Explore seven beautiful beaches in Southern Albania and discover the perfect coastal destination for swimming, relaxing and unforgettable seaside days.
7 Beautiful Beaches to Discover in Southern Albania
Southern Albania is home to some of the country’s most beautiful coastal landscapes.
Along the route from Vlorë toward Himarë, Sarandë and Ksamil, visitors can discover clear water, dramatic mountains, lively beach towns and quieter seaside locations. The Albanian Riviera stretches from Vlorë toward Sarandë and Ksamil, bringing together many of southern Albania’s best-known coastal destinations.
Whether you prefer an easy beach day close to restaurants and services or a more peaceful location surrounded by nature, the southern coast offers a wide variety of experiences.
Here are seven beaches worth discovering during your next Stay By Ilvesta holiday.
1. Himara Beach
Himara Beach is one of the most convenient options for visitors who want to combine the sea with the atmosphere of a coastal town.
Located in the center of Himarë, the beach offers easy access to restaurants, cafés and other tourism services. It is a practical choice for couples, families and travellers who prefer to have everything nearby.
The surrounding area also makes Himarë a useful base for exploring other beaches and villages along the Riviera.
Best for: convenience, restaurants and a relaxed town atmosphere.
2. Livadhi Beach
Livadhi is known for its spacious coastline and more open atmosphere.
It is one of the larger and quieter beaches around Himarë, making it suitable for visitors who want more space and a slower beach day. Official tourism information also highlights Livadhi as a good option for outdoor holidays and camping.
The surrounding hills and clear water create a beautiful setting for swimming, relaxing and watching the light change throughout the afternoon.
Best for: families, longer beach days and travellers looking for more space.
3. Llamani Beach
Located a short distance from Himarë, Llamani Beach offers a smaller and more enclosed coastal setting.
The beach is surrounded by rocky hills and is known for its clear water. Its location close to Himarë makes it easy to combine with lunch, dinner or an evening visit to the town. Official tourism guidance places Llamani only a few minutes from Himarë.
Best for: clear water, scenic surroundings and shorter beach visits.
4. Dhërmi Beach
Dhërmi is one of the most recognised destinations along the Albanian Riviera.
The area combines a long coastline, mountain views and a lively summer atmosphere. It is particularly popular with travellers who enjoy spending the day near beach bars, restaurants and social areas.
Dhërmi is also connected to several coastal routes and nearby beaches, including Gjipe and Jalë, making it a useful starting point for exploring the Riviera.
Best for: lively summer days, groups of friends and coastal exploration.
5. Gjipe Beach
Gjipe is often chosen by visitors looking for a more natural experience.
Located between Dhërmi and Jalë, it is connected to one of southern Albania’s recognised coastal trails. The surrounding cliffs and valley create a dramatic landscape that feels different from the more developed beach destinations.
Access can require more planning than an urban beach, so visitors should prepare appropriately and check local conditions before travelling.
Best for: nature, scenic landscapes and adventurous travellers.
6. Borsh Beach
Borsh offers one of the longest stretches of coastline in southern Albania.
Its size gives visitors more opportunities to find quieter areas, even during the summer season. The beach sits below the village of Borsh and forms part of the southern coastal route that continues toward Piqeras, Bunec and Lukovë.
It is a strong choice for travellers who enjoy long walks beside the sea and prefer a more spacious beach environment.
Best for: long beach walks, peaceful days and families.
7. Ksamil Beach
Ksamil is one of the most popular summer destinations in southern Albania.
Located near Sarandë, it is known for its bright water, small islands and compact beaches. The area can become busy during peak summer, so arriving earlier in the day can make the experience more comfortable.
Ksamil can also be combined with a longer visit to Sarandë and nearby cultural or natural attractions.
Best for: iconic coastal views, swimming and first-time visitors.
How to Choose the Right Beach
The best beach depends on the kind of day you want to create.
Choose Himarë or Ksamil when you want restaurants and services nearby.
Choose Livadhi or Borsh when you want more space and a slower atmosphere.
Choose Gjipe when nature and adventure are the priority.
Choose Dhërmi when you prefer a lively summer setting.
Choose Llamani when you want clear water close to Himarë.
Southern Albania allows you to experience several different types of coastline within one journey. A single holiday can include lively beach towns, quiet bays, scenic drives and relaxed evenings near the sea.
Tips for a Better Beach Day
During the summer months, popular beaches can become busy. Starting early gives you more time to enjoy the coastline before the busiest part of the day.
Bring water, sun protection and suitable footwear, especially when visiting beaches with natural trails or rocky access.
Check road, parking and sea conditions locally before travelling.
Respect the coastline by taking waste with you and avoiding damage to natural areas.
For quieter experiences, consider visiting in the morning, later in the afternoon or outside the busiest weeks of July and August.
Stay Close to the Southern Albanian Coast
A comfortable place to stay makes it easier to explore the beaches of southern Albania at your own rhythm.
Stay By Ilvesta offers carefully selected villas and apartments for travellers who value comfort, privacy and convenient access to Albania’s coastal destinations.
Spend the day discovering the Riviera, then return to a welcoming space where you can relax, enjoy the evening and plan your next coastal experience.
Your next beach day begins with the right place to stay.
Planning your next holiday in Southern Albania?
Explore our villas and apartments and find the right base for discovering the Albanian coast.
