Himare is a standout destination on the Albanian Riviera, offering a blend of rugged coastlines, crystal waters, and a welcoming small-town vibe. The area’s true charm lies in its secluded beaches, impressive caves, and lively boat tours. Whether you want to snorkel in untouched waters, explore ancient caves, or simply relax on a boat with spectacular views, Himare has something for every traveler. We particularly enjoy the Pirate’s Cave tour, which combines adventure with a splash of legend, and the Gjipe Beach trip, known for its dramatic scenery and fewer crowds. These experiences not only highlight the area’s natural beauty but also connect you with local guides who know the coastline intimately.
If you’re looking to maximize your time, many of these tours offer a good mix of swimming, sightseeing, and photo opportunities—perfect for capturing your memories. The variety of options means you can choose a quick afternoon trip or a more leisurely half-day cruise. To help you pick the right adventure, we’ve compiled a list of the 12 best tours in Himare, each with its own special appeal.
1. Himara: Pirate’s Cave Tour, Secret Beaches Swimming & Snorkeling
At number 1, this 3-hour boat tour transports you from the charming Himara coast to the legendary Pirate’s Cave and other secret spots. It’s a small-group experience, making it easier to enjoy personalized attention from local guides. The tour includes stops at Livadhi, Aquarium, Jale, and several other beaches, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in the Ionian Sea. The highlight is exploring the Pirate’s Cave, accessible only by boat, where you can snap photos of its rugged cliffs and turquoise waters.
What makes this tour stand out is its carefully curated itinerary, including visits to hidden caves and breathtaking cliffs. The guide is experienced, and the small group size ensures a more intimate experience. The combination of swimming, exploring caves, and scenic photography makes it ideal for adventure lovers and families alike. Reviewers praise the “unforgettable photos” and “guides who knew every secret of the coastline.” Expect a fun, activity-packed half-day that’s worth around $41 per person.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a quick, active day exploring caves and secret beaches with expert guides and small groups.
2. HIMARA’S COASTLINE TOUR 3h30mins (Group of max 10 persons)
This 5-star-rated tour offers an intimate experience on a 3.5-hour boat trip, with a cap of just 10 participants. It’s well suited for those who value comfort, personalized attention, and a comprehensive exploration of the coast. The guide takes you past notable sites like Livadhi, Aquarium Beach, Jale, and the Canyon of Gjipe, all from the water. Highlights include snorkeling opportunities and visits to unexplored caves and secluded beaches.
Guests mention the guide’s friendliness and the “amazing opportunity to see so many caves and bays you’d never find alone.” The boat is equipped with amenities, making the ride both enjoyable and relaxing. It’s especially good for travelers who want a smaller group experience without sacrificing the scenic diversity. The cost is competitive considering the quality of the sights—this tour is a fantastic choice for those who prefer a more relaxed pace and personalized service.
Bottom Line: For small groups who want a relaxed, personalized boat tour with plenty of swimming and photographic moments, this is a top pick.
3. Boat Tour to Himara, Explore Albanian Riviera & Caves
As the third option, this 3.5-hour boat adventure offers a well-rounded exploration of the Albanian Riviera’s coastal treasures. The itinerary features stops at Livadhi Beach, Aquarium, Jale, and the Gjipe Canyon, with opportunities to swim in Dove’s Cave and Crystal Bay. The tour includes visits to Saint Theodore’s Cave and the Pirate’s Cave, making it ideal for those eager to see a mix of natural wonders.
The tour is praised for its beautiful scenery and the chance to take stunning photos, with friendly guides leading each stop. You’ll get a chance to relax on pristine beaches and learn about the coastline’s geological features. Reviews emphasize the “calm waters and breathtaking views,” making it perfect for families or couples seeking a leisurely day on the water. The balance of adventure and relaxation makes this a solid choice for those wanting variety without a long commitment.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a comprehensive tour that combines swimming, sightseeing, and photography in a manageable 3.5-hour window.
4. Himara: Albanian Riviera Boat Tour with Swimming stops
This 2.5-hour tour is ideal for those short on time but eager to experience the coast. It focuses on swimming, snorkeling, and exploring caves like Turtle’s Cave and Pigeons Cave. You’ll start at Himara and visit beaches such as Jale and Crystal Beach, with multiple stops for swimming and photo breaks.
Reviews highlight the friendly captain and the well-organized stops, which include snorkeling in crystal waters and discovering hidden caves. It’s a great option for a quick escape from the town or for travelers with limited time. The tour offers excellent value, providing access to some of the most beautiful spots along the coast in just over two hours.
Bottom Line: A quick, fun-filled option that covers key beaches and caves, perfect for travelers on a tight schedule.
5. Himare: Exciting Boat Tour from Himare to Gramma Bay
Spending around 5.5 hours, this tour is ideal for those who want a full-day experience exploring the coast at a leisurely pace. The journey includes stops at Aquarium Beach, Marble Beach, Gjipe Beach, and Pirate’s Cave. The highlight is the Bay of Grama, where you’ll have plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
This trip is best suited for travelers who love longer excursions with multiple stops, especially those interested in swimming in crystal waters and exploring caves. The guide’s local expertise helps you discover places you might miss on your own. The length makes it more suitable for active explorers who don’t mind a full day on the water.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure seekers who want to spend ample time exploring the coastline and enjoying multiple swim and photo stops.
