Best Beaches In Albania For A Memorable Vacation

The Albanian coastline is dotted with many pristine beaches where crystal clear waters gently lap the pebbly shores. Showcasing stunning vistas, there are beaches that are busy throughout the year and there are those that are hidden from the tourist-y crowds. But, it is worth visiting every beach for each one is unique in its own way. Take a look at these top beaches in Albania and check whether you get tempted to pack your bags and leave for a vacation by the sea.  

1. Mango Beach, Saranda 

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Saranda is popular amongst tourists as a base to explore the nearby attractions such as The Blue Eye, Butrint National Park, and the cities of Gjirokastër and Ksamil. It has a number of beaches, but Mango Beach is a favorite amongst visitors. The pebbled beach is equipped with all the basic amenities, including showers and restrooms. Sun loungers and parasols are also available on rent, allowing you to spend an entire day drinking in the lovely vistas of the sea.    

2. Ksamil Beaches 

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Ksamil is one of the most popular beach destinations in Albania. Featuring several beautiful beaches, you will always find a spot on a sandy stretch to enjoy the warm Albanian weather. Ksamil beaches are a few of the only sandy beaches in Albania that quickly get crowded during summers. Most of the local families flock down to the beaches in Ksamil as soon as the summers arrive. But, visit it anytime after summer or between May and early June to find how these beaches redefine tranquility.  

3. Palasa Beach 

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The pebbled beach of Palasa is ideal to visit for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. It is one of the secluded beaches in Albania, letting you enjoy peace and tranquility to the fullest. The surrounding rocky cliffs and the crystal clear blue waters bring out a picturesque contrast that makes for a sight to behold. Thatched umbrellas and sunbeds are available on rent at Palasa Beach. After enjoying your day at the beach, you can head towards the nearby restaurants and beach bar to take your taste buds on a ride.  

4. Beach of Durrës 

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Boasting to be the biggest and most-visited beach in Albania, Beach of Durres is a hub of multiple activities. It is also considered to be amongst the family-friendly beaches in Albania. Visit this beach and you will see parents with their kids having a memorable vacation here. While the kids have fun building sandcastles here, the adults are happy swimming in the clear waters. Running long for about 10.5 kilometers, you will see many sunbeds along with thatched umbrellas put out on rent for the visitors. Several vendors also sell a wide range of items at the Beach of Durres. 

5. Gjipe Beach 

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Tucked away in a secluded cove, Gjipe Beach has to be one of the serene beaches in Albania. Although the beach is gradually gaining popularity, it continues to be a lesser-crowded beach. While you will be tempted to simply sprawl across the seashore or swim in the aquamarine waters, there are some fascinating natural formations like small caves near Gjipe Beach. If you are an experienced swimmer or kayaker, you can easily reach these to explore them. But, beware of the sloshing waves as they might prove to be dangerous at times.  

6. Dhërmi Beach 

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Dhërmi Beach, in recent years, has become a favorite summer vacation destination amongst local Albanians and tourists alike. The pebbly beach has tall mountains in the backdrop and faces mirror-like aqua blue water to present breathtaking views. Not being much crowded, the beach is ideal for those seeking solitude. You will find plenty of lounging chairs put out on the beach that visitors can rent along with the umbrellas. There are also several restaurants and bars around where you can grab a good seat and drink in the scenic vistas. 

7. Borsh Beach 

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Measuring 7 kilometers long, Borsh Beach is listed amongst the longest beaches in Albania. The beach has rolling hills in the background and faces sweeping views of the vast blue sea. While most of the beach lovers love bobbing on the waves, a few of them can also be seen floating on the water using inflated tire tubes. Many nearby restaurants and beach bars offer sunbeds and umbrellas on rent. To make the most of your time, you can also go sailing during your visit to Borsh beach.    

8. Lukova Beach 

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Lukova Beach is a little piece of paradise in Albania featuring lush greenery, combined with turquoise blue waters. Located in the small village of Lukova, the beach is especially great to be visited with kids. The waves aren’t too strong, letting you splash in the waters to your heart’s content. You can also get some inflatable tires along with you and simply float in the sea at Lukova beach. The village is blessed with a few other beaches too, including Buneci beach, Lumra Beach, and Cave Beach.  

9. Potami Beach 

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Potami Beach in Albania is located where a river runs to meet the sea. Besides, being a witness to this fascinating phenomenon, the beach faces water that is as clear as it can get. Displaying different hues of blue, the sea tempts you to take a dip and splash some in the waters. Besides unwinding at Potami Beach, you can also go hiking along the nearby trails or make way towards the Potami Waterfalls. There are a few restaurants by the road where you can taste some delicious dishes.  

10. Himara Beaches 

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Although being small, Himara is a village dotted with many serene Albanian beaches. These include Livadi Beach, Spile Beach, and Maracas Beach. Of all, Spile beach is quite popular amongst beach lovers. The lovely stretch is partially covered in sand and pebbles, letting you lie right at the beach to sunbathe and relax. The beach features a boat launcher along with rented loungers and umbrellas. After a day at the beach, you can make your way into the Himara village to bask in the local vibes. 

Besides the best beaches in Albania listed above, you can also visit Pogradec, Narta, or Jalë beach for a memorable vacation by the sea.