For decades Albania was completely closed to the world and only locals knew how beautiful and wild Albania Beaches are. Nowadays, due to сheap flights from London and other European destinations to Albania, we finally have the chance to relax on the Albania Riviera, especially in Saranda and Ksamil. So here’s the list of spots available:
Saranda Municipality public beach - the biggest public one in Saranda, there are piers on both sides and it is very convenient to swim between them, at least in Low Season (May - June and September - October). It is a bit dirty, has showers, but no WC. The water is really clear with some trash on the bottom of the sea. It is right on the promenade full of restaurants and cafes.
Flamingo Beach - has rating 4.1 and is one of the still remaining public Saranda beaches 2.5 kilometers from the city center. It is a pebble one, the bottom of the sea when entering the water is rocky so use shoes. There is free parking for those who are renting a car in Albania. The sea is crystal clear and you can taste Exquisite traditional cuisine in local restaurants.
Bistrica Beach - has 4.1 rating, located near Hotel Saranda Beach Resort. It is a pebble beach with a small cold water river flowing into the sea and a very rocky entrance to the sea so you’d better have your swimming shoes on to keep your legs safe. It is one of the public Beaches in Saranda, so you can lay on the towel but you can also pay 10 euro for a sunbed :)
Plazhi i Manastirit - rating 4.0. For those who hire car in Albania there is paid parking and the best time to visit this beach between Saranda and Ksamil is in low season - september - mid october. It is made of small pebbles, the water is crystal clear with lots of small fish which makes it perfect for diving! The beach is divided into private and public areas (so take your own umbrella and save money on sunbeds:)
Plazhi i Pasqyrave (Mirror Beach) - rating 4.2. The beach and the sea are beautiful indeed. There is a bus stop in 10 minutes walking from this private beach. To feel comfortable, go there in the low season (September - October) when it is not so loud and crowded. Sunbed prices are 20 Euro for 2 in July - August and 15 Euro in low season, parking costs 5 Euro. Definitely take swimming shoes with you.
Shpella e Pëllumbave - rating 4.2. It is a paid and private beach with really difficult access: 25 minutes from the bus station and then going down by steep stairs. No chance to stay there with your own umbrella, price for 2 sunbeds plus an umbrella - 25 Euro.
Pulëbardha Beach - rating 4.1. Sun loungers on the first line need to be booked several days in advance, but from the back rows of sun loungers the sea is not visible :) Parking costs 3 Euro and you need to walk a minimum of 5 minutes, then pay 25 Euro for 2 sunbeds which is way too much. Overcrowded in the high season, the depth begins almost immediately, so couples with children need to be very careful. Definitely not amongst the best Albania beaches by price/quality ratio.
Gjiri i Hartës - rating 4.3. May be the only one of beaches in Ksamil with public space and platforms in the sea to dive from. It is only 5 minutes drive from Ksamil, first head to 'local fish market' on the map and then 300 meters straight. Good for families with kids. On your way back, buy fresh seafood from the market and cook it home:)
Plazhi Ksamilit - rating 4.2. From a natural beauty point of view - the best among beaches in Ksamil. But you should be ready for it being full and loud even in September, and you need to reserve in advance or get there early in the morning to grab your chance and pay 20 Euro for sunbeds. Activities include swimming around the islands by paddleboard or kayak for 10 Euro/hour.
Augusto Beach - rating 4.4. Small quiet pebble beach south of Ksamil with a nice view to the Ksamil islands and Albanian Riviera. Sunbed price is twice cheaper than in the center of Ksamil - only 10 Euro and in addition to that you’re welcome to bring your own towels and umbrella. So come here in the morning, park for free, put on swimming shoes and the bay is yours!
Lori Beach - rating 4.2. Nice place for families with kids with Smooth descent into the sea with a sandy bottom. Overcrowded in summer, parking is free, sunbeds cost 15 - 20 depending on the season and you need to come earlier to get one. They have pedal boats there for 10 Euro per hour, a good restaurant and perfect sunset view!
Cubana Beach Ksamil - rating 4.2. Free parking, pebble beach with rocky sea bottom, so swimming shoes are obligatory. No loud music from the bar, crystal water perfect for snorkeling. The best place in Ksamil, is so relaxing and tranquil with a gorgeous view.