10 Best Himarë Beaches: Local Tips & Hidden Gems
Himarë beaches are some of the best in Albania, with clear blue water, stunning coastal hikes, and a laid-back local vibe. While still somewhat off the beaten path for casual visitors, it won’t stay that way for long.
This seaside town is a favorite of ours and among travelers who know Albania well. Himarë offers fresh seafood, friendly locals, and a more relaxed feel than busier spots like Sarandë.
We’ve visited multiple times and put together this detailed guide to Himarë’s beaches, plus insider tips to help you make the most of your trip.
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Where is Himarë Beach?
Himarë Beach sits on the stunning Albanian Riviera in Southern Albania.
Just north of the ever-popular Sarandë, Himarë is a bit of a hidden gem – quieter, more relaxed, and with a distinctly local vibe compared to the busier beaches down south.
But don’t let the laid-back atmosphere fool you – the beaches in Himarë are just as breathtaking (if not better).
Map of Himarë Beaches
We’ll go into detail about each of the Himarë beaches below, but here’s a map to get you familiar with the area.
- The purple icons are beaches you can easily walk to from Himarë.
- The orange icons are beaches within an hours walk from Himarë.
- The green icons are beaches best reached with a car.
- The blue icon is a beach only accessible by boat.
Beaches in Walking Distance of Himarë
Spile Beach (Himarë Beach) – Right in the City Center
This is the main beach in Himarë and the easiest to get to. It’s got everything – restaurants, beach bars, sunbeds, and shops selling whatever you forgot to pack.
Expect a lively scene, especially in peak season, when music and people-watching opportunities are in full swing.
Prinos Beach – 10-15 Minute Walk
A short stroll from Spile Beach, Prinos Beach offers a much calmer vibe. It’s still close to town, but you’ll have fewer crowds and gentler waves.
Consider this a secondary city center beach.
Potami Beach – 15-20 Minute Walk
Similar to Prinos Beach but with a few more restaurants and cafés nearby. If you’re looking for an easy-to-reach beach that still feels peaceful, Potami Beach is a great choice.
Beaches a Short Walk from Himarë
Livadhi Beach – 45-Minute to 1-Hour Walk
Livadhi Beach is rockier than Spile Beach, but it makes up for it with clear blue water and fewer crowds.
One thing to note – the shallow area drops off pretty quickly, so be mindful while swimming. If you’re walking here, download Maps.me because the trail doesn’t always show up on Google Maps.
TOP TIP: The -dh- in Albanian is pronounced like a soft “th.” So it’s Lee-va-thee Beach if you need to ask for directions!
Aquarium Beach (Gjiri i Akuariumit) – 20-30 Minutes from Livadhi Beach
A small, secluded beach that’s a favorite among locals in the summer. It’s a bit of a walk, but if you want to escape the crowds, it’s well worth it.
TOP TIP: Gjiri means beach or bay in Albanian. If you see it on Google Maps, check it out – there are plenty of hidden beaches along the Albanian Riviera waiting to be explored.
Beaches a Short Drive from Himarë
Jale Beach – 25-Minute Drive
If you’re looking for a party scene, this is the place. Jale Beach has bars, music, and a fun atmosphere, but it’s not really our vibe.
With so many other beaches to explore, we usually skip this one in favor of quieter spots.
Borsh Beach – 30-Minute Drive
Borsh Beach has one of the longest shorelines in Albania, which means you’ll always find space to spread out.
There are some amenities here, but it’s much less developed than Jale Beach. If you’re making the trip, stop by Borsh Castle on the way – Albania is full of amazing castles, and this one is worth a visit.
Entry to the castle is free.
Dhërmi Beach – 30-Minute Drive
Dhërmi Beach isn’t the sleepy beach town we first visited in 2018 – it’s much more developed now, with restaurants, bars, and a lively atmosphere.
The views here are incredible – mountains behind you and crystal clear, blue water in front.
TOP TIP: Cherry season in Albania is in June, and the country’s sour cherries are the perfect beach snack. If you see them at a market, grab some – they’re seriously next level.
The beach itself is made up of tiny, smooth pebbles (great because they don’t stick to everything), but the water can be rocky, so we recommend bringing water shoes for comfort.
If you want to stay the night in Dhërmi, check out Dagos Rooms for a local budget apartment or Casa Boha for a resort close to the beach.
Gjipe Beach – 40-Minute Drive (Our Favorite!)
This is hands down one of the best beaches in Himarë. You can reach it by car (there’s a small parking fee of €3-5), by bus, or even by boat.
