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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Wander-Lush

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).

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hello! is albania safe for a single female traveller?

Hi Carmia – I personally found Albania to be a very safe and comfortable destination. Have a wonderful trip!

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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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THE 10 BEST Albania Beaches

Beaches in albania.

• Hiking & Camping Tours
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Gjipe Beach

2. Dhermi Beach

3. Mirror (Plazhi Pasqyra) Beach

4. Livadhi Beach

5. Pulebardha Beach

6. Jale Beach

7. Ohana Beach Bar

8. Borsh Beach

9. Palase Beach

10. Lukova Beach

11. Spille Beach

12. Lori Beach

13. Bunec Beach

14. Santa Quaranta Seaside Beach

15. Llamani Beach

16. Filikuri Beach

17. Ksamil Beach

18. Neasden Lane Beach

19. Kallmi Beach

20. Krorez Bay

21. Rana e Hedhun

22. Shpella e Pellumbave

23. The General's Beach

24. Marquess Beach

25. Qeparo Beach

26. Plazhi i Krorëzës

27. Mango Beach

28. Porto Palermo Beach

29. Plazhi Paradise

30. Barbarossa Beach Bar

What travelers are saying.

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 .

Keep reading: Best of the Balkans

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to a Budget Beach Holiday in Albania

April 25, 2023 by Silvia 91 Comments

Want a budget beach holiday in Europe? Travel to Albanian Riviera with this guide and you’ll be all set, because Albanian beaches are amazing. And I know just where to find the best beaches Albania has to offer.

Updated April 2023

Totally empty white beaches with crystal clear turquoise water, fresh seafood, baklava and local wine, and prices so low they make Thailand look expensive – isn’t southern Europe just wonderful?

Gjipe Beach

Wait. Europe?

It doesn’t really seem possible that an undiscovered beach paradise could be found in Europe these days, much less that it would be so affordable. But that’s exactly what the Albanian Riviera is.

Okay, maybe it’s not totally undiscovered, but while there in early I had most of the beaches I visited pretty much to myself.

After falling for the Albanian Riviera a few years ago, I couldn’t wait to return again – this time with a car! After only spending time on Saranda, Ksamil, Himara and Vlora’s main beaches (and Lazarat, but that’s another story… ), this time I was determined to explore every nook and cranny of the Riviera and find the best secret beach spots.

And that’s exactly what I did!

Car Rental in Albania

To properly explore Albania’s best beaches, you’ll definitely need a car. Or at least, you will if you want to see all the best, hidden beaches in Albania! During my first trip to Albania I hitchhiked and took the bus everywhere, but this time I wanted to be able to stop at all the hidden spots I saw from the road, so we rented a car in Tirana for a week.

Car rental in Albania isn’t too expensive, but it’s SO worth it. You can see so much more with a car, plus renting a car in Albania meant that we could get to totally deserted beaches instead of sticking to the more popular (and crowded) beach spots like Ksamil and Vlora.

Driving in Albania

A lot of people have asked me about driving in Albania, and while Dan was actually the one doing the driving, I would say it really isn’t so bad. Most of the roads of little traffic, and for the most part the roads are very wide and nicely paved. And I felt like Albanian drivers were very reasonable – it certainly wasn’t a scary place to be driving.

Well, it was fine aside from the time we drove down Albania’s Death Road – but that’s far away from the Albanian beaches, so you probably won’t be headed there.

I would recommend renting a car through a global chain as their prices are lower and the companies are reliable – I usually use RentalCars to compare car rental prices across companies. 

Travel to Saranda

Saranda (Sarandë) is the main city along the Albanian Riviera, though with around 30,000 inhabitants it’s not exactly huge. While this is probably the main destination for tourists on the Riviera, it’s not actually the best for beaches – but it’s a fine base from which to explore some nearby beaches, as well as Butrint, the ruins of an ancient city nestled in a dense forest.

While there are better Albanian beach spots along the coast, Saranda is well worth a stop to get a feel for Albania’s beach towns. You can buy cheap seafood and produce (try the cherries!!) at a local market, check out the shops and restaurants along the main beach promenade, and walk up to Lekursi Castle for some unreal views.

Don’t forget to wave smugly at the throngs of tourists across the bay in Corfu, paying three times as much to swim in these same waters. I mean, if you’re the sort of person to do something like that, which of course you aren’t. Me neither.

The Best Saranda Hotels and Hostels

DEMI HOTEL // for those wanting a luxury hotel in Saranda

This four star hotel is right on the beach, and it’s absolutely worth upgrading to a sea view room for a balcony overlooking the water! This is a family-run hotel so it has a lot more character than a big chain, and the staff are super sweet and helpful here.

Click here for current rates and availability at Demi Hotel

BED & BREAKFAST AHMETI // for those looking for a mid-range hotel in Saranda

This B&B is run by a very nice family and I love that it’s within easy walking distance of the city center while still being tucked away from the noise downtown (it’s about a 10 minute walk uphill from the center). They also have parking spaces available here, so you won’t need to stress over finding a spot on the street, which again is a huge plus in Saranda.

Click here for current prices and availability at B&B Ahmeti

DOLPHIN HOSTEL // for those traveling to Saranda on a budget

Dan and I stayed at Dolphin Hostel while in Saranda, which I couldn’t recommend more highly! Even when we arrived exhausted from a harrowing drive from Tirana we somehow ended up staying up late into the night talking with the hostel’s manager.

Breakfast is included (and amazing!) and on our second night he cooked everyone a delicious meal of fish and fresh clams, which mysteriously only cost us each 1 euro. The best!

Click here for current prices and availability at Dolphin Hostel

Ksamil – a favorite Albanian beach town

A 15-minute car or bus ride away from Saranda, Ksamil is where everyone goes to see the best Albanian beaches. These are some of the only truly sandy beaches on the Albanian Riviera (most have smooth white stones).

The only downside to Ksamil is that its beaches are fairly small and often privately owned, so you’ll have to pay a couple of dollars for a beach chair or drink/snack to use the beach, and there are more people here. I mean, by Albanian standards, which really just means you’ll see 4 or 5 other people on the beach.

Ksamil is perfect if you want a pretty beach without traveling far from the center of things. You could even stay in a lovely apartment right by the beach there. In fact if you’re looking for a really laidback Albanian beach holiday, that’s exactly what I’d recommend you do. There are so many nice places to stay in Ksamil, and like I said, this is one of the only places with truly sandy beaches in Albania.

The Best Hotels and Apartments in Ksamil

HOTEL CASTLE // mid-range to luxury hotel accommodation in Ksamil

There actually isn’t really any true luxury hotel accommodation in Ksamil, but Hotel Castle is still quite luxurious, especially with its gorgeous views out over the Albanian Riviera. It’s right by the beach and near town and the design is sort of hilarious Albanian kitsch in a building meant to look like a castle!

Check current rates and availability here

VILLA DESTINATION // mid-range apartment accommodation in Ksamil

Villa Destination is right by the beach and offers basic but clean little apartments with balconies. 

KSAMIL APARTMENTS // budget apartment accommodation in Ksamil

The Ksamil Apartments are a short walk both to the beach and the town center, but still in a quiet area. The apartments are spacious with balconies and really for the price they are such a good bargain.

The Blue Eye (Syri Kalter)

Okay, this is a spring, not an Albanian beach, but you might want to forget the seaside and just spend your entire Albanian holiday gazing into it.

Water in The Blue Eye bubbles up from more than 50 meters deep at a sort of alarming rate. Seriously, where is it all coming from, and how can it be  that blue? Is Albania’s tourism board secretly dumping dye into this thing each morning?

The Blue Eye spring is about a 25 minute drive inland from Saranda (on the way to Girokaster) and I’ve heard that it can get crowded in the summer with people swimming, but in early June it was empty – and freezing!

And before heading back to Saranda drive farther up into the mountains for some pretty stunning views! I mean, Albania has a lot of stunning views, but this was one of my favorites.

Drive the SH8 from Saranda to Himara

The drive along the seaside from Saranda to Himara is stunning, and full of turn-offs into little abandoned beaches. We simply turned down every small road we passed that looked like it was heading towards the water, and not once were we disappointed.

I’d give you more specific directions, but turning down random roads to discover hidden beaches in Albania was part of the fun! Plus it’s nice to keep the beaches hidden so only the more adventurous beach hunters find them, right? But let me just say, it will be well worth the effort.

One of my favorite spots was a teeny tiny strip of beach right after Porto Palermo – the view of the little islands from the road wasn’t terrible either!

Travel to Himara

Smaller and quieter than Saranda and Ksamil, Himara (Himarë ) is simply perfect.

Locals in Himarë are predominantly Greek, which definitely comes across in the feel of the place. I think I gained five pounds from all the delicious food here, while Dan gained at least five new Facebook friends. People in Himara are so friendly!

If I had to choose I would say Himara was my second favorite stop along the Albanian Riviera, and that’s largely because of the wonderful people we met there. And the views weren’t terrible either.

Wondering what my favorite stop was? Read on!

Best Hotels and Apartments in Himara

HIMARA RIVIERA ROOMS // mid-range to budget accommodation in Himara

We stayed at Himara Riviera Rooms, where we had a lovely little apartment with a balcony overlooking the sea. The owners were SO lovely and this is really my #1 recommendation for a hotel in Himara. It really is just perfect.

Check current prices and availability at Himara Riviera Rooms

CAMPING KRANEA // budget accommodation in Himara

Our first night we camped at Camping Kranea on a beach in the north of town, and it was so, so lovely to wake up right on the beach. If you’re on a very tight budget this is an excellent option.

Check current rates and availability 

RAPOS RESORT HOTEL // luxury hotel in Himara

This is the only real resort in Himara, and it has amazing sea views from its rooms, a swimming pool, and a beach right in front of the hotel. The wonderful thing about a beach holiday in Albania is that a hotel like this isn’t even expensive – if you want to escape to a beach resort I would highly recommend heading here!

Check current prices and availability at Rapos Resort Hotel

The Best Albanian Beaches near Himara

One of my favorite beaches in the area wasn’t actually in Himara, but 10 kilometers north in Jala. Jali Beach wasn’t as empty as other beaches we went to, but I enjoyed burning sunning myself with the locals and taking in the relaxing atmosphere of the small beachside village.

Travel to Dhermi

Dhermi (Dhërmi) was my favorite place we stayed in Albania! Dhermi Beach is the longest I saw in Albania and seems to cater to more upscale tourists. The village itself lies up a hill from the water and has beautiful old stone houses built into the side of a mountain.

If you want the best Albanian beach experience, I would definitely recommend heading to Dhermi (in fact I have recommended a beach holiday in Dhermi to so many of my friends!).

