booking.com

Folie Marine Beach Hotel Club (Rated 7.4) – Book with Booking.com

7. Aquarium Beach

The picturesque narrow bay of Aquarium Beach is one of the best hidden gem beaches in Albania that’s no longer a secret. It often makes an appearance on the sandwich boards that advertise 4×4 tours and can be bombarded by hikers during midday. Still, it is a wild beach that has yet to be overtaken by any beach club and comparatively, sees a small number of people which make the trek to visit it.

If you have an off-roading vehicle, you can drive to the very top of Aquarium Beach and ascend down a short cliffside in order to reach the beach. By hiking, most people get to Aquarium Beach from Jale in 20 minutes or from Himarë in the same amount of time.

🤿 Read More: How to Visit Aquarium Beach

🛌 Where to Stay Near Aquarium Beach

Boungainvillea (Rated 8.4) – Book with Booking.com

Tonea’s Houses (Rated 9.1) – Book with Booking.com

Miamar Hotel (Rated 8.7) – Book with Booking.com

8. Palasa Beach

Beneath one of Albania’s most scenic drives along Llogara Pass, you’ll find Drymades Beach and Palasa Beach on the northern end. The coastline just above busier Drymades Beach is developed but tourism has yet to reach the hidden coves of Palasa Beach and Rozafa Bay . Although construction is bound to take over at some point in the future, for now, it remains one of the most idyllic hidden gem beaches in Albania.

Since the road is undeveloped, you must park on the street before the construction zone and walk along a dirt path to reach this collection of secluded beaches.

🛌 Where to Stay Near Drymades Beach

Gogo’s Boutique Hotel (Rated 9.0) – Book with Booking.com

Perivolos Apartments (Rated 9.3) – Book with Booking.com

Domi Beach Valley (Rated 8.7) – Book with Booking.com

9. Dhërmi (Bar Restaurant Shën Nikolla)

As one of the most well-admired destinations along the Albanian coast, it’s surprising to find a hidden gem beach in the Dhërmi neighborhood. To avoid crowds, you must not enter the heart of Dhërmi and stay on the northern side instead.

Between Restaurant Shën Nikolla and The Yacht Club , there are a handful of small inlets which are often unmanaged by any beach club. The secret beaches in this section are made of small pebbles, and you will only find one or two other people there with you.

🛌 Where to Stay in Dhërmi

Elysium Hotel (Rated 9.3) – Book with Booking.com

La Brisa Boutique Hotel (Rated 8.8) – Book with Booking.com

Blue Boutique Hotel (Rated 8.4) – Book with Booking.com

10. Gjipe Beach

A decade ago, Gjipe Beach was a true hidden gem and the best secret beach in Albania. Today, it is still one of the top secluded beaches in Albania but solely because of its inaccessible location. Reputation wise, it’s very well known and impossible to enjoy with a crowd. Is it still worth visiting? Absolutely! Backed by the Gjipe Canyon, the beach is one of the most picture-perfect wonders in Albania and a must-see while visiting the coast.

To reach Gjipe Beach, you can only arrive by boat or by hiking down the cliffside. Naturally, the walk down isn’t terrible but it is a decent incline to go back up to the parking lot.

🐠 Read More: Visiting Gjipe Beach (Albania’s Best Beach)

🛌 Where to Stay Near Gjipe Beach

Golden View Residence (Rated 9.3) – Book with Booking.com

Gjipe Eco Campground (Rated 7.9) – Book with Booking.com

White Rocks (Rated 9.3) – Book with Booking.com

To reach the top hidden gem beaches in Albania, plan on renting a car . Secluded beaches are often lesser known for a reason – because they’re not super easy to visit. By driving, you can get to a majority of Albania’s best hidden beaches without relying on public transportation or taxis , which can get pricey and unreliable.

For travelers who are flying to Albania, rent a car at Tirana Airport before departing on a journey of the Albanian Riviera. Rental car prices in Albania can be shockingly inexpensive, particularly if you opt for a compact size.

