The Albanian Riviera – Top 10 Beaches & All You Need To Know
Discover the best beaches along the Albanian Riviera
After an incredible beach-hopping road trip in Lefkada and Puglia, we were ready for another adventure for our summer holiday. And what better way to explore than on a motor scooter?
Since I had already fallen in love with the Ionian Sea and its mesmerising blue waters, I was eager to find another destination along my favourite coastline. Greece again? Too predictable. Let’s try Albania.
When we travelled during the summer months, the Albanian Riviera seemed the perfect place to continue searching for the most beautiful beaches. However, planning wasn’t as easy as we thought. With so many beaches, we had to figure out which were truly worth visiting.
Plus, we quickly realised there were different ways to get there, and some options suited us better than others.
So, after travelling along the Albanian Riviera and and discovering things we would probably have done differently had we known, we’ve listed our best beaches plus additional information on how to enjoy your trip to the fullest. This will save you time, stress, and guesswork so you can focus on soaking up the sun, sea, and stunning beaches.
Is the Albanian Riviera Worth Visiting?
The Albanian Riviera is absolutely worth visiting, but only if you do it right. Avoid the peak summer months, when it gets overcrowded, and rows of sunbeds and beach bars take over the stunning beaches. Instead, visit during the low season, when the beaches are peaceful, and at their most beautiful.
Also, don’t just stick to the beaches. Mix up your trip! Combine your coastal adventure with a visit to Albania’s stunning mountains and historic towns for a well-rounded and unforgettable experience. Luckily we made last minute adjustments to our itinerary and visited Gjirokastër and the Blue Eye. We wouldn’t have wanted to miss them both.
Where Is the Albanian Riviera?
The Albanian Riviera is a breathtaking stretch of coastline along the Ionian Sea, extending from Vlorë to Ksamil in southern Albania.
It’s often compared to the Greek islands, and I can see why. Many of its pebbled beaches are located past the olive groves or downhill from the main road, requiring a scenic but winding descent to reach the crystal-clear waters.
Like Greece, the Albanian Riviera also has a few tourist-friendly coastal towns where you can stay within walking distance of the beach.
However, one key difference stands out: while Greek beaches typically have small sections with sunbeds and beach bars, Albania’s beaches—especially in summer months—are almost entirely covered with rows of sunbeds and dominated by beach bars.
If that is your picture of a perfect beach setting, then you are in luck. Otherwise, head to Greece. If you are unsure if Albania is something for you, read what we suggest doing to fully experience it to the best.
Top 10 Best Beaches in the Albanian Riviera
On our holiday, we visited about 20 beaches along the Albanian Riviera, and we haven’t even seen them all. Not sure what’s crazier—us hopping from beach to beach or the sheer number of choices available!
Believe me, when we started researching Albania’s beaches, we were completely overwhelmed. There are just so many options, and they all look stunning.
Of course, there were a few that made every “must-visit” list—Ksamil, Gjipe, Dhermi and Himara. Naturally, we had to see them for ourselves. But were they actually our favourites? Surprisingly, not quite!
To be fair, we visited during the peak summer season, when beaches were packed, and every available inch of sand was covered with sun loungers. That definitely changed our experience. So, keep in mind that visiting in a different season could make all the difference!
We’ve ranked the top 10 best beaches from best to good, based on our personal experience. We took into account the character, the sense of pristine beauty, and the overall setting the each beach.
One thing we can confidently say? No matter which beach you choose, the water is absolutely stunning. So clear, in fact, that you might be tempted to bottle it up and call it Albanian Riviera Spring Water™.
While some of these beaches are well-known favourites, others are hidden gems perfect for escaping the summer crowds. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant atmosphere or complete seclusion, this list has something for every kind of beach lover.
Our top 10 beaches are all nestled between Ksamil and Green Coast, but we have to admit—we didn’t get the chance to explore further up toward Vlorë. That means spots like Plazhi i Ri, Bora Bora, Radhimë Beach, and Blue Paradise remain uncharted territory for us (for now).
1. Porto Palermo Beach
This tiny beach along the main road turned out to be our absolute favourite. Why? Besides the adorable beachfront restaurant serving the best fruit salads and Albanian donuts, the beach is completely public—a rarity along the Riviera!
