You may have noticed that Albania’s best beaches have been gaining popularity on TikTok lately. Also, why wouldn’t they? This Balkan country boasts a great selection of beaches. They have clear, deep blue water that is as good as any on this side of Europe.
The best beaches in Albania are situated on both the Ionian and Adriatic Seas. Some are so crowded with people (and fun) that there’s barely room to lay down a towel, while others are quiet, secret coves that can only be reached by boat. The Albanian Riviera is on the southern edge of the Ionian Sea. It features gentle turquoise waves that conceal shipwrecks, making it an ideal destination for diving. To get there, fly to the Greek island of Corfu and then take a boat to Sarandë. You could also visit the more rugged, yet still beautiful, northern Adriatic coast, which is accessible from Tirana, the city.
The beach season in Albania is from June to September, when it’s warm, but you might find some warm days in May when there aren’t many people there. Please take a look at our list of eight best beaches in Albania as you decide when you’d like to lie out in the sun.
1. Ksamil
Albanian beaches are usually in or around Ksamil, in the southwest. Beautiful beach and greenish-blue water make it a summer sunbathing hotspot. Swim from Ksamil Beach, rent a pedal boat to various islands off the coast, or dive to observe six former military ships (Saranda Diving Centre can help).
Ksamil’s popularity has driven up high-season hotel rates and filled beaches with chairs and umbrellas. While you can set a towel down anywhere, sellers may try to sell you anything or leave without notice.
2. Borsh
Due to its convenient transport links and lower cost than Ksamil, many travellers choose to stay in Sarandë. However, Sarandë’s public beach lacks Ksamil’s charm, and the continual noise from pirate-ship party boats can disrupt relaxation. Visit the white-pebble Borsh Beach, 7km (4¼ miles) north, for a quieter experience.
3. Gjipe
Gjipe is one of the most beautiful and private beaches in Albania. It is located between the towns of Himarë and Dhërmi. A 30-minute walk will start from where you park or are dropped off. That said, the beach is worth every bit of sweat if you can do it.
4. Drymades
Most people are now going to the town of Dhërmi on the coast of the Ionian Sea. Drymades Beach is long and has pebbles. It boasts numerous stylish restaurants with thatched umbrellas and a selection of brand-new beachfront hotels, making for a comfortable holiday that’s also in style.
5. Spille
If you want to get away from the busy capital of Albania, Spille Beach is the place to go. There are no loud bars or music on the long beach, and there is a pretty pine forest behind it.
6. Cape of Rodon
Not many people from other nations know about the Cape of Rodon, which is a natural wonder. It extends into the Adriatic Sea, northwest of Tirana. Along the cape are beaches, secret coves, and ruins, such as Rodoni Castle, which was built in the 1400s by the national hero Skanderbeg.
7. Velipoja
Shkodër is a bike-friendly town that is the starting point for hikes in the Accursed Mountains, often known as the Albanian Alps. The settlement lies 19 miles (30 km) by vehicle from Velipoja, a long, fine-sand Adriatic beach. Velipoja has a young, French Riviera vibe, thanks to its many cool bars by the water.
8. Divjakës
Inside Divjakë-Karavasta National Park, on a long sandbar between the Adriatic Sea and Albania’s biggest lagoon, Divjakës is a great spot to see birds and sea turtles that lay their eggs in the sand. Bears, wolves, foxes, and more than 200 kinds of birds live in the park as a whole. These birds include Dalmatian pelicans, flamingos, and golden eagles.
Best Time to Visit Best Beaches in Albania
Unspoiled beaches and clear ocean waters distinguish Albania’s coastline. Summer beach holidays in Albania should be arranged for June–August. Albania’s Mediterranean environment offers visitors the opportunity to swim, sunbathe, and relax on its stunning beaches. The beaches of Ksamil and Dhërmi attract holidaymakers from throughout the world.
Perfect weather, without crowds or high prices, makes early June and late September the finest months for an Albania beach holiday. Summer in Albania is tranquil due to good beach conditions and no tourists.
Final Thoughts on the Best Beaches in Albania
Albania offers a diverse range of beaches that cater to a wide variety of tourists. Want to stretch out on a sun chair with a drink in your hand? Alternatively, would you like to walk to some hidden beaches? For example, you may want a safe place for your kids to play. It’s possible to find a beach that fits any Albanian itinerary.
We hope that this list of Albanian beaches helped you choose the best one for your holiday. There are numerous beaches close to each other, making for a great road trip!
FAQs about Albanian Riviera Beaches
Top beaches include Ksamil Beach, Dhermi Beach, Jale Beach, Himara Beach, and Gjipe Beach.
Yes, Albania’s beaches are generally safe. Popular areas have lifeguards and tourist services during the summer season.
Yes. Ksamil Beach is one of Albania’s most beautiful beaches, known for its turquoise waters and soft white sand.
The southern Riviera, especially between Vlora and Saranda, has the best beaches with clear water and scenic coastlines.
Yes, popular beaches like Ksamil and Dhermi can get crowded in July and August. Visit in June or September for fewer crowds.
Yes. The Ionian Sea along Albania’s southern coast is clean and perfect for swimming during the warmer months.
Albania has both. Ksamil offers sandy beaches, while others like Gjipe and Jale have pebbles and rocky shores.
Yes. Albania offers beautiful, less commercialized beaches with lower prices and stunning natural scenery.
The best time is from June to September, when the weather is hot, and sea conditions are ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Most popular beaches have sunbeds, beach bars, and restaurants. Remote beaches may have limited or no facilities.
