Information
Landmark: Ksamili IslandsCity: Sarande
Country: Albania
Continent: Europe
Ksamili Islands, Sarande, Albania, Europe
Overview
Just off the coast of Ksamil, a seaside village in southern Albania, the Ksamili Islands (Albanian: Ishujt e Ksamilit) form a small, picturesque cluster, with clear turquoise water lapping at their shores near the town of Saranda.These islands lie within Butrint National Park-a UNESCO World Heritage site-and rank among the Albanian Riviera’s most popular and scenic spots, where clear water laps against pale, sun-warmed stone.Just off the shore of Ksamil village-where soft white sand meets clear turquoise water-the Ksamili Islands rest in the Ionian Sea.They sit near the Butrint Lagoon, close enough that you can spot them from the mainland or catch sweeping views from Butrint National Park.Scattered like stepping stones across the sea, these islands are small, sunlit, and easy to reach.Among the most popular are Ishulli i Vogel, a tiny isle you can reach by boat or even a short swim, and Ishulli i Madh, the largest in the group, with wide stretches of sand and quiet coves to explore.Most of the islands sit untouched, their solitude adding to the charm.Here, the Ksamili Islands show off glassy blue water, soft white sand, and thick green foliage swaying in the breeze.The islands offer calm, shallow waters that are perfect for snorkeling or a slow swim, and their sandy shores invite you to stretch out in the sun or just breathe in the quiet.Colorful fish dart through swaying seaweed and bright coral, making this a thrilling place for divers.From the islands, you can take in sweeping views of the sapphire Ionian Sea, the wild beauty of Butrint National Park, and the green hills curling around the coast-a dream for nature lovers and photographers alike.With shallow, crystal-clear water lapping at warm sand, the Ksamili Islands are perfect for swimming or stretching out in the sun.The crystal-clear water makes it perfect for a swim or just stretching out on the sand with the waves in your ears.Many travelers hop on boat tours to reach the islands, while others glide along the rugged coastline by kayak.Rent a small boat or kayak and glide out to the islands for a fresh view of the coast, the salt air sharp in your nose.The clear waters around the Ksamili Islands teem with fish and bright coral, perfect for snorkeling or diving.Shallow waters hug the islands, making them ideal for beginners, while seasoned divers can venture into the deeper blue.Bring a camera-the Ionian Sea glitters in the sun, with Butrint National Park and the far-off hills framing the view.Photographers will have no shortage of chances to capture the area’s wild beauty-think herons lifting off at sunrise or waves curling against the shore.You can reach the Ksamili Islands by hopping on a small boat, easily hired from the main beach in Ksamil village.For a few euros, these boats ferry visitors out to the nearby islands.If you’re feeling bold, you can swim the short stretch through calm, glassy water.Just up the road, Ksamil village has plenty of places to stay-hotels, cozy guesthouses, even seaside apartments-and a range of spots to eat.Many of these places sit just steps from the sand, so you can wander down to the water or catch a boat to the Ksamili Islands.In town, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, cafés, and beach bars serving grilled fish and classic Albanian dishes.You can sip a cold drink or share a meal while gazing out at the glittering coastline and the scattered Ksamili Islands.These islands lie within Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site treasured for its rich biodiversity, remarkable archaeological sites, and its role as a safe haven for countless bird species and other wildlife.The islands sit within the Butrint Lagoon, a protected haven where pelicans skim the water and herons stalk the shallows alongside other migratory and resident birds.Nearby, Butrint National Park shelters the ruins of the ancient city of Butrint, one of Albania’s most treasured archaeological sites.The park is a key cultural and historical landmark, and a trip to the Ksamili Islands lets you soak in the area’s natural beauty while staying close to its rich past.Picture crystal-clear water lapping at soft sand and green hills rolling down to the shore.The Ksamili Islands, with their gentle waves and little more than a few fishing boats in sight, offer a quiet retreat for anyone craving peace and gorgeous views; their untouched charm makes it easy to let go of daily stresses, and the clear, shallow waters invite you to swim, snorkel, or paddle a kayak at your own pace.With its crystal-clear water and schools of darting fish, it’s a perfect spot for water sports lovers.The islands sit just a short boat ride from Ksamil village, a favorite base for travelers exploring the area.Because the islands sit so close to shore, you can hop over for a simple day trip-clear water lapping at your feet as you arrive-and from there, it’s an easy gateway to Butrint National Park’s wild landscapes and ancient ruins.Here, nature blends with local culture to create a rich, memorable trip-picture clear turquoise water beside old stone paths.The Ksamili Islands are at their best from late spring through early autumn, roughly May to October.From June to September, the days stay warm and the sea lies smooth as glass-perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or taking a boat out.It’s also the height of tourist season, so expect more people on the beaches and in the cafés.If you visit in May or October, you’ll find warm, gentle weather and far fewer crowds.The Ksamil Islands, with their quiet coves and clear turquoise water, make a serene escape in southern Albania.Their sandy shores glow in the sun, the water’s so clear you can see tiny fish flicker below, and the calm air makes it a haven for nature lovers, thrill-seekers on the waves, or anyone who just wants to breathe and take in the Ionian Sea.Whether you’re diving into clear blue water, paddling a kayak along the shore, or just letting the sun warm your face, the Ksamili Islands promise an experience you won’t forget.