Yes, it’s small, and during peak season, it can get crowded, but somehow the atmosphere remains laid-back. There are folded sun umbrellas that you are free to use and pop up in the sand wherever you like.
We visited Porto Palermo twice—once in the late afternoon and again for a breakfast swim. Both times were absolute perfection.
It is located right on the main street, ideal if you don’t want to walk too far to the beach. However, parking can get tricky. Many were skilled enough to park downhill on the narrow dirt road, while others parked along the main road.
Just about 500m south of Porto Palermo, there is another patch of beach. This one looks great, too, but it has no facilities or a restaurant. So bring enough to drink and eat, or head to Nemo Restaurant at Porto Palermo.
2. Buneci Beach
Buneci Beach is the most diverse beach we ever visited. It has camping spots, accommodation, sun loungers, beach bars, a deserted section, a freshwater river flowing into the sea, and even a pier to jump from. Oh, and did we mention the bright, electric blue water?
We could have easily spent an entire day here. Our son was instantly drawn to the pier, where he jumped countless times, while I opted for a refreshing dip in the icy little stream that meets the sea.
Sun loungers are for rent for 1200LEK/€12. Nice restaurants, such as Mema Restaurant, are at the very end of the beach. We hadn’t had breakfast yet, but we were able to get a huge selection at Bunce Beach Resort.
Before we left, we drove to the far southern end of the beach, where we found no one.
Why wasn’t anyone here? No clue. But it felt like we had discovered a secret beach within a beach. Too bad we found it too late. But more the reason to return
The road to the beach is dirt but very doable, so don’t put it off when you come off the well-maintained highway.
There are a couple of accommodation options here besides the camping. The beach is great, and if we had known how fun this beach was, we would have loved to spend a night there.
3. Potami Beach
We stumbled upon Potami Beach towards the end of our trip, at a time when we were desperately searching for peace and quiet. We had already endured overcrowded beaches, and we just wanted a little slice of paradise.
By this point, we realized that if we wanted to find a quiet beach, we had to go to the far end. This was especially true in Himarë, a town that provides access to many beaches, such as Himarë Beach, Spile Beach, Sfagaio Beach, Plazhi i Maraçit, and Prinos Beach. We passed all of them, but none looked particularly inviting.
Eventually, the road went no further, and we ended up at Potami Beach, a small cove nestled beneath cliffs. The water had this mesmerizing turquoise-green glow, and we soon realized it was because of the river flowing directly into the sea. This collision of icy freshwater and warm saltwater gave the sea an almost surreal shimmer.
Yes, the water was cold, but we braved it—because, honestly, how often do you get to swim in a river-fed sea?
The beach had large pebbles, so our water shoes were very convenient. Make sure to pack yours.
4. Borsh Beach
We may be biased here, as we stayed in Borsh for a few nights, but this beach stole our hearts. Watching the sunset from our quiet corner, waking up to waves crashing, and having the place to ourselves in the morning was unbeatable.
Borsh Beach is the largest beach in the Riviera, stretching for miles. You’ll find everything—from low-key beach bars and restaurants to completely untouched sections where it’s just you, the waves, and leftover sun loungers from a forgotten season.
It still has that “not yet fully developed” vibe—like Himarë and Dhermi—which we hope never changes (though a massive resort was under construction… so fingers crossed!).
Most of the action on Borsh Beach happens right at the start of Borsh Beach Road, where you’ll find trendy restaurants, buzzing beach bars, and plenty of life. But if you venture further south, things start to slow down—you’ll pass supermarkets, a few scattered houses, and an overall more laid-back vibe.
Some areas feel a bit rough around the edges, where it’s clear the owners aren’t too fussed about impressing tourists. But in the sections with accommodations and direct beach access, everything is well-kept, welcoming, and ready for relaxation.
Borsh is the perfect spot if you want to enjoy low-key beach clubs, or if you’d rather skip the scene entirely and find a quiet escape. Whether you’re up for a little social energy or total solitude, this beach lets you pick your vibe.
