Let’s be real, when you scroll through your Instagram feed, Ksamil’s popping up more than ever as Albania’s hotspot. Those crystal-clear waters, dreamy white sands, and chill vibes make it obvious why it’s a magnet for travelers and tourists seeking that pristine piece of the Albanian Riviera.
But here’s the thing: the more you delay, the more you’ll miss out on those fantastic beach days and wallet-friendly deals in Ksamil, Albania. This year could be your last chance to soak up Ksamil’s magic before it’s swamped with tourists.
We’ve just returned from an epic journey to Albania, and of course, we couldn’t skip Ksamil to see what the hype’s all about. And believe us, it’s all justified. So, we’re dropping this insider’s guide on ‘Where to stay in Ksamil’—because we want you to witness this coastal gem’s charm, just like we did.
- Where to stay in Ksamil – Best Hotels
- Where to stay in Ksamil – Best Areas
- 1. Where to stay in Ksamil for first-timers: Ksamil Beach
- 2. Where to stay in Ksamil for beach lovers: Lori Beach
- 3. Where to stay in Ksamil on a budget: East Ksamil
- 4. Where to stay in Ksamil for families & relaxation: North Ksamil
- Where to stay in Ksamil – Frequently Asked Questions
Where to stay in Ksamil – Best Hotels
Hotel Mira Mare
Without a doubt, Hotel Mira Mare stands out as a top choice in Ksamil. This luxury hotel is ideally located just a stone’s throw from the beach and is one of our favorite Ksamil hotels for some hotel luxury. Its private rooms with private bathroom are exceptionally spacious, the breakfast buffet on the rooftop is extensive, they offer room service, and the rooftop pool is the perfect spot to relax and take in the stunning views of the Albanian Riviera.
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Blue Water Hotel
Blue Water Hotel is one of the top luxury hotels in Ksamil, especially because of its awesome outdoor pool area. It’s got this huge pool with a wooden deck around it, which is perfect for chilling in the afternoon with some cocktails or beers from the hotel bar. Plus, the rooms, breakfast, and service are all really amazing too!
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Hotel Meta Ksamil
Hotel Meta is a bit more wallet-friendly compared to the last two choices, but it’s still an awesome stay, offering truly cozy private double rooms with incredible ocean views. The staff here couldn’t be friendlier, plus you get free parking, Wi-Fi, and a hearty breakfast buffet each morning to start your day right.
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Otto Hotel
Otto Hotel is a modern and cheap hotel that’s got style and comfort written all over it. They have spacious rooms, the rooftop pool and bar offer epic views of the sea, and the hotel restaurant serves up some delicious local dishes. Plus, it’s just a short walk to the beach, making it a convenient choice for beach lovers.
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Where to stay in Ksamil – Best Areas
One of the most popular spots in the country is this little beach town in southern Albania called Ksamil. It’s so small that you can stroll everywhere – no need to stress about transport in this town. But, a little heads-up: it’s wise to have a clue about where you’re staying to make sure you land in the neighborhood that fits you best.
If it’s your first time, Ksamil Beach is where it’s at, in my opinion. It’s the heartbeat of the place with all the top-notch restaurants and best hotels.
For all couples or anyone keen to chill at some awesome beach clubs, Lori Beach is your go-to.
If you’re looking for a budget option or you’re backpacking, the inner suburbs in East Ksamil are your best bet. A tad further from the beach, sure, but the accommodation is much more affordable.
And for all of you who are looking for somewhere quieter, North Ksamil is perfect for families or anyone wanting to stay away from the buzz but still stay within walking distance from the city center.
1. Where to stay in Ksamil for first-timers: Ksamil Beach
Ksamil Beach is the top spot for first-timers in Ksamil, according to our guide. It’s where the magic unfolds, boasting the most stunning beaches, alongside top-notch restaurants and hotels.
Staying here means you’re right in the heart of all the action Ksamil has to offer. The beach here is so beautiful that we find ourselves spending days just basking in the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear water.
