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This Tiny Beach Village Is the 'Caribbean of Europe'--and It Has the Bluest Water in the World

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, September 14th 2025 at 10:20 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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Dhermi: Albania’s Hidden Caribbean Jewel

When one thinks of the Caribbean, images of sun‑kissed sand, turquoise lagoons, and laid‑back beach bars usually come to mind. Yet a short drive from Albania’s capital and a mere hour’s bus ride from the coastal city of Vlore lies a tiny beach town that has quietly been stealing that Caribbean vibe away from its more famous counterparts. Dhermi, a 3‑kilometre stretch of shoreline in Vlorë County, is being hailed by travel writers and Instagrammers alike as “the Caribbean of Europe.” The claims are easy to justify once you step onto its fine white sand and dip your toes into its calm, crystal‑clear waters.

A beach that defies expectations

Dhermi is tucked into the heart of the Albanian Riviera, a 130‑kilometre ribbon of Ionian coastline that is still relatively unknown to the mainstream tourist circuit. What makes Dhermi unique is its combination of unspoiled scenery, limited commercial development, and an intimate sense of place that is hard to find in the more heavily trafficked beaches of Greece or Italy. Lonely Planet lists Dhermi as one of the “Best Beaches in Albania,” noting that the water’s depth is shallow—perfect for families and beginner swimmers—while the gentle swell keeps the waves manageable. A nearby limestone cliff, rising to 150 metres, offers an occasional dramatic backdrop for sunset photos.

The beach’s popularity has grown rapidly in recent years. According to TripAdvisor’s 2024 review tally, Dhermi has received over 12,000 ratings, with a 4.5‑star average. Visitors frequently remark on the pristine conditions, citing the absence of commercial beach umbrellas or large fast‑food chains that mar the view in many European resorts. Instead, a handful of boutique hotels and a few family‑run bungalows provide the only hospitality, each offering an intimate, locally‑led experience.

A small town with big hospitality

Despite its popularity, the town of Dhermi remains a tight‑knit community of about 400 residents. The town’s most famous establishment, “Kohët e Dhermës” (Dhermi’s Beach), is a modest eco‑hotel that prides itself on serving fresh fish caught the same day from nearby fishermen. “We keep it simple,” says owner Luan Veli, a second‑generation fisherman. “The beach is the main attraction; we just provide a good place to sleep and eat.”

The hotel’s restaurant is a staple of the local culinary scene, offering dishes such as “Fërgesë” (a pepper and tomato stew), “Tavë Kosi” (baked lamb with yogurt), and the catch of the day, a white‑fish fillet that locals claim tastes better than any fish on the international market. In addition to the hotel, a handful of other lodgings—including a family‑run B&B and a couple of holiday apartments—give travelers the freedom to choose between a homely atmosphere or a bit more privacy.

A gateway to adventure

While Dhermi is renowned for its beach, the surrounding area offers a wealth of activities that cater to adventure‑seeking travelers. The town sits on the edge of the Llogara National Park, a rugged landscape of pine forests and limestone cliffs that is popular for hiking and mountain biking. A short detour east leads to the historic town of Himara, known for its medieval fortifications and turquoise coves.

For water‑based adventures, the Ionian Sea off Dhermi’s coast offers excellent snorkeling and diving conditions. Several local operators run half‑day dives that showcase the underwater diversity of the Albanian Riviera, including a nearby “Blue Cave,” a natural grotto known for its luminous blue interior. Those seeking a more relaxed experience can rent kayaks or paddleboards and glide along the calm shoreline, perhaps stopping to swim in the warm, clear water.

Getting there: simple and straightforward

Dhermi’s appeal lies in its accessibility. Travelers arriving in Tirana can take a domestic flight to Vlore, which is a 1‑hour, 45‑minute drive to the town. For those who prefer overland transport, a 2‑hour bus ride from Tirana to Dhermi is available on the public bus line that runs along the coastal corridor. Tour operators also offer private transfers, with pickup options at the airport or from the city centre.

Once on site, the town’s narrow streets are walkable, and a small fleet of rental scooters and bicycles allows guests to explore the beach and its surroundings at their own pace. For those unfamiliar with the area, local guides are available at the Dhermi Tourist Information Office, which offers maps, safety tips, and up‑to‑date information on weather and tides.

A travel journalist’s verdict

In a world where many popular beach destinations have become saturated with commercial developments, Dhermi offers an unvarnished escape that feels both local and luxurious. It embodies the best of what the Albanian Riviera has to offer: breathtaking scenery, warm hospitality, and a sense of tranquility that is rare in the age of mass tourism. For travelers seeking a Caribbean‑like experience that feels far removed from the crowds of the Mediterranean’s most famous beaches, Dhermi is a revelation. The next time you plan a beach getaway, consider this hidden gem—after all, paradise comes in many forms, and Dhermi proves that some of the most captivating are found just a few hours away from the world’s most frequented destinations.