5. Gjipe Beach
Okay, Gjipe Beach is one of those places that looks absolutely stunning in photos—and trust me, it is. But is it worth visiting in peak summer? That’s where things get tricky.
Gjipe Beach is a secluded paradise tucked away at the end of a breathtaking canyon, making it one of the most unique beaches on the Albanian Riviera. To get there, you have three options:
- Hike one hour through the canyon, which is as epic as it sounds—just not in the blazing summer heat.
- Drive to the nearest parking lot and take a 20-30 minute trek down a rough, rocky path.
- Skip the sweat and arrive by boat from Himara.
Now, in theory, all of these options sound adventurous and rewarding—and they are.
But imagine reaching the beach after all that effort, only to find every square inch of sand covered with towels, sunburnt tourists, and overpriced sun loungers.
That’s exactly what happened to us in July, and let’s just say, it was a bit of a letdown.
That said, if you visit off-season, Gjipe Beach could easily be one of the most incredible places Albania.
The canyon backdrop, the stunning turquoise waters, and the feeling of remoteness make it a must-see—just not when it’s jam-packed with people.
6. Aquarium Beach
This tiny beach was a kind of a disappointment for us. So why include it on the list? Well, because we can totally see it being magical in the off-season. Nestled between rugged cliffs, this beach has an almost lagoon-like charm, with calm, crystal-clear waters.
The best time to visit this beach is in the off-season, when the crowd has gone, and chances are you have this little spot of paradise to yourself.
Aquarium Beach is known as a hidden beach for a reason. It isn’t easy to get there. We took the long and challenging trail from Lukove Beach while others parked their cars and walked the final 20 minutes to get there. But in an effort to avoid the relentless sun, we boldly navigated the off-road path on our motor scooters.
Would we recommend our route? Probably not. But at least we made it without melting in the heat (though not without a few questionable turns and some bumpy rides).
Another way to reach this beach is from Jale Beach via a much easier and less rugged path. We even saw cars making the journey—though we definitely wouldn’t advise testing your rental car’s suspension on this route.
While the beach was packed when we were there, there was enough space in the water. So once we chucked our belongings between the rocks, we jumped straight into the amazing clear water.
7. Livadi Beach
What we love about the long, stretched Livadhi beach is that you can still find all sorts of accommodations, including a camping, just across the street from the beach. Additionally, there was hardly any traffic. There was enough space for those walking and those searching for parking spots, which were abundant.
The atmosphere is relaxed, with a mix of small-scale guesthouses and a few luxurious options. It doesn’t feel overbuilt like Dhermi Beach (which, by the way, we ranked last on our list for a reason).
There is even still a lot of land that is completely empty. It kind of reminded us of Borsh Beach, but Livadhi is more lively.
Livadhi also offers easy access to Himarë and its castle, making it a great alternative if you want to avoid the bustling crowds of Himarë town (in summer only) and prefer staying right by the beach instead of being 100 meters or more away from it.
While we thought it wasn’t too busy at this beach, the owner of the place we stayed at told us her favorite time of year is October. This is the time when all the beach clubs are gone, the beach is deserted, and the water is still warm enough for a swim. Yes, we can imagine that it would be wonderful.
8. Lukove Beach
Lukove Beach is a long, white-pebbled stretch with mesmerizing blue waters. It’s not far from Saranda, making it an ideal getaway if you want to escape the city beach experience and enjoy an authentic, untouched coastline.
The drive down the mountain road to Lukove Beach is already an adventure, revealing that this place hasn’t been overly developed—yet.
There are beach bars, but if you turn left at the very end and keep driving, you’ll reach a secluded public beach that turned out to be one of the nicest surprises of our trip.
When we visited, the waves were wild. We only experienced calm waters during our whole trip, so it was a new and fun experience.
9. Pasqyra Beach (Mirror Beach)
This was the first beach where we swam in Albania, and it was one of those moments where you just know why you love travelling.
We arrived just before sunset, and the crowds had vanished. This beach is lined with sun loungers in peak season, even charging you to enter. But that evening, it was pure magic.
As you cruise along the main road, keep an eye out for signs leading up a dirt path—this is your gateway to Pasqyra Beach and Shpella e Pëllumbave, two stunning beaches separated by dramatic cliff rocks.
