The gorgeous white sand and beautiful rocky beaches along Albania’s Ionian coast rival many of the Mediterranean’s more famous, more expensive destinations.
The area known as the Albanian Riviera has become more internationally known for its raw natural and coastal beauty. It hasn’t been overdeveloped, and only a handful of areas have been “overdiscovered.”
Albanian Riviera beaches sit near charming villages and modern towns up and down the country’s southern coast. Wherever you go, you’ll find water as clear as emerald, turquoise, and deep blue. Overall, the beaches are stunning — we’ve picked the best of them for this guide.
Ksamil Beaches
About 20 minutes south of Sarandë sits the quiet fishing village of Ksamil.
Ksamil’s dazzling white-sand beaches with their turquoise-blue water are simply magical. They’re less developed than other famous Mediterranean beach towns, and aren’t overcrowded — they remain friendly and welcoming.
Spend your days relaxing on beaches lined with sun umbrellas, or swimming, kayaking, sailing, snorkelling, or diving. You can also take a boat trip to try mussels, or relax with a fresh watermelon juice at one of the many seafood restaurants in central Ksamil.
You can also relax and take in the nearby Ksamil Islands, sitting amid the sparkling water. Two islands are close enough to swim to; you can reach the other two by kayak, water taxi, or rowing boat.
Borsh Beach
North of Sarandë, Borsh Beach is the longest stretch of beach (over 7km!) on the Albanian Riviera.
Since the white-sand beach is so large, there’s plenty of room for everyone. The small village, around 2km above the beach, is charming, and there are restaurants and bars along the shore.
The water is calm, clear, and deep blue — perfect for snorkelling, swimming, or kayaking. The beach is a peaceful spot to spend the day and walk along the shore at sunset.
Tip: for a quick side trip, visit the charming village of Kiparo, set among nearby olive groves right above Kiparo Beach. Enjoy a coffee or a good meal at one of the small bars and cafes in the lower town. Then, for a glimpse of traditional Albanian village life, climb the hill and explore the cobbled streets of the half-abandoned old town — you’ll find the crumbling remains of beautiful white stone houses (some recently renovated and inhabited), a church, and an old clock tower.
Himarë Beaches
With a relaxed atmosphere and enough activities to keep things interesting, the small, beautiful, Greek-influenced coastal town of Himarë is one of the best areas on the Albanian Riviera.
Himarë village sits on a hill above the beach — a charming, attractive village. Spile Beach sits right off the promenade, and isn’t too crowded for a main town beach.
Porto Palermo Beach
This stunning pebble beach sits in Porto Palermo Bay (right below Porto Palermo Castle) — a family-friendly beach with striking turquoise water.
It’s a quiet beach with no bars or beach facilities, so it isn’t crowded with partygoers. Bring your own umbrella, towels, water, and snacks to make the most of the peace and quiet at this secret beach.
Dhërmi Beach
For a young, festive beach atmosphere, visit Dhërmi Beach — a firm favourite, about 30 minutes north of Himarë.
You can rent a beach umbrella or bring your own towel and enjoy the beautiful crystal-blue water. Expect plenty of restaurants, music, and crowds during peak season, but there are quieter stretches away from the central beach area.