Generals Beach, Durrës

Beach near Durrës

Generals Beach Albania
Generals Beach Albania
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Kukushiedi

Plazhi i Gjeneralit (often called General’s Beach) is one of the most distinctive stretches of sand on the Kavajë coast: a small, sheltered bay tucked between two capes, with low hills behind it and rocky outcrops at both ends. The beach’s soft, greyish-yellow sand and its natural horseshoe curve give it a “hidden cove” feel that’s rare on the busier Adriatic side of Albania.

What keeps it special is the trade-off: it’s not the easiest beach to reach, and that’s exactly why it often feels calmer than nearby resort strips. When the sea is up, the wet stones in the conglomerate rocks can show surprising colours-like a natural mosaic-while the bay itself is usually a good place for an unhurried swim and a slow, scenic beach day.

History and Significance of the Plazhi i Gjeneralit

The beach’s name is tied to local lore: an Italian general reportedly became captivated by the bay and was said to visit by yacht, a story that stuck so firmly that “the General’s Beach” became the name people still use today. Whether you treat it as documented history or seaside legend, it adds a human detail to a coastline that can otherwise feel anonymous.

Beyond the story, Plazhi i Gjeneralit matters because it still reads as a more natural pocket of coast compared with heavily built-up areas around Durrës and Golem. The surrounding hills and scrubby evergreen vegetation help the bay feel enclosed and almost “protected,” which is part of why it appeals to travellers looking for something quieter than the main beachfront promenades.

There’s also a conservation angle that makes this beach feel more meaningful than a simple sun-and-swim stop. The wider central Albanian coast can see sea turtles in season, and General’s Beach is often mentioned as a place where turtles may nest-an important reminder to treat the beach after dark with care and to follow any local guidance if nesting areas are marked.

Things to See and Do in the Plazhi i Gjeneralit

Start by walking the full curve of the bay, especially early or late in the day when the light softens the colours of the sand and hills. The capes at either end create a natural “frame” for photos, and you quickly get a sense of how the beach’s shape shelters it from open-sea exposure.

If the water is calm, snorkelling near the rocks can be surprisingly rewarding for an Adriatic beach-look for small fish around the edges where the seabed changes from sand to stone. The conglomerate outcrops are worth a close look too, especially after a wave rinse, when the embedded stones can pop with colour.

If you’re visiting during peak summer, ask locally whether there are any marked turtle-nesting zones and keep your beach behaviour low-impact: avoid bright lights on the sand at night, don’t disturb roped areas, and keep a respectful distance if you spot wildlife. Even if you never see a turtle, travelling with that mindset fits the “quiet bay” spirit that makes the place worth the effort.

How to Get to the Plazhi i Gjeneralit

The closest major airport for most travellers is Tirana International Airport (TIA), then you continue by road toward Kavajë/Golem and the coastal turn-offs. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Durrës on Booking.com. If you're already staying around Durrës or Golem, you're relatively close in distance, but the final approach slows things down, so plan more time than the map suggests.

Public transport can get you part of the way: buses and furgons run between Tirana, Durrës, Kavajë, and Golem, then you'll typically need a taxi for the last leg to the beach. Albania's passenger rail network is limited and not a practical way to reach this stretch of coast for most visitors.

Driving is the simplest option because it gives you control over timing, stops, and supplies, but expect a slower final section: the last kilometres can be rough, narrow, and dusty, so take it gently and avoid rushing the approach. If you are looking to rent a car in Albania I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Plazhi i Gjeneralit

  • Entrance fee: Free
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours
  • Best time to visit: Go midweek in summer for the quietest feel, or choose late spring/early autumn for warm water without peak-season crowds.
  • How long to spend: A half-day is easy, but the beach suits a full, slow day if you bring food, water, and shade.
  • Accessibility: The approach road and uneven ground near the rocky ends can be challenging; it’s easiest if you can manage short walks on mixed surfaces.
  • Facilities: Expect seasonal sunbeds and at least basic food/drink options in summer, but bring water and snacks so you’re not dependent on limited choices.

Where to Stay Close to the Plazhi i Gjeneralit

For this beach, the smartest base depends on your priorities: stay in Durrës if you want more sights, dining, and transport links, or base yourself in Golem/Qerret if your trip is primarily beach-focused and you want shorter drives to the coast.

If you want a comfortable resort-style base with easy access to the broader beach strip and day trips, Flower Hotel & Resort is a strong choice for amenities and a relaxed holiday rhythm. For a simpler beach stay that keeps you in the Golem area (handy for reaching multiple beaches along this coast), Hotel Elesio is well placed. If you prefer a more city-linked option with classic seaside-hotel infrastructure in Durrës, Adriatik Hotel, BW Premier Collection works well as a base that combines beach time with easier access to Durrës attractions.

Is the Plazhi i Gjeneralit Worth Visiting?

Yes-if you value atmosphere over convenience. The rougher approach road filters out the biggest crowds, and what you get in return is a sheltered bay that feels more natural than much of the built-up Adriatic coastline, with a “small discovery” feeling that’s hard to manufacture.

