The picturesque village of Ksamil, nestled in the southern reaches of Albania, is a hidden gem that’s swiftly gaining fame – perhaps too swiftly. Its allure is undeniable: pristine white beaches caressed by the gentle waves of the Ionian Sea, framed by lush greenery, and dotted with ancient remnants that whisper tales of bygone eras. Established in the mid-20th century as a farming village, Ksamil boasts a prime location on a scenic peninsula between the Ionian Sea and the Butrint Lagoon, a brackish lagoon steeped in historical significance.
Over the centuries, Ksamil has been a coveted territory for various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Venetians, and Ottomans, each leaving its indelible mark on the landscape. Despite its rich history and natural splendor, Ksamil’s claim to fame now lies primarily in its stunning beaches, which have garnered widespread acclaim and drawn tourists from far and wide.
A postcard-perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation: pristine shores adorned with fine white sand, kissed by crystalline waters, mouthwatering seafood restaurants, and just offshore, three wooded islets tempting swimmers to brave the gentle currents and explore their verdant shores. Having explored every corner of Ksamil ourselves, we’re excited to share our insider tips and help you with authentic advice straight from the locals. From the best things to do and see to the most stunning beaches and delicious dining spots, we’ve got you covered.
What you will find in this travel guide to Ksamil:
Ksamil: Things to Know Before You Go
Ksamil is a small village along the stunning coastline of Southern Albania, just a short 15 km drive south from Saranda. Surrounded by a picturesque hilly landscape adorned with olive trees and small rural villages seemingly frozen in time, Ksamil was once a modest rural settlement primarily focused on lemon, mandarin, and olive cultivation. Today, it stands as one of Albania’s most renowned seaside resorts, experiencing a surge in popularity in recent years, and it’s not difficult to understand why.
Encompassing a stretch of the Ionian Sea renowned for its beauty, Ksamil boasts crystalline waters, sandy shores interspersed with delicate white pebbles, and a palette of aquamarine, turquoise and emerald hues that beckon sun-seekers year-round. With its burgeoning reputation, Ksamil has witnessed the emergence of quality beach facilities, boutique hotels and delectable seafood eateries dotting its coastline.
Moreover, its strategic location serves as a springboard for excursions to Southwest Albania’s most captivating attractions and to nearby Butrint, home to a UNESCO-listed archaeological park, a mere 17 km away. A stone’s throw from its famed beaches, including the famed Bora Bora Beach, lie three wooded islets — aptly named Ksamil Islands (Ishujt e Ksamilit) — accessible via boat, kayak or a leisurely swim.
Concealed amidst lush shrubbery, these islets harbor secluded beaches caressed by emerald waters, occasionally graced by playful dolphin pods. Ksamil’s picturesque setting is further accentuated by its placement between the Ionian Sea and the Butrint Lagoon, renowned for its avian diversity and mussel cultivation. Homes and hotels lining the western fringe of town afford unparalleled vistas of the sea and the iconic Ksamil Islands, while those on the eastern side offer panoramic views of the lagoon.
Located within eyeshot of the renowned Corfu island in Greece, Ksamil derives its name — meaning “six miles” — from its precise distance from its Hellenic neighbor. The proximity of Corfu, clearly visible from Ksamil’s shores, historically stirred apprehension within Albania’s communist regime, prompting heightened surveillance of the surrounding waters.
Today, regular ferry services ply between Corfu and Saranda, facilitating seamless travel for adventurers keen on further discovery. But in contrast to the glitzy summer retreats found on some of Greece’s well-known islands, Ksamil – despite its burgeoning popularity – retains an authentic charm and unpretentious ambiance, all at prices that won’t break the bank. However, don’t misconstrue this for dirt-cheap rates!
Accommodation rates in Ksamil rank among the highest in Albania. A key piece of advice is to plan ahead: the most desirable vacation rentals and seaside hotels in Ksamil are typically booked months in advance of the summer season!