Best Hotels in Dhermi

GUEST HOUSE FOUR SEASONS // budget to mid-range hotel in Dhermi

We stayed in a double room at Guest House Four Seasons, which had a balcony overlooking the sea and was surprisingly cheap. It felt like being on a luxury holiday, but on a backpacker’s budget.

Click here for current prices and availability at the Guest House Four Seasons

DRYMADES BUNGALOWS // mid-range to luxury hotel in Dhermi

I had dinner here one night and it was SO nice. The food was amazing, the restaurant has a view over the water, and it’s really close to a sandy beach. If you want an Albanian beach escape, I’d definitely come here!

Click here for current rates and availability at Drymades Bungalows

EMPIRE BEACH RESORT // luxury hotel in Dhermi

If you want a luxury resort, the Empire Beach Resort looks incredible, and you get a gorgeous swimming pool as well as the beach.

Click here for current rates and availability at the Empire Beach Resort

The Best Beaches near Dhermi

Dhermi is also just 8 kilometers from what might be Albania’s most beautiful beach: Gjipe Beach.

You’ll have to walk the last couple of kilometers, but I promise it’s worth it! This was definitely my happy place on the Albanian Riviera, and I plan on returning to Gjipe Beach again and again.

In fact I’m super curious if it’s still as hidden now as it was when I visited – if you’ve been recently let me know in the comments!

No Photoshop necessary!

Driving from Dhermi to Vlora and Tirana

And, if you’re heading north from Dhermi you’re in for a serious treat – well, unless you’re prone to carsickness. The hairpin curves on the road climbing the mountain towards Vlora are brutal, but they’ll take you to a heavenly view of the coastline.

A little too heavenly in our case though, as we drove right up into a cloud. At least I remember beautiful views from last year’s visit!

And finally, when you’re planning your trip to Albania you definitely want to remember travel insurance.

I never, ever travel without travel insurance (especially in a place like Albania where you’ll be swimming and in the mountains!) and it has saved me on multiple occasions – like that time I was bedridden in Beijing . My personal pick for travel insurance is World Nomads, and I have done a ton of research on different providers.

World Nomads is incredibly affordable, and when I have had to use them I simply sent my hospital receipts and had a check in the mail within a couple of weeks. So easy, and totally worth it. 

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Ashley says

July 19, 2015 at 7:17 pm

The Albanian Riviera looks like an absolute paradise! I can’t get over the photos of Gjipe Beach – that water! Are any of these beaches accessible by public transport, or would you say renting a car is necessary?

July 23, 2015 at 1:45 am

Rent a car!!! Is just 20 $ per day 🙂

July 5, 2016 at 4:15 pm

Can you recommend where to rent a car?

Silvia says

July 28, 2015 at 10:45 am

Renting a car definitely made things easier, but if you have GPS on your phone and can follow along while in a bus or hitchhiking then you could jump out at the beaches! Otherwise you’d have to stick more to the beaches near the main towns – which are also pretty 🙂

July 5, 2016 at 8:26 pm

July 5, 2016 at 8:40 pm

I used Albania Car Rentals at Tirana Airport, but only because I didn’t have a credit card so I couldn’t rent from the larger chains. I recommend looking at a car rental search engine to find the cheapest rental place (my favorite is here: http://bit.ly/29kzxZR ).

July 19, 2015 at 7:24 pm

I’ve never been in Albania yet, but now it’s definitely on my bucketlist!

It definitely deserves a spot there!

MissLilly says

July 19, 2015 at 8:10 pm

wow I’m in love!!! I knew Albania was gorgeous, but looking into your photos I’m even much more in love! Can’t hardly wait to explore it all!

You will be even more in love in person 🙂

Claudia says

September 5, 2021 at 6:23 am

Can i ask how did you get there? I can see flights only to Tirana or Corfu and i think a ferry? What was your experience?

September 8, 2021 at 4:34 pm

One time I flew into Tirana and rented a car, and the other time I got a bus from Greece to Saranda.

Deepti @ Endless Postcards says

July 19, 2015 at 10:40 pm

I’ve wanted to go to Albania for the longest time!! I’m planning a trip to Europe next summer but I was unable to fit Albania in because they don’t have an international rail system, and I can’t really afford any other type of transportation. (I’m coming from America and visiting Europe for 2 and a half months and I’m in university — budget is limited!) Hopefully I can visit Albania soon and see these beautiful places myself.

Your pictures are beautiful and that hostel dinner sounds like a dream! Glad to see that you had a good time!

July 28, 2015 at 10:47 am

I definitely can understand having to cut things for budget reasons. Your trip sounds pretty amazing without Albania though – you’ll just have to save Albania for later!

becky hutner says

July 20, 2015 at 1:06 am

Really blown away by this coast. But I do like a bit of a scene with my beaches. Would you say there are cool beach bars/clubs around or is it all pretty quiet?

Suada B says

July 22, 2015 at 10:41 am

Night life in Albania’s Riviera is the hottest 😉 😀

July 28, 2015 at 10:48 am

I had totally forgotten until reading your comment, but Dhermi beach already had a bar set up playing music, even so early in the season. So yes!

Kirstie says

July 20, 2015 at 4:08 am

These look amazing! I only spent a few hours in Albania, crossing from Ohrid, Macedonia into Pogradec, but that taste left me wanting more. Such an interesting country!

July 28, 2015 at 10:49 am

It really is fascinating!

CityoftheWeek says

July 20, 2015 at 1:15 pm

Oh my, this looks like paradise! I’ve been to Albania two months ago, and visited Berat..But it seems that I might have to go back for a beach holiday sometimes soon! LOVE the photos 🙂

You DO need to go back for a beach holiday 🙂

July 20, 2015 at 3:56 pm

I love Albanian beaches. I have been there twice and I can’t wait to go back next year.

Justine says

July 20, 2015 at 8:13 pm

Dammit Silvia! Just when I think I’ve figured out where I want to go on my big trip next summer (it was Peru, then India) you’ve made me start second guessing myself. I’m pretty sure I want to follow your exact footsteps now. Because everywhere you’ve gone recently, including Albania, looks incredible. Silly me for not even knowing that Albania had beaches. I just looked at a map and I’m feeling a little dumb… Anyway, I’m pretty sure I need to live there. Or at least travel there 🙂

July 21, 2015 at 9:44 pm

I haven’t heard of these places before, but the water looks amazing — such a beautiful shade of blue. Definitely adding these spots to my bucket list.

http://www.mintnotion.com

July 22, 2015 at 9:24 am

Lovely pictures! Seems like there are a lot hidden beautiful places in Albania!

David @ Hostelworld says

July 22, 2015 at 11:03 am

The Albanian Riviera is SO the place to be this summer. Thanks for sharing your awesome pics – I need to book in a trip there asap 🙂

July 28, 2015 at 11:22 am

It really does seem to be having a moment!

Melanie Fontaine says

July 22, 2015 at 12:16 pm

I honestly can’t get over how incredibly blue the water is!! Absolutely stunning! I’ve been noticing a lot of hype and talk about Albania this year and considering that I have never been anywhere even remotely close to this region, I should probably make a point of heading to the Balkans soon! 🙂 A hidden beach paradise in Europe always sounds like a good idea!

July 28, 2015 at 11:44 am

Albania definitely seems to be growing as a travel destination!

Camille says

July 22, 2015 at 12:48 pm

Drool. Swoon. And yay to you teasing those poor tourists stuck on Corfu! 😉

July 28, 2015 at 11:45 am

I’m still drooling, ha.

Miriam of Adventurous Miriam says

July 24, 2015 at 6:04 pm

Silvia, woah! That water and that sunset. Seriously!

July 28, 2015 at 11:47 am

Right?! Ahh still can’t get over it!

July 25, 2015 at 11:33 am

I’m currently road tripping my way across Europe to Albania so this blog post popped up in my Twitter feed at just the right time. I can’t wait to hit the beach!

July 28, 2015 at 11:48 am

Ah perfect, you’re going to love it!

Rachael - Travelling Anyway says

July 28, 2015 at 3:48 am

Wow Silvia – what amazing photos. You’ve successfully added another destination to my wish list (which appears to be getting longer rather than shorter might I add). Safe travels x

July 28, 2015 at 11:50 am

Haha that really is the way with those lists, isn’t it?

July 29, 2015 at 1:32 pm

Leaving in a week for Albania! Thanks to bloggers like you my husband and I are very excited for our trip. Thanks for your post. A little nervous about driving in Albania.

August 4, 2015 at 12:06 pm

Driving in Albania actually wasn’t bad at all because there aren’t too many cars on the road. You’re going to have a blast!

Samantha says

November 27, 2015 at 1:31 am

Hi Silvia! Amazing pictures! Love it! I’m driving from croatia til albania next summer and i was wondering if u could tell me how long should I stay in each of the important cities in Albania? Tks 🙂

jessie says

December 5, 2015 at 10:38 am

This looks amazing!! do you have any posts about how to rent a car, return the car, and navigate the roads in Albania? Planning a trip for next summer from USA would love to do Croatia-Montenegro-Albania over a 2 week trip, any suggestion of routes and methods of transport greatly appreciated!

December 9, 2015 at 6:39 pm

If you look here you can see all my posts on Albania, including driving and the car rental: http://www.heartmybackpack.com/category/albania/ . Good luck, I’m sure your trip will be fantastic!

February 12, 2016 at 9:56 am

Your trip looks amazing we’ve been eyeing up the Albanian Riviera for a while now! Will it be possible to do some of your route without a car? How are the driving conditions if you do rent a car? Many Thanks!

February 17, 2016 at 11:16 am

Yes, I actually traveled from Saranda up to Tirana without a car the year before! I hitchhiked a lot, which is really easy in Albania, but there are also buses you can get. Have fun!

Melissa says

May 23, 2016 at 10:06 pm

Just got back from trip, rental car thru Albania and Macedonia. Very affordable, less than 20 dollars a day. The main roads are in much better condition than we had anticipated and traffic was quite light. The roads in certain cities, Vlore for example, are pretty bad, follow the locals, they know where every pothole is! Albania is worth every little issue you might run across, we loved every minute of our trip.

June 7, 2016 at 10:18 am

Hello Melissa!

My sister and I will be visiting Albania in two weeks and would like to road trip around Albania. If it is possible where did you rent your car? We will start off at Saranda.

April 3, 2016 at 5:59 pm

Hello there!

Found your post when surfing the net and trying to find some more info and reviews about Albania. I’m travelling there in a couple of months, and I’m gonna have my base in Saranda. Plan is to visit beaches and interesting places nearby, and your post was very helpful! I’m not going to rent a car, but I’m hoping there are reasonably priced buses or taxis to get around there.

If you have good tips for restaurants etc. I’d be happy to hear those!

April 4, 2016 at 1:34 pm

You can definitely get around by buses too, don’t worry. And I just ate mostly ate local bakeries or little street side restaurants. Nothing special, but really yummy!

