Albanian Sea

Albania has 427 km of seacoast, with the Adriatic running from the Montenegro border south to the Bay of Vlora, where the Ionian sea begins.

Adriatic coast is a low-lying one, with large protected bays (such as those of Vlora and Durres), which have been used as harbors since ancient times. The rivers that flow into the Adriatic have created fertile alluvial plains on these lowlands and, at their mouths, exceptionally rich wetlands, which are home to many waterfowl and migratory birds.
Adriatic coast is excellent for family vacations. Much of it is composed of pine forest and there are also several lagoons, what offers a great potential for eco-tourism, nature lovers and bird watching. The main sandy beaches of Adriatic coast are Velipoja, Shengjini, Durres, Golemi, Divjaka and old sandy beach of Vlora.

On the other hand, the Ionian coast is very rugged with rocky coves along the narrow coastal strip and steep mountains rising almost straight up almost much of its length. The highest point along this stretch is at the Llogara Pass, over 1.000m high. Geologic activity and erosion have created many caves at the base of these cliffs, some of which were inhabited in prehistoric times.
Ionian coast is known among tourists for its small isolated beaches and deep sea waters. It is preferred destination of young people and water activity lovers since it offers great environments for diving. The main beaches on the Ionian coast are Dhermi, Jala, Himara, Qeparoi, Borsh, Saranda and Ksamil. This area is also known as the Albanian riviera.

 

Albanian coastline in photos

Dhermi and Himara - 37 pictures from Albanian Riviera, 2008