Yet, amidst the growing influx of visitors, Ksamil grapples with the challenges of overtourism and unchecked development, threatening to overshadow its natural beauty. Despite its allure, the village struggles to accommodate the ever-increasing number of tourists who flock to its shores in search of an idyllic getaway.
While Ksamil continues to exude its authentic charm, there’s a sense of urgency to preserve its natural treasures for future generations to enjoy. As the world discovers the enchanting allure of Ksamil, the village stands at a crossroads, balancing its newfound fame with the need for sustainable tourism practices to safeguard its pristine beaches and cultural heritage for years to come. This is imperative for the preservation of the Albanian Riviera and its beaches, natural treasures imperiled by urbanization and disregard.
Ksamil: Reality vs Expectations
Ksamil isn’t a quaint seaside hamlet, but rather a typical village in southern Albania: concrete structures sprawl, accompanied by a proliferation of hotels and tourist amenities. Beaches become cramped in the peak of summer, chaos, blaring music and dust characterize Ksamil, and here the proverbial genuine Albanian hospitality isn’t always apparent: issues such as lack of foresight, discrimination, inflated prices for foreign visitors, and occasional unprofessional behavior can overshadow the experience.
However, simply venture away from the most touristy and crowded beaches, and you’ll uncover numerous exquisite coves, scenic vistas and natural wonders, showcasing a pristine sea and picturesque landscapes waiting to be explored. Yet, it’s essential to approach the journey with equanimity. Not everything here gleams flawlessly. Nevertheless, we’ve always appreciated the sea, the beaches and the leisurely strolls, avoiding overly touristy activities.
Best Beaches in Ksamil
Ksamil boasts its primary allure in the form of its breathtaking white beaches, which offer panoramic vistas of a pristine, crystal-clear sea. Among these, Bora Bora Beach and the neighboring Ksamil Beach (also known as Plazhi i Ksamilit) stand out prominently. With their shallow, transparent seabeds and the picturesque backdrop of the Ksamil Islands, these beaches exude a charm reminiscent of far-off paradises.
While Bora Bora Beach and Ksamil Beach are renowned and centrally located, drawing the most visitors, the surrounding region harbors a plethora of equally stunning alternatives. In fact, there’s no need to contend with crowds: numerous other beautiful beaches, including some public ones offering free access, dot the vicinity. These could be good alternatives for those — like us — who prefer to savor the beauty of Ksamil without jostling for space and without succumbing to the chaos and rudeness that often accompanies the most touristy places.
Bora Bora Beach Ksamil and Central Beach
The two most popular beaches in Ksamil are situated right in the heart of the village, just a short distance from the most frequented hotels. One is the central beach, aptly named Ksamil Beach (Plazhi Ksamilit), which stretches along the coastline from the north to a small promontory overlooking the three Ksamil Islands. It’s adorned with fine white pebbles and hosts numerous beach clubs and bars that offer rentals for umbrellas and sunbeds, as well as a variety of bars and restaurants with scenic sea views.
For those preferring a more sophisticated ambiance, Poda Beach, located adjacent to the Poda Boutique Hotel, provides a charming setting with vistas of the islets and crystal-clear waters. Although affiliated with the hotel, this beach club welcomes non-guests with prior reservations. Prices for amenities, such as an umbrella and two sunbeds, typically range from 1000 to 3000 LEK, but can increase during peak seasons. It’s worth noting that often there’s no official price list, and especially in high season rates may go up significantly, sometimes reaching 4000 LEK or more, which is somewhat overpriced. This is common across all beaches in Ksamil.
Further south, across from the promontory, lies Bora Bora Beach, famed for its white sand and pristine waters. It’s worth noting that in Albania the fine sand is not natural, it’s an artificial addition to enhance the beach’s attractiveness. Almost all the beaches along the Ionian coast consist of fine pebbles and rocks.
So when you visit Ksamil, keep in mind that while it’s beautiful, it’s also partially a man-made fake! Popular among both locals and tourists, this beach boasts a lively beach bar and offers various services, including umbrella and sunbed rentals, as well as jet ski and boat rentals. At the small pier located at the far end, boats regularly shuttle visitors between the coast and the surrounding islets.