However, it’s important to note that public beaches are a rarity here, so you’ll likely need to rent a sunbed. While this may seem a bit inconvenient, the cost isn’t too steep at an average price of $25 for two sun loungers, making it a worthy investment for a day of lounging, enjoying your lunch, and sipping cocktails.
Things to do in Ksamil Ksamil Beach
Besides just chilling on the beach and basking in the sun, Ksamil Beach is packed with activities. We were totally into renting kayaks and paddling out to the nearby islands. Yup, real islands just a short kayak trip from the shore! The water’s super calm and crystal clear, perfect for beginners looking to island-hop. The best part? It’s all free, and you get to chill on less crowded island beaches.
If that’s a bit too chill for you, then you can amp things up by renting a jetski without breaking the bank. We definitely had to grab a jet ski for a day and check out the beaches that way too. Zipping around on the water, discovering secret spots, and seeing Ksamil from a whole new angle is just epic.
Best restaurants in Ksamil Beach
Veranda: We Totally fell in love with Veranda – it’s so much more than just a restaurant; it’s practically a beach club. You can easily chill on the deck, take a dip in the pool, and grab some tasty lunch and dinner. We tried the prawns and calamari, and both were super delicious!
Bora Bora: Gives off a more laid-back, less upscale vibe compared to Veranda, but the food is just as amazing. It’s the perfect spot to lounge by the beach all day. Their seafood is super fresh and tasty too!
2. Where to stay in Ksamil for beach lovers: Lori Beach
Lori Beach is our top pick in Ksamil, mainly because it offers a little bit of seclusion compared to the bustling Ksamil Beach, despite being only a stone’s throw away.
Perfect for couples or anyone aiming to find an escape from Ksamil’s lively atmosphere (though that’s nearly impossible). It is pretty similar to Ksamil Beach with its lineup of restaurants and beach chairs but stands out with its relaxed, romantic atmosphere. What sets it apart are the cool beach clubs where you can hang out all day.
Things to do in Lori Beach
Here, you’ll find your typical beach activities like kayaking and jet skiing, but it’s also the perfect place to rent bikes and explore the coast, one of our favorite activities for fun. You can also take a day trip to the nearby Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, brimming with Greek and Roman ruins that are truly impressive.
What’s also super fun is to take on a boat tour or drive to Pema e Thate, arguably the most popular beach club in Albania. Just a 20-minute journey south, it offers the full-on Albanian beach club experience. This is the spot where you will find those nets over the water to hang out in, cheap drinks, and cheap food. Be aware though, that the beach club is only open in high season!
Best restaurants in Lori Beach
Cocoa Beach Bar: This is your go-to chill spot in the area. It’s the place to relax, enjoy a cocktail, and take in the views without the touristy crowds. Plus, the food is really good!
Summer Gate: Summer Gate is another fantastic spot for seafood lovers. Located right on the beach, you have the option to dine indoors or out, trying tasty local cuisine. The prices won’t break the bank, and the staff are incredibly welcoming.
3. Where to stay in Ksamil on a budget: East Ksamil
East Ksamil may be further from the beach, but it’s where you’ll find more budget hotels and mid range accommodation. It’s also a great location for backpackers or anyone looking to save some money on their trip.
While it may not have the same beachfront views as Ksamil and Lori Beach, it’s still within walking distance to both these areas, so you won’t miss out on any of the fun. However, we stayed at a place up on a hill in East Ksamil, and even though it wasn’t located by the beach, we still had amazing views over the hinterland!
Also, in my opinion, with the money saved on accommodation, you can definitely splurge on some delicious seafood dinners and fun activities in Ksamil!
Things to do in East Ksamil
One of the best things about staying in East Ksamil is the opportunity to explore more of the inner suburbs, which have a charming, local vibe. We loved wandering around and checking out the shops; it’s also where you’ll find some amazing hidden gems when it comes to restaurants and street food.
