Beach Party Destinations
With a pristine Mediterranean coastline, affordable prices, and vibrant nightlife, Albania attracts party-goers and music enthusiasts worldwide and has garnered attention as Europe’s go-to destination for music festivals.
Vlora
The city’s waterfront promenade, known as Lungomare, is a popular spot for nightlife and entertainment. Known as the “Pearl of the Albanian Riviera,” Vlora was Albania’s first capital. It is where, in 1912, Albania declared independence from 500 years of Ottoman occupation.
Popular Spots
Da Vinci – located in Vlorë, Albania, is a café known for its beachfront setting and is a great place to relax with a drink. It is trendy among tourists for its location and atmosphere.
The Wave (Instagram: @thewave.restolounge) – The Wave Restaurant in Vlorë, Albania, offers a distinctive dining experience along the scenic Lungomare promenade. It is active on social media, promoting events like DJ live sessions and live music on Saturdays, which enhances its vibrant atmosphere.
Hotel Liro (Instagram: @hotel_liro) – Hotel Liro in Vlorë, Albania, is a beautifully renovated hotel that offers a refreshing seaside experience. The on-site bar and restaurant feature a spacious terrace, ideal for savoring Mediterranean dishes while soaking up the scenic surroundings.
Radhimë
Radhimë is home to the ancient city of Amantia, an Illyrian settlement dating back to the 5th century BC.
Popular Spots
Coco Bongo (Instagram: @new_cocobongo) in Radhimë, Albania, is a vibrant summer club and beach bar offering diverse entertainment and leisure activities. Located on the Jonufer Kastrati beachfront, it is known for its dynamic atmosphere and the variety of events it hosts, including beach parties and foam parties. The venue provides a great blend of relaxation and fun, with amenities like a beach bar and a restaurant, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking a lively beach experience.
Where to Stay
Sea View Hotel – Overlooking the Ionian Sea, Sea View Hotel offers comfortable accommodations, a private beach, and a restaurant serving fresh seafood.
Tirana Resort Radhime – This resort offers luxurious rooms and villas, a private beach, multiple swimming pools, and a spa center for ultimate relaxation.
Dhërmi
Dhërmi is known for its crystal-clear waters and is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
Popular Spots
- Havana
- Whisky
- Nazar
- Yacht Club
Where to Stay
Elysium Hotel – Located near Dhërmi Beach, Elysium Hotel features modern rooms, a restaurant, a bar, and an outdoor pool with stunning sea views.
Sofo Hotel – This boutique hotel offers elegant rooms, a traditional Albanian cuisine restaurant, and a terrace with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea.
Empire Beach Resort Adults Only – This adults-only resort offers a secluded and relaxing atmosphere, luxurious rooms, a private beach, and a spa center.
Jalë Beach
Jalë Beach, a stunning stretch of the Albanian Riviera, sets the stage for unforgettable beach parties. Crystal-clear waters, white pebble shores, and awe-inspiring landscapes create an intimate atmosphere where visitors can lose themselves in the rhythm of exciting live music by the sea.
Popular Spots
Folie Marine Beach Club & Resort (Instagram: @f.marine) – My favorite party destination on the Albanian Riviera. The renowned Folie Marine Beach Club is known to host local singers and international DJs spinning captivating sets that keep the party going late into the night. With ample amenities and electrifying energy, Jalë Beach guarantees an incredible experience for those seeking the ultimate beach party destination.
Saranda
The “Southern Gate of Albania” Saranda is a 30-minute ferry ride from Corfu, Greece. If you’re looking for a vibrant party atmosphere, Sarandë is the place to be. With its numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants, the city comes alive at night, offering many options for those seeking to dance and socialize into the early hours.
Popular Spots
Orange Club (Instagram: @orange_club_sarande_albania) – This popular beachfront bar is known for its lively atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and regular DJ performances. It’s a favorite spot among young travelers and locals alike.
Mango Beach (Instagram: @mango_beach) – Located on one of Saranda’s best beaches, Mango Beach Bar offers the perfect blend of relaxation and fun. Enjoy refreshing drinks, tasty food, and live music performances in a stunning setting.
Bougainville Bay Resort & Spa (Instagram: @bouganvillebay) – Bougainville Bay Hotel in Saranda offers an engaging nightlife scene, making it an appealing destination for those who enjoy evenings filled with entertainment. The hotel has various nightlife venues, including the “Night Club Oda e Zekatëve” and the “Veranda e Zanave | Lounge Bar,” part of the hotel’s extensive leisure facilities. These venues provide a vibrant atmosphere for guests with their distinct offerings — the nightclub for lively dance and music sessions and the lounge bar for more relaxed, scenic evening drinks
Santa Quaranta (Instagram: @santaquaranta) – Santa Quaranta Premium Resort in Saranda, Albania, offers beachfront accommodation with various amenities, including free WiFi, parking, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a private beach area. The resort is known for its scenic location and convenient access to local attractions. The resort includes a restaurant and bars, providing dining options right by the beach.