May 7, 2016 at 5:44 am

Wow. Okay, you’ve convinced me. I’m going to Europe for the summer and hitting up all these places. Thanks!

June 6, 2016 at 1:49 pm

OMG! This is so nice to read about the places I’ve been to on someone else’s blog!! 😀 I STAYED IN THE SAME HOSTEL in Saranda! 😀 did you also have some water cuts in the afternoon? 😀 And yep, I also did the Gjipe Beach. 😀 I see you share my taste for the Balkan countries (just seen your other post about Kosovo, where I was A WEEK ago), so I guess you just gained another reader. 😀 Greetings from Poland! 😉

August 29, 2016 at 9:58 am

Wow I have only seen the northern part of Albania. This looks amazing. How are the roads? Easy to travel or not?

September 8, 2016 at 6:15 pm

They’re a bit rough, but definitely fine for travel!

September 7, 2016 at 1:14 am

Thanks for the great article and even better photos. I’m looking forward to my trip to Albania more than ever now 🙂

September 9, 2016 at 11:26 am

That’s great to hear, I hope you love it!

Mariano Gonzalez says

January 9, 2017 at 12:45 am

Hello I have a stop in Sarande on a cruise in May 2017. We are 4 adults and a 3 year old child. We just want to stay on a beach close to the port and be calm …….. I read about Ksumil beach or Pulebardha Beach …. which ones recommend? or other? I am worried about the subject of transportation ….. buses ….. taxis …. ferrys? Is there availability and good frequency? Thank you very much. Mariano from Argentina.

January 9, 2017 at 5:52 pm

Ksamil is really nice! It’s very easy to find transportation – I would simply get a bus or a taxi (it should be affordable) to the beach. Have fun!

albanczyk says

February 24, 2017 at 9:38 pm

Nice photo! Albania is a very atmospheric location, see You in Saranda !

Brittany says

April 3, 2017 at 9:39 pm

Thanks for your helpful posts! We are traveling to Albania for your honeymoon in July and we’d like to stay in Ksamil. Can you let us know the easiest way to get there? We’ll be coming from Ireland.

April 4, 2017 at 3:26 pm

The easiest way is probably to fly to Tirana and then get a bus or rent a car to Ksamil (I recommend renting a car if you can, as then you can explore more of the beaches). You can also get a bus from Athens, but it’s a long journey!

April 6, 2017 at 6:03 am

Thank you, darling! xxx.

April 21, 2017 at 7:46 pm

Hi, fab articles! I’m thinking of Albania for this summer. I have been looking at car hire prices but they seem to be at least 50euros a day for the smallest car and it’s not easy to find a company that will allow me to pick up in Tirana and drop off in Sarande . Did you book online in advance or when u arrived? Thanks

May 1, 2017 at 11:12 am

I booked online in advance – no idea why it’s costing so much. Did you try sixt.com? That’s always the cheapest in Norway, at least.

May 8, 2017 at 1:48 am

hi, Going to Albania in July. Saranda for few days, is there any point staying in Ksmail for night or two also when the two are so close and we have a car? Similarily later on we will travel to Himare, would you recommend Dhermi for night or two or is himare a good base for both? thanks

May 9, 2017 at 6:54 pm

No, I think I would just stay in Saranda and visit Ksamil for a day. I did love staying in Dhermi though and would try to do that if possible, but otherwise you can also just drive there. Have a wonderful time!

Brian Walsh says

May 8, 2017 at 3:54 am

Is this a good place for family?. Kids 16 and 12?? We love beaches and cultural meals , exploring different things.. NO McDonalds and no disney.. beach houses, sleeping closer to the water the better? We like to plan as little as possible and run into things to do if we can move from the beach.. We only have ten days to two weeks. If you had two kids of those ages and were going to Albania would you feel safe and what would you do as far as planning our Albanian beach trip from New Mexico? thx Im very bad at looking at internet and planning i need validation i guess???? Brian

May 9, 2017 at 6:53 pm

Yeah I think it should be a lovely place to go with kids! And I’d definitely feel safe there. I’d try to rent a car so that you can have the most flexibility and really explore all the beautiful beaches together. I’m sure you’ll have an amazing time!

Lene Østreng Veland says

May 25, 2017 at 10:11 pm

My family with the “kids” on 16 ang 19 are going to Saranda this summer. We are looking for a place to stay. Where in the city will you recoment to stay. I have found a nice Airbnb appartment west of the stadion, but are afraid its too fare from the center. Is it better to find a place more south of the city center?

May 30, 2017 at 4:23 pm

I would definitely try to stay nearby the city and I do think south is better than west, though anywhere should be lovely! Have a wonderful time!

RunawayBrit says

July 14, 2017 at 11:15 pm

I am currently researching Albania, and I came across this post. We are in Budva, Montenegro, right now and will be going to Albania in the next few days. We are reliant on public transport, but finding it very difficult to find out any information about buses. You mentioned that there are buses in some of your Albania posts. How do we find out the bus routes and where they go from? I would be really grateful for any info you could share!

Holly Olson says

December 27, 2017 at 5:10 am

Thank you so much for this post! I am planning a trip to Albania this summer. When renting the car- how did the gas process work? Pretty easy to figure out?

karine says

March 4, 2018 at 3:19 am

hi! do you have any tips for himare and the best beahes around and places to eat?

Gilbert De Jonghe says

March 20, 2018 at 11:25 am

Albania is match more than beaches, go to the North, try the Komanlake en go further to the wild Alps mountains and the onbelieveble nature.We did it 8-22 juin 2015.

May 8, 2018 at 3:48 pm

Albania the great nation

May 22, 2018 at 10:49 am

Hi there. Thank you for all these details. We’re the family of 5 – kids aged 2, 5 and 8. We are looking for a budget trip to Albania and would really like to experience quiet sand beaches. Any suggestions of an area? Thabks a mill,

BreePoulin says

September 4, 2018 at 2:26 pm

Thanks for this informative article. Will be very useful in my future trip to Albania. Excited to have a great time.

Jeremy says

January 17, 2019 at 3:25 pm

Great Post! I’ve been looking for a great place to go for nice beaches in Europe for a long time. You’ve sold me on the Albanian Riviera. Thanks a lot, need to plan this trip.

Eric Wilson says

March 4, 2019 at 5:27 pm

You have collected info nicely and shared it at one place. This travel guide is very nice to understand the journey.

May 2, 2019 at 7:08 pm

I’m planing a trip this July and this by far has been the best blog!! Thank you so much and thank you for sharing all your resources!!

May 29, 2019 at 3:26 pm

These beach views are awesome. Great Thanks.

August 3, 2019 at 10:47 am

Hopefully I can visit Albania soon and see these beautiful places myself.

Myriam says

August 22, 2019 at 2:08 pm

Thanks! I’m considering stopping by the beach.. I’m going to Albania in September :))

September 25, 2019 at 11:00 am

Great article! Glad to see you have included Ksamil in the list. The islands of Ksamil are definitely one of the most beautiful islands you will ever visit, and the area is one of the best in the Albanian riviera. You will surely want to come back again 🙂

December 9, 2019 at 11:44 am

I like reading your blog. I have never been to Albania, I really hope that it will turn out to visit this country in the near future. Thanks!

George Lattos says

April 6, 2020 at 10:28 pm

Once this travel ban is lifted, I will be booking my flights, because it looks amazing!

April 7, 2020 at 1:02 pm

Hopefully we don’t have to wait too long!

May 2, 2020 at 1:08 pm

I can’t wait to visit!

Samuel says

May 18, 2020 at 1:54 am

I just absolutely loved the way that you have added so many high quality pictures, it just makes the whole presentation of the article 10x better. Keep up the good work coming. Absolutely Loved It!

Tim Neeble says

October 3, 2020 at 2:13 pm

We traveled Vlore & Albania 2 years ago and loved it! It is truly an amazing country. I really could spend all day reading your blog, I love it!

Dilini says

February 18, 2021 at 9:10 am

Hi! Any of these beaches you recommend for jogging? I believe most are pebbly, no?

wavesst says

March 21, 2021 at 9:33 am

Amazing article Awesome read

Joshua says

August 27, 2023 at 1:24 am

Looks awesome, but do you think the resorts are expensive? Can someone with low budget go to the resorts?

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• 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.

7. Drymades

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

10. Narta, Zvernec

Bridge, Monastery, Natural Feature

11. 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.

12. Pogradec

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.

14. Shengjin

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.

17. Llamani

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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How to spend a weekend in vlora.

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Restaurants in tirana, albania that locals love.

8 Reasons Why Everyone Should Visit the Albanian Riviera

Great Trips to Take in Albania

The 7 Best Places in Albania to Visit During the Summer

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The best hotels on the albanian riviera.

The Best Hotels in Albania for Every Traveller

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The best summer festivals in albania.

Why Albania Is the Next Music Destination, According to DJs Ben Böhmer and Moon Boots

A Wine Lover’s Guide to 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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Home > Albania Beaches: 28 Best Beaches In Albania

Albania Beaches: 28 Best Beaches In Albania

Written by our local expert Giulia Blocal

Giulia is a travel blogger and Balkan addicted. She writes about unconventional destinations, abandoned places, street art, urban landscapes and all of the weird spots she finds herself in.

With its still unspoiled beaches, tasty food, and extremely competitive prices, Albania is undoubtedly a trending summer destination in the Balkans. Here are the best beaches in Albania you have to check out!

With its still-unspoiled beaches, tasty food, and highly competitive prices, Albania is undoubtedly the trending summer destination in the Balkans and an excellent option  for family travel.

The most enchanting stretch of coastline is the southernmost one, extending from the city of Vlore past Saranda to the Greek border.

Along the coast, rounded, sensual mountains run straight into the sea, forgetting to leave some room for the beach. However, when they remember, you will spot many narrow, secluded beaches nestled among the rocky cliffs.

The Albanian Riviera is very wild and populated by many different species of animals. Driving along the glorious state highway 8 in the south of Albania, I met donkeys, cows, turtles, frogs, sheep, boars, dogs, goats, and many other animals!

The Albanian coastline is also dotted with abandoned bunkers from the Enver Hoxha era. This former Albanian dictator was so consumed by his fear of a military invasion that he literally covered the whole country with concrete bunkers, which still guard both the coast and the hinterland like a neglected army of untended beetles.

What is the best beach in Albania? Oh, that is too hard to say, but this guide will give you an idea of a few of the best Albanian beaches, and you can decide for yourself. 

Without further ado, though, here are the most beautiful beaches in Albania you’ll encounter when driving along State Highway 8 from north to south . They are organized by their location to the nearest city.

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Top Beaches In Albania Near Vlorë

1. vlora beach.

