The fall weather may be creeping in, but that doesn’t mean you’ve missed your chance to experience a European summer. In fact, there’s one small town in the Balkans where the warm-weather vibes stretch well into autumn—earning it the nickname “the Caribbean of Europe.”
Located at the southernmost tip of Albania, the village of Ksamil offers sun, sand, and laid-back charm in a compact, 5-square-mile package. Despite its size, it packs in stunning scenery at every turn, with wide, sandy beaches lapped by calm, crystal-clear water. One local highlight, Pasqyra Beach, is even home to what’s been called the statistically bluest water in the world.
Ksamili is no secret. In the heigh of summer, the beaches are often completely blanketed with umbrellas and beach towels, leaving little room to actually see the sand. That’s why now—Albania’s shoulder season—is the perfect time to visit. By early September, the crowds have thinned, but the weather stays balmy, with temperatures in the 70s well into October. And thanks to the towering cliffs that shield the shoreline from strong winds, the beaches often stay warm even as the air cools.
Despite its small footprint, Ksamil offers a surprising number of beach options. Ksamil Beach 7 is lined with chaise loungers available for rent, while Bora Bora Beach, a calm and small inlet, is especially popular with families.
Once you’re done with the sun, head to one of the many beach bars for a sunset drink. Poda Beach Club features beach loungers hanging over the water, happy hour specials, and live music. Ohana Beach Bar serves up tiki-style cocktails, and Laguna Beach offers bites, drinks, and even an inflatable obstacle course right in the water.
There are plenty of waterfront stays to choose from, too. Manta Resort boasts private beach access and a restaurant overlooking the water’s edge, while the Limni resort, with just 11 rooms and a tranquil central pool, offers a more personalized experience.
And here’s one more perk: you can island-hop to another country. From Ksamil, travelers can catch a 30-minute ferry straight to the Greek island of Corfu—perfect for a day trip filled with beach-hopping, coastal dining, and inland hikes.
So while Ksamil might be more of a trek for most American travelers, it’s also a place where summer starts early and lingers just a little bit longer—much like the Caribbean.
