If you’re after the best beaches in Durres, you’ve picked the Adriatic’s liveliest seaside city — a place where golden sands meet vibrant promenades, crystal-clear waters, and a rich tapestry of local life. Whether you’re here for relaxation, water sports, or a taste of authentic Albanian coastal culture, Durres delivers a beach holiday in Albania that’s both accessible and full of character. The city’s long coastline offers everything from bustling city beaches to serene coves, all within easy reach of Durres city center and the ancient heart of Durrës.
Best Hotels in Durres🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Melia Durres
- ✨ 5-Star: Palace Hotel & Spa
- 🏨 4-Star: AMR Hotel
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Vila Misiri
- 💸 Cheap: Grandstay Studios
- 🏢 Apartment: Sea View Apartments Durres
- 👪 For Families: Grand View Apartment
- 🏩 For Couples: EKA Luxury Apartments
Quick Guide to the Best Beaches 📃
- 🏖️ Urban Sands — Durres Beach
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Shores — Currila Beach
- 🌊 Lively Resorts — Golem Beach
- 🌅 Golden Escape — Portez Beach
- ⛰️ Cliffside Serenity — Kallm Beach
- 🌲 Pine-Shaded Seclusion — Spille Beach
- 🌱 Nature’s Hideaway — Karpen Beach
- 🍹 Local Vibes — General’s Beach
- 🏞️ Scenic Bay — Lalëzi Bay (just north of Durres)
- 🦪 Fresh Eats & Relaxation — Cape of Rodon
1. Durres Beach: The Heart of the Coast
The sand is warm underfoot, and the Adriatic Sea sparkles as far as you can see. I watched locals play chess on the promenade while kids splashed in the shallow waters just steps from the city of Durres historic center. This stunning beach represents the city’s main sandy stretch — over 10km long, with gentle waves perfect for swimming and sunbathing from May to September, when the water stays warm and the days are longest for a perfect day at the beach.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Stroll along Bulevardi Epidamn to the Venetian Tower, then pop into the Archaeological Museum before grabbing a coffee at one of the beachfront cafés. Locals love the pocket of sand near Crazy Pizza — unpretentious, lively, and just a short walk from the Roman Amphitheatre, making it one of the beautiful beaches of Durres that visitors can easily reach from Tirana by bus or car. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds; the nearest bus stop is Durrës Qender, right in the center of it all.
- Pro: Unbeatable convenience — bars, restaurants, and historic sights all within walking distance.
- Con: Can get very busy in peak summer, especially near the city center.
Best For: Anyone wanting a classic, all-in-one beach in Durres experience with plenty of options for food, drink, and culture.
Skip If: You’re after peace and quiet — head south to Currila or Portez Beach instead.
Best Hotels near Durres Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Royal G Hotel and Spa — Beachfront 4-star hotel with spa facilities, pool, and direct beach access.
- Beachfront Apartments Durres — Modern seafront apartments with balconies and stunning Adriatic views.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Saly — Boutique beachfront hotel with private beach area, modern rooms with sea views, and excellent location steps from Durres Beach.
- Hotel Empire — Central hotel offering comfortable accommodation with modern amenities and convenient access to beaches and city attractions.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Grandstay Studios — Modern studio apartments with kitchenettes, contemporary furnishings, and excellent location near the beach and city center.
2. Currila Beach: Family-Friendly Sands
The water here is calm and clear, perfect for a family swim, while the soft sand stretches invitingly along the shore. I spent an afternoon watching kids build sandcastles while parents relaxed under rented umbrellas, sipping coffee from a nearby kiosk. This popular beach represents one of the most easily accessible stretches along the Adriatic coast, with gentle slopes into the sea, ideal for safe swimming from June through September.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Walk the promenade from Shetitorja e Plazhit past small playgrounds and beach bars to reach quieter stretches where you can explore the area’s rich history, including remnants from ancient Roman settlements that make this a perfect spot for a day trip. The hidden cove near the boat rental hut is a local favorite for its calm waters and absence of vendors. Arrive by bus (Currila stop) or park easily in the lot beside the beach; mornings are best for space and tranquility.
- Pro: Excellent facilities — showers, lifeguards, sunbeds, and plenty of shade.
- Con: Gets crowded on weekends, especially at the main entrance.
Best For: Families, couples, and anyone valuing comfort and safety on a beach in Durres.
Skip If: You want wild, untouched nature — try Cape of Rodon or Spille Beach further south.
Best Hotels near Currila Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Grand Duka Hotel & Spa — Elegant hotel featuring spa services, fine dining, and proximity to historic sites.
- Hotel Epidamn — Boutique hotel with contemporary design and easy access to the city center.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Arvi — Family-friendly hotel with clean rooms, good service, and strategic location near the waterfront promenade.
