Where the Riviera Remains Untouched: Hidden Beaches Locals Love (But Tourists Haven’t Discovered Yet)

I’ll let you in on a little secret—some of the best parts of the Albanian Riviera aren’t in the guidebooks. Not yet, anyway.

Sure, everyone’s heard of Ksamil and Saranda by now. And yes, they’re beautiful, buzzing, and full of life. But if you drive just a little further, past the usual tourist routes, you’ll stumble on places that feel almost untouched. Bays with turquoise waters, not a soul in sight. Tiny beach cafés where they still greet you like family. These are the spots we locals escape to when we want to breathe. To slow down. And every time I visit, I’m reminded why I fell in love with this coast in the first place.

Kakome Bay – Nature’s Secret Sanctuary

Kakome is one of those places I hesitate to talk about too much. Not because I don’t want to share it with you, but because I selfishly want it to stay exactly as it is. Quiet. Raw. Honest.

It’s not easy to reach unless you know where you’re going—or unless you ask a local. The drive includes a few turns that aren’t clearly marked, and there’s a good chance your GPS will give up halfway. But that’s part of the adventure, isn’t it?

The beach itself? Wide and golden, framed by dramatic cliffs and pine-covered hills. No hotels towering over you. No loud music. Just the sound of waves and maybe the occasional goat wandering by. Last summer, I brought a couple from the Netherlands here. They were looking for a beachfront property but wanted something far from the usual. When we sat on the sand with a picnic from the local bakery in Saranda, they told me it felt like they were on a private island. That’s Kakome for you.

By the way, if you’re dreaming of owning something a bit more tucked away but still luxurious, I recommend checking out the White Residence Villas in Borsh. They’re a bit further south, but offer the same kind of serene, natural vibe—with modern comfort and design. Think olive groves, sea views, and the scent of rosemary in the air.

Krorëz Bay – The Beach You’ll Never Forget

Now, Krorëz Bay is a little harder to access, but oh, it’s worth it.

Most people only get there by boat. Locals, though, we know there’s a hiking path down from the hills if you’re up for the challenge. The walk is steep, a bit wild in spots, but when you make that final turn and the bay reveals itself—it’s pure magic. The water is crystal clear, the beach is soft and sandy, and there’s hardly ever a crowd.

This is the beach where I go when I need to reset. No phone signal. No schedule. Just sun, sea, and silence. Once, after a long week of client meetings and site visits (and trust me, summer season in real estate can get hectic), I took a day off and hiked down to Krorëz alone. I ended up swimming for hours, and then I just lay on my towel, watching the clouds drift by. I think I sold two apartments the next day with more ease than ever, simply because I had unplugged.

It’s this contrast—between the lively energy of Saranda and the wild calm of places like Krorëz—that makes the Albanian Riviera so special.

Local Flavor – Not Just About the Beaches

Now, if you’re planning a viewing trip, here’s a little tip: there’s a small taverna near Borsh Beach that barely has a sign, but they serve the best grilled octopus I’ve had in years. Most tourists walk right past it, looking for something more “polished,” but trust me—the charm is in the simplicity. It’s also the perfect spot to chat with locals and get a sense of the area before seeing nearby properties.

And speaking of Borsh—this is a village with soul. It’s quickly becoming one of my favorite spots for buyers who want a mix of tradition and tranquility. The views? Unbeatable. Especially from the hillside properties where you can watch the sunrise over the Ionian Sea while sipping Turkish coffee on your balcony.

Why These Places Still Matter (Especially for Buyers)

There’s something priceless about investing in a region that still has space to breathe. Sure, Ksamil is stunning, and I’ve helped many clients find amazing beachfront apartments there. But if you’re someone who values peace, who dreams of starting fresh in a place where time moves slower—then these lesser-known spots deserve your attention.

The truth is, affordable properties on the Albanian Riviera won’t stay affordable forever. Tourism is growing. Infrastructure is improving. And every year, more people discover what we’ve known all along—that this coast is one of the last untouched gems of the Mediterranean.

So whether you’re searching for Saranda apartments for sale, planning to build a boutique guesthouse, or simply want a seaview apartment to escape to in the summers, don’t overlook these quiet corners. The value isn’t just in the square meters. It’s in the lifestyle. The freedom. The sunrises that make you pause mid-sip of coffee because they’re that beautiful.