Even by renting a car and driving, some degree of walking should be expected when planning on visiting Albania’s best hidden gem beaches. With a regular car, you can only get so far until you must walk to reach some of these underrated destinations. So, if you are a solo traveler, backpacking, or an avid hiker, you can get away with visiting Albania’s top hidden gems solely on foot.

🎒Not into driving yourself or walking? Don’t sweat it (literally)! Off-roading, boat tours and beach excursions are wildly popular in Albania. Use GetYourGuide or Viator to find a suitable tour for you.

Final Thoughts On Hidden Beaches in Albania

• Skip Sarandë and Ksamil unless you want to hang out at beach clubs and around other people.
• Dhërmi and Himarë are better alternatives to energetic beach destinations along the Albanian coast.
• Don’t expect fine sand on most of the beaches in southern Albania.
• Plan on light hiking or walking in order to reach some of Albania’s most beautiful secret beaches.
• Rent a car or book excursions and tours in order to easily visit hidden beaches.

Affiliate Disclaimer: Please note that some links found in our posts are affiliate links. Should you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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Best beaches and beach towns in albania: a guide to the albanian riviera.

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BEST BEACHES AND BEACH TOWNS IN ALBANIA: A GUIDE TO THE MUST VISIT BEACH DESTINATIONS ON THE ALBANIAN RIVIERA.

A visit to Albania is not complete without dipping your toes in the cool, clear waters of the Ionian Sea. The beaches and beach towns in Albania are plentiful, making the Albanian Riviera an increasingly popular travel destination.

Where are the best beaches and beach towns in Albania? Read on to find out.

Does Albania have good beaches?

Albania has amazing beaches. Why wouldn’t it given how close it is to Greece and Italy? The Greek Island of Corfu is around 10 miles off the Southern coast of Albania, near the beach town of Saranda.

Albania has 450km of coastline, facing the Adriatic Sea to the North and the Ionian to the South.

Best beaches and beach towns in Albania

Durres is a port town, around 45 minutes from Tirana. It may not have the best beaches in Albania but it is definitely one of the best beach towns. It has a large sweeping beach, plus plenty of other activities in town. You can visit an amphitheatre and see the huge Mosque in the centre of town. The nightlife in Durres is also fun plus bars and restaurants are very affordable.

If you’re only here for a short time, then don’t waste it by walking all the way to the “Durres Beach” which is to the East of the port. It’s quite far out of town. Personally, I’d opt to head  here  to Currilave beach just to the West of town. 

There are loungers to hire, but you can just park a towel down too. The water is calm and clear and there are plenty of snack bars and a supermarket nearby. The beach is private near the Durazzo restaurant, but the space before this is public. Lazing on the beach and enjoying the delightful water is one of the best things to do in Durres.

Getting to Durres

Durres is the easiest beach town to get to from the capital of Albania, Tirana. By public transport, you can take a bus for around 45 minutes. This website Albania Tour Guide has the latest on bus times and we used it to help us get around in Albania.

Where to stay in Durres

Budget: Hostel Durres is an excellent budget option, it has great communal space and serves a wonderful breakfast.

Mid-range: For mid-range, try Old Town Villa . A nicely decorated, clean and simple villa that has been turned into hotel rooms.

Luxury: Hotel Epidamn Boutqiue Hotel and Spa is the place for luxury in Durres. Decadent opulence is the name of the game here.

Find out more about visiting Durres here.

Dhermi Beach

Dhermi is a small town, or village, located on the coast of Albania. It can be found South of Vlora and North of Saranda.

The old town of Dhermi is a delightful maze of white washed houses and pretty streets. Set back a little way from the beach, which is lined with beach bars and cute restaurants.

The beach itself is sand, with both public and private sections. Dhermi has a relatively upmarket vibe, channeling Ibiza island life. Definitely one of the best beach towns in Albania.