6. Caves of Porto Palermo: Kayak/SUP Tour with Castle Sea View
This 3-hour tour is for those who prefer paddling to sightseeing. It focuses on kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding around Porto Palermo Bay, exploring hidden caves, secluded beaches, and the Ali Pasha’s Castle from the sea. The tour combines active paddling with relaxed views of the sea and castle.
Guests rave about the vibrant marine life and the thrill of paddling in calm waters. The guide shares insights into the history of the castle and points out caves that aren’t accessible by land. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who enjoy water sports but want a more tranquil experience than a boat cruise.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers eager to combine paddling and sightseeing with a touch of history and nature.
7. Himare: Pirates Cave Boat Tour: Let’s swim to the caves
This 2.5-hour tour emphasizes swimming and exploring caves along the Himara coast. It’s perfect for those who love water activities and discovering nature’s secrets, including Livadhi, Jale, and Pirate’s Cave.
Reviews highlight the crystal-clear waters and the fun of swimming directly from the boat, often describing it as an “unforgettable experience.” The tour is straightforward, focusing on caves and beaches, making it accessible for all ages and fitness levels. It’s a good option for a shorter, activity-packed trip.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a lively, swim-focused adventure with plenty of cave exploration.
8. Albanian Riviera Boat Tours
This 4-hour tour offers a more comprehensive experience along the coast, including stops at Gjipe, Pirates Cave, and secret caves. The itinerary emphasizes exploring Gjipe Beach’s rugged landscape with options for swimming and relaxing.
Reviewers mention the beautiful scenery and the well-organized schedule. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy a longer, more relaxed cruise with plenty of time to take photos or lounge. The tour covers several highlights without feeling rushed and is perfect for those who want a fuller day of exploration.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers seeking a longer, scenic cruise with ample time for swimming and relaxing at key sites.
9. From Tirana/Durrës: Blue Eye, Ksamil and Gjirokastra Tour
A full 10-hour day trip that combines the Blue Eye spring, Ksamil beaches, and Gjirokastra’s castle and town. Ideal for those wanting a broader taste of southern Albania’s highlights, this tour is a practical choice if you’re based in Tirana or Durrës.
Travelers love the diverse scenery and the chance to see both natural wonders and historic towns. The Blue Eye’s crystal spring is a top photo spot, while Gjirokastra’s stone architecture offers a different kind of charm. It’s a longer day, but perfect for history and nature enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a rundown of Albania’s southern attractions in one trip.
10. Himare: Private Guided City Tour
This 2-hour private tour is ideal for those interested in a personalized introduction to Himare’s history and sights. You’ll visit the Himare Castle and explore the town’s narrow streets, enjoying the stunning views over the coast.
While reviews are mixed (rating only 1.6/5), the private nature means you can customize the experience. It’s suitable for visitors who want a quick overview or are interested in local history and culture. It’s a straightforward option that complements other outdoor adventures.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those seeking a quick, tailored introduction to Himare’s cultural sights.
11. Saranda Private Boat tour with snorkeling
A 5-hour private tour that takes you around Saranda’s hidden beaches and caves. Expect to swim, snorkel, and visit the Cave of Turtles. It’s perfect for travelers who want a flexible, intimate experience.
Reviews mention the friendly skipper and the opportunity to explore inaccessible spots, making it a good fit for families or small groups. The tour provides snorkeling gear and hotel pickup, adding to its convenience.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a personalized, flexible tour with snorkeling and secluded beaches.
12. Sarandë: Ionian Coast Hidden Beaches and Caves Boat Tour
Last on our list, this 3-6 hour tour is flexible, focusing on hidden beaches and sea caves along the coast. It’s a smaller group experience, emphasizing swimming and exploring caves like Kroreza and Kakomes.
Reviewers highlight the “stunning scenery and peaceful beaches,” making it perfect for travelers who want to escape crowds and enjoy nature. The itinerary includes stops for swimming and food tasting, ideal for a full day out.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a personalized, immersive experience exploring the Ionian’s secret spots.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Himare
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your time availability, interest in physical activity, and whether you prefer a guided group or private experience. If you love active water sports, kayak or snorkel tours like the Caves of Porto Palermo might suit you best. For a shorter, scenic cruise, options such as the Himara: Albanian Riviera Boat Tour offer a good balance of sightseeing and swimming.
Budget also plays a role. Tours priced around $41, such as the Pirate’s Cave or Porto Palermo kayak, give great value, especially considering the inclusions. Larger groups or longer trips tend to be more economical per hour, but if you want a personalized experience, private tours or smaller groups are worth the extra.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak season (June to September), to secure your spot. Consider your fitness level—some trips involve considerable swimming or paddling, while others focus on sightseeing with minimal physical effort.
Final Thoughts
Himare offers a diverse lineup of sea adventures and coastal explorations that cater to different interests and schedules. For active explorers, the Pirate’s Cave Tour and kayaking are excellent options. Those seeking a relaxed day can enjoy the coastline boat tours with plenty of swimming and photography. If time is limited, short trips like the Himara Albanian Riviera Tour still pack a punch.
Two standout choices are the Himara: Pirate’s Cave Tour for its combination of caves, beaches, and intimate group experience, and the Himare’s Coastline Tour for a balanced, small-group adventure. Don’t forget to book early, especially if you want to secure a spot on the most popular trips during the summer months.
Whatever your preference, Himare promises a memorable water-based adventure—so pick your tour wisely and enjoy exploring this beautiful stretch of Albanian coast.