If you’re driving or taking the bus, you’ll need to hike about 30 minutes down a trail to reach the beach, so bring everything you need for the day – there are no shops down there.
➡️ Related: Love a hike? Check out Theth – the start of the best trek in Albania!
If you love off-the-beaten-path spots, this is the one. There’s even a camping area if you want to spend the night.
Getting Around Albania by Car
If you want to visit the beaches beyond walking distance, you’ll need to rent a car.
🚘⭐ We rent through Discover Cars when we travel.
Just be warned – driving outside of Himarë means winding mountain roads, speedy Albanian drivers, and the occasional hairpin turn that will keep you on your toes.
Himarë Beaches Only Accessible by Boat
Grama Bay
If you’re up for an adventure, Grama Bay is one of the most breathtaking beaches in Albania. The water is ridiculously blue, and the rocky shoreline makes it feel untouched.
You can hire a private boat in Himarë or book a boat tour to get here – the latter is usually the easiest option.
🚨 These tours sell out in the high season! Book your National Park and Grama Bay tour early so you don’t miss out! 🚨
Tips for Visiting Beaches in Himarë
- Renting a Car Makes Things Easier – If you want to explore beyond the beaches in Himarë that are within walking distance, renting a car is your best bet. Buses do run between beach towns, but if you’re planning a round trip in one day, it can be a bit of a hassle.
- Tourism in Albania is still developing – While the country is gaining popularity, the infrastructure isn’t always as polished as in other European destinations. Public transport can be slow, schedules unpredictable, and prices inconsistent – especially for tourists. Go in with the right expectations, and you’ll have a much better experience.
- Cash is Queen – Albania is still very cash-based, especially in smaller beach towns. You’ll need cash for parking, sunbeds, and sometimes even restaurants. There’s an ATM in Himarë, so grab what you need before heading out for the day.
- Off-Season = Fewer Crowds, But Fewer Amenities – Visiting in the off-season can be great, but be prepared. Many beach bars, restaurants, and even bus routes don’t open until June. If you’re coming in spring, bring your own food and drinks to the beach just in case.
- Water Shoes are a Lifesaver – Most beaches in Himarë are rocky, not sandy. A good pair of water shoes will make getting in and out of the water much more comfortable. We pack our waterproof Tevas for every trip for situations like this.
- Keep an Eye on Your Stuff – Petty theft isn’t a huge problem, but it happens. Either don’t bring anything valuable to the beach or have someone keep an eye on your things while you swim.
- Albanian hospitality is unmatched – Locals are incredibly welcoming, generous, and happy to help – even if there’s a language barrier. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to ask. It helps to download Albanian on Google Translate for quick communication when needed.
When is the Best Time to Visit Himarë Beaches?
The best time to visit is June through September, but this is also the busiest (and hottest) time.
Albanian summers are no joke, and if you don’t snag a sunbed with an umbrella early, you might find yourself baking on a rocky beach (up to you if that’s a positive, or not).
We visited Himarë in both late May and late September, and both were great – just with different vibes.
- Late May: Expect mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and a chance of rain. If you love the beach but don’t necessarily need to swim, this is a great time to visit.
- September to Early October: The water is still warm from summer, but the August crowds have cleared out. If you want the best mix of good weather, warm water, and fewer tourists, this is the time to go.
TOP TIP: Schools in Albania start the first week of September. If you visit after that, you’ll dodge peak-season prices, crowds, and the worst of the summer heat.
Where to Stay in Himarë
Himarë might be small, but it has a surprisingly wide range of places to stay. Whether you’re after a hassle-free camping experience or a bit of luxury, these are our top picks.
Budget Stays
Sea Cave Camping – Affordable & Sea Views – 🏆 OUR PICK
This is hands down one of our favorite places we’ve ever stayed – anywhere, ever.
Perched on a rugged ocean cliff, Sea Cave Camping offers pre-set tents with everything you need – sleeping mats, sheets, blankets, and pillows all included.
But the real highlight? Waking up, unzipping your tent, and being greeted by endless ocean views – for around $15 USD per night (give or take, depending on the season).
⛺ Check availability and lock in your tent today ➡
This is such a good deal, especially with Albania becoming more expensive every season.
The campground has a basic kitchen if you want to cook, and you can jump straight into the sea from the cliffs – arguably the best way to wake up.
The owner is also incredibly kind and helpful, even going as far as texting his bus driver friend to make sure we got on the right route.