- Belle View Hotel — Mid-range hotel featuring scenic views, comfortable rooms, and easy access to Durres’ main beach and historic sites.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Central Vila 5 — Charming traditional accommodation with authentic Albanian character, peaceful setting, and budget-friendly rates.
3. Golem Beach: Lively Resorts & Shallow Waters
Pine trees rustle in the breeze as the scent of grilled fish drifts from beachside grills. I joined locals for a lazy lunch at a seaside taverna before a dip in the shallow, turquoise water—so clear you can see your toes. Golem Beach is a wide, sandy stretch backed by resorts, beach clubs, and casual eateries, offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of the coastal city of Durrës with calm, ankle-deep water ideal for kids and non-swimmers.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Start at the southern end near Restorant Ujvara, then wander north past lively beach clubs to find quieter patches along the sandy shores along the Adriatic Sea. The small cove behind the abandoned hotel is a secret spot for sunset picnics, popular with locals for its peace and privacy away from this vibrant port city that once housed one of the largest Roman amphitheatres dating back to the 2nd century AD. The beach is easily reached by furgon (minibus) from Durres; parking is available under the pines.
- Pro: Plenty of amenities, from jet ski rentals to beachfront dining.
- Con: The resort vibe isn’t for everyone — some stretches feel commercial.
Best For: Anyone wanting a lively, well-equipped base with options for dining, drinking, and water sports.
Skip If: You prefer a more local, low-key scene — head to Currila or Spille Beach.
Best Hotels near Golem Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Villa Pascucci — Charming villa accommodation with garden terrace and traditional Albanian hospitality.
- City Center Rooms Durres — Budget-friendly rooms in the heart of Durres with easy beach and attraction access.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Vila Misiri — Traditional Albanian villa with restaurant serving local cuisine, offering authentic experience near the coast.
- Marina Luxury Suites by PS — Upscale suites with modern design, kitchenette facilities, and prime location near marina and beaches.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- EKA Luxury Apartments — Upscale apartments with modern amenities, stylish interiors, and prime location for exploring Durres beaches.
4. Portez Beach: Golden Escape South of the City
The sand here is pure gold, and the water so clear it sparkles in the midday sun. I wandered barefoot past a handful of beach bars, stopping to watch windsurfers dance across the waves. Portez Beach is a long, straight sandy bay south of Durres, representing one of Albania’s most worth visiting stretches along the coast, with calm waters and a relaxed, local feel — a favorite for sunbathing and swimming from late May to early October, especially for those looking to stay in Durres and explore quieter beaches to visit in Durres.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Follow the coastal trail from the main parking area to discover hidden coves and a couple of laid-back seafood shacks perfect for experiencing this authentic beach in Durrës. The stretch near the old lighthouse is a local favorite for its postcard-worthy views and gentle surf, making it one of the essential tips for visiting Durres to arrive early to snag a prime spot. Take the local bus or drive; parking is free and plentiful, but arrive early to snag a prime spot.
- Pro: Clean, uncrowded, and perfect for a peaceful day by the sea.
- Con: Fewer facilities than central Durres — bring your own shade and snacks.
Best For: Couples, solo travelers, and anyone seeking a serene beach in Durres away from the bustle.
Skip If: You want nightlife and city buzz — stick to Durres Beach or Golem.
Best Hotels near Portez Beach
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Grandstay Apartments — Self-catering apartments with contemporary furnishings, balconies, and convenient city center location.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Vila Rosa — Family-run villa offering personalized service, comfortable rooms, and authentic Albanian hospitality near the coast.
5. Kallm Beach: Cliffside Serenity & Rocky Coves
Pebbles crunch underfoot as the sea laps against dramatic cliffs, and seabirds call overhead. I scrambled over rocks to a secluded spot where locals picnic in the shade of twisted olive trees. Kallm Beach is a rare rocky stretch in Durres, with clear, deep water ideal for snorkeling and cliff jumping — best visited from June to September when the sea is warmest, offering a different experience from the typical family-friendly beaches that beach lovers usually seek on their trip to Durres.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Park at the end of Rruga e Currilave and follow the path down to the beach, passing a handful of simple tavernas that serve fresh seafood away from the busy beach bars and restaurants found near the main port in Albania. The secret cove beyond the main beach is a local hideout for quiet swims and sunbathing away from the crowds, perfect for those seeking tranquility before experiencing Durres nightlife in the evening. No direct public transport; a short taxi ride from Durres city center gets you there.
- Pro: Stunning scenery and excellent water clarity for snorkeling.
- Con: Pebbles and rocks make it less comfortable for lounging than sandy beaches.
Best For: Adventurous travelers, snorkelers, and anyone craving dramatic coastal views.