Getting to Dhermi

Dhermi Beach can be found here . By public transport, you can take a bus from Tirana via Vlora to Dhermi. Or simply travel along the coast from Vlora (around one hour.)

This website Albania Tour Guide has the latest information on bus times in Albania and we used it to help us get around.

Where to stay in Dhermi

Budget: For budget travellers, consider camping in Dhermi. Sea Turtle Cam p is a wonderful site, a little way out of Dhermi, but near to it’s own beach.

Mid-range: Sofo Hotel is an excellent mid-range option. A simple hotel, conjuring up a Greek island vibe. Walking distance to the beach.

Luxury: Olives Terrace Apartment is a spacious apartment with a sea view and a large communal pool. Easy walking distance to Dhermi centre.

Gjipe Beach

Gjipe Beach is a remote, rugged and stunning beach on the Albanian Riviera. It is popular, as it has calm blue water and it is one of the most idyllic places to spend a day, or a night, in Albania.

The beach is set in a canyon, surrounded by cliffs. The water in the cove is crystal clear and calm. It is one of the most stunning beaches that we have ever had the pleasure of bathing on.

Getting to Gjipe Beach

Gjipe Beach can be found here .

Getting to Gjipe beach is quite tricky unless you have a car. By car, you can simply drive towards the beach and park up around 1.5km away. However, if you don’t have a car, it can be difficult to get to Gjipe.

We ended up walking from nearby Dhermi to Gjipe – do note, there is no coastal path, instead you have to walk along the roads. Another option is to try to jump on the private buses that travel from Dhermi to Himare on a daily basis – but you may be waiting a while, as there is no set schedule for these and Gjipe is not an official stop.

Getting a cab from nearby Dhermi or Jala Beach is also an option. Just remember, you’ll need to walk either from the car park (1.5km) or from the trail head at near the main road (3km.) The 3km trail route is particularly stunning.

Where to stay in Gjipe Beach

There is only one camp site on Gjipe Beach, G jipe Eco Campground , and it’s a corker. Facilities are a little basic, the shower and bathrooms particularly, but it’s very hard to beat the location. Set a little way back from the beach with some shade from trees, but close enough that you can stroll out of your tent and into the ocean in approximately 30 seconds!

Find out more about Gjipe Beach here .

Jale (or Jala) beach is deliciously pristine. The beach sits within a cove, protected from the events. The water here really is remarkable. Deliciously clear, cool and calm.

The pebbled beach is mainly private, with beach clubs offering sun beds and umbrellas.

There aren’t a huge amount of restaurants, it’s definitely more a beach to visit for an afternoon than a town to hang around in for a few days. But Jale is well with a visit and one of the best beaches in Albania.

Getting to Jale Beach

Jale Beach can be found here . There are no direct buses to Jale Beach. Although on a bus from Vlora to Himare it may be possible to disembark the bus at Jale beach. Otherwise, the best way to get here is to drive. If you are using Himare as a base, you can get to Jale easily by moped or car.

Where to us stay in Jale Beach

Himare or Dhermi are great bases for Jale, but if you want to stay in or near Jale here are some options:

Budget: Aquariumi Camping is a budget camping option near to Jale Beach. Akuariumit Beach, a stunning small beach 800m away from the site.

Mid-range: There are not many mid-range options in Jale Beach, but Villa Calliope is a short walk from Jale and close to Livadi Beach too. An excellent place to stay.

Luxury: Folie Marine Beach Hotel Club is right on the beach. It takes up a prime private beach spot and couples really love the hotel.

Find out more about a two week itinerary included Jala Beach here.

Livadi Beach

Livadi beach was one of our favourites in Albania. In part, because it is not currently developed at all. There are signs up suggesting that the beach town is due to be developed soon. However, currently it is an incredible laid back and open public beach frequented by locals.

Although it is a pebble beach, the pebbles are smooth and the water is divine. The promenade is filled with traditional tavernas, many that look typically “Greek”. We enjoyed a delightful supper and carafe of wine here whilst watching the sun set on the beach.

