Ksamil, the hidden Gem of Albania

The Ksamil Islands transport you to a tropical paradise, with the breathtakingly turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and natural tranquility so sought-after by beach-going enthusiasts. 

Relax in the sun and swim in the perfectly clear waters at Albania’s up-and-coming resort, where cultural and natural attractions are easily accessible.

Ksamil is one of the Albanian Riviera’s most alluring resorts. A sheltered cove, with perfect white sand and sparkling clear waters, sits at the resort’s heart, offering a romantic and idyllic getaway. Take a boat trip out to the Emerald Islands, set off on a day trip to the Blue Eye natural spring, or go in search of history at the ancient city of Butrint.

Find a perfect Mediterranean beach destination at Ksamil, the largest city in southern Albania. Located 10 miles (17 kilometers) south of Sarandë, it is ideally located for a quick getaway. Lounge on the beautiful beach, enhance your tan, rent a paddleboat, or try low-key watersports.

Just offshore are the paradise Emerald Islands, known individually as Emerald Island, Small Island, Stone Island, and the Twin Islands. Hop on a boat from Ksamil to hike among the abundant plants and birds that thrive here. Try snorkeling or scuba diving in the crystal clear waters.

Watch the sunset from one of the beachside bars, cafés, and restaurants that are open late into the evening. Serving a mixture of traditional Albanian dishes and international fare, they are delightful spots in which to relax after a lazy day on the beach.

Ksamil is also well positioned for several day trips. Spend a day in Sarandë to glimpse Albanian life and culture and to walk the pleasant boardwalk. Join a tour and head to the archaeological site of Butrint, where you will discover an amphitheater, basilica, watchtower, and fort. It is just 10 minutes from Ksamil. A little farther is the Blue Eye, a natural 160-foot-deep (50-meter) pool that is the source of the Bistricë River and creates mesmerizing blues and greens.

Get to Ksamil either through Albania’s capital of Tirana or via the closest international airport in Corfu, Greece. From here, take a 30-minute boat ride to reach the major city of Sarandë any time you want.

Pulebardha Beach, Ksamil, Saranda

A beautiful little beach between Saranda and Ksamil. It’s located north of Ksamil, and in Albanian, it’s known as “Plazhi i Pulëbardhës”.

Pulëbardha Beach (Plazhi i Pulëbardhës) actually means seagull’s beach. The beach is an amazing oasis that is both quiet and secluded but still has everything you need at the same time. It’s hidden and surrounded by a rocky, but the green landscape and the turquoise-colored water is extremely clear. It’s a perfect place to escape the town and relax while enjoying the beautiful views.

 

The Twin Islands of Ksamil

There are a total of four spectacular islands in Ksamil. The most famous ones are the Twin Islands, which are connected to one another via a narrow sand belt. However, they each have their own individual beauty and charm, and are both definitely worth visiting – being easily reachable from the shore! The perfect tranquility and dense greenery of these islands resemble a tropical paradise that you won’t want to leave!

Here, you can go canoeing, diving, or book a boat trip. The delicious seafood dishes served in the numerous restaurants of Ksamil, and the tasty cocktails, which can be enjoyed under the sun, are some more reasons you’ll thoroughly enjoy your time here. Splash in these waters to your heart’s delight, take snaps of this photogenic paradise, and definitely take a Mussel Tour whilst you’re in the area! This innovative and charming tour was created by a local youngster and has been a big hit in the last couple of years.