Skip If: You want soft sand and shallow water — Currila or Golem Beach are better choices.
Best Hotels near Kallm Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Shtepi Pushimi Durres — Traditional Albanian guesthouse offering authentic local experience and home-cooked meals.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Sanpietro Vacation Apartments — Spacious vacation apartments with kitchen facilities, perfect for extended stays and family holidays.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Vino Durres — Boutique accommodation with wine-themed décor, cozy atmosphere, and convenient access to beaches and restaurants.
6. Spille Beach: Pine-Shaded Seclusion
Pine needles scent the air as you walk from the car park to the wide, uncrowded sands. I joined local families under the trees, sharing fresh figs and watching kids play in the gentle surf. Spille Beach is a long, sandy stretch fringed by pines, with shallow waters and a handful of casual beach bars — a quiet alternative to Durres’ busier spots, ideal from June to early September, as Durres is also known for offering peaceful locations like this that beaches add to its charm, showing how Durres has something for every type of traveler.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Park beneath the trees and follow the sandy path to the water’s edge, passing small playgrounds and simple seafood grills. The northern end, near the old fishing huts, is a local secret for peaceful sunbathing. No direct bus; driving or taxi is best, but parking is easy and free.
- Pro: Peaceful, natural, and perfect for families seeking calm.
- Con: Limited facilities — bring your own supplies for a full day.
Best For: Families and travelers seeking a quiet, natural beach in Durres away from the crowds.
Skip If: You want lively bars and nightlife — head to Durres Beach or Golem.
Best Hotels near Spille Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- AMR Hotel — Modern 4-star hotel with comfortable rooms, restaurant, and convenient location near the beach.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Ajsel — Budget-friendly hotel with clean rooms, friendly service, and good value for money in central Durres.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Arteg Apartments - Full Sea View — Well-appointed apartments with modern facilities, comfortable living spaces, and strategic location in Durres.
7. Karpen Beach: Nature’s Hideaway
Wind rustles through wild grasses as waves break gently on a secluded stretch of coarse sand. I spotted fishermen mending nets near a small freshwater spring, a favorite picnic spot for locals. Karpen Beach is a wild, undeveloped stretch south of Durres, offering a different variety of beach experience compared to other beach destinations in the area, with few amenities but plenty of natural beauty — definitely worth exploring for solitude seekers from late spring to early autumn, though it contrasts with the bustling beach town atmosphere found north of the city.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Park at the end of a dirt track and walk through dunes along the beach, keeping an eye out for rare birds and wildflowers while enjoying distant views of the city across the bay. The spring near the old stone wall is a beloved local spot for a shady picnic, worth checking out for its peaceful setting away from the developed areas located north of Durres. No public transport; a car is essential.
- Pro: Unspoiled nature and complete peace — perfect for birdwatching and meditation.
- Con: No facilities — bring everything you need for the day.
Best For: Nature lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone craving solitude on a beach in Durres.
Skip If: You want comfort, amenities, or a social scene — try Currila or Golem Beach.
Best Hotels near Karpen Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hotel Nayel — Contemporary hotel with stylish interiors and excellent service in central Durres.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Aragosta Hotel and Restaurant — Seaside hotel with on-site restaurant specializing in fresh seafood and Mediterranean cuisine.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Vila Al Durres — Traditional Albanian villa with garden setting, home-cooked meals, and warm hospitality near the waterfront.
8. General’s Beach: Local Vibes & Fresh Eats
The scent of grilled octopus drifts from a family-run taverna as old men play backgammon in the shade. I joined locals for a leisurely lunch of fresh seafood and watched boats bobbing in the harbor. General’s Beach is a small, sandy cove with a distinctly Albanian feel — simple, welcoming, and perfect for a relaxed day by the sea from June to September, offering a vibrant beach atmosphere different from the busy city with a rich history found in central Durres.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Park near the small harbor and stroll past colorful fishing boats to the beach, stopping at a waterfront café for a coffee or raki while taking in views of some of the oldest ruins in the Balkans visible from the coastline. The cove behind the breakwater is a local favorite for safe swimming and experiencing an unforgettable sunset over the Adriatic Sea, making it the perfect end to a day of exploration. No direct bus; a short drive or taxi from Durres.
- Pro: Authentic local atmosphere and excellent, affordable seafood.
- Con: Small and can feel crowded when busy.
Best For: Food lovers and anyone wanting a taste of real Albanian coastal life.
Skip If: You want a long stretch of sand or lively nightlife — Durres Beach or Golem are better options.