Getting to Livadi

Livadi Beach can be found here . You can reach it on foot from both Jale Beach and Himmare. It is about 30 minutes walk from each. There are no direct buses to Livadi .

Where to stay in Livadi

We recommend staying in nearby Himare, there is not much accommodation available in Livadi as it is still one of the up and coming beach towns in Albania.

Budget: Himara Hostel is one of the best budget options in town, close to the beach and with a central location. This is a popular hostel. Camping is another alternative – try Pine Side Camping for next level beach side tenting.

Mid-Range: Himare has lots of low key apartments, some with sea views and they are mostly quite inexpensive. Sea View Breeze is one such option. For just a little more money, Argjile Rooms is a fancier option, with a swimming pool.

Luxury: A little out of town, but perched on a hill, is Wait and Sea, a hotel with an exclusive feel.

Himare Beach

Himare was our absolute favourite beach town in Albania during our trip. It is the best place to base yourself to explore nearby beaches and a little cheaper than Himare.

Not only is the beach beautiful, but mountains act as a splendid backdrop for the town.

There are three stretches of beach in Himare and the majority of it is public meaning you can put out your towel and bathe without paying for as long as you want!

The town itself is very low key, it has many Albanian tavernas as well as Greek ones too. But there are also bars offering cocktails with a sea view. Perfect.

Getting to Himare

Himare can be found here . There are direct buses from Tirana to the North or Saranda to the south. You can also take a bus to Himare from Vlora.

More information on bus routes can be found on this excellent site, Albanian Tour Guide.

Where to stay in Himare

Find out more about a two week itinerary included Himare here.

Saranda Beach

Saranda is a busy port town in Albania, nestled in the very South of the country a stones throw away from Corfu island. It has more of a lived in feel than many other beach towns in Albania.

There are some great beaches in the centre of Saranda, many of which are public. You can also find lively beach clubs, offering drinks and fun times all day.

The party vibes and inexpensive eateries make this one of the best beach towns in Albania.

Getting to Saranda

Saranda can be found here . It is in the very South of Albania and can be reached on a 4.5 hour bus direct from Tirana. You can also take a bus from beach towns Vlora and Himare along the coast.

Where to stay in Saranda

Budget: Try Central Boutique Hostel , fora superb hostel. Rates start at around 14 Euros per night.

Mid-Range: Sun n Blue Hotel is right on the sea, with a view of the ocean every time you have breakfast on your balcony.

Luxury: Demi Hotel is a smart, clean and beach front hotel. Perfect for a upmarket choice in Saranda.

Find out more about whether to visit Saranda or Ksamil here.

Ksamil Beach

Ksamil is more of a beach village than a beach town. It is very small and offers a contrast from nearby Saranda. The sandy beaches and bright blue water draw in huge crowds in the summer. With many tourists calling Ksamil the “Maldives of Europe.”

It is achingly picturesque and romantic in Ksamil, but it’s best to avoid July and August when the crowds are too much and the prices are high. Do also note that there is a very limited public beach in Ksamil, most space is private.

Getting to Ksamil

Ksamil can be found here . It is around a 30 minute bus journey from Saranda. Buses are frequent and inexpensive.

Where to stay in Ksamil

Budget:  Villa Alfio , where we stayed in Ksamil, is one of the lesat expensive accommodation options in Ksamil. Around 10 minutes from the beach, this property is quiet, spacious and well run.

Mid-Range:  Hotel Meta Ksamil, is possibly one of the closest properties to the beach. It is also inexpensive for a four star property.

Luxury:  Valmar Hote l  is a luxury property modern and well designed, complete with a swimming pool.

Albania Beach Towns FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions that we get about Albania Beach Towns.

Which is the nicest beach town in Albania?

Ooo now this is a tough question. Which is the nicest beach town in Albania? Many people choose Dhermi, but personally our favourite was Himare. It has a laid back vibe, it is easy to get around and the beaches are gorgeous.

