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Ksamil Islands

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Ksamil Islands are a group of four small, uninhabited islands located in southern Albania, very close to the Greek island of Corfu. They are part of the Butrint National Park, a region celebrated for both its ancient archeological sites and its ecological significance. The islands are famous for their crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, often leading to them being called the "Maldives of Albania." The vegetation on the islands consists primarily of Mediterranean macchia, providing a nesting ground for various sea bird species. Because they are only accessible by boat or by swimming from the mainland, the islands have maintained a natural feel despite being a popular summer destination. Two of the outer islands are connected by a narrow strip of sand that becomes visible during low tide. Their sheltered position within the bay protects the area from strong currents, encouraging a rich marine environment.

Location: Albania
Top sights: Plazhi i Pasqyrave · Shpella e Pëllumbave · Plazhi i Pulëbardhës
Nearby: Manastir (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	7	7	10	13	18	23	26	26	21	17	12	8
Rain mm	119	104	91	58	50	28	16	24	84	110	140	150

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The islands are uninhabited and can be accessed from the outside at any time by boat. Landing on the islands is possible, but there are no facilities or paths.

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Typical hours

As they are open islands, there are no opening hours; access is possible during daylight. The best time to visit is when the sea is calm and the weather is good to enjoy the boat ride.

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Photography

Photography is allowed on the islands and from the boat without restrictions. The turquoise water and white sandy beaches offer impressive photo subjects.

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Time needed

For a short visit to one island and some snorkeling, you should plan about one to two hours. An extended boat tour to all four islands can take half a day.

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Combine with

The islands are located off the coast of Ksamil, which itself is famous for its beaches. A visit to the islands can be perfectly combined with a day at Ksamil beach.

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Getting there

The islands are only accessible by boat, which can be rented in Ksamil. There are regular boat tours that go to the islands, especially in peak season.

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Insider tip

Bring snorkeling gear as the water around the islands is very clear and features a rich underwater world. Book the boat tour early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Geography

Coordinates

39.77000, 19.99000

Facts

Consists of a total of four small islands.
Part of the Butrint National Park (UNESCO site).
The distance to the mainland is only a few hundred meters.
The islands cover an area of approximately 7.1 hectares.
Water visibility can reach depths of up to 15 meters.
Corfu is only about 4 km away in clear weather.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Ksamil<1 km · SEExplore →

Butrint National Park3 km · SEExplore →

Agios Stefanos4 km · WExplore →

Manastir4 km · NEExplore →

Butrint Wetland5 km · SExplore →

Agnitsini5 km · WExplore →

Kalami6 km · SWExplore →

Kassiopi6 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Ksamil Islands (3)

Plazhi i Pasqyrave 🎡 recreation

Mirror Beach, sandy beach with calm, mirror-like water near Ksamil Islands.

Shpella e Pëllumbave 🎡 recreation

Dove's Cave, a sea cave accessible by swimming from the Ksamil Islands.

Plazhi i Pulëbardhës 🎡 recreation

Seagull Beach, a sandy beach on one of the Ksamil Islands.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How do you reach the Ksamil Islands?

They can be reached by boat, kayak, or by swimming from the beaches in Ksamil.

Are there restaurants on the islands?

Small bars serving drinks and snacks are only available on the two largest islands in summer.

Is the water near the islands suitable for snorkeling?

Yes, the crystal-clear, calm water provides good visibility for snorkeling.

How many islands are there in Ksamil?

There are four small, uninhabited islands located very close to the mainland.

When is the best time to visit the islands without the crowds?

In May, June, or September it is much quieter than in the crowded July and August.

Ksamil Islands: where is it located?

Ksamil Islands is located in Albania.

Ksamil Islands: what is there to see?

Highlights include Plazhi i Pasqyrave, Shpella e Pëllumbave, Plazhi i Pulëbardhës.

Ksamil Islands: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.

Ksamil Islands: why is it worth visiting?

The Ksamil Islands are a group of four small, uninhabited islands located in southern Albania, very close to the Greek island of Corfu.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

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