The Definitive Guide to the Very Best Beaches in Albania

The Best Beaches in Albania

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

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

The Best Beaches in Albania – Saranda’s Beaches

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

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

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

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

Mango Beach, Saranda

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

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

The Best Beaches in Albania – Ksamil

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

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

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

Mirror Beach

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

Lori Beach

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

The Best Beaches in Albania – Durres Beaches

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

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

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

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

Golem Beach

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

Kallm Beach

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

Bunker Beach

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

The Best Beaches in Albania – Vlorë

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

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

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

Dhërmi Beach

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

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

Drymades Beach

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

Himara Beach, Albania

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

Gjipe Beach

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

Grama Bay

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

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

When to Visit Albania’s Best Beaches

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Pack for your Best Albanian Beach Trip

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

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

Where to go next

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

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

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

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The Best Beaches in Albania