Vlora's beaches that will make you fall in love with Albania

If you're looking for clear seas, uncrowded beaches, and enchanting views, southern Albania is the perfect destination for you. It's no surprise, after all: the Albanian coastline shares the same waters as the Apulian coast, a mere 70 kilometers away. The most enchanting beaches are found in the Vlora district , the jewel in the crown of seaside tourism in the Land of the Eagles . It alternates tranquil bays with wilder stretches of golden sand, white pebbles, and hidden coves, framed by a sea that changes color every hour of the day, from emerald green to brilliant turquoise to deep blue. Let's discover Vlora's most beautiful beaches together—from north to south—for a relaxing and mindful vacation, far from mass tourism.

The northern beaches among pine trees, lagoons and silence

Among the districts of Albania , that of Vlora is the most varied from a landscape point of view.

The northern area , overlooking the Adriatic Sea , has a very different atmosphere compared to the Ionian coast: pine forests, lagoons and stretches of sand, with open landscapes, wide beaches and a discreet tourism that favours peace and tranquility, in contact with nature.

Among the closest to the city we recommend not to miss:

• Plazhi i Nartës , located between the Narta lagoon and the sea, is a beach several kilometres long, reachable by car, which, due to the shallowness of the sea, is ideal for family holidays with children in tow;
• Not far away is Zvernec Beach , immersed in a suggestive environment, with the pine forest that reaches right down to the sea, the crystal-clear water and a rich variety of aquatic birds that make it a paradise for nature lovers.

The city beaches of Vlora

Vlore is a lively and interesting city that, among its many advantages, boasts the possibility of enjoying the sea without having to stray too far from the center. Sure, the city beaches don't have the wild appearance of more remote bays, but they offer comfort and accessibility, as well as the advantage of not having to plan anything in advance.

• Plazhi i Vjetër , the historic beach, is the closest to the port and the city centre: ideal for a quick dip or a stroll at sunset;
• Plazhi i Ri is the seafront beach, recently renovated with the opening of bars, restaurants, and beach clubs. Besides having cleaner water than the city center, Plazhi i Ri is lively until the evening.
• Uji i Ftohtë , which literally translates as "cold water," takes its name from an underground spring that cools the seawater even in the height of summer; the intense color of the sea and the cliff overlooking it offer panoramic views of unspeakable beauty.

South of Valona the coast changes face

Leaving beautiful Valona behind and heading south, the coastline becomes more varied and alternates small sandy bays with cliffs overlooking the sea: here you come across the first beaches that give you a glimpse of the wild beauty of the Ionian coast , including:

• Radhimë , one of the most popular seaside resorts among Albanians, is a pebble and gravel beach lapped by crystal clear waters and framed by green hills;
• Orikum is a quiet beach offering wide open spaces and shallow waters, as well as a relaxing view of the gulf and the Karaburun Peninsula.

The wildest beaches: Karaburun and Sazan

• Shpella e Haxhi Aliut , a cove hidden among the rocks that leads to a cave in the cliff: it can only be visited by boat and is ideal for a dip in the transparent water and a bit of snorkeling;
• Gjiri i Gramës is a beach covered in sand and pebbles, surrounded by rocky cliffs that are reflected in the cobalt blue waters. It can be reached by boat or, for the more daring, by a long trek.

The Ionian coast, from Palasa to Himare

In the southern part, the Albanian coastline transforms once again: the Adriatic Sea gives way to the Ionian Sea, and beyond the Llogara Pass, the landscape suddenly changes, with gentle mountain slopes plunging into the turquoise water. The scenic road narrows between curves and cliffs, and the beaches increasingly resemble those of the Greek islands .

• Palasa , large and bright, with white pebbles and transparent water, is a silent beach that invites contemplation;
• Drimadhë is a small and well-kept beach, with rocks that protect it from the wind and crystal-clear water;
• Dhermi is a classic for those seeking postcard-perfect landscapes and clean sea, without sacrificing services;
• Gjipe , reachable only by boat or on foot, is an isolated bay framed by the rocky walls of a wild canyon where the only voices are those of the wind and the sea;
• Jalë is a small bay overlooking the turquoise sea: dotted with bars and clubs, it is very popular among young people;
• Livadhi is a wide, quiet beach, with shallow waters and a few seaside tavernas, ideal for those travelling with their families;
• Spile , the central beach of Himarë, is comfortable and easier to reach than the previous ones, perfect for a quick swim or a walk at dusk;
• Llaman is a small inlet nestled between the rocks that stands out for its crystal clear water and the intense colours of the landscape which, in addition to the lively atmosphere, offers suggestive views.