Last updated: October 2026
The Albanian Riviera is one of the last stretches of Mediterranean coast that still feels undiscovered, with clear turquoise water, white pebble beaches and mountains that drop straight into the Ionian Sea.
It runs roughly from the Llogara Pass in the north to Ksamil near the Greek border, connected by the SH8 coastal road. Prices are still lower than in neighbouring Greece and Croatia, although the region is growing fast in popularity.
If you’re still deciding on a trip, start with our guide on why you should plan an Albania holiday. Then use this list of the top 10 Albanian Riviera beaches to plan your coastal days.
Quick answer: What are the best beaches on the Albanian Riviera? Our top 10 are Ksamil, Gjipe Beach, Dhërmi, Drymades, Jale, Himarë and Livadhi Beach, Porto Palermo, Borsh, Lukovë and Palasë. Ksamil is the most famous, Gjipe the most unspoilt, Dhërmi the liveliest and Borsh the longest and quietest. Visit in June or September for warm water and fewer crowds.
Top 10 Albanian Riviera Beaches at a Glance
| # | Destination | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ksamil | Island views and clear water |
| 2 | Gjipe Beach | A secluded wild beach |
| 3 | Dhërmi | Nightlife and village charm |
| 4 | Drymades | Laid-back stays |
| 5 | Jale | Snorkelling and camping |
| 6 | Himarë and Livadhi Beach | A central base |
| 7 | Porto Palermo | A castle and calm water |
| 8 | Borsh | Space and quiet |
| 9 | Lukovë | Peaceful coves |
| 10 | Palasë | Mountain views |
1. Ksamil
Ksamil is the most famous beach area in Albania, known for its small islands just offshore and water so clear it looks like the Caribbean. You can swim, kayak or take a small boat out to the islands.
Ksamil gets very busy in July and August, with sunbeds covering much of the sand. Visit in June or September for a calmer experience. The ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just a few minutes’ drive south and makes a perfect half-day trip.
2. Gjipe Beach
Gjipe is a secluded beach at the mouth of a dramatic canyon, reached on foot or by boat. There is no road to the sand, which keeps it wilder and quieter than most Riviera beaches.
Park near the Monastery of St Theodore and walk down a rocky track, which takes around 20 to 30 minutes. Bring water and wear proper shoes. Explore the canyon behind the beach, where cliffs rise high on both sides. Basic camping is sometimes available in summer.
3. Dhërmi
Dhërmi is one of the Riviera’s most popular beach villages, with a long white pebble beach and very clear water. The old village sits on the hillside above, with stone houses, churches and great sea views.
In summer, Dhërmi has beach bars and a lively nightlife scene. It’s a good base for exploring the northern part of the Riviera, including Gjipe and Drymades. Drive down from the Llogara Pass for one of the most spectacular road views in the Balkans.
4. Drymades
Drymades is a long beach just north of Dhërmi, backed by olive groves and campsites. It feels more laid-back than its neighbour, with a mix of beach clubs and quieter stretches.
The water is shallow near the shore in places, which makes it good for families. Walk along the coast between Drymades and Dhërmi in the early evening for golden views.
5. Jale
Jale is a small bay between Himarë and Dhërmi with clear water and a relaxed, youthful atmosphere. It’s popular with campers and backpackers in summer.
A short walk around the headland leads to quieter coves. Snorkelling is good near the rocks, so bring a mask.
6. Himarë and Livadhi Beach
Himarë is a historic town with a ruined hilltop castle and a choice of beaches nearby. The main town beach is easy to reach, but Livadhi Beach, a short drive or walk north, is longer, calmer and backed by olive trees.
Himarë has a good selection of guesthouses, tavernas and small hotels, making it a practical central base on the Riviera. Visit the castle at sunset for views over the sea.
7. Porto Palermo
Porto Palermo is a sheltered bay with a small castle on a peninsula, said to have been used by the 19th century ruler Ali Pasha of Tepelena. The water is calm and very clear.
There are a few small beaches here and very little development. It’s a great stop for a swim and a short castle visit when driving between Himarë and Borsh.
8. Borsh
Borsh has the longest beach on the Albanian Riviera, stretching for several kilometres along a wide bay. Even in peak season, it’s easy to find a quiet patch of pebbles.
The hills behind the beach are covered in olive and citrus groves, and you can hike up to the ruins of Borsh Castle. Seafood tavernas line the beach road. Borsh is a great choice if you want space away from the busier spots.
9. Lukovë
Lukovë is a quiet coastal village with a series of small beaches and coves below terraced hills. It’s less developed than the resorts to the north and south.
Some coves are reached by narrow roads or short walks, so a car is useful. It’s a good spot for a peaceful swim between Himarë and Sarandë.
10. Palasë
Palasë is the first beach you reach after descending from the Llogara Pass, with a long arc of pebbles and stunning mountain views. Parts of the bay have been developed with new resorts, but much of the beach remains open.
It’s said that Julius Caesar landed near here during his campaign against Pompey. Today, it’s a great place for a long swim and sunset views.
When Is the Best Time to Visit the Albanian Riviera?
June and September are the best months for most travellers, with warm sea temperatures, fewer crowds and lower prices than July and August.
- May: quiet and green, but the sea is still cool.
- June: warm, sunny and pleasant.
- July to August: hot, crowded and the most expensive, with lively nightlife.
- September: the sea is at its warmest and crowds drop.
- October: some beach businesses close, but the weather can still be good.
What Should You Know Before Visiting the Albanian Riviera?
Rent a car. Public buses run along the coast, but a car lets you reach hidden beaches and stop at viewpoints. Roads are winding, so drive carefully.
Bring cash. Many beach bars, guesthouses and tavernas prefer cash in Albanian lek, though euros are widely accepted.
Expect pebbles, not sand. Most beaches are pebble or shingle. Water shoes are useful.
Sunbeds are usually rented. On organised beaches, you pay a daily fee for a sunbed and umbrella, which sometimes includes a drink. There is often a free public area too.
Respect local customs. Albanians are very hospitable. Learning a few words like “faleminderit” (thank you) goes a long way. The official Albania tourism site has more travel advice.
Where Should You Stay on the Albanian Riviera?
Himarë is the most practical central base, with a good mix of guesthouses, restaurants and easy access to Livadhi, Porto Palermo and Jale. Dhërmi suits travellers who want beach bars and nightlife in summer.
Ksamil and Sarandë are best for the southern beaches, Butrint and the Blue Eye spring. Sarandë is a proper town with year-round services and ferries to Corfu. Borsh is ideal if you want peace and space. Many travellers split their stay between a northern and a southern base to cut down on driving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most beautiful beach in Albania?
Ksamil is the most famous, but Gjipe is often considered the most beautiful because of its canyon setting and lack of development.
Is the Albanian Riviera cheap?
It’s still cheaper than most of the Mediterranean, though prices in Ksamil and Dhërmi rise in July and August.
How do you get to the Albanian Riviera?
Fly to Tirana and drive around four to five hours south, or take a ferry from Corfu in Greece to Sarandë, which takes under an hour on the fast boat.
Plan Your Albanian Beach Trip
Base yourself in Himarë or Dhërmi for the northern beaches and Ksamil or Sarandë for the south, rent a car and visit in June or September. You’ll find some of the best beaches in Europe at a fraction of the price.
Starting your trip in the capital? Our guide to the best things to do in Tirana helps you plan a day or two before heading south. Want to go beyond the coast? Inland, Albania’s hidden gems, from Theth to Gjirokastër are some of the most rewarding places in the Balkans.
Featured image: Photo by Marie Volkert on Unsplash