The honest pivot is that you should skip it if you hate slow, bumpy access roads or you want a fully serviced, promenade-style beach day with lots of options right behind your sunbed. In that case, beaches around Golem or Durrës may suit you better, and you'll save your patience for other day trips.

For Different Travelers

Families with Kids

For families, this beach works best when you treat it as a straightforward “sand-and-swim” day and keep logistics simple. Bring water, snacks, and shade so you’re not reliant on whatever is available, and aim for earlier arrival to secure a comfortable spot.

The key consideration is the approach: if anyone in the family gets carsick or dislikes rough roads, plan breaks and drive slowly. Once you’re there, the sheltered bay shape can feel safer and calmer than more exposed beaches, which is a plus for younger swimmers.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, Plazhi i Gjeneralit is at its best in the shoulder hours-early morning or late afternoon-when the bay feels quieter and the surrounding hills add to the sense of privacy. Pack a simple picnic and make it a slow day rather than a rushed “tick-box” stop.

If you enjoy photography, the rocky ends of the beach can deliver more character than a typical straight shoreline, especially when the stones are wet and the colours come through. Treat it as a mood beach: minimal plans, plenty of time, and a relaxed drive back.

Budget Travelers

Budget travellers often love this beach because you can keep the day inexpensive: bring your own food and skip paid sunbeds if you’re happy with a towel and shade strategy. With a little preparation, it can be a high-quality beach day without the costs that stack up at more commercial stretches.

The main budget variable is transport-splitting a taxi or driving with friends can make a big difference. If you’re travelling solo without a car, try pairing it with another stop in the area so the “last-leg” taxi cost feels more worthwhile.

FAQs for Visiting Plazhi i Gjeneralit

Getting There

It’s on the Kavajë coastline, set in a sheltered bay between two capes, away from the main beachfront strips. The last stretch is slower than you expect, so treat it as a short “off-route” detour rather than a quick hop.
The simplest plan is to drive or take a taxi and follow local signs toward Kryevidh/Domen and Plazhi i Gjeneralit. Expect the final kilometres to be the slow part, not the highway section.
Yes if you want flexibility and you’re comfortable with rougher road conditions. If you strongly prefer easy access and perfect road surfaces, you may enjoy a closer beach more.

Beach Setup and Costs

You can usually just bring your own towel and set up in free areas, especially outside the most organised summer sections. In peak season, sunbeds can be convenient, but they’re not essential if you arrive early and pack smart.
It can get busier in July and August, but it’s often less packed than more accessible neighbouring beaches. The “harder-to-reach” factor tends to keep the atmosphere calmer.
In summer you’ll typically find at least basic options close to the beach, but choice can be limited. For a better day, bring water and snacks so you’re not dependent on a single venue.

Wildlife and Respectful Visiting

The beach is often mentioned as a place where turtles may nest in season, though sightings aren’t guaranteed. If you visit in summer, follow any marked guidance and avoid disturbing quiet areas of sand after dark.
Keep your distance, don’t use bright lights on the sand, and avoid touching or photographing too closely. If staff or locals are monitoring a zone, follow their instructions and treat it as a protected space.

Swimming and Sea Conditions

On calm days, the bay can feel pleasantly sheltered, with an easy, sandy entry. After wind or rougher weather, conditions can change, so check the water before committing to a longer swim.
It can be, particularly near the rocky ends where fish gather and the seabed has more texture. Bring a mask if you enjoy casual snorkelling rather than expecting dramatic reefs.

Photography

Yes-the horseshoe shape and the capes create natural compositions that look more “cove-like” than typical Adriatic beaches. The rocky outcrops are especially photogenic when waves have just rinsed them.
Late afternoon is often the most flattering because the light softens and the hills add depth to the scene. Early morning can feel quieter and cleaner if you want people-free frames.

Safety and Timing

It’s generally manageable, but it can be rough and slow, especially in dry conditions or after weather. Drive carefully, avoid speeding, and plan your return with daylight if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
It’s better as a half-day to full-day stop because the access effort is part of the “cost.” If you only have an hour or two, an easier-to-reach beach may make more sense.

Nearby Attractions to the Plazhi i Gjeneralit

  • Qerret Beach: A long, relaxed stretch of Adriatic sand with a more developed resort feel and easy access.
  • Golem Beach (Mali i Robit area): A classic base for beach holidays with plenty of hotels, cafés, and a wide shoreline.
  • Spille Beach: A broad, family-friendly beach backed by pines, good for a slower day away from city crowds.
  • Fortress of Bashtovë: A striking medieval fortress near the coast that makes an easy cultural stop between beach visits.
  • Cape of Rodon and Skanderbeg Castle: A scenic headland walk with sea views and a historic castle ruin, ideal for a half-day nature-and-history break.

The Generals Beach appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Durrës!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

24 Hours

Price:

Free

Address: Plazhi i Gjeneralit, Albania
Durrës: 21 km

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