Ksamil and Dhërmi beaches to pass from private to municipal management

Two of Albania’s most famous beaches, Ksamil and Dhërmi, will no longer be run by private operators but instead come under the management of their local municipalities.

Why is this important: Ksamil, often called the “Maldives of Europe,” is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and white sand. Yet uncontrolled expansion of umbrellas and sunbeds has left little public space, while prices have risen sharply in recent years. Bringing Ksamil and Dhërmi under municipal administration aims to free public areas and protect the image of Albanian tourism.

Context: At the close of the summer season, Prime Minister Edi Rama said urgent measures were needed to protect Albania’s coastline from abuse and overcrowding.

“We must heal the beaches that have been violated, take them from the hands of private operators, and it no longer makes sense for Ksamil or Dhërmi to be private beaches. One of the most beautiful beaches in the world cannot be prey to those who see it as occupied land or impose unimaginable prices that harm the image of tourism,” he said.

The municipalities of Himara and Lezha will serve as models for the new coastal plan that the government is drafting. Starting next summer, music will also be banned in beach bars.

Tourism officials emphasized that improving service quality remains a government priority. Tourism Minister Mirela Kumbaro said over 9 million tourists had visited Albania by the end of August. Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku noted that infrastructure investments, such as the new Murrizi Tunnel, have also boosted visitor numbers.

What’s next: With the launch of the “Rama 4” government, Albania will be divided into six tourism regions to better manage growth. From summer 2026, Ksamil and Dhërmi will be administered by their municipalities under new rules designed to reduce abuse, protect public access, and ensure fairer conditions for tourists.