The road starts off easy, but as you get closer, it becomes narrow, winding, and a bit of an adventure. So if you’re behind the wheel, make sure you’re comfortable navigating tight turns—or at least ready for a bit of a thrill.
If Ksamil feels too touristy, Pasqyra Beach is the perfect end-of-the-day escape, offering a more peaceful, scenic retreat where you can soak in the last rays of sunshine without the crowds.
10. Dhermi Beach
Initially, we debated not adding Dhermi Beach to this list because, honestly, it felt like tourism had gone wild.
Dhermi is lined with hotels, restaurants, beach bars, and a flashy boulevard—one fancier than the next. And with all that glam comes even fancier cars and a never-ending flow of stylish beachgoers. If you’re looking for a quiet, untouched paradise, this isn’t it.
When we arrived at Dhermi Beach, we were tempted to make an immediate U-turn, but we decided to explore a bit. To our surprise, we found a peaceful patch of beach at the far end of Dhermi, where we actually had a great time.
Additionally, we stayed in Dhermi for a few nights, which gave us the chance to visit its charming old town and drive the breathtaking Llogara Pass—experiences we absolutely wouldn’t have wanted to miss.
Dhermi has more to offer than just its crowded beach, and if you know where to go, you might find a slice of tranquillity amid the chaos. Check out more useful information on Dhermi’s beach here.
With so many beaches along the Albanian Riviera, picking just ten was challenging—but no matter where you go, one thing is guaranteed: stunning, crystal-clear water and breathtaking coastal views.
Other Beaches In Albania
While some beaches didn’t make our top 10 list, they still deserve a mention. After all, a favorite beach isn’t always just about the sand and water—sometimes, it’s about the experience you had while there.
Maybe it was the perfect sunset, the unexpected quiet spot, or just a day that felt magical for no reason at all. So, who knows? Some of these beaches might just end up on your list of favorites. Go check them out—you might be surprised!
11. Ksamil Beaches
You might be surprised that Ksamil Beach isn’t in our top 10—but if you visit in summer, you’ll understand why.
So why not just recommend it in winter? Well, while the beaches would look stunning when deserted, there’s a catch. Ksamil is the only beach along the Riviera with bright white sand, but here’s the secret—it’s not natural. It’s river sediment brought in to recreate a Maldives-like effect.
Add to that the overbuilt town that lacks character (unless you love being surrounded by hotels, restaurants, and constant construction), and you can see why it didn’t make our top picks.
If you are still considering Ksamil (I fully understand because the pictures of Ksamil are gorgeous), then read more about our visit there. There are numerous little beaches you can visit in Ksamil, which would make it fun to do some beach hopping for a day. During our visit, we visited Ksamil 7 Beach, Paradise Beach, and Pema e Thatë.
12. Monastery Beach
This was the first beach we had our eyes on when entering Albania. But as soon as we arrived, we were met with a huge ‘No Entry’ sign and a closed road. Heavy trucks rumbled past, and it became clear—a massive resort was in the making.
Sadly, this once-public beach is no longer accessible. If you see older photos of Monastery Beach and wonder why you can’t find it—now you know.
13. Himarë Beaches
Spile Beach, Sfagaio Beach, Plazhi i Maraçit, and Prinos Beach are all located in Himarë. These beaches might be gorgeous in the off-season, but during summer, they are still beautiful but they’re also wall-to-wall sun loungers.
That said, Himara itself is special. Unlike the newer, resort-packed towns popping up along the Albanian Riviera, Himarë actually has history and character. Once a traditional fishing village, it still holds onto some of its authentic charm, making it one of the few coastal towns that doesn’t feel entirely designed for tourists.
14. Jala Beach
Jala Beach is your place if you’re into beach bars, water sports, and partying until sunrise. It’s got resorts, music, and an active nightlife.
For us? We prefer a quieter, more natural beach setting, so we kept moving.
Once passing the winding roads up to the main road, you will be treated to stunning views.
The beach will get busier in the future, as we saw a lot of construction going along the Jale Beach road.