🌊 Sea Cave Camping books up fast in high season, so if you want to stay here, lock in your spot as soon as you know your dates! 🏕️
Himara Hostel – Social vibes & Great Location
If you’re traveling on a budget but prefer a traditional bed over a tent, Himara Hostel is the spot for you. It’s one of those hostels that just attracts good, chill people – you know the vibe.
The staff are incredibly welcoming, the rooms and kitchen are clean, and it strikes the perfect balance between social and relaxed – not a party hostel, but still a great place to meet fellow travelers.
If you’re looking for a hostel in Himarë, this is our top pick.
TOP TIP: Himarë is well serviced, with a grocery store, pharmacy, library, etc. for anything you need to buy. If you’re on a budget, you can easily buy affordable food to cook with at the shops here.
Mid-Range Stay
Natasha Rooms – Private Space & Sea Views
If you’ve got a bit more room in your budget, Natasha Rooms is our top pick for a mid-range stay in Himarë.
You’ll be close to the town center but still get beautiful sea views from the apartment. Plus, you’ll have a private kitchen and balcony, making it perfect for relaxing in the morning and evening.
A slightly higher budget than our budget recommendations gets you a private room and bathroom – a great balance of comfort and affordability.
Luxury Stay
Rea Boutique Hotel – Beachfront Luxury Resort
If you’re looking for a true beach resort vacation in Himarë, the gorgeous Rea Boutique Hotel is the best place to stay.
The resort is literally right on Himarë Beach and offers free beach towels and water for you to take down to the shore each day.
The owners are incredibly accommodating and happy to help with anything during your stay.
Every room comes with a balcony, but only some have sea views. If you want to wake up to ocean views, book early to secure one of these rooms!
How to Get to Himarë
Renting a Car
The best way to explore Albania – especially the more off-the-beaten-path spots – is by car. You’ll save time and have way more freedom to visit beaches and villages that buses don’t reach.
We rent through Discover Cars when we travel.
That said, driving in Albania isn’t for the faint of heart. Expect winding mountain roads, speedy locals taking corners like they’re in a rally race, and the occasional cow wandering into traffic.
If that sounds like an adventure rather than a nightmare, then go for it!
Taking the Bus to Himarë
Buses to all major Albanian cities stop in Himarë regularly. The best way to check routes is on Gjirafa Travel.
If you’re traveling between June and September (high season), the schedules listed there should be accurate.
Outside of these months, bus times can be more flexible, so check with your accommodation for the latest updates.
🚍🚍 Many bus companies post their schedules on signs around town. If you have questions about a specific route, look for a phone number on the sign or office door – most bus operators use WhatsApp and will reply to messages in English. Find more bus travel advice here.
Tirana to Himarë Bus
Buses to Tirana leave Himarë multiple times a day. The ride will take around 4 hours and cost around €10 (1,000 LEK).
Traveling around Albania? Check out our 2 week Albania itinerary. ⛰🌞🏖
Sarande to Himarë Bus
Many buses a day go between Sarande and Himarë as well. The ride is much shorter, at 1.5 hours and should cost around €6 (600 LEK).
Keep in mind there is sometimes “tourist pricing,” so don’t be surprised if you pay a few Euros more or less.
🚍🚍 Albanians have mastered the art of the pre-bus macchiato. Many locals arrive 30 minutes early, claim their seat with a bag or sweater, then head off for a coffee. If you want a good seat, do the same! Click here for more bus travel tips.
Leaving Himarë
Himarë to Berat
To travel from Himarë to Berat, you’ll need to take the bus heading toward Tirana. When the attendant comes around to collect your fare, tell him you’re going to Berat. The fare should be around €6 (600 LEK).
🚏 The bus doesn’t go directly to Berat, so you’ll be dropped off on the side of a round-about at the turn-off to Berat.
Yes, you’ll literally be standing on the side of the road waiting for a bus. It might sound sketchy, but this is totally normal in Albania. Just wait a bit, and a bus to Berat will show up.
There will likely be other travelers doing the same thing and locals waiting as well. Once we got on the second bus, our driver took us all the way into Old Town Berat.
But if you are dropped off at the bus station, you can just hop on the next local green bus into town (they come every 10 minutes or so) for .30 cents.
This route took us around 4 hours in total, including the 15 minutes spent waiting for our second bus.
👉 Read everything you need to know about visiting Berat here! 👈
Himarë to Ksamil
There are no direct buses from Himarë to Ksamil. You will have to get a bus from Ksamil to Sarandë for €1.5 (150 LEK) then a second bus from Sarandë to Himarë for €6 (600 LEK).
In total, the trip should take around 2.5 or 3 hours.
