The Best Beaches in and Around Saranda
The coastline around Saranda is more varied than it first looks. From the pebbly town beach a few steps off the promenade, to tidy beaches with sunbeds, to hidden coves you can only reach by boat – each one suits a slightly different kind of day. Here is our honest run-through of the ones worth your time, with how far they are and who will enjoy each.
And the part we love most: the beach is right behind our house, about two minutes on foot. A morning swim, back up to the balcony for lunch, and an afternoon trip to one of the further spots if you fancy it.
Saranda town beach
The main beach runs along the promenade from the harbour and is pebbly, split into a few sections. It is the only free public beach in town – you can rent a sunbed and umbrella or simply lay down a towel for free. The water is usually clear and calm, with cafés and restaurants right behind it. Bring water shoes, as the pebbles can be sharp in places.
The beach right behind our house (~2 min)
Our apartment sits in a lively local part of town, and the water is about two minutes on foot – the beach is literally behind the building. It is perfect for a quick morning dip or an unplanned afternoon: no need to go anywhere, just grab a towel and walk down. There is a small shop under the building, with restaurants next door and across the street.
Mango Beach
Mango Beach is on the south side of town, within walking distance of the centre. It is a large, well-equipped beach with one of the best beach bars around – a pair of loungers with an umbrella runs roughly 20 euros in season. Choose it when you want comfort, service and a full day of amenities rather than wild solitude.
Pulëbardha and Mirror Beach
Pulëbardha (Seagull Beach) is a pebbly cove a short way south of Saranda, sheltered by its own bay, with lovely views from the surrounding cliffs. It is small and fills up fast in high season, so arriving early pays off. Nearby Mirror Beach has crystal-clear water that is great for snorkelling, though the narrow, winding access road makes getting there harder.
Ksamil – turquoise water and tiny islands
Ksamil is about 12 km south of Saranda, roughly 20 minutes by car or bus. It is famous for turquoise water, soft small pebbles and little islands just a few dozen metres offshore that you can swim or kayak to. In July and August it gets very busy – if you want more space, go early in the morning or outside peak times.
Boat-only gems: Krorëza and Kakome
The prettiest stretches of coast have no road. Krorëza and the neighbouring bay of Kakome are cut off by cliffs and reachable only by water – in season plenty of boats leave from the Saranda promenade, from small dinghies to pirate ships, with the crossing taking about 20 minutes. They are ideal for a full-day trip when you want quiet, clean water and the feeling of being far from the crowds.
FAQ
Which beach is closest to the apartment?
The beach is literally right behind our house, about two minutes on foot. It is great for a morning swim or an afternoon when you do not feel like travelling anywhere.
Are the beaches in Saranda sandy or pebbly?
Most beaches in and around Saranda are pebbly, including Ksamil, which has soft small pebbles. We recommend water shoes – they come in handy almost everywhere.
How do I get to Krorëza and Kakome?
By boat only. In season they leave from the Saranda promenade, and the crossing takes approximately 20 minutes. The cliffs mean you cannot reach them by car or on foot.
Is Ksamil worth a trip even when it is busy?
Yes, the water and the islands are worth it. In high season we suggest setting off early in the morning or picking quieter days so you have more room.
