At a glance
| Detail | |
|---|---|
| What it is | Hidden pebble-and-sand cove where a canyon meets the Ionian |
| From Dhërmi | ≈3 km south — ~30 min hike down the canyon trail, or by boat/water taxi |
| The canyon | ~800 m inland, walls up to ~150 m; 70+ bolted climbing routes |
| Facilities | Minimal — bring water, shade, sturdy shoes; a wild-camping spot |
| Season | June–September |
| Best for | Swimming, snorkelling, hiking, wild camping |
| Time needed | Half to full day |
The Riviera at its wildest
Gjipe Beach is a hidden pebble-and-sand cove where a deep canyon opens onto the Ionian Sea, about 3 km south of Dhërmi. There's no road to the beach, which is exactly why it has stayed so unspoilt. The gorge and the pale cliffs framing the cove were carved by water over long ages, leaving a sheltered curve of pebble and sand between high walls, with exceptionally clear water for swimming and snorkelling.
The Gjipe Canyon itself runs roughly 800 m inland, its limestone walls rising up to about 150 m on either side, and it has become one of Albania's best rock-climbing spots — a seaside crag of around seven sectors and 70-plus bolted routes. It's also a favourite for wild camping and for boats stopping along the coast.
How to get there
There are two ways in, and no road reaches the sand:
- On foot — walk down the canyon trail, around half an hour from the parking area off the SH8. The same trailhead serves the ruined St Theodore Monastery on the hilltop above, worth the short detour for the views. Go early and take water.
- By boat — the easiest way: small boats and water taxis run down the coast from Dhërmi or Himarë in summer, dropping you on the pebbles for a swim before the ride back. The same trips often pause at the Pirates' Cave, a blue-water sea cave in the cliffs nearby. See our Dhërmi boat trips guide.
What to bring
Because Gjipe is undeveloped, facilities are minimal — come prepared with plenty of water and shade, sturdy shoes for the canyon trail, and everything you need for the day. It's a summer spot, roughly June to September, when the water is warm and the boats run. Pair it with the coast's other beaches and coves for a classic Riviera day.
