7 Albanian Beaches to Visit This Summer

The coastal town of Saranda is considered to be the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera. Directly bordering Greece along the Ionian coastline, Saranda is home to the most frequented Albanian beaches. Taking the crown for the country's most renowned beach is Mirror Beach, located between the villages of Saranda and Ksamil. Mirror Beach received its name for its extraordinarily clear water, as villagers claim the water holds a magical effect due to the reflection of the sun shining down on it like a mirror. Admired for its seclusion by rock formations and flora and fauna unlike that of the United States, Mirror Beach is a must-see on the list of Albanian beaches if you are in search of crystal blue water. Mirror Beach is easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus, and is rated to be one of the safest beaches in Albania, as well. 

Located about 90 minutes north of Saranda is the quaint seaside village of Himare. What was once a small fishing village has now become a popular holiday vacation site home to multi-colored beaches, hidden coves, and water a shade of turquoise that is unfamiliar to the naked eye. This charming beach town holds the Albanian beaches deserving of a day on your itinerary, and is also free of large crowds of tourists, enabling you to indulge in a relaxing, romantic getaway with your significant other. 

For those looking to experience the Mediterranean nightlife scene, Ksamil is where you want to be. Upon first setting foot in Ksamil, you are suddenly rushed with the feeling that you have arrived in Mykonos or the Amalfi Coast. However, your Mamma Mia dreams will come true in Ksamil, for the village is coated top to bottom with rooftop bars and terraces, as well as a stunning coastline to relax and soak up the Albanian rays. For the European history buff, the village itself holds a vast amount of hidden gems that relay tales of Albania's past. For those seeking more adventure, Ksamil Beach is one of the most attractive Albanian beaches for it is full of opportunities to rent a paddle board or a kayak and explore the coastline by hand. 

Vlora, Albania is home to the outdoor enthusiast, as the southwestern Albanian coastal town is home to the country's most magnificent mountain ranges and beaches that appear straight out of a travel website. The vast majority of Albanian beaches in Vlora are located near Albanian cafes, restaurants, and bars, and are perfect for a peaceful cocktail hour after a day of surfing and hiking in the Albanian sun. 

Often in competition with Mirror Beach for the title of best Albanian beach is Dhërmi Beach, located in Dhërmi, a village in the county of Vlora. Dhërmi Beach is one of the longest beaches on the Albanian Riviera, making it one of the busier Albanian beaches in the summertime. However, the large crowds in Dhërmi correlate to a thrilling nightlife, full of live music and beach clubs to attract a younger crowd. 

While Syri I Kalter is not technically an Albanian beach, the attraction is all the hype for tourists seeking to capture the perfect candid Instagram to depict their European summer. This gorgeous natural spring is believed to be one of the country's most beautiful natural phenomena and is often overlooked for its inability to make the cut in "Top 10 Albanian Beaches" lists. If your Albanian vacation is lacking in variety, make the effort to visit Syri I Kalter, and thank yourself later. 

Hidden from the naked eye by a jaw-dropping mountain range, Gjipe Beach in Himare is characterized by its tranquil and relaxing nature. Unlike Ksamil or other villages in Saranda, Gjipe Beach attracts those looking to disconnect from their nine-to-five and plugin with the natural landscapes found in Albanian beaches across the country. This Albanian beach also provides the opportunity to set up camp on the beach and spend a night under the Albanian stars.