Hotel
Ksamil
Verified LinkBlue Eye Hotel
Peaceful family-run hotel in the centre of Ksamil. Pool, fresh breakfast each morning, and a short walk to the beach and restaurants.
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South · Riviera
BeachKsamil
Three tiny uninhabited islands floating in water you can see through to the bottom — the most photographed corner of the Albanian Riviera. Come in June or September for warm water without the crowds.
Best for
Couples, snorkellers, island hoppers
Best time
June, September (Jul–Aug busiest)
Suggested stay
2–3 nights
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Ksamil in pictures
South · RivieraCouples, snorkellers, island hoppers
About this destination
Why Ksamil belongs on your route
Ksamil is the headline image of the Albanian Riviera: turquoise water, soft white sand and three uninhabited islets a short swim or kayak from shore. In peak season most beaches charge a sunbed fee (500–1,000 lek). June and September give you warm water with far fewer people. SUP boards are rented on the main beach — the easiest way to reach the islands. Combine with Butrint National Park (10 minutes south) for a perfect full-day itinerary.
Top attractions
What to see in Ksamil
1
Ksamil Islands
Three small uninhabited islands visible from the main beach, reachable by a short swim, rented kayak or SUP board. The water between them is extraordinarily clear — up to 15 metres of visibility on calm days.
2
Ksamil Beach
The main public beach — a stretch of white-sand and fine pebbles with sunbeds, parasols, beach bars and restaurants within walking distance. Sunbed hire is standard in July–August.
3
Monastery Beach
A secluded pebble cove on the eastern side of the village, quieter than the main beach and named for the small monastery nearby. Good snorkelling and noticeably fewer crowds.
4
Mirror Beach (Pasqyrat)
A quieter cove on the southern edge of the village, popular with locals and families who want calmer water and fewer beach clubs.
5
Pulëbardha Beach
"White Bird" beach, reached by a short walk south of the village. White pebbles, dramatic sea-carved rocks and exceptionally clear water.
6
Butrint National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site 10 minutes south of Ksamil — 2,500 years of Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Venetian ruins on a wooded peninsula above a turquoise lagoon.
Day plan
How to spend one day in Ksamil
Morning
Explore Three Ksamil islets — swim, kayak or SUP board out
Afternoon
Monastery Beach — secluded pebble cove east of the village
Evening
Dinner in Ksamil — save the best viewpoint for last
Local tip
June and September give warm water with far fewer crowds. In peak season most beaches charge a sunbed fee (500–1,000 lek). SUP boards are rented on the main beach — the best way to reach the islands without a boat.
Nearby
Where to go next from Ksamil
Accommodation
Where to stay in Ksamil
Verified hotel links and stays for travellers who want to be close to the highlights.
Hotel
Ksamil
Verified LinkMonel Hotel
Boutique-style stay with spacious rooms, rain showers, private balconies and a relaxing pool terrace. Stylish and comfortable for a Riviera break.
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Hotel
Ksamil
Verified LinkVentus Hotel
Budget-friendly choice just steps from the beach. Close to restaurants and beach clubs, breakfast included — convenient and affordable.
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View DetailsDining
Where to eat in Ksamil
Traditional restaurants, modern Albanian dining, and local favourites with verified links where available.
Modern
Ksamil
Verified LinkFourth Island
Popular beachside restaurant known for well-made pizza and pasta. Lively atmosphere, sea views and a crowd that lingers past midnight.
Traditional
Ksamil
Verified LinkTraditional House
Cosy spot for honest Albanian home cooking — tavë kosi, byrek and grilled meat. Good portions, fair prices and genuine hospitality.
Seafood
Ksamil
Verified LinkSummer Gate Restaurant & Beach Bar
Mediterranean food, cocktails and sea views — one of the best settings in Ksamil for a long lunch or sunset dinner.
Experiences
Things to do in Ksamil
Beach
Ksamil
Swim the Ksamil islands
Wade or kayak to the three Ksamil islets. Bring snorkel — clearest water on the Ionian.
Free to visit
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Beach
Ksamil
Swim at Mirror Beach (Pasqyrat)
Mirror Beach (Plazhi i Pasqyrave) has calmer, more reflective water than the main strip — a quieter alternative with ideal conditions for photos and swimming.
Free to visit
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Beach
Ksamil
Pulëbardha Beach
About 15 minutes from Ksamil — clear water, white pebbles and dramatic coastal rocks. The road is slightly bumpy but the reward is a beautiful, less crowded beach.
Free to visit
View DetailsGetting to Ksamil
Planning your journey? See practical transport options, approximate prices, travel times and seasonal advice.
Tirana Airport → Ksamil
≈4.5–5 hTransfer · car · bus
See transport optionsSarandë → Ksamil
≈20–25 minLocal bus · taxi
See transport optionsKsamil → Butrint
≈15 minLocal bus · taxi · car
See transport optionsTravel guides
Plan more around Ksamil
7 min read
Beach
Best Beaches in Albania
Twelve beaches worth planning your trip around — from the famous Ksamil islets to a few coves only locals know.
8 min read
Destination
Ksamil, Albania: Travel Guide, Islands & Things to Do
The Ksamil islands, beach clubs, boat trips, day trips and the best restaurants — the complete guide to the top things to do in Ksamil, Albania's most famous beach village.
7 min read
Destination
Ksamil vs Dhërmi: Which Albanian Beach Is for You?
Two of the Riviera's most famous beaches compared — islets and shallow turquoise vs beach clubs and mountain drama.
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