If you get hungry or would like a refreshing drink, the options around vary in quality: some places are okay, while others are real overpriced tourist traps. Among the places we tried and enjoyed were Kristal Seafood Restaurant, Guvat Bar Restorant, and Restaurant Panorama. For a seafood indulgence, consider visiting Ftelea Fish Taverna — a good and unpretentious spot in the village, one of our favorites — or Kristal, situated along the coastline.
Tre Ishujt Beach
Situated between Ksamil Beach and Bora Bora Beach, Tre Ishujt Beach — or the three islets — graces the tip of the promontory. Its name aptly reflects its location, nestled in front of the renowned Ksamil Islands. The proximity to the smallest islet, a mere 20 meters away at its closest point, distinguishes this beach. Even the farthest islet is just 150 meters distant.
Renowned for being one of the most beautiful, Tre Ishujt stands out also as the most coveted beach in Ksamil, attracting a constant influx of visitors. Expect crowds drawn by its unparalleled view. Similar to neighboring beaches, Tre Ishujt boasts white sands and offers amenities like sunbed and umbrella rentals.
However, prices tend to be slightly higher, averaging around 2500-3000 LEK for an umbrella and two sunbeds. Patrons of the private beach enjoy private parking, if available — a rarity in the area — as well as shower and restroom facilities. Several bars and restaurants dot the vicinity, some offering sea views.
Ksamil Islands
Located near the coastline, the three Ksamil Islands are easily accessible via various watercraft such as boats, kayaks, jet skis, or pedal boats. The closest island is predominantly rocky, with a small accessible beach along its coastline, reachable by a short swim from Tre Ishujt Beach. Among the islands, the furthest one stands out for its picturesque white beach and notably pristine waters, abundantly surpassing those of the Ksamil beaches.
Reaching the furthest island is achievable within minutes by pedal boat or by availing oneself of the frequent taxi boat services departing from coastal beaches. Round-trip fares range approximately between €10 and €20 per person, although caution is advised as some operators may attempt to overcharge. Approaching the island, it may appear as if two distinct land masses are present, thus earning the moniker “Ksamil Twin Islands“, interconnected by a narrow pebble isthmus, albeit geologically forming a single entity.
Upon arrival, visitors encounter a sizable white pebble beach, typically occupied by rental umbrellas, sunbeds, and a modest makeshift bar. Despite the allure of tranquility, the beach often experiences significant crowds, particularly during peak seasons from July to August.
Unfortunately, this is another of those places that suffers enormous damage due to overtourism and the bad attitude of people: the nature of the place is incredibly beautiful, as is the sea, but it will not be difficult for you to see litter everywhere in the surroundings, old umbrellas, and rusty iron popping up everywhere. This is another sign of how this place deserves more effort to be preserved and not become a tourist money-maker.
Beyond their natural beauty, the Ksamil Islands hold a notable anecdote from Albania’s communist era. During this period of isolation, the regime enforced strict restrictions, deeming the islands too proximate to Corfu and consequently off-limits to visitors, including locals.
However, the regime exploited the islands for productivity, establishing a government-controlled plantation of medicinal herbs and farming deer and goats. Accessibility to the Ksamil Islands was reinstated only following the collapse of the communist regime in the 1990s. Presently, the islands are safeguarded as a national monument, symbolizing a significant chapter in Albania’s history.
Pulebardha Beach
The Pulëbardha Beach is situated just north of the town (map) and also known as Seagull Beach or Mirror Beach for its crystalline waters. Nestled along the coastline, this narrow stretch of white pebbles stands as one of Ksamil’s picturesque coastal gems. It can be reached with a short detour from SH81, the primary route to Saranda, by driving for a few hundred meters along a dirt road.
The beach, though not expansive, boasts stunning views of a crystal-clear sea, but during the summer months tends to get crowded. There is a small free area, mainly nestled between the rocks, while the rest is dotted with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent on-site, typically priced between 1500-2000 LEK.
You can leave your car in a large car park nearby, there will probably be someone who will ask you for a modest parking fee (around 100 LEK). Furthermore, there is also a quaint restaurant perched along the shoreline that offers a delightful reprieve, allowing guests to savor local cuisine amidst a backdrop of sea vistas.
Shpella, Pëllumbave and Pasqyra Beaches
Other beautiful beaches can be found just north of Ksamil and Pulëbardha Beach: Shpella, Pëllumbave and Pasqyra Beaches are small bays overlooking a wonderfully crystal-clear sea, set in a beautiful natural landscape. Until a few years ago, they were frequented almost exclusively by locals, but now they are no longer a secret. During peak season, these beaches can also get crowded, although compared to their counterparts in Ksamil, they tend to be a little quieter.
Accessing Shpella and Pëllumbave Beach requires navigating rugged terrain. One of the most popular routes is a rough dirt road branching from the vicinity of Pulëbardha Beach, but it poses challenges for vehicles with low ground clearance. Alternatively, a longer but smoother path, accessible to all vehicles, diverges from SH81, following the road that also leads to Pasqyra Beach.
You can park on-site (typically for a fee of 300-400 LEK) and descend to the beach via a steep concrete and rock staircase. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent. Continuing northward from Shpella and Pëllumbave, the same road grants access to Pasqyra Beach, easily reachable by car, and Edon-Bina Beach, a charming cove best accessed on foot due to rough terrain. Pasqyra Beach offers amenities such as umbrella and sunbed rentals, alongside a quaint bar-restaurant.
The vicinity surrounding these beaches hosts a variety of guesthouses and holiday accommodations, offering a quieter alternative to the bustling Ksamil. Notable options include Santa Oliva Suites, Illyrian Paradise, Sea & Lake View Villa, Vila Pasqyra, Villa Ermali, Villa Merka and Grand Seaview Apartments, making it a favored destination for those seeking tranquility without sacrificing comfort.
Monastery Beach (Plazhi i Manastirit)
Nestled along the picturesque coastline north of Ksamil, the “Beach of the Monastery” lies just north of Pulebardha Beach, along the SH81 road leading to Saranda. Once renowned as one of the area’s most beautiful beaches, a visit to the beach today reveals a large construction site, where a modern and luxurious residence is being built in place of the beach. Though Monastery Beach may no longer be accessible, you can easily reach the old Kisha e Shen Gjergjit Monastery atop the hill with a 30-minute hike (map).
Dedicated to St. George, this 17th-century monastery presents a fascinating sight, boasting authentic and well-preserved architecture that reflects its rich history. Initially the sole structure on the Ksamil peninsula, it stood south of the ancient village of Agioi Saranta, now Saranda. The monastery’s intriguing history includes its conversion into a military fort during the secularization under the communist regime. Returned to the Autocephalous Orthodox Church of Albania in the early 2000s, it has since undergone restoration efforts to preserve its authentic features.
If fortunate enough to find the monastery open, explore its courtyard and interiors, now housing recently restored ancient frescoes. Sadly, despite restoration, the frescoes have suffered significant damage from years of neglect and abandonment. Apart from its historical significance, enjoy panoramic views of the sea and the coastline towards Ksamil. Keep an eye out for remnants of the communist era along the way.
Pema and Thatë Beach
Another beautiful Ksamil beach is located approximately 6 km south from the town centre, along a quiet stretch of coastline which has become popular thanks to a beach club that has sprung up on Pema and Thatë Beach, which was once a cherished spot for locals but has now gained widespread fame through the glossy photos shared on social media by the numerous visitors who flock here every summer.
This is definitely one of the most Instagrammable beaches in Ksamil: it features nets above the sea, canopies in the water and a bar with a spectacular view of the beach and the sea. However, it is also one of the most touristy and expensive beaches in Ksamil. Despite its relatively small size, Pema e Thatë attracts a steady stream of visitors who come to enjoy the pristine, azure waters. Facilities include a bar, a modest eatery, and rentals for sunbeds, canopies, and umbrellas, with prices ranging from 1000 to 3000 LEK. For a unique experience, canopies over the sea are available for around 7000 LEK.
