Beaches in Albania

Location:

Dhermi Beach, Ionian Coast, Vlorë County, Southern Albania

Recommended For:

Photographers, sunseekers, couples, summer travelers, and beachgoers who enjoy dramatic landscapes and a mix of energy and solitude.

What we Love:

Albania’s most iconic beach, Dhermi impresses with its expansive stretch of soft white pebbles and sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and breathtaking views of coastal cliffs and green hills. Despite being a summer hotspot, it offers quiet escapes for those willing to explore a little farther down the shore.

• Swim in the sparkling Ionian Sea, known for its clarity and refreshing coolness.
• Relax on the long, scenic beach—walk a bit to escape the crowds and find your own peaceful corner.
• Admire the panoramic coastal views backed by forested hills, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Cost:

Free public access. Umbrella and lounge chair rentals are available, along with beachfront cafés and restaurants.

Best time to visit:

June to early September for the warmest weather and most vibrant beach scene. For fewer crowds, try late May or early October.

Local tips:

Bring water shoes—the beach is pebbly in parts. For a more secluded experience, head toward the southern or far ends of the beach. Nearby villages and hills offer excellent hiking and views.

Distance:

About 26 miles (42 km) or 1 hour by car from the city of Vlorë. Around 150 miles (240 km) or 4.5 hours from Tirana.

How to Get to Dhermi Beach:

Drive along the SH8 coastal highway from Vlorë toward Himarë. Dhermi is well-signposted, and the road offers incredible views. Public buses run during the tourist season, and taxis are available from major towns along the Riviera.

Location:

Drymades Beach, Near Dhermi Village, Ionian Coast, Vlorë County, Southern Albania

Recommended For:

Aesthetic seekers, photographers, couples, explorers, and travelers looking for a picturesque and tranquil escape along the Albanian Riviera.

What we Love:

With its unique rock formation that naturally splits the beach in two, soft white sand, and crystal-clear Ionian waters, Drymades is the perfect mix of natural artistry and serenity. It’s one of Albania’s most photogenic beaches, inviting visitors to both relax and explore.

• Admire the iconic rock arch carved by erosion, creating a stunning focal point and natural “window” for photographers.
• Sunbathe on the soft sandy half of the beach—ideal for lounging and swimming.
• Wander across the pebbly section for a bit of adventure and a more rugged coastal feel.

Cost:

Free public access. Sunbeds, umbrellas, and refreshments available from nearby beach bars and small resorts.

Best time to visit:

Late May to early October for warm weather and swim-ready water. June and September are ideal for fewer crowds and ideal lighting for photography.

Local tips:

Bring both flip-flops and water shoes to navigate the sand and pebbles. Visit at sunrise or sunset for unforgettable lighting on the rock formation. There are a few trendy beach bars nearby with music and drinks, but the vibe remains peaceful.

Distance:

About 2 miles (3 km) from Dhermi and 27 miles (44 km) from Vlorë—roughly a 1-hour drive from the city.

How to Get to Drymades Beach:

Drive or walk from Dhermi via local roads that descend toward the beach. Signage is visible along the SH8 coastal highway. Limited parking is available near the entrance, and walking paths lead directly to the sand.

Romantic Beaches in Albania:

Location:

Saranda Beach, Southern Albanian Riviera, near the Greece–Albania border, Vlorë County, Albania

Recommended For:

Social beachgoers, international travelers, food lovers, families, and those seeking both scenic views and urban comforts.

What we Love:

A bustling beach town just a stone’s throw from Greece, Saranda offers crystal-clear Ionian waters, easy access to great dining, and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. With its proximity to the Greek border, it’s a favorite getaway for locals and international visitors alike.

• Swim in warm, transparent waters with safe, shallow entry—perfect for all ages.
• Relax on provided sun loungers and umbrellas, available across the beach’s many managed sections.
• Explore multiple pebble-strewn beaches in town and enjoy meals at one of Saranda’s seaside restaurants.

Cost:

Free beach access. Expect a small fee for loungers, umbrellas, and nearby parking. Beachfront cafés and restaurants offer a wide range of price options.

