9 Best Beaches in Albania

Albania's coastline is one of Europe's most underrated treasures. Stretched along nearly 300 miles of Adriatic and Ionian Seas, this Mediterranean gem offers something that's increasingly rare: stunning beaches without the crowds. From the family-friendly shores of the north to the wild, dramatic beaches of the Albanian Riviera, this coastline delivers extraordinary beauty without the tourist masses (for now).

You'll find everything from pristine white-sand coves accessible only by boat to long stretches of pebble beach backed by mountains, all without the prices or crowds of neighboring Greece or Croatia. These are the Albanian beaches that deserve a spot on every beach lover's bucket list:

If Albania has a postcard beach, this is it. Ksamil sits at the southernmost tip of the country, just a few miles from the Greek border, and the water here is an almost unreal shade of turquoise. The main beach faces a cluster of small islands where visitors can swim or kayak out to them in about 10 minutes. They're perfect for exploring and finding a private patch of sand.

The beach itself gets busy in July and August (it's no secret among Albanians), but even then, it never feels oppressive. Early mornings offer the best experience when the light is soft and golden, perfect for grabbing a coffee from one of the beachside bars and watching the water shimmer. The sand is fine and white, and the swimming is excellent (calm, clear, and warm through the summer months). There are also several beach clubs offering loungers and umbrellas, but it's just as easy to spread out a towel for free.

Getting to Gjipe is half the adventure. After parking along the road between Dhërmi and Vuno, it's about a 30-minute hike down a rocky canyon path. The effort is well worth it. This wild, crescent-shaped cove wedged between towering cliffs offers pebbles underfoot and impossibly clear water.

There's a small beach bar serving drinks and simple food, but otherwise, Gjipe feels wonderfully remote. The beach is popular for swimming and cliff-jumping (there's a well-known spot on the left side), making it a favorite for adventure seekers. Water shoes are recommended since the pebbles can be tough on bare feet, and it's wise to come prepared with everything needed since facilities are minimal. The hike back up is steep, but the untouched beauty makes it worthwhile.

Drymades is where many travelers find their rhythm on the Albanian Riviera. It's a long, wide beach with white pebbles and calm, crystal-clear water that's perfect for swimming. Unlike some of the more famous spots nearby, Drymades still feels relatively laid-back, even in peak season.

There's a nice mix here: beach bars and restaurants line the shore for those wanting music and cocktails, while quieter stretches can be found within a short walk. Drymades Beach Bar is a popular spot for cold Korça beer and sunset watching, as the sky transforms into shades of pink and orange. The water stays shallow for quite a distance, making it great for families, and the surrounding hills create a dramatic backdrop. For those staying in Dhërmi village up the hill, it's about a 10-minute drive down winding roads.

Jale is the spot for those wanting a bit more energy and social atmosphere. Located between Dhërmi and Himara, this beach has become a favorite with younger travelers and backpackers, thanks to its beach clubs, bars, and summer party scene. But the daytime atmosphere remains focused on the gorgeous setting for swimming and relaxing.

The beach is a mix of pebbles and sand, and the water displays that signature Albanian Riviera turquoise. Mornings are ideal for bodyboarding (boards can be rented from beach bars), while evenings come alive at waterfront restaurants serving fresh grilled fish. The vibe picks up after dark with live music and DJs, but visitors seeking just daytime beauty can enjoy the beach and move on. It's easily accessible by car, with parking right near the beach.

Livadhi is Himara's main beach, and it's got everything needed for a classic Mediterranean beach day. This long pebble beach curves along the bay, backed by cafés, restaurants, and guesthouses. The water is clean and calm, ideal for swimming, with loungers and umbrellas available for rent or space to set up independently.

What makes Livadhi special is how local it feels. Albanian families come here for weekend beach days, creating an easy atmosphere. Mornings are perfect for swimming followed by byrek (Albanian pastry) from a nearby bakery, while hours can be spent floating in the clear water. In the evenings, the beachside restaurants come alive. It's not the wildest or most dramatic beach in Albania, but it's comfortable, accessible and genuine.

Borsh claims to have the longest beach in Albania (about four miles of pebbles stretching along the coast) and the claim holds up. This is where visitors come when seeking space. Even in summer, quiet sections are always available.

The village of Borsh sits on the hillside above, surrounded by olive groves (some of the oldest in the region), and the beach below is backed by a thin strip of restaurants and accommodation. The water is wonderfully clear, and because the beach is so long, different vibes can be found depending on location. The southern end tends to be quieter, while the central section near the main road has more facilities. The slower pace here makes it ideal for morning swims, long walks along the shore, and dinners of freshly grilled squid while watching the sun dip into the Ionian Sea.

Dhermi is one of the Albanian Riviera's most popular beaches, and for good reason. It's a beautiful stretch of white pebbles with crystal-clear water, backed by a lively scene of beach bars, restaurants, and clubs. During the summer, this is where the party happens, with music from various beach clubs and a younger, international crowd.

But it's not all about nightlife. The beach itself is stunning, and the swimming is excellent. Days can be spent alternating between lounging under an umbrella and swimming in the impossibly blue water. The beach is well-organized with plenty of facilities, and there are options for all budgets, from simple beach bars to more upscale clubs. For those wanting energy and atmosphere with their beach time, Dhermi delivers.

Palasa sits at the base of the dramatic Llogara Pass, where the road descends from the mountains down to the coast. The beach is wide and pebbly, with striking views of the towering cliffs behind and the open sea ahead. It's a popular stop for travelers driving the coastal route, and the beach has a relaxed, slightly rugged feel.

On windy days, the waves here are bigger than at other Riviera beaches—perfect for bodysurfing. There are a handful of beachside restaurants and guesthouses, and the vibe is low-key and unpretentious. Palasa is one of the best spots in Albania for paragliding (launches from Llogara can land right on the beach). Even for those just passing through, stopping for a swim and a cold drink is worthwhile. The setting is unforgettable.

Kakome is Albania's ultimate secret beach—accessible only by boat from Borsh or Himara. That's a good thing. This remote stretch of white pebbles and turquoise water feels like something out of a fantasy, completely untouched and wildly beautiful.

Water taxis from Himara make day trips possible, with visitors often finding just a handful of other people on the beach. There's nothing but the beach, the cliffs, the sea and the sun—no bars, no facilities, just pure, unspoiled nature. Bringing everything needed (food, water, sunscreen) is essential, and the experience feels like discovering a private paradise. The water is perfect for swimming, and the surrounding cliffs are dramatic and photogenic. If only one remote beach can be visited in Albania, make it this one.