Best Beaches in the Albanian Riviera
7 hand-picked beaches in the Albanian Riviera, ranked by our editors. Top pick: Gjipe (4.6 / 5).
Gjipe
Himara, Albania · Pebble Beach · 4.6 / 5
Palasa Beach, Albanian Riviera
Palase, Himare, Vlore, Albania · Long pebble beach below the Llogara pass on the Albanian Riviera · 4.6 / 5
Grama Bay, Karaburun
Karaburun, Vlore · Remote pebble cove with ancient rock carvings on the Karaburun peninsula · 4.5 / 5
Porto Palermo Beach, Himara
Himara · Pebble cove beside the Ali Pasha castle near Himara · 4.4 / 5
Potami Beach
Himara, Albania · Pebble Beach · 4.3 / 5
Saranda Beach
Saranda, Albanian Riviera · Waterfront pebble beach facing Corfu · 4.1 / 5
Shengjin Beach, Lezhe
Shengjin, Lezhe · Long sandy beach and promenade on the northern Albanian coast · 4.1 / 5About beaches in the Albanian Riviera
The Albanian Riviera has clear water, pebble coves and quiet sandy bays between the Ionian Sea and the Ceraunian mountains. It is far less crowded than neighbouring coasts, with beach bars and small family-run places to stay.
When to go
June to September is the swimming season. The sea is warm from July, and September is often calm and pleasant.
Getting around
A car is the easiest way to travel the coast road, and boats serve some remote coves. Facilities are simple outside the main resorts, so bring water and cash.
Easiest beaches to reach
Palasa Beach, Albanian Riviera, Porto Palermo Beach, Himara, Potami Beach, Saranda Beach.
Quieter hidden gems
Gjipe, Palasa Beach, Albanian Riviera, Grama Bay, Karaburun, Porto Palermo Beach, Himara.
All beaches at a glance
- Gjipe: best June–September, water about 25 degrees C, access challenging.
- Palasa Beach, Albanian Riviera: best June–September, water about 24 degrees C, access easy.
- Grama Bay, Karaburun: best June–September, water about 25 degrees C, access challenging.
- Porto Palermo Beach, Himara: best June–September, water about 25 degrees C, access easy.
- Potami Beach: best June–September, water about 25 degrees C, access easy.
- Saranda Beach: best June–September, water about 24 degrees C, access easy.
- Shengjin Beach, Lezhe: best June–September, water about 25 degrees C, access easy.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit the beaches in the Albanian Riviera?
June to September is the swimming season. The sea is warm from July, and September is often calm and pleasant.
Which beaches in the Albanian Riviera are easiest to reach?
The easiest access is at Palasa Beach, Albanian Riviera, Porto Palermo Beach, Himara, Potami Beach, Saranda Beach. Check each beach page for parking and facilities.
Do I need a car for the beaches in the Albanian Riviera?
A car is the easiest way to travel the coast road, and boats serve some remote coves. Facilities are simple outside the main resorts, so bring water and cash.