Ksamil Islands Aerial View
Ksamil Islands Aerial View
Ksamil Islands
Ksamil Islands Aerial View
Ksamil Islands Aerial View
BEACH
The Ksamil Islands (Ishujt e Ksamilit) are four small, uninhabited islets just off the coast of Ksamil village in southern Albania. Surrounded by turquoise water and white sand, they look more like the Caribbean than the Balkans. The islands sit only a few hundred meters from shore. You can reach them by kayak, pedal boat, or small motorboat. Their beauty and easy access make them one of the top highlights of the Albanian Riviera.
Many visitors combine a trip to the islands with time on Ksamil’s main beaches or nearby attractions such as Butrint National Park. The shallow, calm waters around the islets are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Whether you spend a half-day or a full day exploring the coastline, the Ksamil Islands offer a peaceful and unforgettable experience.
Kayak or Pedal to the Islands
The closest islands are just 200–300 meters from Ksamil Beach. Visitors often use kayaks or pedal boats to reach them. Rentals are available along the beach in summer. The short trip offers stunning views of Ksamil’s coastline and the Ionian Sea.
Swim and Sunbathe on Secluded Shores
Each island has small, quiet beaches or rocky coves. The clear, shallow water is perfect for swimming. The natural setting provides a peaceful escape from busy main beaches. Bring towels, snacks, and water as there are no shops or facilities on the islands.
Snorkeling in Crystal-Clear Water
The sea around the islands is full of fish, sea urchins, and colorful underwater plants. Calm weather makes it ideal for snorkeling. Bring your own mask and fins, and explore the rocky areas near the shore for the best marine life.
Boat Excursions
Organized boat tours from Ksamil and nearby Saranda visit the islands as part of half-day or full-day trips. Many tours also stop at hidden coastal caves and quiet beaches around the Butrint National Park coastline. Smaller boats let you spend more time swimming and exploring.
Watch the Sunset from the Water
In the late afternoon, the crowds thin out, and the sea turns golden. Renting a kayak or small boat for a sunset paddle is a peaceful and unforgettable way to end the day at Ksamil.
The Ksamil Islands sit just 3.5 km from the Greek border and about 15 km south of Saranda, Albania’s main port town in the south. The easiest way to reach Ksamil is by car or local bus from Saranda, which takes about 20 minutes.
You can visit the islands year-round, but the best time is from late May to early October when the weather is hot, the sea is calm, and kayak rentals and boat tours operate daily. July and August are the busiest months, so arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon for fewer crowds.
There are no facilities, shops, or toilets on the islands, so bring everything you need — water, food, sunscreen, hats, and snorkeling gear. Mobile signal can be weak on the outer islets. Always check the sea conditions before kayaking or boating, especially if you are not experienced on the water.
Most visitors spend a few hours at the Ksamil Islands as part of a beach day in Ksamil village, but you can also combine your visit with nearby attractions like Butrint National Park or the Blue Eye spring for a full-day adventure.
