Lalzi Bay, Albania: What to know before your holiday

Lalzi Bay (Gjiri i Lalëzit) is a holiday destination on Albania's Adriatic coast, about 30 km north of Durrës. It is known for wide sandy beaches, pine forests and upmarket resorts such as San Pietro. Being close to Tirana Airport, the capital and the historic city of Durrës makes it a convenient choice for family holidays and for exploring Albania.

Where is Lalzi Bay?

Lalzi Bay lies on Albania's western coast, north of Durrës, stretching towards the Cape of Rodon. The area runs along a sandy shoreline backed by pine trees and upmarket holiday complexes with apartments, villas and hotels.

On maps and travel sites you may also see it as Lalëz Bay, Lalez Bay or, in Albanian, Gjiri i Lalëzit.

Unlike the city beach in Durrës, Lalzi Bay is not a built-up urban area. Much of the accommodation sits inside residential complexes surrounded by green space.

That makes the area attractive to families and travellers looking for a seaside holiday with more peace and privacy.

What are the beaches at Lalzi Bay like?

The beaches are wide, with fine sand and a gently shelving entry into the sea. This makes them ideal for family holidays, walks along the shore and beach games.

Along the coast you will find organised beaches with umbrellas, sunloungers, bars and restaurants.

In front of San Pietro Resort alone there are more than 10 beach areas along roughly 1.5 km of coastline. The broad strip of sand, around 200 metres wide in places, leaves plenty of room to relax, play and stroll.

Guests staying at San Pietro have access to these beach areas. Umbrellas and sunloungers are charged, at around €10 per day.

How far is it from the airport, Tirana and Durrës?

One of the advantages of Lalzi Bay is its location. You can spend the day on the beach and still visit the main cities of central Albania without changing accommodation.

Approximate distances from San Pietro Resort:

Times depend on traffic, especially at summer weekends.

From Tirana Airport you can travel by taxi or hire car. The guide taxi fare to San Pietro is around €30–35. For more detail, read our guide from Tirana Airport to San Pietro Resort.

What is San Pietro Resort?

San Pietro is a gated residential and holiday complex set among the pines on the shore of Lalzi Bay.

The resort has controlled access and 24-hour security. Inside there are private apartments and villas, restaurants, bars, children's play areas and a shop that opens from April to October. Another shop just outside the resort is open all year round.

The five-star Meliá Durrës Albania hotel is also located within San Pietro. Guests staying in private apartments can use the hotel's restaurants, bars, spa and indoor pools, subject to the relevant terms and charges.

Next to the resort are the Aqua and Perla outdoor pools, which can be used for a fee.

Where to stay in San Pietro Resort

San Pietro has private apartments and villas that can also be booked directly with their owners.

One of them is Suite 121, a 110 m² ground-floor apartment with a 300 m² private garden. It has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a large living room, a fully equipped kitchen and a covered terrace. It sleeps up to 8 and is particularly well suited to two couples with children or larger families holidaying together.

From the garden gate to the beach path it is about 150 metres.

What is there to see near Lalzi Bay?

Lalzi Bay is about more than beach days. The surrounding area has restaurants, wineries, lakes and historic sites you can reach by car.

Duka Winery

About 10 minutes' drive from San Pietro, Duka Winery sits among vineyards beside a lake. Visitors can enjoy local wines, traditional food and Albanian specialities. The winery also offers wine tastings and organised outdoor experiences.

Durrës

Around 30 minutes away is Durrës, one of Albania's oldest cities. The Roman amphitheatre, the Venetian Tower and the seafront promenade are among its main sights.

Tirana

The Albanian capital is around 45–60 minutes away by car. Skanderbeg Square, the museums, the restaurants and the Blloku district make for a very different day from the beach.

Cape of Rodon

At the northern tip of the bay is the Cape of Rodon, known for its coastal scenery, the historic castle of Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg and the Church of St Anthony.

Kruja

Another rewarding destination is Kruja, with its historic castle, museums and Old Bazaar selling traditional crafts and souvenirs.

You will find all of these described in our guide to things to do near Lalzi Bay.

When is the best time to visit?

July and August are the warmest months and the busiest time of year.

For families who prefer quieter beaches, May, June and September are good alternatives. Temperatures are usually right for the beach, while there are fewer visitors.

Outside the summer season, Lalzi Bay is still a place for walks and peaceful stays, although some bars and tourist services close.

Read our guide on the best time to visit Lalzi Bay.

Frequently asked questions

Is Lalzi Bay part of Durrës?

Yes. Lalzi Bay lies in Durrës County, north of the city, on the border with Tirana County.

Is the beach at Lalzi Bay sandy?

Yes. The beaches have fine sand and a gently shelving entry into the sea, which makes them well suited to family holidays.

Do I need a car on holiday at Lalzi Bay?

Not necessarily. In San Pietro Resort you can walk to the beach, the shop and several restaurants. To visit Tirana, Durrës, Kruja and the sights around, a car is more practical.