Karaburun Peninsula — Boat Tour and Hidden Beaches in Albania
The Karaburun Peninsula is the largest peninsula in the Republic of Albania. It is located near Vlora and is part of the National Marine Park.
Once closed, today the peninsula is open to foreign tourists.
Moreover, it is a favorite vacation spot for both Albanians and foreigners.
Karaburun National Marine Park
The Karaburun Peninsula, covering an area of about 62 sq. km, is part of the Albanian Riviera.
Its length is 16 km, and its width ranges from 3 to 4.5 km.
In Albanian, it is written as Gadishulli i Karaburunit.
This place attracts both Albanians and foreign tourists due to its picturesque landscape and unique nature.
Landscape of the peninsula
Its surface consists of mountains covered with forests and shrubs.
The coastline is entirely cut by cliffs that descend into the sea. Between the cliffs, there are beaches of various lengths and widths.
Most of the coastline consists of inaccessible cliffs that steeply go into the depths of the sea.
Road along the peninsula
Along the coast, there is a single dirt road.
Along it, there are both equipped and unequipped beaches.
All equipped beaches and restaurants are located near the pier.
Beaches on the Karaburun Peninsula
Beach to the right of the pier
On the peninsula, there is a main beach with cafes, bars, and equipped spots on the shore.
It is located on the right side of the ship pier and stretches up to the rocky coast for about 150 meters.
Beach to the left of the pier
On the left side, the beach extends to another rocky shore for about 70 meters.
At the edge of this beach, there is a pier with excursion boats.
Wild beaches
Wild beaches are located along the entire coastline of the peninsula.
You can reach them via the dirt road that runs along the entire coast.
These wild beaches are an excellent place for relaxation and swimming.
Small beaches along the coast
Move left along the coast via the dirt road.
You will discover several wonderful spots for swimming and relaxing.
The mentioned beaches are within 500 meters from the main beach.
How to get to the peninsula
Port in Vlora: departure point
The journey starts from the port of Vlora, where there are two piers.
One is intended for small boats and ships, and the other — for larger vessels.
Most tourists use the pier for large ships.
Some tourists go on a sea trip on small inflatable boats.
Preparation for the trip: buying tickets
Tickets for ships can be purchased in advance in the evening. Many sales points are available along the main Lungomare street.
Tickets can also be bought near the ship in the morning. Usually, extra tickets are sold right before boarding.
Tip: In high season, it’s better not to risk it (as there may be no seats) and buy tickets in advance in the evening on Lungomare.
The cost of one ticket is 2500 lek (25 euros).
The price includes a treat of fruits and watermelon slices. It is served 10 minutes after the ship departs from the port of Vlora.
The fruits are placed on the bar counter for the public. Any passenger can come up and take what they like.
Excursion: choosing the right ship
It is important to choose a specific ship and company for your trip.
Each ship has its own route. Some ships go first to Karaburun, while others — to Sazan.
On Karaburun, there are restaurants, while on Sazan, there are no restaurants or cafes at all.
The beach on Karaburun is equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas, whereas the beach on Sazan is an empty pebble shore.
Departure and route
Ships depart from the port of Vlora at 10:00 AM and follow a set route.
Stops are made at the island of Sazan or the Karaburun Peninsula.
On the peninsula, the ship stays for about 3.5 hours, on the island — for 1.5 hours.
Return to the port of Vlora is at 6:00 PM.
Arrival at the peninsula
The ship arrives at the peninsula at 10:30 AM.
The sea journey from Vlora to the peninsula takes 30 minutes.
Then, the ship stays at the pier.
Panorama of the main beach
Tourists have three options for spending time on the peninsula.
Relaxing on the main beach of the peninsula with a snack in restaurants.
Exploring the coastline and resting on the wild beaches of Karaburun.
A boat excursion from the peninsula along the Ionian coast with visits to other rare and beautiful beaches.
Tourists can choose one of the three options at their discretion.
The journey to Sazan Island
The ship departs from the peninsula at 1:30 PM and follows the coastline to the “Pirates’ Cave” without approaching it.
It makes a sharp turn opposite the cave and heads directly to Sazan Island.
On Sazan Island, the ship stays for about 1.5-2 hours. Then, it returns to the port of Vlora by 6:00 PM.
Sea excursion: food and services
Information for tourists:
Ship Aquamarine: There is a bar where various drinks and snacks are sold.
Karaburun Peninsula: Several spacious cafes are located along the beach.
Sazan Island: There are no restaurants or cafes on the shore.
Travel tips
Before the trip, make sure the weather is suitable, choose a route and a specific ship.
Take money to book an additional boat excursion along the peninsula’s coastline.
Bring water — it will be useful in hot weather.
Take water shoes for safety on wild beaches—there are sea urchins, though not in large numbers.
The best sea views
The Karaburun Peninsula and its surroundings will leave unforgettable impressions.
You will be delighted by the clean sea, picturesque landscapes and unique nature.
You will get to know Albania better and discover its true treasures.
Video
Filming date: August 11, 2024. Karaburun Peninsula near Vlora.
📽️ Watch more videos about life in Albania on my YouTube channel Life in Albania.
👍 Like and subscribe so you don’t miss new releases!
Come to Albania and explore the country!
- ✅ Discover nature and cities.
- ✅ Taste local cuisine.
- ✅ Hike the mountain trails and coastal paths.
Enjoy your journey and make unforgettable memories!
You can support the author and the project by donating via PayPal:
