Himarë, Albania: Things to Do and the Most Beautiful Beaches

Explore the Boulevard and Local Beaches of Himarë, Albania

The town center of Himarë is also worth a relaxed stroll. Along the seaside promenade you’ll find cozy restaurants, ice cream shops, and a few small stores. Late afternoon and evening is when this area really comes alive, perfect for dinner or grabbing a gelato while watching the sun dip toward the sea.

You can also swim at the local beaches Plazhi i Himarës and Spile Beach. Unlike many beaches in Albania, you’re allowed to bring your own towel and umbrella here. You’re not forced to rent a sunbed for the whole day, which makes it a great spot for a quick swim or a spontaneous beach break.

Visit Dhërmi from Himarë, the “Santorini of Albania”

About a 30-minute drive from Himarë, you’ll find Dhërmi, a mountain village that feels a bit like the Greek Cyclades, with white houses, narrow lanes, and sweeping sea views. We combined it with an afternoon at Drymades Beach, a long beach lined with several beach clubs. Beautiful for sure, though honestly, we saw other beaches in this region that felt even more special and less crowded.

After the beach, we drove up toward Dhërmi but decided to stop for food first. We ended up at Angelos Souvlaki & Grill, a simple but very good spot serving tasty Albanian dishes, including, of course, souvlaki. Then we headed into the village at exactly the right time, because this is where you want to be around sunset. Order an Aperol Spritz, grab a table with a view, and soak up the atmosphere.

Only afterward did we discover you can actually stay overnight in Dhërmi at Zoe Hora, a more upscale place that is absolutely stunning. We definitely would have booked it if we had known earlier.
➜ Check current prices and availability for the unique Zoe Hora.

Visit Himarë Castle and the Old Town

We drove up to Himarë Old Town to visit the castle. At the top, there’s a small parking area, and from there you walk up a staircase toward the ruins of the old fortress. When we arrived, someone suddenly asked for an entrance fee, even though there were no clear signs or official information. We were also told that strollers were not allowed. We decided to walk back to the car, and after some hesitation, Guus went up alone.

Strangely enough, the man collecting the fee had disappeared by the time he reached the top, so whether it was official or not… we still don’t know. The ruins themselves are beautiful, and the views over Himarë and the sea are absolutely worth it. That said, we wouldn’t call it a must-do, especially with young children. But if you’re nearby and have some time, it’s definitely a photogenic place to explore.

Visit Llogara National Park and the Llogara Pass

Traveling with kids? Then you really shouldn’t miss a stop at the Llogara National Park Tourist Village. You’ll pass this spot on your way to Himarë, or when heading north toward places like Vlorë, Durrës, Tirana, Krujë, or even further. Our kids were allowed to feed and pet tame deer here, easily one of their favorite moments of the entire trip. Check out all the best places in Albania you shouldn’t miss when traveling with children.

The drive itself via the Llogara Pass is already an adventure, with hairpin turns and views that make you want to pull over every few minutes.

Did you know you can also stay overnight here?
➜ Check current prices and availability for Llogara National Park Tourist Village.

Places like Gjipe Beach, Dhërmi, and Llogara National Park are difficult to reach by public transport. Having a car gives you much more freedom and lets you stop at viewpoints or small hidden beaches along the way.

➜ Read our full guide to driving and renting a car in Albania.
➜ Compare rental car prices via DiscoverCars and Sunny Cars.

The Most Beautiful Beaches in and Around Himarë, Albania: Our Favorites

The beaches around Himarë are all worth visiting, but each one has its own vibe and accessibility. These are the spots we think you shouldn’t miss, even though we didn’t visit every single one ourselves. Some we saw during our boat trip, others were high on our wishlist but turned out to be a bit tricky to reach with young kids.

Pigeon Cave: A Hidden Beach Only Accessible by Boat

Pigeon Cave was without a doubt one of the most special places we saw along the Albanian coast. This cave is tucked away along a rugged stretch of shoreline and can only be reached by boat. In front of the cave lies a small beach with crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply doing nothing at all for a while.

The beach itself is tiny and quite remote. Combined with the cave and the towering rock walls, it feels untouched and unique, like you’ve discovered a secret spot that not everyone knows about yet.

Our Experience Visiting Pigeon Cave by Boat

We chose a four-hour tour, spending about one hour on the boat and the rest of the time at Pigeon Cave. Because we had one of the first boats of the day, the beach was almost empty during the first hour. Later, more boats started arriving and it became noticeably busier, so our tip is simple: go as early as possible.