For something more unique and a really fun day trip, check out the Blue Eye, a natural phenomenon with stunning blue water that you can swim in. It’s definitely worth the visit and will make for some incredible photos.
Best restaurants in East Ksamil
Fourth Island: Located just a short walk from East Ksamil on the main road, this restaurant offers delicious seafood dishes and a fantastic atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for an easy dinner or a group meal with friends.
4. Where to stay in Ksamil for families & relaxation: North Ksamil
The northern part of Ksamil is definitely what I would suggest if you’re looking for something a bit more relaxing and laid back. It’s less touristy than the other beaches in Ksamil but still has all the you need you need for a comfortable stay and it’s still within walking distance of the main part of Ksamil town.
We found that North Ksamil had some of the best beaches, with soft sand and calm waters – perfect for families with young children. There you’ll also find the Ksamil campsite, which is a great budget option for families looking to stay near the beach.
Things to do in North Ksamil
In addition to enjoying the beautiful beaches and scenery, North Ksamil also offers some fun activities for families. You can rent bikes and explore the area, take a boat tour to nearby islands, or drive up north to all those amazing beaches north of Ksamil. Pasqyra Beach is our favorite in the area, but there are loads of other nearby beaches to check out too. The great part is that you have to drive there from Ksamil or take a boat, so those beaches tend to be a little quieter than the ones in Ksamil town.
Best restaurants in Ksamil
Blue Eyes: One of our favorite dinner spots in Albania. It is located up on a hill with an amazing view over the sea. The food is delicious and reasonably priced, and they also have a selection of local wines to try.
The Mussel House: As the name suggests, they specialize in mussels and seafood dishes here. The restaurant has a great atmosphere and is perfect for a romantic dinner or a family meal. I mean, you can’t beat the fresh seafood!
Where to stay in Ksamil – Frequently Asked Questions
✅ Is it worth visiting Ksamil?
Honestly, yeah! Ksamil’s beaches are among the most stunning I’ve ever seen. Sounds cheesy, but it’s the truth. With its crystal-clear waters and white sands, it’s an absolute must-do. Though, I’m not sure if staying in Ksamil is a must to enjoy those beaches. Staying in Sarande and making a day trip to Ksamil is definitely worth considering if you want to avoid the big tourist crowds.
If you want to find out more about Albania, check out our Ultimate Albania Guide
🚗 How do I get to Ksamil?
If you’re looking for the easiest route to Ksamil, flying into Tirana and then deciding between a rental car drive or hopping on public transport might be your best bet. But, let me share a little secret: the closest airport is actually in Corfu, Greece. From there, it’s just a fun ferry ride away and then a short drive to reach the beautiful Ksamil.
⛱️ What is there to do in Ksamil?
Apart from the obvious beach days and chilling at some beach bars, there are a few other cool activities worth checking out in Ksamil. Explore the ancient ruins of Butrint National Park, go island hopping to nearby islands like Corfu or Saranda, or simply stroll around the town and take in its laid-back vibe.
🌆 Is it better to stay in Ksamil or Sarande?
You definitely have to make your own call, but I’d say stay in Saranda and just pop over to Ksamil for a day trip. Saranda’s got way more choices for places to stay, eat, and stuff to do. Ksamil, on the other hand, can be super crowded with tourists in the summer (seriously, you’ll be squished like sardines on the beach) and feels a little too busy and dirty sometimes.
Where to stay in Ksamil – Final Words
If you decide to stay in Ksamil for just one night or your entire holiday, I hope this guide has helped you narrow down the best options for a relaxing vacation. Whether you’re looking for luxury, budget-friendly, or family-friendly accommodation, Ksamil truly has plenty to offer.
I hope our guide on ‘where to stay in Ksamil’ will help you make sure to find a hotel that’s suitable for you in an area that best fits your travel style. And regardless of where you decide to stay, I’m sure your time in Ksamil will be filled with sun, sea, and relaxation. Happy travels!