What to Pack for Himarë Beaches
A trip to Himarë honestly isn’t too different from any other beach vacation. While Albania is a bit more conservative than other European coastal countries, you can pretty much wear whatever you’d like here.
These are a few things we’d recommend packing, just to make your trip easier:
- Sunscreen – It’s a bit pricier in Albania with less variety. You’re better off bringing it from home.
- Small backpack that you can hike with to the beach. We’ve used this one for the past 7 years (so durable!).
- Power bank – You don’t want to get lost on a coastal walk with no phone battery!
- Water Shoes – The beaches can be super rocky here and it’s just more comfortable to wear shoes. We always travel with these ones.
Other Things To Do in Himarë
Take a Boat Tour from Himarë
The best way to explore the beaches in Himarë? By boat. There are so many little hidden coves with crystal-clear water where you won’t see another soul.
You can book a tour in advance, or just wander down to the waterfront and look for tour signs – plenty of operators advertise trips right on the promenade.
🚨 There are not many pre-organized tours, so they sell out in the high season! Book your boat tour early so you don’t miss out! 🚨
Visit Himarë Castle
For a mix of history and views, head up to Himarë Castle, which sits on a hill overlooking the town.
The hike takes about an hour up and 40 minutes down, and depending on the day, entry might be €3 (300 LEK) – or completely free if no one is manning the gate.
The castle itself is mostly in ruins now, but it dates back to ancient times and was later used as a fortress during the Ottoman era.
Even though it’s crumbling, the views of the coastline from the top are absolutely worth the effort.
Xhiro
A xhiro (pronounced jeer-o) is the ultimate Albanian evening tradition.
Every night, people take a slow stroll down the main street – not to go anywhere in particular, but just to be out and about. It’s a time to chat, sip a drink, grab an ice cream, and catch up with family and friends.
When in Albania, do as the locals do!
Kayaking and SUP in Himarë
Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) and explore Himarë’s stunning coastline on your own. Rentals are easy to find from vendors along the shore, usually costing around €10 for a few hours.
TOP TIP: Keep an eye on the weather. If the wind picks up, the sea can get surprisingly rough – better to stay close to shore than end up battling waves!
Eat Amazing Albanian Dishes
The Albanian Riviera is famous for its fresh seafood, and Himarë is no exception.
From grilled fish straight from the morning’s catch to rich, savory pies (burek), the local food scene is well worth exploring. Make sure to try these dishes during your stay!
FAQs About Himarë Beaches
Where is the Albanian Riviera?
The Albanian Riviera stretches along the southern coast of Albania, from Vlorë to Ksamil, with Himarë sitting right in the middle.
This region is known for its stunning beaches, dramatic mountains, and crystal-clear waters – without the overdevelopment of other Mediterranean hotspots (for now!).
Is Himarë Worth Visiting if I Don’t Have a Car?
Absolutely, we did just that! While having a car makes it easier to reach more remote beaches, many of Himarë’s best beaches are walkable from town.
You can also take buses, taxis, or boat tours to get around.
Which is Better: Dhërmi or Himarë?
It depends on what you’re looking for!
Himarë is more relaxed and local, with a mix of quiet beaches, small guesthouses, and a laid-back vibe.
Dhërmi has more nightlife, bigger beach clubs, and a slightly more upscale atmosphere.
If you want beach bars and a lively scene, go for Dhërmi. If you prefer a chill, authentic coastal town, Himarë is the better pick.
Which Part of Albania Has the Best Beaches?
This part! The stretch of coast from Dhërmi to Himarë has some of the most beautiful and least crowded beaches in the country.
After traveling all over Albania – and talking to plenty of locals – we can confidently say this is the best region for beach lovers.
Are the Beaches in Himarë Sandy or Rocky?
Most beaches around Himarë have small pebbles rather than soft sand.
Some, like Livadhi Beach, have larger rocks, while others, like Dhërmi Beach, have finer pebbles that brush right off when you stand up. We recommend bringing water shoes for extra comfort.
When is the Best Time to Visit Himarë Beaches?
The best months to visit are June through September, with September being the sweet spot – warm water, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
If you visit in May or October, you’ll still find beautiful weather, but some restaurants and guesthouses may be closed.
Is the Water Warm Enough to Swim?
Yes! The Ionian Sea stays warm well into October, thanks to the hot Albanian summers.
In May and early June, the water can be a little chilly, but it’s still swimmable – just more refreshing!
Ready to get planning your stay on the Albanian Riviera? These itineraries both include stops in beautiful Himarë:-
🌞 Spend 7 days in the South of Albania
🌍 Enjoy the best of Albania in 10 Days
