Best beach resorts in Albania

Some of the best beaches in Albania are found along the Albanian Riviera. The Riviera covers the stretch of the Ionian coast between Lukovë in the south and near Dhërmi in the north. Borsch, Himare and Gjilekë are some of the best-known and most-popular resort towns on the riviera itself. Drymades Beach and Palasa Beach near Gjilekë, as well as Livadi Beach and Llamani are the best-loved beaches in the region.

Outside of the Albanian Riviera, some of the top beach resorts to visit include Sarandë – easily accessible via ferry from Corfu – and sandy Dürres, which is just a short trip from the capital Tirana. The dreamy resort town of Ksamil is also a go-to beach destination in the south of the country, promising bath-like swimming conditions and pristine lido beaches.

Several of the top-rated beach resort hotels in Albania can be found in Sarandë.

Hotel Apollon is an adults-only resort, right in the heart of Sarandë, just a kilometre from the port and the main promenade. It’s situated on Rruga Mitat Hoxha on a small small peninsula with some of the town’s most secluded beaches. The modern hotel has its own private beach, and you can book a room with a balcony overlooking the sea. The restaurant serves seafood and Albanian specialities, with a view over the beach.

Just south of the main town, below the castle, you’ll find Bougainville Bay Hotel and spa, overlooking a pretty beach. This five-star establishment is both family friendly and romantic too, with a stunning infinity pool and spa facilities. Some of the colourful, modern rooms promise sea views, while others overlook the flower-filled gardens.

Further south still, Hotel Bahamas overlooks the pretty cove of Gjiri i Midhjeve. The pebble shore has loungers and shade to rent and promises lovely swimming conditions.The hotel itself has an outdoor pool with views over the coast and there are plenty of spots in the gardens to sit and soak up the sunshine. The restaurant has indoor seating as well as a terrace.

You’re spoilt for choice for beach hotels and resorts in all budgets and classes in Albania. We’ve picked two of our favourite five-star beach resorts in the popular town of Dürres.

The Adriatik Hotel is a modern establishment right on the main beach strip in Dürres. The main draw is the proximity to the shore and the epic sunset views, as well as the large outdoor pool exclusively for hotel guests. The rooms and suites are spacious and comfortable, with unique decoration inspired by local history. Splash in the outdoor pool with its water slide or indulge in some rest and relaxation at the top-quality spa on site. There’s also a small outdoor pool for children. You’ll have a choice of the a-la-carte restaurant or grand buffet restaurant, with a stunning beach view, and after dinner you can ascend to the rooftop bar.

The Palace Hotel and Spa occupies a prime spot on Dürres seafront, with a pretty outdoor dining and drinking area and a sunny outdoor pool. Guests can also enjoy the indoor pool at the spa and claim a spot on the loungers on the shore. The rooms have an understated elegance, with a focus on modern features. You’ll start the day with a buffet breakfast and end with an elevated meal in the main restaurant, which specialises in freshly caught seafood cooked to perfection.

Sarandë is one of the best places to stay in Albania on a budget. The town has a great range of accommodation, within reasonable walking distance from the sea and it’s bustling with no-frills restaurants for hearty meals throughout your trip – making the escape even more budget-friendly.

Hotel Piccolino is a quiet, boutique-size establishment just a short walk from the port and overlooking one of the more quiet bathing spots in the busy town. It’s a modern, three-star hotel with sea-view balcony rooms available and loungers for guests on the beach below. The hotel offers a simple, continental breakfast and you’re just steps from great restaurants and tavernas for the evening. Plus, it’s just a short walk to the promenade and main beach.

Heading south out of town, by Mango Beach, you’ll find four-star guest-favourite Hotel Blue Sky. The hotel has simple rooms, with sleek, modern decor and wifi throughout. For the best room on a budget, try a Deluxe Suite with a terrace and sea view. There’s a restaurant on-site with indoor and outdoor seating, offering a buffet breakfast and serving a-la-carte dinner.