Himara Beaches in Albania — The Most Atmospheric Place on the Albanian Riviera

Himara Beaches in Albania are one of the most atmospheric and charming destinations on the entire Albanian Riviera.

Imagine crystal-clear turquoise water where you can see the seabed 5 metres down, soft sand under your feet, dramatic cliffs and green hills all around, and instead of crowds — a cosy, small-town vibe.

If you’re looking for a relaxed yet comfortable beach holiday in Albania in 2026, Himara is an excellent choice for families with children, couples, and anyone who wants to truly unwind. No massive resort hotels, just pristine sea, delicious food, and the feeling of being “right at home by the sea”.

Let’s dive in and find out why thousands of travellers from the UK, Germany, France, Poland, the USA, and Ukraine keep choosing Himara every season.

Himara Town: Quick Overview

Himara is a small coastal town with around 4,000 residents and a history going back over 5,000 years.

It sits beautifully nestled in a sheltered bay between mountain ranges.

In the low season it’s wonderfully quiet and local, while in July and August it becomes lively but never overcrowded like Saranda or Ksamil.

Himara Town Beaches

The beaches stretch one after another along the bay. The two main ones — Main Beach and Distant Beach — are easy to walk between.

Main Beach (Central Beach)

Sandy beach approximately 300 metres long.

Part of the promenade has wide concrete terraces that make access to the water very easy and safe. There’s a pier in the centre where excursion boats depart. Restaurants and a pleasant evening promenade line the beach.

Advantages:

• No cars nearby
• Completely free access — no sunbed pressure
• Stainless steel handrails for safe entry into the sea
• Perfect for families with children

Distant Beach (Far Beach)

Sandy with some fine pebbles, framed by cliffs and forest on both sides.

About 400 metres long. Here you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, and there are restaurants right by the water’s edge with stunning sea views.

Only minor downside: a road runs alongside (traffic is moderate, not heavy).

Boat Trips from Himara

Right from the pier on Main Beach, excursion boats depart daily.

• Prices start from €25–30 for shorter trips
• and go up to €70 for longer coastal routes.

You simply choose your route and sail along the breathtaking Albanian Riviera.

How to Get from Vlora to Himara

The most convenient and budget-friendly way is the daily public bus.

• Departure from Bar Te Miri in Vlora (coordinates: 40.464999, 19.482728).
• In high season (July–August) there are two morning departures.
• Ticket costs around €7.
• Modern air-conditioned buses.

Want more freedom? Renting a car is the best option — I’ll show you the best platforms below.

Where to Stay in Himara

Himara offers a great selection: from budget hostels to cosy apartments and hotels with sea views.

My personal recommendation

I stayed at Himara Hostel for just €16 per night and got:

• A comfortable bed with breakfast (fresh orange juice straight from the garden!)
• Friendly international atmosphere
• Beautiful garden courtyard full of orange trees

Coordinates: 40.105446, 19.743634

👉 Tip: Choose accommodation near Main Beach if you want convenience and evening walks. Pick something closer to Distant Beach or on the outskirts for more peace and quiet.

Find the best hotels and apartments in Himara 🔎 on Booking.com (prices updated for 2026):

How to Get Around Himara and Nearby Beaches

The town itself is very walkable. However, to comfortably reach the best nearby beaches (Llamani, Livadi, Aquarium), a car is highly recommended.

👉 Best solution: Rent a car — the roads are good and fuel is cheap.

• Compare and book your car 🔎 on DiscoverCars (best prices and reviews for UK, Germany, France, USA)
• Alternative options 🔎 on Economybookings
• Local deals 🔎 on Localrent (great support and flexible conditions)

Why Himara Beaches Stand Out

 

• Crystal-clear turquoise water — one of the cleanest on the whole Riviera
• Variety: soft sand for kids + quiet pebbly coves for relaxation
• Gentle slope into the sea
• Stunning scenery with cliffs and greenery
• Good infrastructure combined with a relaxed atmosphere

Himara beaches are suitable for almost everyone, especially families looking for safety, comfort, and reasonable prices.

Other Beautiful Beaches Near Himara

Don’t limit yourself to the town beaches! Just 5–15 minutes by car:

• Llamani — the most beautiful and popular
• Livadi — wild and romantic, surrounded by mountains and forest
• Aquarium — a magical turquoise bay

Must-do: Visit at least one of these beaches — it will easily become the highlight of your entire Albania trip.

👉 Learn more about the beaches in the article: Beaches Near Himara — Llamani, Livadi & Aquarium Bay Guide

Useful Related Articles

If you’re choosing the best beach destination in Albania, also check:

• Vlora Beaches — where to stay and how to get around
• Qeparo Beach — quiet paradise for those who love seclusion
• Saranda Beaches — comparison with Himara

FAQ – Common Questions About Himara Beaches

Is Himara good for families with children?

Yes! Gentle slope, sand, and shallow areas make it very safe and comfortable.

How is the water?

Exceptionally clear and turquoise. You can see the bottom even at 5+ metres depth.

Are there paid sunbeds?

On Main Beach — mostly free, you settle wherever you like. On Distant Beach and Llamani — sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent.

Do you need water shoes?

Regular flip-flops are usually enough. Water shoes are useful only on the rocky edges of some beaches.

When is the best time to visit in 2026?

June and September are ideal — warm weather, fewer people, lower prices. July–August is peak season with more atmosphere and higher prices.

Final Verdict: Is Himara Worth Visiting?

Absolutely yes.

Himara gives you the perfect mix: the clearest Ionian Sea, beautiful nature, tasty local food, friendly people, and prices that still feel fair. It’s a place where you truly relax and recharge.

If you’re dreaming of a memorable beach holiday in Albania, start planning with Himara.

Ready to book?

Choose your dates and fly to this real Albanian paradise!

🔎 Search cheap flights to Albania on Kiwi.com

Shorts: Distant Beach Himara (Himara)

Filmed: April 30, 2024.

In this video you’ll see the spring view of the distant beach — crystal water, cliffs and forest. Perfect for walks and relaxing by the sea.

👉 Subscribe to the Life in Albania channel and like the video for more useful guides!