15. Qeparo Beach
This beach is split into two sections. We mistakenly ended up at the southern part, which is short and lined with a boulevard. It felt cramped and was filled with sun beds.
However, from the main road, we saw that the northern end of Qeparo Beach is much longer and less developed. If you go, head toward the far end for a more peaceful experience.
16. Green Coast Beach/Nazar Beach
Like Dhermi and Jala Beach, Green Coast is all about luxury beach clubs, loud music, and rows of fancy sun loungers.
The newly paved road leading down from the main highway gives you a glimpse of what’s coming—big plans, big development, and even bigger crowds.
At one point, we even spotted a random mall standing alone in the middle of nowhere—which, let’s be honest, will probably turn into a massive shopping and dining hub in no time.
The scale of construction happening here is honestly mind-blowing. It’s hard to picture how packed this place will be once every resort is finished, fully booked, and overflowing with beachgoers.
We cruised past the boulevard lined with beach clubs and, as per usual, ended up at the far end of the beach, where—surprise!—it was practically empty. Only a handful of people were enjoying this peaceful stretch of public beach, which made it feel like a secret escape from the chaos just down the shore.
The water? Absolutely stunning, as expected. But what made this spot unique were the massive white boulders scattered along the shore, adding a dramatic and almost otherworldly vibe to the landscape.
Just beyond these rocks? Palasa Beach, waiting on the other side like a quieter alternative to Green Coast’s high-energy scene. You do need to take the drive back uphill to reach it though.
17. Drymades & Palasa Beach
Drymades Beach feels like an extension of Dhermi but has a more laid-back vibe. The beach itself is beautiful, and it almost made our top 10.
However, when we visited, there was construction everywhere—every empty spot seemed to be getting filled with new accommodations. We can’t help but wonder how much its character will change in the coming years.
As for Palasa Beach? The famous long stretch looks breathtaking in photos—and we’re sure it is! But somehow, we ended up on the public section of Palasa Beach (totally by accident, thanks to our scooter misadventure).
The beach is quiet but lacks charm, so if you go, make sure you find the long stretch of Palasa Beach everyone raves about.
18. Llamani Beach
Llamani Beach is yet another off-season paradise that turns into a sun lounger battlefield in the summer. It’s not necessarily packed with people, but with wall-to-wall beach restaurants and their endless rows of loungers.
From the pictures, the water looks absolutely irresistible—the kind that makes you want to dive in immediately. And trust us, we were tempted. But here’s the catch: before you even set foot on the beach, you’re forced to commit to a sun lounger section. No browsing, no walking around to find the perfect spot—you pick your territory and hope for the best.
It’s fierce competition, but honestly, we get it. These beach clubs only have three summer months to make their money, so every square meter of sand is prime real estate. If you’re up for the challenge, go for it—just be ready to claim your sunbed like a pro and get up close and personal with your sun lounging neighbour.
19. Beaches Only Accessible by Boat
Unfortunately, we didn’t get the chance to explore bays and beaches only accessible by boat, such as Grama Bay, Filikuri Bay, Pirates Cove, and others.
We bet some of these hidden gems would have made our top 10, but since we didn’t see them firsthand, we left them off the list.
If you have the chance, definitely book a boat tour! Not only will you visit secluded beaches, but you’ll also get to see the Albanian coastline from the sea, which must be an incredible experience.
Stock Up on Sun Lotion
For some reason, sun lotion in Albania is ridiculously expensive (unlike in Greece, where you can grab a bottle for a reasonable price).
So, bring enough from home unless you want to spend your beach fund on SPF.
Beautiful towns along the Albanian Riviera
Himarë is often voted the best town along the Albanian Riviera, and I understand why. We visited during peak summer, and while the heavy traffic made driving through the town a bit frustrating, its charm was undeniable.
Himarë isn’t just a tourist hotspot—it’s a genuine, lived-in town, not just built for hotels. You’ll find locals going about their daily lives, giving it an authentic feel. The town offers easy access to multiple stunning beaches, and it’s also home to the historic Himarë Castle, adding a cultural touch to your visit.
I can imagine that Himarë retains some liveliness even in the shoulder months, which is the best time to visit the Albanian Riviera.
