The 10 Best Beaches near Vlora (and How to Reach Them)

Vlora sits where the sandy Adriatic coast turns into the rocky Ionian Riviera, so within an hour you can choose between long sandy bays, pine-shaded pebble beaches and wild coves that can only be reached by boat. Here are our favourites, from the city outwards.

City and northern beaches (sandy)

1. Lungomare / city beach

The long urban beach along the seafront promenade. It has sand, beach bars and sunbeds, and you can walk to it from most hotels. Great for families and an evening swim, though busy in August.

2. Zvërnec beach

North of the city near the Narta Lagoon, with a long sandy shore backed by pine forest. It is quieter and wilder than the city beaches. Combine it with a visit to Zvërnec Monastery.

South along the bay (pebbles and clear water)

3. Uji i Ftohtë and Jonufër

Just south of the centre, where the road starts to follow the cliffs. These are small pebble beaches with very clear, cool water. The name "Uji i Ftohtë" means cold water and comes from the freshwater springs here.

4. Radhimë

A popular pebble beach with calm water, around 15 minutes' drive south of Vlora. It has a good choice of beach bars and seafood restaurants.

5. Orikum

A calm beach next to the marina and the ancient city of Oricum. It is a good base for speedboat trips to Karaburun.

Boat-only beaches (the best water)

6. Karaburun Peninsula coves

These are the crown jewels: pebble coves in the Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park with no road access. The water here is the clearest in the region. On our daily boat tour you spend about 3 hours at one of these beaches. Read the Karaburun guide.

7. Sazan Island

Small coves around Albania's largest island are perfect for a swim between exploring the bunkers. Sazan's history.

8. Grama Bay

On the far, open-sea side of Karaburun, with ancient inscriptions carved into the rocks. It is reachable by private boat on calm days.

Over the Llogara Pass (Albanian Riviera)

9. Dhërmi and Jalë

About 1 to 1.5 hours from Vlora over the spectacular Llogara Pass. You'll find white pebbles, bright blue water and a lively summer scene.

10. Gjipe

A beach in a canyon mouth, reached on foot (about 30 minutes) or by boat. It's one of the most beautiful beaches in Albania.

Quick tips

• Water shoes help on pebble beaches.
• Sunbeds are usually rented per set (two beds plus an umbrella). Bring cash.
• June and September have warm water and fewer people.
• For the clearest water with no driving, take a boat trip from Vlora port.