Impossibly blue skies, a dramatic coastline and warm Mediterranean waters make Albania’s southwest a remarkable beach destination. Long overshadowed by Croatia and Greece, the Albanian Riviera now attracts travelers who appreciate its variety—from lively seaside towns to near-empty coves. Below are the most memorable beaches and nearby places to sleep.
Plazhi i Ri and Uji i Ftohtë (Vlorë)
Vlorë marks the northern end of the Riviera where the Ionian and Adriatic meet. The area offers miles of sand, dramatic cliffs and both buzzy beach bars at Plazhi i Ri and quieter stretches at Uji i Ftohtë. It’s a convenient base for exploring the coast.
Where to stay: Maritim Marina Bay Resort and Casino; Hotel Aiko.
Lukovë
Halfway between Dhërmi and Sarandë, Lukovë is a tranquil village with a pebbly shore, clear water and a handful of bars and restaurants. It’s ideal for switching off; water shoes help on the stones.
Where to stay: Bunec Beach Resort.
Bunec (Buneci)
Often overlooked next to busy Sarandë, Bunec is an almost deserted white-pebble beach with minimal facilities—perfect for travelers seeking silence and sea.
Where to stay: Ciao Borshi Boutique Hotel; Hotel Panorama Piqera.
Jalë
About 40 km south of Sarandë, Jalë is a pretty cove with access to Aquarium Bay and Pirates’ Cave. It’s popular for snorkeling, kayaking and vivid sunsets.
Where to stay: Miamar Luxury Hotel and Spa.
Ksamil Islands
One of Albania’s showpieces, the Ksamil archipelago has three tree-covered islets in turquoise water and rare pockets of white sand. Views of nearby islands and shallow bays make it unforgettable.
Where to stay: Hotel Colosseum; Euro Hotel.
Gjipe
Near the southern Riviera, Gjipe rewards the effort required to reach it—by boat or a steep half-hour walk through a canyon. Towering cliffs, pristine sand and few people create a near-perfect, secluded beach.
Where to stay: Guesthouses and small hotels in nearby towns.
Cape of Rodon (Rodoni)
On the Adriatic coast north of Durrës, the Cape of Rodon offers rugged scenery, a nature trail and the ruins of Rodoni Castle, built by Skanderbeg. The area’s caves and coves are best explored by car or boat from Durrës.
Where to stay: Hotels in Durrës and nearby coastal towns.
Grama Bay
Tucked between steep cliffs and lush vegetation, Grama Bay has fine pale sand and striking turquoise water. Sea access is easiest; nearby rock inscriptions recall Roman and Greek visitors.
Where to stay: Yacht Hotel; Amare Hotel.
Llaman (Himarë)
Himarë blends a resort feel with traditional village life. Llaman is a small pebbly cove set between hills and loved by locals—an easy spot to relax and watch the Mediterranean.
Where to stay: Rapo’s Resort Hotel; Artis Blue Relax.
Drymades
Known for soft sand, white pebbles, ancient olive trees and trendy beach bars, Drymades offers a mix of modest bungalows and stylish hotels. It’s often named one of Albania’s coolest beaches.
Where to stay: Zoe Hora; Gogo’s Boutique Hotel.
Dhërmi
Once a secret, Dhërmi is now a well-known stretch of coast that still feels spacious even in high season. It’s a gateway to nearby coves and caves, including Drymades.
Where to stay: La Brisa Boutique Hotel; Palladium Beach Hotel.
Sarandë
The region’s main tourism hub, Sarandë offers a lively waterfront, many hillside hotels and convenient day trips to Ksamil and nearby islands.
Where to stay: Hotel Vale; Santa Quaranta Premium Resort.
Borsh
Borsh boasts more than four miles of largely undisturbed beach framed by olive trees and rolling hills. The coastal road here is dramatic; the beach remains traditional and quiet.
Where to stay: Sole Luna Hotel; Luna Mare Boutique Seaside.
Qeparo
A photogenic village with cliffs overlooking the sea, Qeparo is often free of international crowds and offers an authentic slice of coastal life and striking views.
Where to stay: Miamar Luxury Hotel and Spa; Palermiti Luxury Rooms.
Durrës
Albania’s second-largest city blends history and beach life—Roman sites like an amphitheater sit near a long sandy shore where sun loungers are easy to find.
Where to stay: Hotel Dyrrah; Hotel Epidamn.
Gjilekë
Near Dukat on the southern coast, Gjilekë remains little known because it’s hard to reach. Accessible by boat or a long canyon walk, it lies beneath high cliffs with crystal-clear water and true seclusion.
Where to stay: Villa Green Garden; San Angelo Luxury Resort and Spa.
Practical tips
– Many beaches are pebbly rather than sandy; water shoes are useful.
– The most pristine coves are often reachable only by boat or on foot—plan time and transport accordingly.
– Accommodation ranges from family-run pensions to polished resorts, letting you match budget and style.
– Summer months bring the warmest sea and the liveliest beach bars; late spring and early autumn offer fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.
Whether you want lively promenades, hidden coves reached on foot or by boat, or long stretches of quiet sand under olive trees, Albania’s coast offers a surprising variety for beach lovers.