Best time to visit:

June to September for warm weather, a vibrant scene, and plenty of local events. July and August are the busiest months—ideal for those who enjoy energy and activity.

Local tips:

Bring water shoes for pebbly sections. Book accommodations early in peak summer season. Visit nearby beaches like Mirror (Pasqyra) and Ksamil for day trips and quieter experiences.

Distance:

About 7 miles (12 km) from the Greek border and 170 miles (275 km) south of Tirana. Ferry access also available from Corfu, Greece.

How to Get to Saranda:

Travel by car or bus along the SH8 coastal highway. Alternatively, take a direct ferry from Corfu, Greece, which takes about 30–60 minutes. Once in town, beaches are walkable from most accommodations.

Location:

Borsh Beach, Ionian Coast, Vlorë County, Southern Albania

Recommended For:

Backpackers, couples, long-distance walkers, solitude seekers, and travelers looking for uncrowded natural beauty along the Albanian Riviera.

What we Love:

As the largest beach in Albania, Borsh stretches for over 3 miles (5 km) along the coast, offering breathtaking views, endless space, and a peaceful, unspoiled atmosphere. Despite its grandeur, it remains under the radar for most tourists, making it a hidden gem for explorers and romantics alike.

• Stroll hand-in-hand across the expansive shoreline, especially at sunset when the colors over the Ionian Sea are spectacular.
• Enjoy beach activities like swimming, sunbathing, and beach games with room to spare, even in high season.
• Relax in near solitude—picnic, read, or simply listen to the waves without distraction.

Cost:

Free public access. Occasional sunbed and umbrella rentals available; beach cafés are limited but growing.

Best time to visit:

Late May to September for sunny weather and warm swimming conditions. For maximum solitude, visit in June or early September.

Local tips:

Bring your own supplies if you're planning to stay for the day—food, water, and shade gear. The nearby village of Borsh offers small accommodations and a quiet, authentic Albanian experience.

Distance:

About 30 miles (48 km) south of Vlorë and 11 miles (18 km) north of Himarë—roughly a 1.5-hour scenic drive from Vlorë.

How to Get to Borsh Beach:

Drive along the SH8 coastal highway from Vlorë or Himarë. Look for the signs directing you to the village of Borsh and then continue downhill to the beachfront. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is recommended.

Family Beaches in Albania:

Location:

Himara Beaches, Ionian Coast, Vlorë County, Southern Albania

Recommended For:

Families, couples, explorers, beach town wanderers, and travelers looking for scenic variety and tranquility in the Albanian Riviera.

What we Love:

A jewel of the Riviera, **Himara** is more than just one beach—it’s a collection of charming coves, peaceful bays, and scenic stretches of coastline backed by boulders, cliffs, and olive trees. Each beach in the area has its own personality, making Himara an ideal base for beach-hopping and discovery.

• Explore multiple small beaches near town, each with unique rock formations and quiet hideaways.
• Visit the Livadhi Beach area to see rare white sand fringed with olive trees—a one-of-a-kind setting in Albania.
• Enjoy calm waters and family-friendly shallows perfect for swimming, paddling, and shoreline play.

Cost:

Free public access to all beaches. Loungers and umbrellas available for rent during summer months. Cafés and tavernas are located near most beach areas.

Best time to visit:

Late May to September for warm weather, swimming, and vibrant yet not overwhelming local life. June and September offer quieter, more relaxed stays.

Local tips:

Bring snorkel gear to explore rocky areas near the beach edges. Himara is ideal for slow travel—stay a few nights to explore hidden beaches and the hilltop castle ruins for panoramic views.

Distance:

Approximately 36 miles (58 km) south of Vlorë and 16 miles (26 km) north of Saranda—about 1.5 to 2 hours by car from either direction along the coastal SH8 road.

How to Get to Himara:

Drive along the SH8 scenic coastal highway from Vlorë or Saranda. Intercity buses and minibuses also serve the town regularly. Once in Himara, most beaches are within walking distance or a short drive.