Accessing the beach by car is possible by following a route south from Ksamil. While the final stretch involves a dirt road, it is suitable for vehicles of all types. From the shores, the outline of the neighboring Corfu Island is clearly visible against the horizon, marking the closest point where Albania shares its proximity with the Greek island. The road to Pema and Thatë starts in the southern part of Ksamil, near some of the best hotels and accommodations, such as Rida Village Ksamil Island, Hotel Olive Ksamil and Hotel Luxury. Additionally, there are nice beaches in this area, which are less crowded compared to those near the Ksamil Islands.
Other Beautiful Beaches in Ksamil
There are numerous beaches around Ksamil, and most of them are easily accessible by car. Just a few steps west of Bora Bora Beach lie several great beaches, including Fladeno Beach, Paradise Beach (Plazhi Paradise), and Lori Beach. Here, the sea is shallow, and it’s never too windy because the beach is protected by the cliffs. To the north of Ksamil, there are many other less touristy but equally beautiful beaches, such as Gjiri i Hartes Beach and Edon-Bina Beach, both situated in some of the most scenic areas of Ksamil.
Best Things to Do & See in Ksamil
Butrint
Beyond the beaches, the main attractions of Ksamil are the Butrint Archaeological Park and the Butrint Lagoon, a large brackish lagoon formed by the waters of the Ionian Sea. The sea flows into the lagoon through the Vivari Channel, located near the ancient town. Butrint, situated 17 km south of Ksamil, held significance as a city in Epirus during Ancient Greece, later evolving into a prominent Roman colony.
It boasts an intriguing Byzantine past and a tumultuous history during the Middle Ages. The Venetians used the port of Butrint and the lagoon as a refuge for their fleet, while under Ottoman rule, it transformed into a fortified citadel.
Visiting the Butrint Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — you can admire the ruins of this ancient town, including remnants of Roman palaces, an amphitheater, and temples. The site features structures from various eras, such as a basilica, a theater and an early Christian baptistery. Plan for a 2-3 hour visit.
Today, remnants of the Venetian Triangular Castle, once part of Butrint’s port fortifications, are still visible. Additionally, on a small island at the mouth of the Vivari Channel stands a formidable Ottoman fortress, the Ali Pasha’s Castle, accessible only via boat tour: the boatmen sell their services around the parking lot of the archaeological park of Butrint. The price is around € 20 per boat.
Blue Eye
The Blue Eye, known locally as Syri i Kalter, is an extraordinary spring renowned for its vibrant colors and unique shape. Nestled in the countryside of southwestern Albania, approximately 35 km north of Ksamil (map), this spring boasts crystal-clear, pristine water that gives rise to a breathtaking lake. The Blue Eye’s source is celebrated for its deep blue hue, which gradually transitions to turquoise and green along its periphery, resembling the iris of an eye. While its exact depth remains unknown, locals speculate it to be over 100 meters deep.
The water temperature is around 10 degrees, but it was once quite common to see people diving into it. However, swimming or diving here is now officially forbidden. To reach the Blue Eye from Ksamil, follow the signs for Gjirokaster. The Blue Eye is situated not far from the village of Muzinë, enveloped by a stunning natural park. You can park your car at the park entrance and then walk a couple of kilometers to reach the spring. Numerous restaurants and picnic spots are available in the vicinity.
Saranda
Saranda is a modern city with a vibrant nightlife, offering a plethora of bars, restaurants and hotels for visitors to choose from. The city also boasts a wide range of supermarkets and shops, making it a convenient option for grocery shopping at normal prices. A leisurely stroll along the picturesque promenade is the perfect way to take in the stunning views and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
One of the main draws of Saranda is its close proximity to Ksamil, located just 15 kilometers away. Many people choose to stay in hotels in Saranda and then go to the beach in Ksamil. However, due to Ksamil’s recent massive popularity, it may be difficult to secure a room during peak travel seasons. In this case, staying in Saranda and taking a short trip to Ksamil for a day at the beach can be a smart choice.
