Albania's Most Breathtaking Beaches — Ranked

1. Ksamil — 'Albania's Maldives'

Ksamil earns its reputation. Three small offshore islands are visible from the beach and reachable by swimming or a short boat ride. The water is a remarkable turquoise-to-deep-blue gradient. Sunbeds cost around 10€/day. Ksamil is 20 minutes by taxi from Saranda. In peak season (July–August) it gets busy — arrive early or visit in May/June. The ancient ruins of Butrint are just 10 minutes away.

2. Dhermi — The Long Pebble Beach

Dhermi Beach stretches for over a kilometre beneath dramatic mountain cliffs. The water is spectacularly clear and the setting — with green mountains tumbling to the sea — is extraordinary. The village above the beach has restaurants and guesthouses. Several smaller satellite beaches — Palasa to the north and Gjipe to the south — add further options. A compact car handles the descent road fine in summer.

3. Gjipe Beach — The Hidden Canyon Beach

Getting to Gjipe Beach requires effort: park at the paid car park (cash only) then walk 40 minutes through a narrow canyon — the Gjipe Canyon — before the beach opens up below you. The reward is a completely unspoiled pebble beach in a dramatic setting, with excellent snorkelling. Camping is possible. Most visitors to Dhermi never make it here, which is precisely the point.

4. Grama Bay — Only By Boat

Grama Bay, accessible only by speedboat from Vlorë (full-day tours are available), is Albania's most exclusive beach experience. The bay contains the Haxhi Ali Cave and the mystical Blue Cave. An 8-hour boat trip typically includes swimming stops, cave exploration and a lunch of fresh grilled fish. This is Albanian beach tourism at its most adventurous.

5. Borsh — Albania's Longest Beach

Borsh Beach stretches for 7km between Himara and Saranda — the longest beach in Albania. Because it's so large, it never feels crowded even in summer. The water is clear, the setting relaxed, and the village above has tavernas serving fresh seafood. A stopping point on every drive between Himara and Saranda.

6. Durres — Sandy and Accessible

Durres is unique in Albania: a genuinely sandy beach (the only major one in the country) stretching for 10+ kilometres along the Adriatic coast. It's easily accessible — just 45 minutes from Tirana by car — which makes it the most popular beach destination for Albanian families. Water sports, beach clubs, and a lively promenade add energy. Visit the remarkable 2nd-century Roman Amphitheatre nearby.

Practical Beach Tips

Almost all Albanian beaches outside Durres are pebble — water shoes are essential. Car rental is the best way to access beach-hopping along the Riviera; buses exist but are slow and infrequent. May is the best month: warm water (around 20°C), far fewer crowds, and often lower accommodation prices. Full insurance is strongly recommended if you're driving the mountain coastal road.

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