Best Hotels near General’s Beach
💎 Luxury hotels
- Sunrise Cameria Durres — Family-friendly hotel with pool, restaurant, and easy access to beaches and city attractions.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Mövenpick Lalëz Durres — Premium resort hotel with luxury amenities, spa services, and beautiful beachfront location north of Durres.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Greenvilla Park — Peaceful villa surrounded by greenery, offering tranquil accommodation with easy access to Durres attractions.
9. Lalëzi Bay (Gjiri i Lalzit): Scenic Bay North of Durres
Turquoise water shimmers against a backdrop of rolling hills, and the scent of pine fills the air. I joined locals at a beach bar, sipping fresh lemonade and watching boats glide across the bay. Lalëzi Bay is a 30-minute drive north of Durres, away from the city bustle, offering clear water, golden sand, and a long stretch of sandy coastline with a mix of resorts and natural areas — ideal from June to September and making it a perfect spot for those seeking both relaxation and scenic beauty.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Park at one of the small lots and walk along the bay, stopping at a casual beach bar for a drink while enjoying views that contrast beautifully with the beaches located in the city center. The hidden cove near the old church is a local favorite for peaceful swimming and picnics. No direct public transport; a car or taxi is best.
- Pro: Stunning scenery and excellent water clarity, with a mix of amenities and wild stretches.
- Con: A bit of a journey from Durres city center.
Best For: Travelers wanting clear water and scenic views, with options for both relaxation and activity.
Skip If: You want to stay in the heart of the action — Durres Beach or Golem are closer to the city.
Best Hotels near Lalëzi Bay (Gjiri i Lalzit)
💎 Luxury hotels
- Vila Emma Durres — Cozy villa accommodation with garden setting and personalized service near the coast.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Vinea Resort & Spa Durres — Full-service resort with spa facilities, pools, and comprehensive amenities for a relaxing beach holiday.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Vollga Escape — Modern escape accommodation with contemporary design, comfort amenities, and convenient beach proximity.
10. Cape of Rodon: Wild Cliffs & Historic Ruins
Salt spray mists your face as you hike along dramatic cliffs, with ruins of a medieval castle looming above. I picnicked on a quiet stretch of pebbly sand, listening to the waves crash against the rocks. Cape of Rodon is a wild, windswept peninsula north of Durres, with rugged beauty and a sense of adventure — best for hiking, photography, and solitude from late spring to early autumn, offering a dramatic contrast to the typical sands and crystal-clear waters found elsewhere along the coast.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Park at the end of the road and follow the trail past the castle ruins to the beach, stopping to explore hidden coves along the way where the beach is also perfect for swimming despite its remote location far from the bustle of the city. The small bay near the lighthouse is a local secret for peaceful swimming and sunset views. No public transport; a car is essential.
- Pro: Dramatic scenery, historic sites, and complete escape from the crowds.
- Con: Pebbly sand, few amenities, and exposed to winds.
Best For: Adventurers, hikers, and anyone seeking wild beauty and history on a beach near Durres.
Skip If: You want soft sand, shallow water, or convenience — stick to Currila or Golem Beach.
Best Hotels near Cape of Rodon
💎 Luxury hotels
- Vila One Beach — Beachside villa offering direct beach access, sea views, and peaceful atmosphere.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Ventus Harbor Durres — Modern hotel near the harbor with stylish rooms, restaurant, and convenient access to both beach and city center.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Hotel Bella Vista — Scenic hotel with beautiful views, comfortable rooms, and excellent location for exploring Durres beaches and historic sites.
FAQ
What budget should you plan for a beach holiday in Durres?
Expect to spend around €20–40 per day on meals, local transport, and beach activities, with prices rising slightly in peak season (July–August) but remaining affordable compared to Western Europe.
Which beaches in Durres are best for families with young children?
Currila Beach and Golem Beach offer calm, shallow waters, playgrounds, and plenty of facilities, making them ideal for families with kids.
Which beaches are ideal for water sports in Durres?
Durres Beach and Golem Beach are the top spots for jet skiing, pedal boats, and other water sports, with rental shops and calm conditions in summer.
What is the best time of year to visit Durres’s beaches?
June to early September is prime beach season, with warm water, sunny days, and a lively atmosphere, though May and late September can be quieter and still pleasant.
How can you easily get around Durres’s beaches?
Central beaches like Durres Beach and Currila Beach are walkable or accessible by city bus; for Golem, Portez, and Spille, take a local furgon (minibus) or taxi; a car is best for Lalëzi Bay and Cape of Rodon.
Are there any hidden or less-crowded beaches in Durres?
Kallm Beach, Spille Beach, and especially Karpen Beach offer quieter, more natural experiences away from the main crowds — perfect for solitude seekers.
What practical tips should visitors know when going to Durres’s beaches?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, as shade can be limited; arrive early for the best spots on busy days; negotiate prices for water sports; and respect local customs at quieter, family-oriented beaches.