Many restaurants and hotels in smaller beach towns close during the off-season, but in Himarë, you’ll still find choices for dining and accommodation.
While Himara is a favourite, I loved Dhermi town. It’s perched higher up in the hills, not directly on the beach, but it’s a picturesque village filled with narrow streets and stone stairways.
Another gem is Vuno, a charming little village we passed twice and couldn’t help but admire. While it’s not directly on the coast, it’s definitely a cute village to stop and have a look around.
How Many Days Do You Need in the Albanian Riviera?
We spent 10 days exploring the beaches along Albania’s south coast, staying in Ksamil, Borsh Beach, Dhermi, and Lukove. From these bases we could easily visit nearby beaches within a 30-minute drive. Generally, we hit two beaches a day, so yes, we saw a lot!
Would we recommend this approach? Nope. But we’re just obsessed with beaches and can’t help ourselves. Every beach has a different vibe, and we couldn’t resist the urge to see what lay around the next bend.
That said, we had a blast, but for the average traveller visiting Albania, we’d recommend five days to visit a handful of beaches, explore small coastal towns, and check out some historical sites.
Is the Albanian Riviera Expensive?
If you compare the Albanian Riviera with Italy, Greece, or Croatia, it is relatively affordable. However, don’t expect it to be a cheap destination during the peak summer months, as many claim.
Yes, you can find accommodations for around €50 per night and meals for €10, but prices tend to be higher at popular beaches like Dhermi and Ksamil. Not to mention, renting sun loungers can add up if you use them daily.
Sun Umbrella
If you’re happy renting a sun lounger, then you’ll have no problem—there are plenty to choose from (probably more than actual tourists). But what if you’re staying for a whole week? Or if you, like us, prefer a quiet, low-key spot away from blasting music and tightly packed crowds?
Here’s a game-changer: buy your own sun umbrella. You can find them at tourist shops for around €20, and trust us—it’s worth every cent. Not only will it save you money in the long run, but it also gives you the freedom to claim your own little patch of paradise.
That said, the Albanian Riviera is a budget-friendly destination if you visit during the low season. Prices drop significantly, and you can even find great accommodations for as low as €30 per night.
So, if you time your trip right, you can enjoy a luxurious beach vacation for half the price of other European destinations.
Food and drinks along the Albanian Riviera are not that much different than what we experienced in Greece. A main dish at a nice restaurant is around 15000 Lek/€15, even cheaper if you go for the typical tourist menu: pizza and pasta.
There are luxury beach clubs that charge 4000LEK/€4 for a Coke, but you can immediately tell which ones these are.
Where to Fly Into for the Albanian Riviera
When heading to the Albanian Riviera, the first thought is to fly to Tirana, which makes sense since it is the main airport of Albania.
Initially, we were checking flights for Tirana. But realising it would be a five-hour drive to the coast, we weren’t keen on spending that much time on a motor scooter. Fortunately, we discovered a better option—flying via Corfu. This not only made our journey smoother but also allowed us to explore another Greek island along the way.
Tirana to Albanian Riviera
Flying into Tirana Airport (TIA), Albania’s capital city, is ideal if you want to see more than just beaches. From Tirana, you can head north to Theth National Park for the Theth-Valbona Trail, visit the Blue Eye, or check out Komani Lake. Then, you can continue south along the Albanian Riviera, eventually visiting the historic town of Gjirokastër.
From Tirana, you can take a bus or rent a car to the Riviera. Make sure to include the Llogara Pass, a breathtaking mountain road offering spectacular views of the Ionian Sea.
Corfu to Albanian Riviera
If you want to focus on southern Albania or visit Corfu Town, then flying into Corfu Airport (CFU) in Greece is a great option. From Corfu, a short boat ride takes you to Saranda, the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera.
This is one of the easiest ways to reach the region and is ideal for travellers who mainly want to spend time at Albania’s beaches.
Greece Mainland to Albanian Riviera
Driving to the Albanian Riviera is a solid option if you’re already exploring Greece. Albania shares a border with Greece, making it an accessible road trip destination.