The water here is so clear you can see the seabed several meters down. Our oldest loved it, especially when we got to swim through a cave along the way. We floated in the sea, relaxed on the beach, and mostly just enjoyed how special this place felt.

We went for a private boat because it seemed easier with kids. In hindsight, that wasn’t really necessary. We paid about €250 for the private trip, while a shared boat costs around €100. Both options take you to the same locations, so it mainly comes down to your budget and how much privacy you prefer.

Gjipe Beach: One of the Most Beautiful Beaches in Albania

Anyone who does a bit of research on Albania will quickly come across Gjipe Beach on lists of the country’s most beautiful beaches, and for good reason. This remote beach sits between towering cliffs and has water in every shade of blue. We passed it during our boat trip and immediately understood why it’s so popular.

Gjipe Beach is much larger than Pigeon Cave, with plenty of space to relax or walk around. You can reach it by boat or via a hike of about 2 kilometers from Gjipe Parking. That trail is quite challenging, especially with small children. In that case, a 4×4 transfer or a boat trip is a much better option.

In the end, we chose Pigeon Cave as our stop because it felt a bit more unique and peaceful to us. Still, Gjipe Beach is undeniably impressive and absolutely deserves its reputation as one of Albania’s most beautiful beaches.

Filikuri Bay: A Hidden Cove Near Himarë

Filikuri Bay is another beach you’ll often see in photos of the Albanian Riviera: a sheltered cove with bright blue water, surrounded by rocks and greenery. It was high on our wishlist too, but in the end it turned out to be tricky to reach with young kids.

You can only get there via a rocky hiking trail from Himarë or by boat. The walk is short but steep and not really suitable when traveling with small children. By boat it’s much easier, but you’ll need a tour that specifically includes this stop or arrange transport yourself.

We didn’t visit it ourselves, but Filikuri Bay looks perfect if you’re searching for a quiet, secluded place to swim and completely disconnect for a while.

Practical Tips for a Boat Trip from Himarë

• Expect to pay about €25 to €60 per person for a shared tour
• Private boats cost more but are convenient when traveling with children
• In high season, booking in advance is recommended
• Bring water, sun protection, and water shoes
• If you get seasick easily, choose a calm morning tour

If you can only pick one beach experience, go for a boat trip to Pigeon Cave or Gjipe Beach. Both places show exactly why the Albanian Riviera is so special: rugged, intensely blue, and still surprisingly peaceful.

Check available boat tours from Himarë here:

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Where to Stay in Himarë, Albania: Our Favorite Hotels and Accommodations

Himarë offers plenty of great places to stay, from simple guesthouses to modern hotels with pools and sea views. Many accommodations are close to the beach or promenade, while others are tucked away just outside the village for a quieter stay.

We personally stayed at Toni Retzo Rooms, a small and welcoming B&B just outside the center. The owners went above and beyond to make us feel at home, and the breakfast was amazing, yes, it even included oliebollen. It was a perfect base for exploring Himarë and the surrounding area. One small downside: there’s no pool yet, although there are plans to build one. Pools are generally quite rare in Albania, so if you find a place with one, it’s smart to book early.

Below are our favorite accommodations in and around Himarë, for different budgets and travel styles.

Best Hotels and Accommodations in Himarë

Toni Retzo Rooms
⭑⭑⭑ 9,2 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€ (mid range)
A small, welcoming B&B just outside the center. The hosts do everything to make your stay comfortable, and the breakfast is a big highlight. Quiet location, ideal if you’re traveling by car.
➜ Check availability

Aphrodite’s Garden
⭑⭑⭑ 9,2 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€ (mid range)
Peacefully located with beautiful mountain views and sea views from some rooms. The modern rooms include air conditioning and a balcony. A big plus is the on-site restaurant and charming garden, perfect for dinner in the evening. In our opinion, one of the best value-for-money options in Himarë.
➜ Check availability

The Blue Wave Hotel
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 8,6 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€ (mid range)
A solid hotel in a quiet beachfront location with its own beach area and comfortable sunbeds. You can easily walk to restaurants and the center while staying just outside the busiest area. Rooms are simple but clean, and staff are often described as friendly and helpful.
➜ Check availability

Noemie Hotel
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,2 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€ (mid range)
Modern, small-scale hotel in a prime location within walking distance of the promenade and beach. Rooms are stylish, very clean, and have comfortable beds. A big perk is breakfast served by the sea at a nearby restaurant, plus a parking garage under the hotel, something that’s quite rare in Himarë.
➜ Check availability