The city of Vlorë is the northern starting point of the Albanian Riviera and is one of the most popular destinations for Albania for a beach holiday. You’ll find many incredible south Albania beaches in and around the city, including Vlorë Beach, sometimes also called Vlora Beach.

Just south of Vlorë lies the Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park , a phenomenal destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.

The park protects a section of the Albania coast and an area of the Ionian Sea . It encompasses the Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island, where its name comes from.

2. Narta, Zvernec  – A Sandy Beach

Just a 15-minute car ride from Vlore, you’ll find this beautiful sandy beach with blue waters that will blow your mind. This is an excellent beach for families as the waters are calm and usually very warm.

You can swim and sunbathe here, and the island of Zvernec is accessible via a walkway, where you can visit the Monastery of St Mary from Byzantine times. 

3. Orikum Beach

Orikum Beach is located close to Vlore; it is one of the most beautiful and is a favorite among locals and tourists. This is another beach great for families, thanks to the calm waters; however, it is a gravel beach, not sand.

Sun loungers and umbrellas are available, as well as changing rooms and lifeguards on duty during the summer months.  

Best Albanian Beaches Near Saranda

Sarandë, or Saranda, is probably the most touristy area in southern Albania and the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera. Home to many of the best beaches of Albania and loads of beach resorts, including some of the fabulous beaches in Albania.

This ancient city is well-known for its blue water and proximity to the archaeological site of Butrint , whose astonishing cultural heritage is protected by UNESCO.

4. Filikuri Beach

Filikuri Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Albania. The sparkling water and soft sand make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the incredible views.

The beach is situated close to the city of Saranda , making it easy to get to.

Plenty of sun loungers and parasols are available for visitors to use, as well as a number of restaurants and cafes. There are also a few small shops selling souvenirs and beachwear.

Filikuri Beach is the perfect place to spend a day or two if you’re looking for some relaxation on your holiday.

5. Borsh Beach

Well-known for its blue sea, with water that’s both limpid and warm, Borsh Beach is one of the best Albanian beaches in this part of the country.

Borsh is said to be the longest beach on the Ionian Sea coast, a white kilometers-long stretch of beach. It’s perfect if you happen to be like me and you find sunbathing tedious. Instead, use the long stretch of the foreshore and take a long walk.

Local Tip:  After a day at the beach, be sure to visit the Byzantine castle in the nearby village.

As well as tourism, prosperity for the community comes from the production of olive oil , which is very well-known in the area. Be sure to try it!

6. Mango Beach

Mango beach is one of the most popular beaches in Albania. It is located in the city of Sarandë and is known for its clear water and beautiful sand.

Visitors can enjoy many activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and windsurfing. The beach is also a great place to relax and enjoy the Ionian Sea’s stunning views.

7. Ksamil Beach

One of the absolute best beaches in Saranda is Ksamil Beach.

Overlooking the Greek island of Corfu, Ksamil is just a few kilometers away from the border with Greece and one of the most incredible places to visit near Saranda . The white sandy beaches in Albania and turquoise waters rival those in Greece and are not as crowded.

If you look, you can also find some secluded spots to enjoy quiet time .

Local Tip:  In Ksamil Bay, there are four tiny islands that you can reach by swimming or rowing. They make for great destinations to escape the crowds at the main beach.

8. Mirror Beach (Pasqyra)

Another superb Saranda beach is Mirror Beach, a gorgeous small beach flanked by huge rocks.

The reflection of the afternoon sunshine on the shimmering water is why locals call this “Plazhi Pasqyra,” translated as Mirror Beach in English. And the water is, indeed, amazingly clear here, featuring a stunning turquoise color.

Additionally, what sets it apart from other Saranda beaches in Albania is that the area has no resorts or hotels . It is just peace and quiet, you and the waves here.

In addition to Mirror Beach, there are a couple of other smaller beaches, such as Central and Liman, that offer some more seclusion in this busy region.

Rent a car in Saranda , and reserve a room at one of the many hotels to travel between all of the lovely beachfront for a few days!

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Dhermi beach guide, 9. drymades beach.

A beautiful white stretch of beach surrounded by olive trees, Drymades Beach is covered with pebbles on one end and sand on the other.

The beach, located in a small bay off the village of Dhermi, is perfect for a relaxing time at the beach , minus the crowds that can be seen at the nearby Dhermi Beach.

Set in one of the many secluded coves and bays in the Dhermi area, Drymades Beach features excellent budget accommodations and hotels (some with fantastic beach bars and restaurants), stunning natural scenery, and crystal clear water.

10. Dhërmi Beach

The village of Dhërmi itself consists of traditional stone houses and, more recently, wooden and eco-friendly structures built to host numerous tourists without weighing down the ecosystem. The area is also well-known for its many churches, where you can admire ancient cultural treasures.

Dhërmi Beach, located 2.5 kilometers downhill, is definitely more popular than Gjipe and other gorgeous beaches in the area. Additionally, this is also a popular destination among a younger crowd since the Dhërmi nightlife is renowned all over the country.

Dhërmi Beach, Albania, can get crowded with locals and tourists during peak season. However, there are many secluded bays next to the main beach, which you can reach by walking through beautiful olive groves, a peaceful and quiet wander along the coast.

11. Palasa Beach – Plazhi i Palasës

Located in Vlore County along the Llogara Pass, Palasa Beach is a gorgeous beach with immaculate crystal-clear waters and a picturesque backdrop of forests and cliffs.

There are shallow pools and calm currents closer to the shore, which are ideal for kids.

Make sure you visit this beautiful beach if you plan an outing in Llogara National Park, as Palasa Beach is just a short drive from the mountains.

Albania Beaches Near Himarë

12. gjipe beach.

Possibly the best-kept secret of the Albanian Riviera. You do need to take a 30-minute walk (around 1.5 kilometers) to reach Gjipe Beach. Don’t worry; you’re walking along a red soil path under the bathing sunlight. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to walk back later.

Gjipe is my favorite beach on the Albanian Riviera. It has a wild, simple, alternative atmosphere, clear emerald water, and a majestic stage. It is nestled among the rocky cliffs whose colors range from red to gray and white, dotted with the green of the shrubs.

This is one of the beautiful beaches just south of the Karaburun Peninsula, which is part of the National Marine Park . Hence, why it’s preserved and so well-taken care of.

13. Buneci Beach

If you’re looking for a quiet beach where you can kick back and relax, Buneci Beach is a great choice. There are sun-loungers and parasols on offer; however, there is little in the way of cafes or restaurants around, so do take your own refreshments with you.

This is the ideal spot if you’re looking for a relaxing day with calm waters to swim and sunbathe. 

14. Himarë Beach

The small beach town of Himarë  is well-known for its blue, pristine water among locals and travelers alike.

Himarë has two beautiful bays, beach resorts , restaurants, and small shops on its seafront promenade.

The real gem, though, is the ancient ghost village on the top of the hill, where you can admire the ruins of the Himarë Castle. With a history of 2000 years, this castle shows a past when Himarë was an important center of the Ionian Coast .

Additionally, there are also several charmingly abandoned stone houses.

Local Tip: Visit Himarë Beach, also spelled Himara Beach, at sunset when the view is magical, both on the bay and on the surrounding mountains. This is definitely one of the best beaches in Albania .

15. Potami Beach 

The sea at Potami Beach is ridiculously clear and calm, making it an excellent choice for families.

There are countless restaurants along the beach, so you can easily find something to suit your needs and facilities, such as sun loungers.

If you’re feeling energetic, you can go for a hike along the cliffs, with some jaw-dropping views on offer. 

16. Jalë Beach (Jala Beach)

Tourism in Albania hasn’t fallen victim to the mass crowds (yet!), so even when choosing an equipped beach over a secluded heaven, you still won’t find dozens of tourists crowding the water .

Jalë is a beach home to restaurants, bars, camping, and even beach clubs. Still, you can also enjoy a very relaxed vibe here.

Pack a sand-free beach towel and head to Jalë Beach, also known as Jala Beach, the perfect beach for those who fancy renting a canoe or other facilities or even people traveling with kids .

Moreover, there are many tiny coves in the surrounding area that you can reach only by boat. So, being relaxed is just one rowboat away.

17. Dhraleo Beach

One of the northernmost beaches on the Albanian Riviera, Dhraleo Beach, is also among the most exotic and peaceful. Backed by the towering cliffs on the Albanian coastline, this sand and pebbly beach gradually runs into the crystal-clear Ionian Sea.

It’s about 1.5 kilometers long, a noticeable stretch of white amid green hills and blue water, and is located below the spectacular Llogara Pass in Llogara National Park .

While the park is all about stunning natural beauty now, some historians claim that it’s played a significant historical role. It’s known that Julius Caesar traveled across the Llogara Pass during his war with Pompeii, and some historians say this very beach was where he and his legions landed.

18. Livadhi Beach

Situated about 3 kilometers north of Himarë, Livadhi Beach is another one of Albania’s many beautiful beaches. It is a gem in the Albanian Riviera, a region home to numerous epic Albanian beaches.

A short drive from the Himarë town center, Livadhi Beach is one of the longest beaches in the area. It is famous for its olive trees and azure-blue water.

Like many other beaches in Albania, this is not a sand beach but has fantastic white pebbles.

There are many facilities, from restaurants and cafés to daybed rentals and various watersports.

19. Llamani Beach

Another of the most famous beaches in Albania is Llamani Beach, located merely 4 kilometers south of bustling Himarë.

This is a short but wide white pebble beach; this is a much quieter alternative than the sometimes crowded beaches a bit further up the coast.

Facilities include a restaurant and bar, beach chairs, umbrellas , and bathrooms.

20. Porto Palermo Beach

Another of the great Albania beaches that I really like is Porto Palermo, a small peninsula topped by a stronghold built by Ali Pasha during the 19th century. This beach also served as a Soviet submarine base during the communist era, and the whole place is so charming that it is often used as a film set.

As the rain was approaching on the day I visited , we took shelter in a stronghold and wandered around its dark alleys until we reached the panoramic terrace on the top.

The closest city to this beach is Himare.

Local Tip: On the other side of the peninsula, there is also the small church of Saint Nicholas, built by Ali Pasha in 1818 in honor of his wife. Check it out!

Best Albanian Beaches Near Qeparo

21. qeparo beach.

Qeparo is a shingle beach with a soft, sandy surprise as you enter the water, a great pleasure for our feet toughened by four days on the pebble-covered Albanian Riviera beaches!

But Qeparo Beach is not only great for your feet! What I liked the most was that we also went to the old town of Qeparo during our visit, now (sadly) a ghost village made up of narrow cobbled alleys and stone houses abandoned and in ruin.

The city of Qeparo can be reached by bus from Saranda.

Local Tip:  The village is on the top of a mountain. Just be warned that the road to get there was the most frightful on my Albanian road trip . That said, the view of Qeparo Bay from above and this abandoned village’s charm were worth it!