It’s about a six-hour drive from Athens, while from Thessaloniki, it’s roughly five hours. You can drive or take a bus from both cities, and the Greek border is just a short distance from the Riviera.
How to get around the Albanian Riviera?
The SH8 coastal road stretches from Vlorë to Saranda, where it seamlessly transitions into SH81, leading you straight to Ksamil.
If you love road trips, this drive is an absolute dream. Picture this: winding roads perched on mountain slopes, endless blue ocean views, and beaches so perfectly tucked away. And just when you think you’ve seen the best view? Another mountain, another jaw-dropping panorama.
The scenery along this route is so stunning, you might find yourself pulling over every 10 minutes just to take another picture.
The road itself? Immaculately paved, well-maintained, and perfect for a rental car adventure. If you’re not driving, no worries—buses and minibuses connect Tirana, Himara, Saranda, and even Ksamil, making it possible to get to one place to another.
Now, we didn’t test out public transport in Albania ourselves, but from what we’ve heard, it runs on its own mysterious schedule. Expect flexible (read: unpredictable) timetables and a need for serious patience.
If you’re the type who enjoys going with the flow, you’ll probably be just fine. If you prefer German-style precision? Maybe stick with a rental car.
How to get to the beaches?
Don’t Walk. Just Don’t.
Most beaches in Albania are often located 5 kilometres or more away from the main road. Either it is downhill or passed the olive groves. That might not sound bad until you realise:
- The heat is brutal.
- The walk is long.
- The walk back is even worse (especially if it’s uphill).
We saw so many people attempting to walk to the beach, even the down winding roads, and honestly? It looked like pure torture. Don’t assume you can just walk from the main road to the beach—you’ll regret it about 100 meters in.
If you’re the type who enjoys a physical challenge, go for it! But if not, here’s what you should do:
- Rent a scooter if you’re staying in town such as Himarë—it’s budget-friendly and super convenient.
- Rent a car if you want comfort and shade.
- Take a boat trip – you will even visit beaches only accessible by water.
If you’re on a tight budget and can’t afford transport (€25 for a scooter), I’ll be honest—it might be worth reconsidering if the Riviera is right for you. The beaches are incredible, but is it worth suffering for? Maybe not.
Where to Stay in the Albanian Riviera
Albania’s accommodation is very mixed, so there is something for every type of traveler. If you are on a tight budget or want something different, you can also camp at the beach in Albania.
But for some more luxury, there are many affordable accommodations that can provide extra luxury for a lower price than other European beach destinations.
📍Budget: Ionian Pearl Borsh Beach is a family-run, low-key accommodation right at the quiet beach. It’s no-frills but has a clean, comfortable room and super-friendly hosts.
📍Mid-Range: Garden Villa Naza is a relaxing getaway right at the beach and within nature. Entertainment like an open cinema is organised daily, and the beach bar is welcoming. There is enough choice in accommodations for couples and families.
📍Luxury: Anxhelos Hotel at Livadhi Beach offers clean, modern rooms with spacious bathrooms located right at the beach. Rooms come with a balcony with mountain or sea views. Guests can use sun loungers on their private beach.
Best time to visit the Albanian Riviera
When we visited Albania in the summer, we were not prepared for the level of heat intensity. During the day, temperatures soared to 40°C (104°F), and even in the evening, it barely cooled down.
At some point, we accepted defeat and made siestas part of our routine—escaping to our air-conditioned room in the afternoon, only heading back to the beach when the sun was less aggressive.
So be smart:
- Plan your trip accordingly if you’re sensitive to extreme heat.
- Drink plenty of water (seriously, a lot).
- Don’t overdo it—beaches will still be there after your nap.
Albania has a Mediterranean climate, meaning hot, dry summers and mild winters. The hottest month is July, with temperatures soaring to 85-95°F (29-35°C).
If that sounds a bit too toasty for your taste, consider visiting in June (25-30°C), September (23-28°C), or October (20-25°C)—all offering perfect beach weather without the peak-season crowds. The sea remains warm in September and October, making them ideal months for swimming and sunbathing.
During the winter months, temperatures along the Albanian Riviera hover around 10-15°C. While it’s not exactly swimming weather, it’s still a great time to explore the stunning coastline without the summer rush.