Artis Blue Relax
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,5 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€€ (higher segment)
Stylish suites right by the sea, with a small terrace where the waves almost reach your feet. Some rooms have unique balconies directly above the water and stunning views of the bay. Quiet location but still close to restaurants and shops, ideal if you’re looking for something special.
➜ Check availability

Casa Del Sol – Luxury Villas
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,5 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€€ (higher segment)
A small luxury property on a hill just outside Himarë, featuring a beautiful pool and panoramic sea views. Rooms are spacious and modern, and the staff are frequently praised for their friendliness. You will need a car to stay here.
➜ Check availability

Dimitri Hotel
⭑⭑⭑ 9,4 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€ (mid range)
Lovely family-run hotel directly on Livadhi Beach, one of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches near Himarë. Guests have access to private sunbeds, a pool, and a seaside restaurant where breakfast is served. Rooms are spacious and clean, and the staff are known for being kind and helpful, perfect for a relaxing beach stay.
➜ Check availability

Kalesma Himare
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,6 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€ (mid range)
Modern, spacious rooms with beautiful views, located in a quiet neighborhood within walking distance of both the beach and the center. Known for its friendly host and high comfort level. Great if you want a central location without being in the middle of the crowds.
➜ Check availability

Miamar Luxury Hotel & Spa
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ 8,9 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€€ (higher segment)
A super modern luxury hotel right on the beach, featuring an infinity pool and stunning views of the Ionian Sea. Rooms are sleek, comfortable, and fully equipped. Quietly located just outside the center, ideal if you want maximum comfort and relaxation during your stay in Himarë.
➜ Check availability

Which Accommodation Is Best for You?

The best place to stay mainly depends on how you travel. If you’re looking for peace and great views, accommodations outside the center are ideal. If you prefer to be close to the beach and restaurants, choose a hotel in or near the center or around Livadhi Beach.

We stayed in Himarë for three nights, which felt just right with kids to enjoy the beaches, a boat trip, and a few day trips nearby. Without children, two nights is usually enough to see the highlights.

In peak season, the most popular accommodations fill up quickly, so if you find a place you love, booking early is definitely a good idea.

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Restaurants in Himarë: Where to Eat

Eating out in Himarë is surprisingly good and very affordable, just like in many other parts of Albania. These were our favorites:

• Pizzeria Bella Italia: Great pizzas and a safe choice if you’re traveling with kids.
• I Love Souvlaki: Tasty Greek pitas filled with gyros, quick, filling, and perfect for a casual meal.
• Merkur Merkuri: If you love fish and seafood, this is the place to go. Fresh, simple, and very well prepared.

The overall vibe in Himarë is wonderfully laid-back. No pushy staff, no obvious tourist traps. Many restaurants are close to the beach or have terraces with sea views, so you’re never far from a great meal with a nice setting.

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Best Time to Visit Himarë, Albania

May through September is ideal for a vacation in Himarë, Albania. We visited in July and although it was very hot, around 37°C (99°F), we still had a fantastic time. The crowds were manageable, especially compared to busy hotspots like Ksamil

That said, if our oldest hadn’t been tied to school holidays, we would have preferred May, June, or September. Temperatures are usually more comfortable during these months while still perfect for beach days. Though, even during the peak summer holidays, Himarë is absolutely doable, especially with a bit of planning: start your days early, look for shade during the hottest hours, and cool off regularly in the sea.

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How to Get to Himarë: Route and Travel Tips

Himarë is located on the Albanian Riviera and can be reached via the coastal road (SH8) between Sarandë and Vlorë. Coming from Sarandë or Ksamil, simply follow this road north along the coastline. The drive is straightforward, though quite winding in places.

The most scenic route is via the Llogara Pass. This spectacular mountain pass lies between Dhërmi and Vlorë and is packed with hairpin turns and unforgettable views. If you’re driving south from northern Albania, you’ll automatically pass through here. Coming from the south, you can take this route when leaving Himarë, for example toward Vlorë, Durrës, or Tirana.

Since July 2024, the Llogara Tunnel has also been open. This faster route saves roughly 30 to 45 minutes of travel time. We deliberately chose the mountain pass instead and didn’t regret it for a second. Not just for the views, but also for our stop at Llogara National Park, where our kids were able to feed tame deer, one of their favorite memories from Albania.

Parking in Himarë

There are several parking options in Himarë, but keep in mind that parking is paid almost everywhere. Also pay attention to how other cars are parked, double parking is quite common. Always check that you won’t get blocked in before leaving your car.

