Albanian beaches have been a recent trend on TikTok. This Balkan country offers an extraordinary lineup of beaches, writes Joel Balsam in an article published in the global travel magazine “Lonely Planet”.

Adorned by crystal clear, deep blue waters, the beaches in Albania rival any country in Europe.

Surrounded by the Ionian and Adriatic Seas, Albanian beaches range from crowded and fun resorts to idyllic secret coves accessible only by boat, ATSH writes.

On the southern Ionian coast, the Albanian Riviera is covered by turquoise waves that lap at the perfect diving spots.

Visit the rugged and very beautiful northern Adriatic coast, accessible from the capital, Tirana.

Albania's beaches are most popular in the warmer months – June to September, although you can find warm days without crowds in May.

We recommend the eight best beaches in Albania:

1. Ksamil
The best beach with turquoise waters

If you've seen images of an amazing beach in Albania, it's Ksamil.

The fine sand and blue waters make it the perfect spot for sun seekers.

Swim at Ksamil beach or rent a pedal boat to reach several islands off the coast, or dive to see the six former military ships beneath the surface.

Ksamil's popularity has caused accommodation rates to increase at the peak of the summer season and its beaches to be filled to the brim with chairs and umbrellas.

Don't miss the most beautiful man-made attraction: the 2500-year-old archaeological ruins at Butrint.

2. Borsch

Best beach for personal space

Many visitors stay in Saranda due to its convenience and cheaper prices. However, Saranda's public beach is not as quiet as Ksamil's.

For something more relaxing, head north to the 7-kilometer-long white pebble beach of Borsh.

If you're feeling adventurous, visit the secluded Kakoma beach, with clear waters and no crowds. You'll need to walk 30 minutes to get there.

3. Gjipe
The best secluded beach

Gjipe, one of the most picturesque and private beaches in Albania, is located between the cities of Himara and Dhërmi.

You will need to walk for 30 minutes from where you park.

Stay in the town of Himara, where you can take a boat tour to take you to secluded beaches where it will be just you and the sand.

4. Crush
The best beach for music festivals

The town of Dhërmi on the Ionian coast has become the hottest new destination on the Albanian coast. P

The long, pebbly beach has many elegant restaurants with thatched roofs and brand new beachfront accommodations that offer a comfortable vacation.

Dhërmi is becoming popular, especially thanks to the EDM Kala festival in June.

5. Spille
The best beach – easily accessible from Tirana

Escape the bustling Albanian capital for a getaway to Spille Beach.

The long beach is free of loud music and seaside clubs, and is surrounded by beautiful pine forests.

Take a day trip and visit the nearby city of Durrës, where you will discover a Roman amphitheater.

6. Cape Rodon
The best beach for history

Situated in the Adriatic Sea northwest of Tirana, Cape Rodoni is a natural wonder that few international visitors have heard of.

The cape is filled with beaches, hidden coves and ruins, including the Rodon Fortress, which was built by the national hero Skanderbeg in the 15th century.

7. Velipoja
The best northern beach

The magnificent city of Shkodra is the gateway to mountain hiking in the Bjeshkët e Nemuna, also called the Albanian Alps.

The city is only 30 kilometers away from the long, fine-sand beach of Velipoja, which offers a youthful French Riviera atmosphere thanks to its many cool seaside bars.

Hike the peaks of the Balkan Trail through Theth and Valbona. Most accommodations in Shkodër organize multi-day trips.

8. Divjaka
The best beach for wildlife

Located on a long strip of sand that separates the largest lagoon in the Adriatic and Albania, within the Divjaka-Karavasta National Park – Divjaka beach is a wonderful place to spot birds and sea turtles – which nest in the sand.

The park as a whole is home to bears, wolves, lynxes and more than 200 species of birds, including Dalmatian pelicans, flamingos and golden eagles.