Gjipe Beach, for instance, is an excellent choice for the cooler months. You can combine your visit with an epic canyon hike leading straight to the beach.
FAQs About Albania’s Beaches
Are the Beaches Clean in Albania?
We were pleasantly surprised by how clean and well-maintained the beaches in Albania are. No trash was floating in the water, and aside from occasional litter, the shores were remarkably pristine. Of course, beaches near beach clubs are well-kept and regularly cleaned.
However, we did notice some litter along the roads and, at certain spots, construction waste left behind. Despite that, the overall cleanliness of the beaches was impressive, making the Albanian Riviera a fantastic place for beach lovers.
Do they speak English in Albania?
If you stick to the tourist hotspots along the Albanian Riviera, you’ll find that many locals speak English—especially in hotels, restaurants, and beach bars. Some even speak Greek or Italian, thanks to Albania’s close ties with both countries.
So, while you won’t need to master Albanian phrases to get by, learning a few basics might still earn you a friendly smile and an extra warm welcome!
Can you use Euros in Albania?
Even though the official currency is Albanian LeK (ALL), you can often use Euros when in restaurants and when paying for accommodation. Converting is very simple, as €1 is 100Lek.
We mostly used cash when traveling in Albania, but there’s a catch when it comes to ATM withdrawals.We quickly realised that taking cash out of an ATM in Albania is pricey—not only do you get hit with a 7000 LEK transaction fee, but our bank also gave us a terrible exchange rate (ouch).
Luckily, we found a workaround: paying with €50 at restaurants. Many places give you change in LEK, making it super easy to have local currency on hand for shops, bakeries, and gas stations—without the extra ATM fees. So, if you want to avoid unnecessary charges, this little trick might just save you some cash!
Do I need a visa to visit Albania?
If you’re travelling to Albania from the US, UK, or EU, the good news—you don’t need a visa for short stays! Albania is among the non-Schengen European countries that allow travellers with a valid Schengen visa to enter without additional paperwork. This makes it an excellent destination for those exploring Eastern Europe while keeping their travel plans hassle-free.
As of 2025, passport holders from 84 countries—including Australia, Argentina, Austria, and the Bahamas—can visit visa-free for short stays. Albania is gradually gaining recognition as a must-visit destination, and its easy entry policies make it even more appealing for travellers looking to soak up the sun, culture, and incredible beaches without the visa stress! Check here for the latest info.
Final Thoughts On The Albanian Riviera
Our trip to the Albanian Riviera left us with mixed feelings. On one hand, we were completely mesmerised by the jaw-dropping blue waters that the Ionian Sea is famous for. And every time we sat on the beach and looked back, we couldn’t help but be in awe of the dramatic mountain range towering over the coastline.
The natural beauty of the Albanian Riviera is stunning, and luckily, that’s not going anywhere. However, the atmosphere of the beaches? That’s changing—and fast. Albania is gearing up to be the next big tourist hotspot, aiming to draw in as many visitors as possible. And while that’s great for the economy (Albania is still one of the poorest countries in Europe), it comes at a cost.
What was once a hidden gem with untouched beaches is now a coastline sprouting accommodations and restaurants at rapid speed. And the development? It seems to have no limits. If things keep going at this pace, we can’t even imagine how different the Riviera will look in a few years.
That said, the beaches are still absolutely stunning, and to fully enjoy them, timing is everything. If you love the bustling summer crowds, you already know when to go. But if you’re after those pristine, postcard-perfect beaches, Albania can still deliver—just make sure you pick the right season!
Monico was born in Kuwait and grew up in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Australia, which gave her a unique perspective on the world from a young age. Her first solo travel experience took her to Indonesia, where she volunteered at an orangutan rehabilitation center, and since then, she has focused her travels on environmental and conservation projects in places like Panama and Australia. Along with her love for wildlife, Monico enjoys exploring historic European cities, swimming in the sea, and tasting street food in Asia. She’s also passionate about sharing her experiences of living abroad, inspiring readers to embrace new cultures and adventures. Monico’s future travel goal is to explore more of South, Central, and North America.