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Himarë with Kids: Is It a Family-Friendly Destination in Albania?

Yes, absolutely. Himarë is a great destination for families with children. This coastal town in Albania has many calm, easy-to-manage beaches, plenty of space to play, and no overcrowded promenades like in some other seaside resorts. There are also lots of casual restaurants where you can simply order pizza or fries, always a win when traveling with kids. Add fun activities like a boat trip or feeding deer in Llogara National Park, and you’ve got plenty of variety to keep everyone happy.

Looking for more great destinations for a family vacation in Albania?
➜ Check out our guide to 7 places in Albania that are perfect for traveling with kids, from beaches to mountains and historic towns.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Himarë, Albania

Is Himarë better than Ksamil?

That depends on what you’re looking for. Himarë is less touristy and has more beautiful, quieter beaches in the surrounding area. You’ll also find fewer private beaches where you’re forced to rent sunbeds and umbrellas, you can often just lay down your towel. Ksamil is very photogenic, with small islands just offshore, but it gets extremely crowded and touristy in peak season. It’s especially popular for Instagram-style beach photos, while Himarë appeals more to travelers seeking space, peace, and a more authentic vibe.

How many days do you need in Himarë?

For most travelers, 2 to 3 nights is ideal. That gives you enough time to explore the town, relax on the beaches, and take day trips to places like Pigeon Cave, Gjipe Beach, Dhërmi, or Llogara National Park. With kids, 3 nights feels more comfortable so you can take things at a slower pace.

Do you need a car in Himarë?

If you stay in the center, you can manage without a car since restaurants, shops, and the beach are within walking distance. But if you want to visit the most beautiful beaches nearby or explore places like Dhërmi or Porto Palermo, a rental car is highly recommended. Distances may look short on the map, but mountain roads make travel slower, and public transport is very limited.

Can you park for free in Himarë?

Free parking can sometimes be found outside the center. Along the boulevard and near popular beaches, parking is usually paid, especially in high season. In spring and fall, parking is easier and occasionally free.

Is Himarë child-friendly?

Yes, it’s a very family-friendly destination. Beaches are calm, many restaurants welcome children, and there are fun outings like boat trips or a day trip to Llogara National Park. Do keep in mind that most beaches here are pebble beaches.

When is the best time to visit Himarë?

The best months are May, June, September, and early October. The weather is warm but not extremely hot, and it’s much quieter than in July and August. During peak summer, temperatures can exceed 30°C (86°F) and crowds increase.

Are the beaches sandy or pebbly?

Most beaches in and around Himarë are pebble beaches with clear turquoise water. Sandy beaches are rare along the Albanian Riviera. Water shoes can be very helpful, especially for children. Ksamil does have sandy beaches, but many are artificial or replenished, which makes them comfortable yet more crowded and less natural than the beaches near Himarë.

Is Himarë expensive?

Compared to many European beach destinations, Himarë is still quite affordable. Accommodation, restaurants, and sunbeds are cheaper than in places like Italy or Croatia, although prices have increased in recent years.

Can you combine Himarë with other places in Albania?

Yes, Himarë is perfectly located for a road trip along the Albanian coast. Many travelers combine it with Dhërmi, Ksamil, Sarandë, or Llogara National Park. Inland highlights such as Berat or Gjirokastër are also easy to reach by car.

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Why Himarë Is Our Favorite Place on the Albanian Riviera

For us, it truly is. While Ksamil can feel more artificial and heavily tourist-focused, Himarë has managed to keep its charm. It’s quieter, more authentic, and that’s exactly what makes it possible to experience the Albanian Riviera the way it once was.

Himarë is perfect for travelers looking for peace, nature, and a touch of adventure during their trip through Albania. Whether you’re traveling with young children or just as a couple, this is one of those places you secretly wish you didn’t have to leave.

Curious how it compares to Ksamil? Be sure to read our article: Ksamil, Albania: Tips for Your Vacation in 2026.

Plan Your Trip to Himarë, Albania

Best Hotels and Accommodations in Himarë, Albania
Browse the most beautiful and best-rated stays on Booking.com.

Renting a Car in Albania
Compare prices via DiscoverCars and Sunny Cars.

Tours and Activities in Himarë
Want to plan something fun in advance? You’ll find plenty of great experiences in and around Himarë on GetYourGuide.

Need More Inspiration?
Read our guide: Albania with Kids: Our 3-Week Road Trip Itinerary.

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