Top Albanian Beaches Near Lukove 

22. lukova beach .

Lukova Beach is small yet extremely charming. It’s a good option for those who don’t enjoy crowds during the summer months.

The water is a green/blue shade and extremely clear. There is plenty of shade at this beach, thanks to the trees, and sun-loungers and parasols are on offer.

There are also cafes and restaurants serving refreshments. 

Beaches Near Tirana

23. golem beach.

Just 27 km from Tirana, Golem Beach is a large and very popular beach with fine white sand and extremely clear water.

The beach is a crescent shape and does get quite busy during the peak summer months. However, it is also the second largest beach in Albania, so you shouldn’t struggle for space.

This is a safe beach for children to swim, as the water is clear and calm, and there are also lifeguards on duty. 

Best Albanian Beaches Near Lake Ohrid

You don’t necessarily need to travel along the Albanian coast to find the amazing beaches in Albania.

A solid alternative is visiting Lake Ohrid , located on the border between Albania and Macedonia and protected by UNESCO. It boasts stunning natural scenery as well as a few great beaches.

24. Tushemisht

Tushemisht is on Lake Ohrid, the deepest lake in the Balkans and one of the oldest lakes in the world; it is also listed among UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites and the Macedonian town of Ohrid .

Though it borders Macedonia , the Albanian side is much wilder.

Tushemisht is a beautiful and relaxed village , definitely the place we liked the most on Lake Ohrid’s shores!

The village has several small canals filled with natural spring water overlooked by tiny houses, the main street with many beautiful backyards full of potted plants, and small vegetable gardens. The village itself, with all its lovely painted benches and flower pots, is very colorful.

25. Pogradec Beaches

Pogradec is a hugely popular destination for Albanian tourism. Despite the archaeological evidence showing that the Pogradec area has been inhabited since the late Neolithic period, today, you would have no idea.

Nowadays, Pogradec is a crowd of modern buildings, lakefront hotels, and tourist restaurants on the lake . It’s the main town on the Albanian side of the lake, offering all necessary tourist facilities, including home to many of the best beaches of Albania, with many that have excellent family-friendly seasides.

We loved the Pogradec waterfront, with its colorful fishermen’s boats lying right on the beach, suspended in the foggy late afternoon atmosphere when the lake mirrors the mountains and the clouds.

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Best Albanian Beaches Near Durres 

With one of the largest ports of the Adriatic and its close proximity to Tirana, the city is somewhat suffocated with development.

However, there is a good stretch of beach where tourists and locals can enjoy many golden beaches. Along the promenade, many restaurants offer delicious fresh seafood near the sand.

26. Spille Beach

Spille is a 5-mile-long sandy beach that means you’ll never feel crammed in, even during the hottest summer days. Sections of the beach have sun-loungers and parasols available, and there are restaurants.

The village of Spille is also a charming spot to visit, with friendly locals and quaint cafes where you can enjoy a coffee. 

27. San Pietro Beach

San Pietro Beach’s golden sands and crystal waters make this a stunning shoreline in Plazhi San Pietro (Durres). The beach itself is long, leaving lots of space for sunbathers and beach volleyball players. 

Lifeguards are on duty here, and bathrooms, cafes, chairs, and umbrellas are available. 

28. Karpen 

The beauty of Karpen will blow you away. Not only is it pretty quiet, but the white sand and impossibly blue sea are ideal for days enjoying the sun, and sun-loungers and parasols are available.

There is also a tiny island with a restaurant you can walk to via a stilted wooden way.

You can reach the island by car from Durres, which will take around half an hour. 

Albania Rivera FAQs

What are some beautiful beaches in albania.

Albania boasts many stunning beaches. Some of the popular ones are Ksamil Beach, Dhermi Beach, Gjipe Beach, and Jale Beach.

Are the beaches in Albania suitable for families with children?

Many Albanian beaches are family-friendly, with shallow waters and soft sand, making them ideal for families with children.

Do I need to pay an entrance fee for the beaches?

Most beaches in Albania are public and free to access. However, some beaches with private facilities may charge an entrance fee.

What water activities can I enjoy at Albanian beaches?

You can indulge in activities like swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing, and boat tours at Albanian beaches.

Are there beachfront accommodation options available?

Yes, many beach destinations in Albania offer beachfront hotels, resorts, and guesthouses for visitors to stay and enjoy the stunning coastal views.

Does Albania have good beaches?

Short answer – yes! The stretch of shoreline along the Albania coast from Vlorë (Vlore) and Palasë (Palasa) in the North to Sarandë (Saranda) and Ksamil in the South – the Albanian Riviera; that’s where you’ll find the best-hidden beaches in Europe.

Are there any sandy beaches in Albania?

When is the best time to visit the albanian riviera.

The Albanian Riviera is full of tourists during July and August when the weather is the warmest. (It averages around 28 to 30 °C during the day and 18 to 20 °C at night.) But given that Albania’s peak season sees fewer crowds than other European countries, the masses won’t make much of a difference.

Spring from April to early June and fall from September to October are the best times to visit the Albanian Riviera as the weather is not too cold or too warm.

How do I get to the Albanian Riviera?

There are no airports along the Albanian Riviera. The nearest airport is in Tirana, the capital of Albania.

You can catch a bus or minibus (furgon) from the South Interurban Station at Dogana from Tirana. The buses to Saranda take the coastal road, and it takes about 5 hours to get there. There are also buses from Saranda to Vlore that pass through the traditional villages en route.

If you want more flexibility, we highly suggest getting there  by driving a car . Be prepared for an initially long drive interspersed with stops at lovely little villages. 

Where is the best place to stay along the Albanian Riviera?

• Saranda – A coastal town on the Albanian Riviera with more than 300 sunny days yearly, Saranda is a famous tourist destination. Here are our favorite Saranda accommodations.
• Albanian Riviera – Staying anywhere along the Albanian Riviera is also a great option. Towns include Saranda, Ksamil, Himare, and more. Here are our favorite Albanian Riviera accommodations.
• Island of Corfu, Greece – You may be surprised to learn that Corfu, Greece, is a 35-minute ferry ride away from the best Albanian beaches. If you want to combine a Greece and Albania holiday, check out these accommodations in Corfu.

Which of these best Albania beaches will you relax at?

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I really like to share your all these images which look very attractive. I also enjoyed myself while I was visiting Albania

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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!  

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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.

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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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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!

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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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The Comments

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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• Last Updated On
• September 20, 2023

17 Best Beaches in Albania — Top Public Beach Spots!

Have you ever wondered if there are many best beaches in Albania?

Yes, of course.

It has a long coastline along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.

With its length of 380 kilometers, there are undoubtedly a lot of beautiful beaches.

But you won’t see them all at once.

What’s more, choosing which one to visit is hard.

Worry not, as I am here to help you. 

I love doing reviews of the places I’ve been to and even interviewing locals and tourists to ensure my thoughts are reliable.

And since I have been to Albania and witnessed its beauty, I compiled the best beaches for you.

I ranked them based on their family-friendliness, safety, amenities, water quality, and accessibility.

So start planning your beach escape by checking my in-depth review below.

Best Beaches In Albania Compared

There are countless alluring beaches to see in Albania. 

By reading my reviews and reference guide, you’ll know more about which one is worth seeing first and next.

Editor’s Choice

Mirror Beach — Saranda

Mirror Beach is a local favorite featuring many nearby restaurants that are affordable and offers the perfect Mediterranean ambiance.

• Family-Friendliness: 4.5/5
• Safety: 4/5
• Amenities: 3.5/5
• Water Quality: 4/5
• Accessibility: 3.5/5

#2nd Best Choice

Ksamil Beach — Saranda

Ksamil Beach is one of the top beaches in all of Europe and it features crystalline, turquoise water, a picturesque shoreline with white sand, and stunning views.

• Safety: 3.5/5
• Amenities: 3/5
• Water Quality: 3.5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Dhërmi Beach — Himarë

Dhërmi Beach, roughly 1 kilometer long, is a charming coastline that features a pebbly shoreline and pristine blue water.

• Family-Friendliness: 4/5
• Safety: 3/5
• Accessibility: 3/5

Here are the top 17 beaches in Albania.

1. Mirror Beach — Saranda (Editor’s Choice)

SH81 Saranda, AL 9701 Tripadvisor Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Crystal clear water
• Excellent scenery
• Expensive rentals of umbrellas and sunbeds

Why We Recommend This Beach

Mirror Beach is one of the best beach spots in Albania.

On sunny days, the sun reflects into the pool-like waters, much like a mirror, giving off a beautiful effect.

This stunning coastline provides the ideal picture-perfect backdrop for photos that will leave your family and friends amazed.

Here, you and your travel companions can climb rocks and jump into the sparkling, cool water, or have a fun day snorkeling.

You can also relax on a sunbed by the shore as you bask in the warmth of the sun.

Don’t worry about having to allow extra time preparing and packing meals for your companions.

Mirror Beach has an oceanfront bar and grill serving exquisite local cuisine and fresh seafood.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Mira Mare

2. Ksamil Beach — Saranda

Ksamil Beach Saranda, AL 9706 +355 67 200 0981 Visit Website Tripadvisor Open in Google Maps

Ksamil Beach is one of the top beaches in all of Europe .

It features crystalline, turquoise water, a picturesque shoreline with white sand, and stunning views.

• Available water activities
• Great sunset view
• Overcrowded

I strongly recommend considering Ksamil Beach for your next beach excursion with your family, friends, or partner.

This gorgeous coastline features limitless fun possibilities that you can enjoy with your companions.

Ksamil Beach is the best beach for swimming in Albania because of its clean, crystal clear water that is almost always gentle and calm.

There are also small islands across the coastline that protect it from strong waves and currents.

Some of the numerous activities you can enjoy doing here are snorkeling, jet-skiing, canoeing, boating, sea-biking, paddle boating, and plenty more.

Before ending your trip to Ksamil Beach, you must explore the nearby islands found offshore.

These islands are uninhabited and are a small oasis.

There are two islands you can easily swim to and the remaining island you can visit by boat or kayak.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Luxury

3. Dhërmi Beach — Himarë

Rruga plazhit Himarë, AL 9422 +355 04 2 273 778 Visit Website Tripadvisor Open in Google Maps

Dhërmi Beach, roughly 1 km long, is a charming coastline that features a pebbly shoreline and pristine blue water.

• Sea and mountain views
• Overcharge of drinks to tourists

When looking for nice beaches in Albania, I highly recommend Dhërmi Beach.

This lovely coastline is fantastic for swimming because the water is clear, and there are also beach loungers you can rent if you want to have a relaxing time on the shore as you sunbathe.

Create new memories with your friends or family as you go snorkeling, boating, going for a stroll together, and so on.