There are also two sides to the town – one is often called the Greek side. You can meander from one to the other and have different experiences. More detail on Himare can be found in our guide above.

Does Tirana have beaches? What beaches are close to Tirana?

By the way, if you’re wondering whether Tirana has a beach and which beaches are close to Tirana, Durres is a great option. It takes only 45 minutes by public transport to get from Tirana.

Albania beach dress code

One of the questions I had before travelling to Albania, was whether there was a dress code. Dress is Albania is quite liberal, and not as conservative as I expected.

Certainly on beaches in Albania, you can expect that most people will be wearing normal swimwear. Bikinis and one pieces are totally acceptable.

Albania Travel Guide

If you’re looking for a more detailed travel guide for Albania, you can now purchase our Short Guide to Albania. A 119 page ebook, detailing the best experiences in Albania, vital information to help you travel and suggested itineraries. Buy it now in our online shop.

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[…] A great base from which to explore the Albanian Riviera […]

[…] said, Albania offers a plethora of delights to travellers, beyond Tirana. From the beaches of the Albanian Riviera to the mountains of the Albanian Alps – there’s quite simply so much to see and do in the rest […]

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The Breathtaking Albanian Island That Looks Just Like A Greek Getaway Without The Crowds

Tucked away along Albania's southern coast sits Ksamil, a little-known wonder just 7.5 miles south of Saranda that's home to a delightful mix of beaches, history, and natural beauty. Often referred to as the "Maldives of Albania", this charming area has rapidly become a popular place for travelers seeking a Mediterranean paradise without the crowds typically found in more well-known European beach towns. Indeed, Albania as a whole is an underrated alternative to crowded Greek destinations , offering similar charm with fewer tourists. With its clear waters, white sandy beaches, and proximity to important historical sites, Ksamil provides an ideal escape for beach lovers, history enthusiasts, and outdoor explorers alike. The town's idyllic setting between the Ionian Sea and Butrint Lagoon enhances its allure, making it a must-visit spot for travelers looking for both relaxation and adventure.

Ksamil offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities that sets it apart from other Mediterranean destinations. The town boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with seafront restaurants serving fresh catches of the day and traditional Albanian dishes. Adventure seekers can explore the nearby Ksamil Islands by kayak or paddleboard, offering a chance to discover secluded coves and hidden beaches.

While Ksamil remains less busy than other, more popular beach destinations, it is experiencing rapid development. As such, some beaches have become more crowded during peak season, so it's recommended that you book your activities, accommodation, and food ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

The beaches of Ksamil

Undoubtedly, Ksamil's main draw lies in its beaches, and while they are often overlooked in lists of Europe's best beach destinations , they certainly rival some of the continent's most famous coastal spots. The coastline is adorned with numerous small coves and sandy stretches, each radiating its own unique charm. Ksamil Beach is the most popular spot, known for its stunning turquoise waters and soft white sand. This beach provides ample opportunities for swimming, kayaking, jet skiing, and paddle boarding, with rentals readily available nearby from places like Ksamili Water Sports.

For visitors seeking a quieter experience, Augusto Beach is a hidden gem located about a 25-minute walk from the bustling Ksamil Beach. While the sand here may not be as soft as at other beaches, as it is made up of small pebbles, the water remains equally beautiful and less crowded, making it perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Another gorgeous option is Paradise Beach, which boasts shallow waters. As it is located in a little cove, this beach is ideal for families with younger children, or those who like to relax, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This beach also features several beach bars and restaurants where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and refreshing drinks while soaking up the sun. Mirror Beach is another must-visit location, only about 4 miles from Ksamil, known for its calm waters that reflect the surrounding white cliffs and sky. This picturesque spot is slightly off the beaten path, along a road that takes you over the cliffs, making it an excellent choice for those looking to escape the crowds while enjoying tranquility and stunning sunsets. While all of these beaches are undeniably beautiful, visitors should be aware that all beaches require payment for sun loungers and umbrellas, which can range from 1,000 – 3,000 LEK, or about $10 – $30, a day.

