Although it was once a small village, Ksamil has quickly become one of the most popular spots on the Albanian Riviera. Located opposite the Greek island of Corfu, Ksmail offers a great selection of beaches, each with crystal-clear waters and comprehensive amenities. Visitors won't find many things to do in Ksamil that don't involve going to the beach, but half-day trips to the small, quiet islands offshore and the ancient ruins of Butrint provide travelers with a nice dose of variety.
It’s best to wait for beach weather when visiting Ksamil. The warm weather between May and September is ideal for spending long days at local beaches and swimming in the Ionian Sea. Conditions are at their best in July and August, but this is also when the small village is overwhelmed by the volume of beachgoers in the area. If you don’t mind colder water, come in May and September for a quieter experience.
Most visitors arrive in Ksamil from the nearby port city of Sarandë. A regular public bus runs from the city to Ksamil (and through to Butrint) and takes roughly 30 minutes. However, the bus often fills up immediately in summer; groups should take a taxi as it won’t be much more expensive. Walking is the most common way to get around Ksamil, especially as traffic can build up, but some outer beaches are too far to walk.
Most beaches in Ksamil are now private; to use them, you’ll need to rent out two sunbeds with one umbrella for a high daily rate. Prices are generally higher at the popular Ksamil Beach and Bora Bora Beach. However, views from beachside cafés only cost the price of a drink. Remote beaches are often also quieter, as some beach clubs play loud pop/dance music along the main beaches.