Dhërmi Beach can get quite crowded during peak seasons, particularly in the summertime.

If you want to enjoy the beach with fewer crowds, visit during off-seasons or weekdays.

June and September are the best months to visit Dhërmi Beach.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Elysium Hotel

Also See: Beaches in France Europe Beaches Italy Beaches

4. Borsh Beach

Rruga Plazhit Borsh, AL 9714 +355 69 728 8111 Tripadvisor Open in Google Maps

Borsh Beach, spanning 7 km, is the longest coastline in Albania.

It features endless views of the Ionian Sea.

Borsch Beach is an excellent alternative to Ksamil Beach and Dhermi Beach, with its length, turquoise water, and many great restaurants and bars.

If you finally have time away from work and looking for the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful retreat, Borsh Beach is your best option.

This gorgeous beach has a serene ambiance and is large enough that you can find your own spot to relax.

Put down a towel or lie on a beach chair as you work on your tan as you listen to music, read a book, or watch the gentle waves.

The sparkling cerulean water is great for a relaxing swim with your partner, family, or friends.

Before or after heading to Borsh Beach, try making time to visit The Borsh Castle.

This magnificent, historic castle is a must-see and will take you back in time to medieval times.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sole Luna Hotel

5. Gjipe Beach — Himarë

Vuno Himare, AL 9417 +355 69 930 5002 Tripadvisor Open in Google Maps

Gjipe Beach is a small but beautiful coastline, ideal for adventurous beachgoers.

If you and your friends are the outdoorsy types who love exploring nature, I recommend considering Gjipe Beach for your next trip.

This amazing coastline may be petite in size, but it is full of promise and fun possibilities.

Getting to the beach is an adventure in itself because you can only access this pristine coastline by hiking or by kayaking.

Once you get there, you can relax on the shoreline and swim in the refreshing water.

There are also nearby hiking trails that you can trek to enjoy panoramic views of the sea.

At night, the skies come alive with the brilliance of millions of stars, perfect for stargazing as you listen to the gentle waves.

To make the most out of your getaway to Gjipe Beach, you can choose to stay at a campground just behind the beach.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Golden View Residence

6. Golem Beach

Plazhi i Golemit Golem, AL 2504 Open in Google Maps

Golem Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Albania and the second-largest coastline in the country.

It has a crescent shape and features backdrops of lush greenery and a white-sand shoreline.

One of the best things to do in Albania is to visit Golem Beach for a fun day under the sun and in the sea.

It is the perfect destination if you are looking for a coastline that is easily accessible and close to numerous hotels.

Golem Beach is well-maintained and is the safest beach for kids.

Compared to other Albanian beaches, Golem Beach has a sandy shoreline with a gentle slope.

There are no sudden drops, and the water is shallow and calm, making it ideal for younger kids.

This coastline also has many attentive lifeguards that provide an additional safety measure for your youngsters and other family members.

Other amenities include a nearby playground, spacious parking, clean showers and restrooms, and tons more.

Don’t stress out about preparing meals for your whole family because Golem Beach has lots of nearby eateries, like a bakery, pizzeria, cafe, beach bar, fast-food chain, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Venezia

7. Orikum Beach — Vlore

Plazhi Orikum 3 Vlore, AL 4401 Open in Google Maps

Orikum Beach is a beautiful coastline featuring crystal clear water and gravel shoreline.

It is a favorite of locals and tourists alike for swimming and boating because of its clean water.

Orikum Beach is a lovely place to visit when looking for a charming coastline that is easily accessible and has many facilities to make traveling convenient.

It features amenities like deckchairs you can lie on for a more relaxing experience, umbrellas that are perfect for when the days are too hot, well-maintained restrooms and showers, alert and friendly lifeguards, and so on.

This coastline is also the ideal place for you to launch your yacht as you cruise the Ionian Sea or perhaps explore the nearby caves in the area.

Orikum Beach has a shoreline and seafloor that is mostly gravel and small pebbles.

You should wear aqua shoes when swimming to protect your feet.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Regina Blu

Also See: Croatia Beaches Beaches Close to London, England

8. Jali Beach — Himarë

Rruga Bregdet Jal SH8 Himare, AL 9425 +355 69 616 5726 Tripadvisor Open in Google Maps

Jali Beach has two other names, Jala Beach and Jalë Beach.

It is one of the prettiest beaches in the country, featuring crystalline, azure water that draws in guests from various parts of the world.

Jali Beach is picture-perfect and a fantastic location for you to enjoy doing a photoshoot with your friends or family.

It is jaw-droppingly gorgeous and provides the best background for breathtaking pictures.

There are many things you can do when vacationing at Jali Beach.

For example, you can relax by the shore and watch the waves, or do fun activities like kayaking, snorkeling, boating, exploring nearby caves and hidden beaches, and many other options.

Jali Beach offers a campsite where you and your travel buddies can stay if you want to make the most out of your trip.

The campgrounds feature an area where you can play volleyball, ping-pong, water polo, and mini-football.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Dhima Hotel

9. Palasa Beach — Himarë

Palasa Beach Dhërmi, AL 9700 +355 69 616 5726 Tripadvisor Open in Google Maps

Palasa Beach, also known as Palase Beach, is beautiful and has sparkling blue water and a shoreline that is a mixture of white sand and gravel.

Palasa Beach is a popular coastline for sunbathers because of its spacious shoreline.

You can lay down a towel and work on your tan or relax atop a beach lounger under the shade of an umbrella.

The water at Palasa Beach is crystal clear, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

You can also share a romantic moment with your partner as you watch the sunset together and take in the picturesque scenery.

When visiting Palasa Beach, take a side trip to the nearby Llogara National Park.

It is a stunning park that is perfect for nature-lovers.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Greccia Hotel

10. Buneci Beach — Himarë

Plazhi Bunecit Piqeras, Himarë, AL 9715 +355 69 616 5726 Tripadvisor Open in Google Maps

Buneci Beach, otherwise known as Bunec Beach, is an unspoiled coastline, fantastic for those seeking a quieter atmosphere.

If you are looking for a more laid back beach where you can enjoy a tranquil and relaxing time away from overly large crowds, consider Buneci Beach.

Buneci Beach has a more intimate ambiance, ideal if you are looking for a stress-free environment away from the noise of the bustling city.

Here, you can enjoy sunbathing, reading a good novel, taking plenty of photos with your family or friends, and swimming in the Ionian Sea.

If you are having a difficult time finding Buneci Beach, follow the national road from Piqeras.

Buneci Beach is between Piqeras and Lukove.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Himara Hostel

11. Lukova Beach — Lukove

Lukovë – Shpellë Lukove, AL 9400 +355 69 312 1191 Tripadvisor Open in Google Maps

Lukova Beach is petite in size but full of fun possibilities.

It has a background rich in greenery and turquoise water.

This small oasis has the perfect combination of lush greenery, a charming shoreline, and pristine water.

You and your friends and family can enjoy doing many fun things like playing beach volleyball, fishing, boating, and so on.

Lukova Beach has many amenities.

Like vendors selling yummy snacks, a beach bar where you can enjoy refreshing drinks, and clean restrooms and showers, great for washing up after a long day.

For a more comfortable vacation, take advantage of the rentals offered at Lukova Beach.

Here you can rent items like beach umbrellas, mats, and loungers.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Itaka Hotel

12. Livadhi Beach — Himarë

Livadh Rd Himarë, AL 9425 +355 69 616 5726 Tripadvisor Open in Google Maps

Livadhi Beach features a white stone shoreline, stunning mountainous backdrops, and pool-like water.

Livadhi Beach is a great family-friendly coastline.

Take your loved ones on a fun getaway to Livadhi Beach as you get some much-needed catching-up time together.

Have a blast together doing countless engaging activities, such as paddle boating, jet-skiing, canoeing, kayaking, boating, and playing a competitive game of beach volleyball.

Livadhi Beach has two areas, Gonia at the north and Apelistra at the south.

Gonia has two rock formations where you can enjoy cliff diving into the sea.

Apelistra features a famous rock by the same name.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: ARXONTIKO

13. Drymades Beach — Himarë

Rruga Perivolo Dhermi, Himare, AL 9415 +355 68 200 2216 Open in Google Maps

Drymades Beach is a top-rated coastline and one of the best that Albania has to offer.

It has two sections, divided by rock formations.

Have a thrilling, fun-filled time with your friends, partner, or family at Drymades Beach.

Experience what paradise is like at Drymades Beach.

Activities you can enjoy doing here are enjoying a picnic on the shore, making sandcastles with your youngsters, taking fun photos with your companions, and swimming in the turquoise sea.

You can also find beachfront restaurants and bars that serve fresh seafood and mouth-watering local cuisine, perfect for quenching your hunger.

Much like Livadhi Beach, there are two sections at Drymades Beach.

One side has a pebble shoreline, and the other area has golden sand.

If one side gets too crowded, you can easily hop on over to the other area.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Royal Blue Hotel

14. Narta Beach — Vlore

Unnamed Road Zvërnec, AL 9401 Open in Google Maps

Narta Beach, found within the Lagoon of Narta, is charming and features calm and gentle water with little to no waves.

Are you looking for a family-friendly coastline that is perfect for your loved ones and kids of all ages?

Then I recommend considering Narta Beach as your next destination.

Narta Beach is great for your youngsters because it is in a lagoon where they can safely swim and splash around.

This coastline has amenities like lifeguards, ready to help at all times, a nearby children’s playground to keep your little ones well-entertained, and many restaurants close to the shore with kid-friendly options.

Before leaving Zvërnec, take a side trip to the Orthodox monastery, a historic site built in the 18th century.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Villamaria Hotel

Related: What Is Albania Famous For?

15. Mango Beach — Saranda

SH81 Saranda, AL 9703 Tripadvisor Open in Google Maps

Mango Beach, known by locals as Plazhi Mango, is a lively and vibrant coastline with many beachfront hotels and bars.

Spend an exciting time with your friends or significant other at Mango Beach.

This coastline has a lively nightlife, which is great if you want something fun to do after sunset.

Enjoy a relaxing day as you sunbathe, go fishing, try out snorkeling, or swim in the clean water.

At night, prepare for a fun-filled time as you dance and drink delicious alcoholic concoctions.

Mango Beach has numerous facilities.

Like a pier, sunshades, beach loungers, a nearby ATM where you can withdraw money, and so on.

Take a short trip to Lëkurësi Castle, which is just a couple of minutes away from Mango Beach.

This castle, built in the year 1537, is magnificent and a sight for sore eyes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Saranda Palace

16. Potami Beach — Himarë

Rruga Qëndrore SH8 Paotm, Himarë, AL 9425 Tripadvisor Open in Google Maps

Potami Beach, found on the northern end of Himarë Bay, is one of the largest beaches in the area.