Where to Stay
Hotel Brilant – This modern hotel is located near the center of Saranda and features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop terrace with city views.
Hotel Real – Hotel Real offers luxurious rooms, a restaurant, a bar, and an outdoor pool, all within walking distance of Saranda’s main attractions.
Ksamil
Ksamil has recently captured the attention of travelers seeking pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a lively atmosphere. Situated in the southern part of the country, just a short distance from the Greek border, Ksamil is the ideal destination for those looking to combine relaxation with daytime beach parties and nighttime clubs.
Popular Spots
Poda Beach Bar (Instagram: @poda_loungue_bar) – This trendy beach bar is known for its lively music, delicious cocktails, and stunning views of the Ionian Sea. It’s popular among young travelers and locals, and regular DJ performances and themed parties are held throughout the summer.
Veranda by Apollonia (Instagram: @veranda_by_apollonia) – This stylish beachfront restaurant and bar offers a unique dining experience with stunning views of the Ionian Sea. Enjoy fresh seafood, delicious cocktails, and epic beach parties in their pool and spacious terrace.
Bianco Lounge Ksamil (Instagram: @biancoksamilislands) – Bianco Lounge offers guests a sophisticated ambiance, delectable Mediterranean cuisine, refreshing cocktails, and a private beach area. The infinity pool provides a perfect spot to relax and enjoy breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. As the sun sets, Bianco Lounge transforms into a lively nightclub featuring DJs, a spacious dance floor, and state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems.
Korali Restaurant (Instagram: @koralirestaurant) – Located on the main beach of Ksamil, Korali Beach Bar is a favorite among locals and tourists. Its laid-back vibe, affordable drinks, and prime location make it a great spot to start your evening before heading to one of the local clubs.
Where to Stay
Blue Eye Hotel – This 5-star hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites, each with a private balcony overlooking the sea. The hotel features a spa, fitness center, restaurants, a private beach area, and an outdoor pool.
Mira Mare Beach Hotel (Instagram: @hotelmiramareksamil) – With its prime beachfront location, Mira Mare Beach Hotel is the perfect base for exploring Ksamil’s stunning beaches. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a traditional Albanian cuisine restaurant, and direct access to the beach.
Music Festivals
Kala Festival 2024 (June 5-12, Dhërmi)
Kala Festival is Albania’s first international music festival, launching in 2018. Kala Festival is a beachside dance paradise with stunning scenery, live seaside music, epic 5-hour sunrise DJ sets, and an intimate, friendly vibe.
UNUM Festival 2024 (June 6-11, Shëngjin)
Unum Festival is a five-day, six-night sonic paradise on the Albanian coast featuring three unique stages. The main stage offers an unforgettable experience as established and upcoming DJs spin a mesmerizing mix of beats against the Adriatic Sea’s stunning backdrop. Shëngjin is known for its long, sandy beach and is a popular spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Anjunadeep Explorations 2024 (June 13-18, Dhermi)
Anjunadeep Explorations (Instagram: @anjunadeepexplorations) is an intimate festival experience hosted by the renowned electronic music label Anjunadeep. I went last summer and can tell you firsthand that this is one of the best house music festivals in the world. If you’re into electronic music, you should check it out, but act fast; spots are limited, and it sells out quickly.
ION Festival 2024 (September 4-11, Dhërmi)
ION Festival combines music, wellness, and adventure, offering activities like yoga, meditation, and water sports alongside its music lineup.
Korça Beer Festival 2024 (August 14-18, Korçe)
Korçe is known as the “City of Serenades” and is famous for its traditional Albanian music and architecture. Korça Beer Festival is a great way to attend a local festival in Albania where you will be around tourists and locals.
Notable Destinations
Orikum: Bojo Resort for memorable beach parties. Orikum is home to the ancient city of Oricum, founded in the 6th century BC.
Durres Golem: Fafa Resort hosts the Afro-Latin Festival every May and October. Durres is Albania’s largest port and was once an important city in the Roman Empire.
Gjiri Lalzit: Popular beach clubs – Insifa Beach and Ibiza. Gjiri Lalzit, or Lalzi Bay, is popular for water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding.
Shengjin: Notable party spots include Soluna, Prince Adriatik Resort, and Rafaelo Resort. Shengjin is located near the Kune-Vain Lagoon, a protected natural reserve home to over 200 species of birds.
Travel Tips for Your Holiday
- Best time to visit: June to September for ideal beach weather and summer events
- Currency: Albanian Lek (LEK), with Euros widely accepted
- Language: Albanian, with English and Italian spoken in tourist areas
- Local tip: Try Raki, Albania’s classic grape brandy
- Getting around: Rent a car for flexibility or use taxi services
Celebrate in Albania
Albania’s emergence as a premier destination for beach parties and music festivals is undeniable. With its stunning coastline, vibrant nightlife, and exciting music events, the summer of 2024 promises to be unforgettable.
