The Secret Season: Why Locals Prefer September in Ksamil and Himarë

There’s something about September.

Maybe it’s the still-warm sea. Or the way the light hits the mountains in the late afternoon—softer, slower. Maybe it’s just the peace that returns when the crowds thin out and the villages start breathing normally again.

Whatever it is, ask anyone who lives in the south of Albania—we’ll all tell you the same thing:

September is our favorite month.

When the Season Shifts

Don’t get me wrong. July and August are a thrill. Ksamil turns into this vibrant, almost chaotic mix of languages, beach umbrellas, and last-minute reservations. Himarë fills with cars from every corner of Europe. And as someone who works in real estate, I love that buzz.

But once September hits… everything changes.

Last week, I showed a client a stunning apartment in Ksamil—right near the beach, perfect for short-term rentals. They asked me, “Is it always this calm?” I smiled.

“This,” I told them, “is the secret season.”

We walked down to the shore. The sea was like glass. The restaurants weren’t rushed. Prices? Lower. And the view? Just as beautiful.

This apartment is still one of my favorites on the market—great for a peaceful vacation base and smart investment.

The Water Is Warmer. The Air Is Kinder.

In September, the sea holds all the heat it’s been collecting all summer. It’s warmer than in June, even. Perfect for long swims without the shouting of jet skis or packed beach bars.

And the air—finally! After months of heavy heat and traffic, the breeze in Ksamil and Himarë gets fresher. Mornings are crisp, not cold. You can actually sit outside at noon without melting.

It’s also the best time for viewings. I can walk you through a property without rushing, without parking wars, without the honking chaos of August. And honestly? The properties even feel different this time of year. More serene. You get to imagine them as they really are.

Prices Drop. Quality Rises.

Here’s a little-known fact: in September, you get more for your money.

Hotel prices drop. Airbnbs open up. Restaurants go back to serving locals instead of tourist menus. And the same goes for real estate. While summer is peak selling season, September is the moment when smart buyers start negotiating. Sellers who didn’t close in August become more flexible.

And since I work closely with developers, I see it all. Some of our best opportunities get listed or unlocked after summer—like this upcoming project in Saranda, White Residence, where the pre-construction prices are still low, but the location is top-tier.