Potami Beach is another well-known coastline that is perfect for swimming and relaxing.

It is a natural beauty and features clean seawater that is so clear you can easily see the ocean floor.

At Potami Beach, you can relax by the shore as you work on your tan and watch over your kids as they splash in the water.

This coastline is close to many restaurants serving Greek and Albanian cuisine, perfect if you want to try European delicacies.

Potami Beach features nearby cliffs that you can hike to enjoy awe-inspiring, panoramic views of the landscape.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sea View Hotel

Related: Best Hotels in Albania

17. Llamani Beach — Himarë

SH8 Himarë, AL 9425 +355 69 616 5726 Tripadvisor Open in Google Maps

Llamani Beach is a hidden treasure tucked between the mountains and the sea.

Llamani Beach is one of the best beaches in Albania.

Here, you can have a wonderful time with your family, friends, or partner because it is jam-packed with fun activities and amenities you can enjoy, like jet-skiing and boating.

Here, you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, which are ideal for relaxing if you don’t feel like laying a beach towel.

Llamani Beach also features famous onsite restaurants and bars where you can enjoy eating Mediterranean cuisine.

Llamani Beach has deep water, deeper than most coastlines in Albania.

When swimming, be cautious of steep areas.

However, don’t worry too much because the water is crystal clear and you can easily spot when the water is getting too deep.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Castle Hotel

Beachgoer Guide 

Comparing beaches: which one is right for you.

With vast beach options in Albania, choosing which is the best for you may take some work.

But if you compare and contrast the benefits and drawbacks of each site, it will be a breeze.

I have roamed most of the beaches mentioned, and they’re among the best ones my eyes have ever set on.

Mirror Beach and Ksamil Beach are famous for their pristine and clear waters.

Sun beds and umbrellas are available for rent but are pretty pricey.

And I won’t recommend going there during peak season if you don’t like crowded and loud places.

On the other hand, Dhermi Beach is organized and clean, with some restaurants and bars along the shore.

But just like other famous beaches, things there are expensive.

Finally, if you prefer a place with more space for the whole clan, head down to Borsh Beach.

The only downside is it’s a pebble beach; be careful, as it might hurt your feet.

How I Picked The Beach Spots 

I find beaches heaven on earth.

With that, I travel yearly to different beaches and give raw yet reliable reviews to help my fellow travelers.

During my stay in Albania, I made friends with different visitors there.

We shared our reviews on each beach, and I even asked some locals about many things that I found helpful.

That way, I know that my reviews are reliable and something that can help others.

Our Beach Rating Method

I rate these beaches based on the following criteria:

• Family-Friendliness: I use this to evaluate if the beach is ideal for families with children. Does the beach offer kid-friendly activities and playgrounds? Does the beach have shallow waters and gentle waves? I ask myself these questions when I rate the family-friendliness criterion. 
• Safety: This is used to assess the safety of every beach destination. Are there lifeguards manning the beach? Does it have safety equipment? What are the other safety measures at the beach? I consider these factors when evaluating the safety of every beach. 
• Amenities: I use it to evaluate the quality and availability of facilities on every beach.  Is it equipped with restrooms, showers, and changing rooms? Does it have ample parking? These questions are important whenever I rate the amenities of each beach. 
• Water Quality: This evaluates the cleanliness and clarity of the water at the beach. Are there algae in the water? Is the water safe and clean enough for swimming and other activities? I ask myself these questions in order to rate the beach’s water quality. 
• Accessibility: This measures how accessible the beach is for visitors. How far is it from the major cities? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Is the beach wheelchair accessible? I use these questions to evaluate the accessibility of every beach. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What part of albania has the best beaches.

Ksamil is where everyone goes to see the best Albanian beaches.

Are Beaches In Albania Clean?

About 76.5 percent of Albania’s inland and coastal bathing sites were considered excellent by the European Environment Agency. 

Based on experience, I can claim that the best beaches in Albania are unique in their own ways. 

Each offers a pleasant and memorable experience to its visitors.

Trust me, we had so many wonderful memories exploring these beaches in Albania. 

I have extensively explored Albania’s coastline, experiencing first-hand the extraordinary features of its beach, like Gjipe Beach’s awe-inspiring sea caves.

We marveled at the picturesque landscapes and the vivid color of the waters. 

We also explored the nearby attractions and sampled the thriving food scene. 

And we witnessed their culture and distinct character, which made our visits enjoyable.

My family personally enjoyed the blue and clear waters of Ksamil Beach and Dhermi Beach.

We went kayaking and had fun swimming.

Mind you that a few hours is not enough.

It’s best to stay overnight or the whole day to enjoy the place more.

And since Borsh Beach stretches up to 7 kilometers long, we found a spot just for ourselves, hence a more private family fun.

But Mirror Beach is the fairest of them all.

It’s the best and bluest of blue beach water in the area.

And though it gets crowded, especially during peak season, it won’t change the fact that it’s still one of the best beaches you could visit in Albania.

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!

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.

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.

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

Welcome to Albania!

I am a tour guide in albania.

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

Book your free  Albania Planning Session via Skype now, by using my online scheduler to find a time that’s convenient for 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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10 Hidden Gem Beaches in Albania Without Crowds

• May 8, 2024

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.

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.

→ 🛩 Find cheap flights to Tirana ←

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.

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.

→ 🐚 Search for places to stay in Dhërmi ←

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.

→ 🌊 Find places to stay in Himarë ←

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.

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 with our guide on the best hidden gem beaches in Porto Palermo .

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

FarmHouse 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.

⛱ Check our guide on the best beaches and things to do while visiting 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.

🤿 Plan your own visit! Check our complete tourist guide on visiting Jale Beach and Aquarium Beach .

Where to Stay Near Aquarium Beach

Boungainvillea (Rated 8.7) – 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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Albania Itinerary: Mountains, Beaches & Culture in 10 Days (+ Map)

This 10-day itinerary for Albania will take you from the mountains in the north to the beaches in the south. It will bring you to the country’s highlights and help you plan your trip.

Albania is one of my favourite destinations in Europe. From the Albanian Alps to the Albanian Riviera and everything in between, this diverse country is full of beautiful places to explore.

If you only have 10 days in Albania, I highly recommend renting a car in Tirana for the second part of this itinerary. This will help you save some valuable time.

But without further ado, here’s the perfect 10-day Albania itinerary for first-timers!

Albania Itinerary for 10 Days: Overview

Day 1: Tirana & head to Shkoder Day 2: Komani Lake Ferry (Shkoder to Valbona) Day 3: Valbona to Theth Hike Day 4: Theth Day 5: Theth to Berat Day 6: Berat Day 7: Gjirokaster Day 8: Gjirokaster & the Blue Eye Day 9: Ksamil & Butrint National Park Day 10: Himare & back to Tirana

10 Days in Albania: Day by Day Itinerary

You will find a detailed guide including what to do and how to travel between places below. I started my trip in Albania in the north and then headed to the south, but you can easily turn this around if you want to.

Note that this itinerary is quite packed so that you can see the best of what Albania has to offer in just 10 days. If you would like to take it more slowly, you can always skip your least favourite destination.

Day 1: Tirana & head to Shkoder

Most people will start their Albanian journey in Tirana, the capital, and it’s worth exploring this city for a couple of hours before heading to Shkoder.

Make sure to start early to make the most out of your day, as there are quite some things to see and do in Tirana .

I started my visit at Skanderbeg Square , the city’s main square and visited the beautiful Et’hem Bej Mosque next. Apart from that, I visited the Tirana Pyramid , Namazgjah Mosque and Toptani Castle complex too.

Tirana is also home to the famous Bunk’Art 1 and Bunk’Art 2 museums . These are housed in underground bunkers and will teach you more about Albania’s turbulent history.

It’s good to know that while Bunk’art 1 tends to be most people’s favourite, Bunk’art 2 is a better option if you’re short on time. This museum is located close to Skanderbeg Square and it’s smaller than Bunk’art 1. I visited Bunk’Art 2 and can recommend it to history buffs or anyone who wants to learn more about the country’s history.

🚌 Make sure not to miss the last bus to Shkoder. There’s a bus every 30 minutes and the last one leaves at 5 pm. It takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to travel between these cities.

🏨 Where to stay in Shkoder

• Budget: Mi Casa es Tu Casa
• Mid-range: Hotel Tradita
• Luxury: Hotel Golden Palace

Day 2: Komani Lake Ferry (Shkoder to Valbona)

Shkoder is the gateway to the Accursed Mountains or Albanian Alps . If you only have 10 days in Albania, it’s better to skip a visit to this city (trust me, there are more interesting ones included in this itinerary) and head straight to Valbona on day two.

The journey from Shkoder to Valbona is a beautiful one. You will have to take the bus to Komani Lake first. It leaves from Shkoder at 6:30 am and will drop you at the lake around 8:30 am. Here, you can take the 9 am ferry on Komani Lake . This is a relaxing 3-hour ride with spectacular landscapes.

The ferry will drop you off in Fierze, a 30-minute drive from Valbona. Usually, you can either take the bus or a taxi here, however, when I arrived in Fierze, the bus wasn’t operating so I had to take a cab for €20 ($21,90).

You should arrive in Valbona around 1 pm, which will give you some time to explore the region in the afternoon. The surroundings are really beautiful and it’s worth going for a little walk.

🏨 Where to stay in Valbona

• Budget: Guest House Hyrmet Demushi
• Mid-range: Mountain Oasis
• Luxury: Valbona Resort & Spa

Tip: I recommend leaving your big backpack in Shkoder while heading to Valbona and Theth. Keep in mind that you will have to carry all of your stuff during the hike from Valbona to Theth on day 3, so it’s a good idea to bring the necessary stuff only.

Day 3: Valbona to Theth hike

The hike from Valbona to Theth was the absolute highlight of my trip to Albania, and if you love the mountains as much as I do, you might just fall in love with it too.

This is a moderate hike that takes an average of 7 to 8 hours and it’s good to know that hiking is the only way to get from Valbona to Theth or the other way around as there’s no road connecting these villages.

The landscapes along the way are truly magnificent and the path is easy to follow. It took me about 9 hours to complete this hike because I stopped a million times to enjoy the scenery and take pictures.

It’s good to know that this hike starts in Rragam and many of Valbona’s hotels are quite far from here, so depending on where you’re staying, you might have to take a taxi to the trailhead.

If hiking is not an option for you, I recommend spending the day in Valbona and heading back to Shkoder on day 4. Theth is an amazing place to visit but the best way to explore it is also by hiking, so I would recommend visiting Shkoder instead.

🏨 Where to stay in Theth

• Budget: Guest House Rrashkadoli
• Mid-range: Guest House Hyrmet Demushi (close to the trailhead)
• Luxury: Vidis Chalet Hotel

Day 4: Theth

Theth is a charming mountain village surrounded by breathtaking scenery. This is one of my favourite destinations in Europe and I would love to visit it again one day.