Best Hotels & Apartments in Ksamil
Are you planning your trip to Ksamil? Then here you can find a useful guide to the best hotels in Ksamil: honest reviews, rates and useful information. You will find a selection of the best places to stay, suitable for every budget: from fabulous resorts with sea views, to budget hotels with unbeatable value for money. Discover the best options, how to find the best rates and tips to better plan your trip!
☞ THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO THE BEST HOTELS IN KSAMIL
Best Places to Eat in Ksamil
Ksamil is a veritable paradise for seafood enthusiasts. Along its beaches and within the town center, one can discover numerous restaurants boasting Italian-inspired Mediterranean cuisine. These dining establishments predominantly feature an array of fish dishes, encompassing pasta, risotto, as well as grilled or fried fish, complemented by refreshing salads.
Renowned for its mussels, the Butrint Lagoon is home to many eateries offering delectable mussel-based delicacies. Among these, the Mussel House Restaurant stands out, situated 4km north of Ksamil’s center. With its picturesque vista overlooking the lagoon, lucky patrons seated on the terrace can relish a splendid dinner accompanied by captivating views. While the house specialty is undeniably mussels, the menu also boasts a variety of other seafood delicacies, ideally paired with a glass of fine local wine.
Within the town center, several noteworthy seafood restaurants provide pasta and grilled or fried fish at reasonable prices. Ftelea Fish Taverna and Bar Restorant Luna are particularly favored among locals, offering scrumptious fare within a relaxed and welcoming ambiance. For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, Ostro Beach Bar & Restaurant, Guvat Bar Restorant and Restaurant Panorama present excellent options.
Cook your own meals
When visiting Ksamil, renting an apartment with a fully equipped kitchen is a popular choice, especially for families. Cooking your own meals can be an excellent way to save money while savoring the local cuisine. Fortunately, Ksamil offers an array of fresh and affordable ingredients, including quality fish, seafood and local specialties.
For purchasing freshly caught local fish, head to the Local Fish Market located just north of Ksamil (map). The market boasts a variety of fish and seafood at reasonable prices, making it an ideal spot to gather ingredients for your home-cooked meals.
In the heart of Ksamil, several supermarkets offer all the essentials needed to prepare a delicious meal or host a barbecue. Some popular options include Supermarket Gjordeni, Supermarket Alfa and Big Market. However, it’s worth noting that prices at these supermarkets are slightly higher than the Albanian standard.
How to Get to Ksamil
Ksamil is located along the Albanian Riviera and the SH81 road connects it with Saranda and Greece. The best way to get to Ksamil is with your own car, which also allows you to better explore the beautiful surroundings. You can rent a car in Saranda or any major city in Albania. You can check the rates and find honest, reliable and cheap car rentals on Rentalcars.com or Discovercars.com. Book early to secure a car and get a better rate.
HOW TO GET TO KSAMIL FROM CORFU
Ksamil and Butrint are easily accessible from Corfu, making them popular destinations for visitors to this scenic corner of Albania. Many choose to explore these areas during their stay in Corfu due to the simplicity and affordability of the journey. Frequent ferry connections operate from the port of Corfu to Saranda. Fast ferries make the crossing in approximately 30 minutes, while slower car ferries take around 1.5 hours. Ticket prices typically start at €20, with at least four ferry departures daily during the summer months.
Travelers planning to reach Ksamil by plane can fly to Corfu and then take a ferry to Saranda before continuing on to Ksamil. This route is often more economical than flying to Tirana and then traveling the 280 km distance to Ksamil. Additionally, ferry services connect Brindisi (Italy) and Igoumenitsa (Greece) with Saranda, providing alternative routes to reach the region.
From Saranda, you can rent a car or take a bus to Ksamil. During the summer, buses (tickets: 100 LEK) depart at least once every hour from near the port of Saranda, close to Rruga Jonianet and Rruga Mitat Hoxha, bound for Butrint. These buses pass through Ksamil and stop conveniently in the town center, although they may become crowded during peak season.