The best time to visit these beautiful beaches is during the shoulder seasons of May-June and September-October when temperatures are pleasantly warm and crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer months of July and August. The off-season, from November to April, can see many businesses closing, limiting your options for activities.

Exploring nature and history

Beyond its beaches, Ksamil offers a wealth of natural and historical attractions that enhance its appeal as a gorgeous travel destination. Just a short distance from Ksamil lies Butrint National Park, a protected area of significance and a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases ruins from Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian periods. The park encompasses 53 square miles, and some must-see features include a well-preserved Greek theater, Roman public baths, a paleo-Christian baptistery with beautiful mosaics, and a 9th-century basilica. The park also provides the opportunity to explore the on-site museum and discover hiking trails through diverse ecosystems, and a typical visit lasts about 3 hours. The entrance ticket to Butrint National Park is 1000 LEK, or about $10, and it's open from 9am until 7pm. The park can be reached by bus from the nearby city of Saranda, with the journey taking about 30-40 minutes.

Nature lovers can also visit the nearby Syri i Kaltër, or "Blue Eye", a mesmerizing natural spring known for its striking blue color and depths that appear to go on forever. Its dark center, or "pupil", is created by the depth of the spring, while the surrounding lighter blue "iris" is formed by the shallower water. While the true depth of the Blue Eye remains unknown, divers have descended to fifty meters and this mystery only adds to the allure of the already magical site. The Blue Eye is surrounded by oak and sycamore trees, creating a lush environment that has been designated a Natural Monument. While swimming here is officially prohibited to preserve the clear water, the site is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic, and is an easy drive of about an hour from Ksamil.

When planning your visit to explore these sites, we recommend going during May-June or September-October for mild weather and fewer crowds. While July and August are warmer, they also come with higher prices and larger crowds at historical sites. For those looking to explore more of the Balkan coast,  Montenegro offers another unsung destination  with similar appeal to Ksamil, providing an alternative to more crowded spots along the Dalmatian Coast.

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You’ve seen golden beaches, turquoise seas, and lush wooded mountains. But nothing compares to what you’ll witness here. Think: cable car rides & historical architecture in Tirana. Show-stopping beaches, vineyard dinners & cultural gems in the Albanian Riviera. Topped off with panoramic hiking in Valbonë. Come experience 8 epic days of discovering Albania’s incredible untouched beauty.

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What is Contiki?

Contiki are the world leaders in organized youth travel. We’ve been providing amazing travel experiences for young travellers, from 18-35 years old, since 1962. Imagine how good you would be at something if you had been doing it for more than 60 years?

Everything about Contiki is deeply rooted in our two values ‘Make Every Moment Count’ and ‘We’re About People’. We don’t just talk, we walk the walk and live by our brand philosophy of ‘ Travel.Together. ’ which means to travel with one another, with the destinations we visit, the people and cultures we enjoy and the environment.

You’ve never experienced travel like this.

Why only 18-35?

Focusing on 18-35 year olds allows us to tailor a dramatically more powerful travel experience and an itinerary so fun it feels like all of your best Friday nights combined.

Tailoring to select ages brings together like minded, likeable people, and allows us to use Social Travel planning to build great groups of people so fast you’ll wonder if you’ve been friends forever.

What destinations can I go to with Contiki?

A sunrise, shoreline or bright light for every whim. We are proud to offer over 200 global trips, intelligently designed for a seamless and simple social travel experience. Visit our search page to discover your perfect travel destination.

How does it work?

We’re reinventing hassle free travel. Whether you are a solo traveller or group you can be rest assured that there has been tonnes of planning behind every trip.

Booking with Contiki means you are saying yes to a smile inducing trip where the typically stressful elements just seem to magically happen.

No one does trips like Contiki, essential accommodation, transport, reservations and so much more is all taken care of. You can multiply the magic with trip add ons and numerous customisations for your free time.

