Things to Do in Ksamil

October 31, 2026

Ksamil is a small seaside village in the far south of Albania, close to the Greek border. Most of what visitors do here centres on the main bay, the four small islets just offshore and the ruins of Butrint a few kilometres to the south. Prices are given in Albanian lek (ALL). Beach bars, boats and taxis usually accept euros as well, but sunbeds, buses, the Butrint kiosk and the Blue Eye gate are cash only.

The village is seasonal. Most businesses close from about October to April, so anything that relies on a hire shop or a boat, such as kayaks, sunbeds, island water taxis or the mussel boat trip, needs a quick check that it is running if you come outside summer. Albania is a normal destination; check the current UK and US advice before you book.

Swim, paddle or pedal to the nearest islet

The nearest islet lies about 70 to 100 m from the main bay. The others are 200 to 400 m out, and the outermost one realistically needs a boat. Shallows often let you stand part of the way across.

There are no lifeguards on the crossing, and pedalos, water taxis and motorboats are the main hazard in July and August. Early morning is calm, while the channel gets choppier after about 14:00. Wear water shoes because of the sharp rock, and never send children across alone. Pedalo and SUP hire is about 1,000 ALL per hour, and it is not available in winter.

Island water taxi

In high season a water taxi to the islets costs about EUR 5 to 7 return and starts running from about 09:00. Bring cash. The islets have no shade, shops or bag storage, and the nearest pair may have a simple bar in season, so pack water and a hat.

Lake Butrint mussel boat trip

Several operators run boat trips of 2 to 3 hours to the mussel farms on Lake Butrint, with fresh mussels to eat. Expect about 3,900 to 4,500 ALL per person, depending on whether lunch or a transfer is included. The trips are seasonal, so book ahead. You can compare listings on GetYourGuide .

Beach time at Lori Beach

Lori Beach is about 700 m west of the village centre. The water is shallow and sheltered, and the sunbeds are paid. Two loungers and an umbrella cost about 1,500 to 3,000 ALL at the summer peak. Ask whether the price is a flat fee or comes with a minimum spend on food and drink. Beaches are public in law, and free stretches exist, but in July and August paid sunbeds cover most of the main bay.

Seafood in the village

Mussels from the lake and grilled fish are the local specialty. Long-running beach-front tavernas such as Guvat and Abiori appear in 2026 guides, though hours vary and many close in winter.

Butrint as a half day

Butrint National Park is about 4 km south of the village, roughly 10 minutes by bus or taxi. An adult ticket is 1,000 ALL, and hours change with the season. The himara.net Butrint guide lists the ticket tiers and opening times, and the himara.net guide to the islands covers distances and hazards.