There are plenty of beautiful places to visit in and around Theth . Apart from its incredibly picturesque church and mysterious lock-in tower , the Grunas Waterfall and the Blue Eye of Theth are worth visiting too.

Another thing I love about Theth is the organic food. Here, meat and dairy products come from local cattle and sheep, while vegetables are grown on the land.

All in all, Theth is the perfect place to unwind, hike and enjoy nature, and if you’re asking me, it cannot miss from any Albania itinerary!

Day 5: Theth to Berat

To see the best of Albania in just 10 days, you will have to spend some time on the road too, and that’s what today is all about.

To get to Berat, you will have to take the mini-bus from Theth to Shkoder first. It leaves every day at 11 am and takes about 1,5 hours to reach Shkoder.

Once you’re in Shkoder, you can catch a bus to Tirana. It leaves every 30 minutes and takes 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach Tirana, so you should arrive here around 3 pm.

I highly recommend renting a car in Tirana for this itinerary, as this will help you save a lot of time. Make sure to book one in advance so that you can simply pick it up once you reach the capital.

Driving from Tirana to Berat takes a little under 2 hours, so you should arrive in this town in the early evening.

🏨 Where to stay in Berat

• Budget: Hostel Mangalem
• Mid-range: Hotel Klea
• Luxury: Hotel Ansel

Day 6: Berat

Often nicknamed the City of a Thousand Windows , Berat is famous for its historic Ottoman architecture. Many of the buildings in this UNESCO World Heritage site date back to the 13th and 14th centuries. If you’re a culture, architect or history lover, this is a place you will love!

Apart from visiting Berat’s historical centre full of white houses, Gorica Bridge , St. Michael’s Church and the National Ethnographic Museum are other places that cannot be missed during a visit to this town.

Head to the 13th-century Berat Castle for sunset. Not only will you have a spectacular view of the surroundings from here, but this castle also boasts impressive landmarks including a citadel and church.

Day 7: Gjirokaster

🚗 Gjirokaster is a 2.5-hour drive from Berat, so make sure to leave early so that you will have enough time to explore this beautiful town.

This city’s historic centre is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its beautiful Ottoman houses, colourful bazaars and cobblestone streets, Gjirokaster is one of Albania’s most charming cities.

When you finish exploring the historic centre and bazaar (you might find some great Albanian souvenirs here), I recommend visiting Zekate House , a traditional Ottoman house that’s open to visitors.

If you would like to learn more about traditional life in Albania, it’s worth heading to the Ethnographic Museum , which stands on the site where the house of communist dictator Enver Hoxha once stood.

Finally, head to Gjirokaster Castle and its fascinating museum. This castle is perched on top of a hill and it’s one of the largest in the Balkans. In the castle’s museum, you can learn more about the city’s fascinating history.

🏨 Where to stay in Gjirokaster

• Budget: Stone City Hostel
• Mid-range: Yuri Guest House
• Luxury: Hotel Kalemi

Day 8: Gjirokaster & the Blue Eye

Before heading to Albania’s Blue Eye, it’s worth hiking to the Ali Pasha Bridge , which is right outside of Gjirokaster.

This bridge was once part of an aqueduct system commissioned by Ali Pasha of Tepelenëv. It was built at the beginning of the 19th century and before that, the Gjirokaster Castle didn’t have a reliable water source.

The Ali Pasha Bridge is a 30-minute walk from the Gjirokaster Bazar. If you’re short on time, you can park your car near the bridge, though, it’s only a 10-minute hike from the road.

If you didn’t have the time to do everything you wanted yesterday, you can visit more places today.

🚗 Keep in mind that it’s a 50-minute drive to get to the Blue Eye and that you will need about an hour to visit it.

Once you finished visiting Gjirokaster, it’s time to head to the famous Blue Eye near Sarande, which is a 50-minute drive from this city. Albania’s Blue Eye or Syri I Kalter is a water spring that got its name thanks to its beautiful blue colour.

One of the things that makes the Blue Eye so fascinating is that no one knows how deep it is. Divers have attempted to descend into it multiple times to calculate its depth, but they didn’t succeed. The reason is that due to the high water pressure of the spring, you get pushed to the surface immediately when you attempt to jump into it.

It’s good to know that although you can swim in the Blue Eye (and many people do), the water is extremely cold! I dipped my feet in it for a few seconds and had to hurry out.

🚗 After visiting the Blue Eye, it’s time to head to the Albanian Riviera . Ksamil is home to some of Albania’s most beautiful beaches and it’s just a 50-minute drive from the Blue Eye.

🏨 Where to stay in Ksamil

• Budget: Vila Ronaldo
• Mid-range: Marku Palace
• Luxury: Villa White

Day 9: Butrint National Park & Ksamil

Butrint was another one of my favourite places to visit in Albania and if you’re a history buff, this is a place you absolutely cannot miss! This is one of the most important historical landmarks in Europe , after all.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is a 10-minute drive from Ksamil and it once was one of the most important cities in the Roman Empire . Here, you will find ruins that date back to as far as the 4th century BCE.

After being struck by an earthquake in the Middle Ages, this city was abandoned, and it’s one of the most important historical sites in Albania today.

Apart from its magnificent ruins and rich history, something I really love about Butrint is that it’s an archaeological site and nature park at the same time. The park is full of greenery and it’s famous for its immense diversity of flora and fauna.

It’s good to know that it takes 1,5 to 3 hours to visit this park, it all depends on your personal pace.

After all that travelling, it’s nice to spend the rest of the day simply relaxing at the beach. Ksamil’s beach is often called the Maldives of Europe due to its white sand and crystal clear water.

This being said, Ksamil is not a place everyone will like (I actually hated it). If you don’t mind being among other tourists, you will be able to enjoy this beach. If you’re like me, however, and prefer more tranquil and offbeat places, I recommend heading to another beach instead.

What I did when I travelled along the Albanian Riviera was to check the area using Google Maps’ satellite view. This allowed me to find remote beaches where not too many people head to.

Day 10: Beaches & Back to Tirana

On the last day of this 10-day itinerary for Albania, it’s time to head back to Tirana, which is a little under 4 hours from Ksamil. I recommend splitting this journey in two and stopping at one of the beaches near Himare or Vlore.

Although the beaches of Himare and Vlore are beautiful, I wanted to visit a more remote one and hiked to a small, secluded beach that I found while scanning the area using Google Maps’ satellite view.

I recommend checking out the best beaches in Albania or scanning the area with Google Maps like I did to find a beach that suits your personal taste.

Albania Itinerary for 10 Days: Map

Best Time to Visit Albania

The best time to visit Albania is from mid-June to September , as this is when the Valbona Pass is accessible. It’s different every year, but if you visit in early June or October, it might not be possible to hike from Valbona to Theth (which is a highlight on a trip to Albania) because of the snow.

It’s good to know that July and August is peak season in Albania, so there will be more crowds (and accommodation will be more expensive) at this time of the year.

For the best overall conditions, I would recommend visiting Albania during the two last weeks of June or in September. I visited Albania in mid-June and the weather was perfect.

Read more about Albania:

• Is Albania Worth Visiting? 11 Reasons to Visit
• Best Things to Do in Gjirokaster
• 9 Epic Things to Do in Theth, Albania
• Valbona to Theth Hike: How to Hike Valbona Pass
• Blue Eye in Albania: Ultimate Guide
• 21 Souvenirs from Albania That Don’t Suck

Albania Travel Planning Guide

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to Albania on  Skyscanner . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via  Booking  or  Agoda . 🚃 Use  Omnio  to book public transportation in Albania. 💰 Get travel insurance via  Visitors Coverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa   to visit Albania.

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Longer Trips in Cheaper Destinations — And Why Albania Is Getting So Popular

Elizabeth Casolo , Skift

May 14th, 2024 at 9:00 AM EDT

Travelers are still booking flights despite inflation. Where some of those flights are headed may be different, though.

Elizabeth Casolo

Italy and Greece may come to mind when planning a summer holiday in Europe . But travelers are gravitating toward other destinations that offer similar amenities at lower prices. A 2024 travel trends report from Mastercard showed increased air traffic and longer stays in some cheaper destinations.

“People are trying to be very thoughtful about how they can continue to enjoy travel and enjoy these experiences within their budget,” said Mastercard Chief Economist Michelle Meyer.

Albania is one standout budget-friendly destination. The country has had a 141% increase in daily flight traffic since 2019. For this summer, the Albanian capital of Tirana — which is close to some beach hotels — is witnessing an increase in its share of flight bookings from pre-pandemic levels. The report calls it one of this year’s trending summer destinations.

“There has been more of potentially a focus on tourism in terms of increasing the number of flights that are moving in, trying to facilitate more tourism, which is, of course, an effort to support greater economic growth,” said Meyer on Albania’s popularity.

An extra day for a traveler’s stay

Another change: Travelers are staying about one day longer on trips than they did in 2019. This trend is most prominent in destinations that have not experienced a steep increase in hotel prices.

For example, in markets with the smallest price change, travelers added 2.1 days. In markets with the biggest increase, travelers added less than one day.

The Middle East and Africa, followed by Europe, are the regions with the greatest trip extensions from 2019.

Meyer thinks the post-pandemic spike in “bleisure” travel — fusing business and leisure — may be contributing to this boost in longer stays. The hybrid work model that evolved from the pandemic leads to more flexibility.

“To travel for work, you can add on a leisure trip. If you travel for leisure, you can add in one day working from anywhere or be able to integrate your work into your leisure activity,” Meyer said.

What else to know

• A record-breaking total of around 15.9 million Americans traveled abroad in the first quarter of 2024.
• Japan had the highest increase in share of tourist spending from last year. The U.S. and Canadian currencies’ strength against the Japanese yen led Japan to becoming a trending destination.
• The surge in events-based travel, like with Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour , remains. Munich — a host of the upcoming UEFA European Championship — tops the list of Mastercard’s most in-demand summer destinations, with Tokyo and Tirana close behind.
• The share of passenger arrivals by sea has gone up in the Bahamas since late 1999. Originally at roughly 60%, that percentage was over 80% for Bahamas arrivals in February. Cruise transactions overall are up from 2019.
• Egypt’s currency devaluation and tourism investment could eventually position it to be a major player for those looking to travel to the Middle East and North Africa in coming years, Meyer said. Egypt’s 2027 eclipse will be another event to look out for.

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Tags: albania , bahamas , coronavirus recovery , cruise , euro 2024 , europe , germany , japan , Mastercard , middle east , munich , north africa , tokyo , Travel Trends , uefa

Photo credit: Street in Durrës, Albania. Árpád Czapp / Unsplash