Four small islands close enough to swim to, with water between them in the shades of blue that made Ksamil famous.
Islands · swim
Free (pedalo optional)
Half a day
Ksamil
Ksamil's signature isn't just the white sand — it's the four small islands scattered just offshore, near enough that strong swimmers cross to the closest pair from the beach, and everyone else arrives by pedalo or kayak in minutes. The twin islands joined by a thin pebble spit are the classic target: you can stand between them with famous blue water on both sides.
The islands themselves are scrub-green and mostly undeveloped — the attraction is the crossing, the coves on their seaward sides, and the snorkelling in water so clear that depth becomes hard to judge.
Swim from Ksamil's main coves if you're confident (conditions permitting), or rent a pedalo or kayak on the beach — the crossing takes minutes.
The islands are free; pedalo and kayak rental is priced by the hour on the beach. Mind the swim lanes and boat channels when crossing.
Early morning gives glassy water and empty islands — by noon in August they're a destination. Water shoes earn their keep on the rocky island edges, and a mask doubles the experience.
Ksamil's coves, where to stay and how to beat the crowds — the full guide.
Back on the beach: mussels from the lagoon next door, the village's signature dish.
Butrint National Park is ten minutes away — islands in the morning, two millennia of history after lunch.
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