Top hidden beaches on the Albanian Riviera

The Albanian Riviera — the roughly 100 km of coast from the Llogara Pass down to Sarandë — is no longer undiscovered. Yet the crowds still cluster on the same few sands at Dhërmi, Jala and Ksamil, which means the best coves are often the ones a short scramble, a boat ride or a stubborn drive away. Here is where to point yourself when you want turquoise water without the sunbed armies.

Reachable by trail

Gjipe sits at the mouth of a dramatic canyon between Dhërmi and Vuno, reached by a walk down from the old coastal road. Its coarse sand, sheer walls and free-camping culture make it the Riviera's most romantic escape. Filikuri, hidden below Vuno, is smaller and even quieter — a pebble crescent framed by rock, with a sea cave just around the headland.

Reachable by boat

Grama Bay, north of Dhërmi under the Karaburun peninsula, is a double cove where ancient sailors carved their names into the cliffs — accessible only by water or a long hike, and all the more pristine for it. Around Karaburun and Sazan island, water taxis from Orikum and Radhimë run day trips to caves and coves you cannot reach any other way.

The quiet ends of famous beaches

Even busy beaches keep hidden corners. The far northern end of Dhërmi, below the monastery, holds a string of small coves locals call Akuariumi, the Aquarium, for its clear water. Krorëz, tucked between Qeparo and Borsh, is a long, wild pebble beach with only a taverna or two — the antidote to Ksamil.

Practical notes

Come in June or September for warm water without August's heat and traffic. Bring water shoes for the pebbles, cash for beach tavernas, and start early — parking near the trailheads fills fast. A boat trip, even a shared one, unlocks the coast's true secrets, so budget one day of your trip for the water.