Beach Water Quality in Albania – The 2025 Rankings

Albania has some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, and the latest European Environmental Authority (EEA) water quality data confirms they’re great for swimming.

Here’s a guide to all the beaches you should visit in Albania in 2025 based on their water quality and unique features.

Beaches with Excellent Water Quality in Albania

Dhërmi (South Albania)

Image source: Unsplash  Excellent water quality in Albania, Dhërmi

Dhërmi is one of the most visited beaches in Albania, loved by both locals and tourists who choose to visit this destination every summer. The water is clean, crystal clear, and perfect for a refreshing swim.

From Dhërmi, you can also visit other spots nearby, such as Himara, Vlora, Gjipe Beach (people usually go camping here during summer, and it’s a lot of fun!).

In Dhërmi, there are plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood and drinks while taking in stunning views. Just keep in mind that prices here are on the higher side.

Gjiri i Lalzit (North Albania)

Gjiri i Lalzit, or the Bay of Lalzi, is a large bay on the Adriatic Sea, not far from Tirana. It’s a popular spot for families and friends looking for an easy beach getaway. The beach is convenient, with plenty of nearby restaurants and accommodations to fit all budgets. While the water is good for swimming, it’s not as clear as the beaches in southern Albania, and the area can get crowded, especially during summer.

Himara (South Albania)

Himara is one of my favourite villages in Albania, known for its excellent water quality and relaxed, family-friendly vibe. It’s surrounded by nature and small villages, you can explore. You’ll find some cosy tavernas in the area, serving delicious Albanian food, but also other spots like “Pastaria” and “Proper Pizza”, which are known brands in Tirana.

Jalë (South Albania)

Jale Beach is a favourite destination on Albania’s southern coast, just a short drive from the village of Vuno. The beach stands out for its clean waters and soft sand. It’s especially popular among campers, with many setting up tents under the shade of olive trees near the shore.

Palasë (South Albania)

Palasë is a quiet village on the Albanian Riviera, close to the Llogara Pass. Its beach is spacious, with clear water and smooth pebbles. The surrounding hills and olive trees make the view even better, and it’s a good place to start exploring the coast.

Livadh (South Albania)

Livadh is just a 6-minute drive from Tirana, and it’s a perfect destination if you’re looking for a quiet, family-friendly beach. The water is calm, and there are a few local restaurants nearby where you can grab a meal after your swim.

Sarandë (South Albania)

Saranda is one of the top beaches in Albania, loved particularly by expats who live there and tourists who’ve explored it. It’s home to some great beaches and lots of restaurants and bars along the promenade. It’s also a good base for exploring nearby places like Ksamil or the ancient site of Butrint. That said, it’s become a very popular tourist destination, so it can get quite crowded during the summer months.

Talë (North Albania)

Tale is a lesser-known beach in Lezhë County, but it’s clean, quiet, and great if you want a peaceful day by the sea.  Over the years, the area has attracted more visitors thanks to the growth of small hotels and other accommodations. It’s a good option for those looking for a more low-key coastal destination without the crowds found in bigger tourist spots.

Tushemisht (Southeastern Albania)

Tushemisht is a village in Pogradec, located on the shores of Lake Ohrid. It’s not a major tourist destination, but if you enjoy swimming in a lake, it’s worth a visit. It doesn’t have quite the same vibe as a beach, but it’s still a great way to cool off if you’re in Pogradec during the summer.

Velipoja (Northwestern Albania)

Velipoja is a large sandy beach with plenty of space to spread out. The water quality is excellent, and if you’re into nature, the nearby reserves are a nice bonus.

Beaches with Good Water Quality in Albania

Borsh (South Albania)

Borsh is a long stretch of coastline (between Himara and Saranda) surrounded by olive trees. The water is clean and calm, it’s less crowded than other beaches, and the nearby restaurants serve delicious, traditional Albanian food.

Durrës (Central Albania)

Durrës is one of Albania’s busiest beach towns. While the water quality is rated as good, it’s still a popular choice for its sandy shores and lively atmosphere. The city’s historical sites, like the Roman amphitheatre, add a cultural touch to your trip. It’s also a good destination to consider for working as a digital nomad or retiring.

Ksamil (South Albania)

Ksamil is famous for its small islands and clear blue water. While the water quality is rated good rather than excellent, it’s still a stunning place to visit. Rent a boat to explore the nearby islands or relax at one of the beachfront cafes.

Shëngjin (North Albania)

Shëngjin is a growing beach destination in the north. Its calm waters and good facilities make it a solid choice for families. The nearby pine forests provide shade and a nice change of scenery. Just a short distance away is Rana e Hedhun, a unique coastal dune formed by the wind shaping the sand along the rocky slopes of Mali i Rencit. The dunes are around 50 meters high and attract visitors who enjoy climbing them for the views.

Orikum (South Albania)

Orikum is a quieter alternative to some of the busier beaches in the south. The water quality is good, and it’s close to the Llogara National Park, so you can combine a beach day with a bit of hiking or sightseeing.

Qeparo (South Albania)

Qeparo is a lovely village on the Albanian Riviera, split into two parts: the historic Old Qeparo, perched on a hill, and the more modern New Qeparo along the coast. The village is surrounded by olive groves that have been cultivated for centuries.

The beach at New Qeparo is small and less crowded. Not far from the village, you can visit Porto Palermo Castle, located in the bay that shares its name, just a short drive away.

Zvërnec (South Albania)

Zvërnec is a unique destination near Vlorë, known for its wooden bridge that connects to a small island with a historic monastery. The beach here offers good water quality and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a spot where you can enjoy both nature and a bit of history in one visit.

Beaches with Poor Water Quality in Albania

Pogradec (Southeastern Albania)

Pogradec is located by Lake Ohrid, but unfortunately, its water quality is rated as poor. While the area is beautiful, it’s better suited for sightseeing and enjoying the lakeside cafes rather than swimming.

Why Water Quality Matters

Clean water means safer and more enjoyable swimming, and the EEA’s ratings are based on strict testing. Beaches with good or excellent water quality in Albania ensure a worry-free and much more enjoyable trip.

Tips for Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: May to June or September are great months to avoid the summer crowds.
• Be Respectful: Help keep these beaches clean by taking your trash with you.

Abschließende Überlegungen

Albania is home to many beaches stretching from north to south, but not all of them share the same water quality. Knowing where to find the cleanest and clearest waters can make your trip even more enjoyable, especially if that’s a priority for you. We hope you found this guide helpful and now have a better idea of the water quality in Albania and where to go for the best swimming conditions.

Now, all that’s left to do is book that flight and enjoy your time exploring Albania’s beautiful coastline!