The Best Beaches & Where to Swim on the Albanian Riviera: Karaburun Sazan National Park, Himarë, Ksamil + Dhërmi

The Albania Rivera tends to be elbowed to one side by the ever-popular waters of the Balearic islands, the south of France or Croatia. However, this glittering coastline should not be overlooked as it is home to some of Europe's most undiscovered and crystal-clear waters. Albania has a beach suitable for everyone including the hidden coves in Karaburun Sazan National Park, a place to party in Dhërmi and the sleepy town of Himarë for those who like to take life at a slower pace. Read on to find the main swimming spots and all the ones in between on the Albania Rivera.

Karaburun Sazan National Park

A former military base used during the communist era the Karaburun Sazan National Park has remained untouched and undeveloped over the decades. It was later declared a National Marine Park in 2010 protecting a stretch of 16 kilometres designed to secure the long-term protection of Albania’s unique coastal and marine biodiversity through sustainable interventions. This rugged piece of coastline allows nature to thrive creating a home to the best beaches, coves, swimming and diving spots on the Albanian Rivera which can be visited solely by boat. Travel up the coast to discover glittering transparent waters at Sant Andreas Bay, Lovers Cove, Gjiri I Shenkollit and Grama Bay. An unforgettable day out and the best waters we found during our time in Albania.

Best for: Anyone looking to get off the tourist trail to see the Albanian coast at its finest

Other Nearby Beaches: Pepperon, Palasa + Dhërmi

Himarë

A former fishing village the sleepy town of Himarë is now home to small family-friendly hotels, a promenade of restaurants and a calm turquoise clear bay. It is easy to spend a day here soaking in the sun while popping in and out of the local eateries available on the waters front. Zig-zagging through the town's narrow streets the walk up to Himarë castle is tough but offers unmatched views of the bay and neighbouring beach Livadhi below. It is also Himarë's mini pier where many boat companies operate day trips to Karaburun Sazan National Park.

Best for: Families and couples looking for a quiet beach escape with good food and an early night

Other Nearby Beaches: Livadi, Gjipe + Jale 

Ksamil

A popular spot for couples, friends and families the southern town of Ksamil has something for everyone. A lot of the beach here is owned by hotels or restaurants however they range in price, theme and atmosphere depending on what you are looking for. There are multiple water spots and restaurants to pick from within very short walking distances making it an easy destination to spend a few days. We had a great time at Abiori Restaurant Pizzeria which offers day beds directly on top of the water with views over the islands. If you want to expand your horizon there are also several quieter and more public beaches a short drive away. This is definitely a very resort based town which is something I would typically enjoy but can be fun for a few days.

Best for: Families, friends and couples looking for a wide variety of restaurants and bars within close proximity to the beach

Other Nearby Beaches: Shpella e Pëllumbave, Gjiri I Hartës + Edon-Bina Beach

Dhërmi

Known as the party capital of Albania, Dhërmi's old town looks over the lively and colourful beach clubs that scatter it's coast line. This is the perfect area for easy access to restaurants, boat trips and water activities for groups of friends looking for an upbeat atmosphere. Unlike the ultra-glamorous and overpriced beach clubs found in Greece or France prices here are relatively affordable and less pretentious. You can also visit the historical churches of the Cof Saint Spyridon, Panagia, Hypapante and the Monastery of St. Theodore or wonder the old town for a more authentic experience.

Best for: Couples or groups looking to tan by day and party by night

Other Nearby Beaches: Perivoli, Drymades, Pepperon + Palasa

The drive down the coast is mountainous with small scatterings of towns overlooking the inviting and sparkling waters below. Although quiet on the tourist map Albania is the perfect destination for those seeking sun and clear waters at an affordable price tag.

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