Every single Contiki social travel trip is managed by one of our expert Trip Managers, who are there to provide hands-on support and ensure your trip runs smoothly whilst you stay in the moment.

From 2022 your good time will be good for the planet as all Contiki trips are carbon natural. Find out more here.

How many other travellers are on each trip?

Group sizes are completely dependent on where and how you choose to travel with Contiki. 

In Europe and in most of North America and New Zealand, group sizes can range between 24 – 53 awesome travellers. 

In regions like Asia, Australia, Africa and Latin America, and on some North America and New Zealand trips, our group sizes are considerably smaller – as low as 12 or up to 30 travellers max.

Detour trips offer a different type of experience and max out at 16 people led by a local host.

Wondering what is so great about travelling together? Check out the Contiki Social travel page.

Each group is administered according to our strict Covid policies which can be viewed here.

Can I book online?

You certainly can! All of our trips are available to book online, just select your preferred travel date(s) and away you go. You can also book over the phone if you'd prefer.

What’s included?

All essential trip elements have been catered to ensure a great time, with great people in great places. But you mean more specifically right?

Your accommodation, essential trip transport, and a good handful of meals are included in the cost of your Contiki trip (on most trips we offer breakfast every day, plus a hand-picked selection of authentic and tasty meals). 

To fill your days and Insta feeds we have Included Experiences, which are basically the sights and activities we think you just can’t afford to miss. Of course you also get our expert and highly trained team of Contiki staff to support throughout.

A day by day breakdown of inclusions and Free Time Add-Ons are available on the trip specific pages. 

We always try to accommodate special requests such as birthdays, proposals etc. Please chat to our team and we can explore how we may support the request.

What’s not included?

Contiki social travel trips have a large degree of flexibility built into them to enable you to truly own your experience. This means that some trip elements are not included in the initial cost and may require additional budgeting. 

Flights to and from your starting and ending points are not included in the cost of your trip. These can be added on during the booking process either online or via our contact center or booked independently by you.

Each trip contains the right amount of free time for you to explore or indulge your travel desires. We offer Free Time Add-Ons, which are additional experiences that are not included in the overall price. These add ons are highlighted on the specific trip page. Your Trip Manager will highlight these to you and organise their booking on trip. Exceptions may apply where pre booking is required but this will be made known to you in your pre departure information.

A number of meal times are left open for you to explore a region and its foodie offerings in greater detail, so budgeting for your taste in non-catered meals is important. 

Travel insurance and visas are also not included in the cost of your trip, and should be booked separately.

What are Contiki's sustainability credentials?

Travel comes with responsibilities. That’s why we’re determined to travel sustainably and consciously, and that’s why we’re willing to take a stand on issues closest to our hearts. Find out more details here . With the help of our four-point Climate Action Plan, we're now on a journey to Net Zero - committing to carbon reductions and evolving to support the transition to a low-carbon future. Find out more details here .

Do I need to purchase travel insurance for this trip?

Yes! It’s a requirement of traveling with Contiki that you take out comprehensive insurance cover for cancellation, personal injury, death, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, evacuation expenses, personal liability & loss of personal property and Covid related expenses before you travel with us. It’s also super important to check that your insurance covers all of the activities you’ll be trying out, particularly any adventure activities (for all you adrenaline junkies). For more information check out our full travel insurance FAQs.

Can I stay in my destination a few days before/after the trip starts/ends? And can Contiki help me arrange this?

Yes and yes! You can add pre- and post-trip accommodation to your booking in one of three ways:

When booking your trip online

In the 'My Travel Portal' after you've made your booking

By calling us any time on 0808 281 1120

In certain cities, you may even be able to secure a preferential rate for you pre- or post-trip accommodation.

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Contiki acknowledges the Traditional and Torres Strait Island owners of the land, sea and waters of the spectacular Australian continent.

As we explore this remarkable land, we recognise and respect their custodianship of a unique, ancient culture and country.

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