Local’s Guide to the Best Beaches in Dubrovnik

About Dubrovnik Beaches

Dubrovnik, a stunning coastal city on the Adriatic Sea in Croatia, is known for its rich history, charming Old Town, and beautiful beaches.

Beyond the ancient city walls, you can find a wide range of beaches offering breathtaking views, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a variety of activities.

When it comes to the best beaches in Dubrovnik, there is something for everyone.

Whether you prefer sandy shores, pebble beaches, or hidden coves, you can find it all in this picturesque destination. From popular beaches near the Old Town to secluded spots on nearby islands, this guide will help you discover the best beaches in Dubrovnik for your perfect beach getaway.

Here is the list of the best beaches in Dubrovnik.

1. Banje Beach

Banje Beach is undoubtedly one of the most popular and iconic beaches in Dubrovnik and a favorite among tourists and locals due to its natural beauty and urban charm.

Located just a 5-10 minute walk from Old Town, this pebble beach offers breathtaking views of the city walls, Lokrum Island, and the turquoise Adriatic Sea.

You can swim in the crystal-clear waters, lounge on the pebble beach, or rent sun loungers (25 EUR for one) and umbrellas for added comfort. The beach is also home to a beach club that offers a vibrant atmosphere, food and drinks, and even occasional beach parties. 

On Banje Beach, you can also rent kayaks or jet skis.

Even if you’re not planning to swim, Banje Beach is one of the must-visit destinations in Dubrovnik. It offers a nice view of the Old Town and is a perfect photo spot. 

Just remember that it is one of the most popular beaches in Dubrovnik, and it is usually very busy in summer.

Travel tip: Banje Beach gets shade sooner in the afternoon from the City Walls and buildings around.

Right next to Banje Beach is the beautiful Hotel Excelsior, a great stay for the ultimate Dubrovnik vacation.

2. Sveti Jakov Beach

For those seeking a more secluded and peaceful beach experience in Dubrovnik, Sveti Jakov Beach (St. Jacobs Beach) is the perfect choice. Located about a 25-minute walk from the Old Town, this gem offers a tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

Sveti Jakov Beach is a mix of pebbles and rocks, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more natural beach setting. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, and the surrounding cliffs provide a picturesque backdrop.

While Sveti Jakov Beach is much more peaceful than some other beaches in Dubrovnik, it is a small beach, so it can still get pretty busy during the high season. We recommend getting there earlier in the day for the best experience. Just don’t get too early, as the beach might still be in the shade.

For the best beach experience, you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas (15 EUR sunbed and 15 EUR umbrella for the day).

There are free showers and changing facilities on Sveti Jakov Beach, and a restaurant and a bar are also available (working until mid-October).

Getting there: Sveti Jakov Beach is less than 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) south of Dubrovnik Old Town. You can walk for about 25 minutes from Ploče Gate in the Dubrovnik Old Town to reach the beach, or you can take bus number 8 from Pile Gate bus station and then walk for about 10 minutes from the bus stop down to the beach.

Accessibility: There are quite a few stairs to get down to the beach.

Additionally, if you rent a car in Dubrovnik, you can drive here, but parking is limited and pricey.

3. Sulic Beach

Located just a short walk from Old Town, Šulić Beach offers a unique beach experience with its historic ambiance and stunning views. This rocky beach is situated behind the Lovrijenac Fortress, which provides a backdrop of ancient walls and dramatic cliffs.

You can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters, sunbathing on the rocks, snorkeling, or simply taking in the historic surroundings. Further down is a small ledge suitable for jumping.

Sulic Beach is a “hidden gem” that offers a more secluded atmosphere than some of Dubrovnik’s more popular beaches. Finding the beach might be tricky, as you must enter a small gate and descend some steps to access it.

The beach also has two small beach bars on the hillside. One of our favorites is Beach Bar Dodo, where you can relax and enjoy a refreshing drink while admiring the gorgeous view.

Facilities: Šulić Beach has free outdoor showers and toilets.

4. Dance Beach

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist areas, Danče Beach is a hidden gem known mostly to the locals. Located just a short walk from the Old Town, this small rocky beach offers a peaceful escape and a chance to experience the authentic local beach scene.

Dance Beach may be small, but it is full of charm and character. The cliffs surrounding the beach offer stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. 

You can relax on the rocks, snorkel, swim, cliff jump, or explore the nearby caves. The beach is also a popular spot for locals to gather, enjoy picnics, or play games. 

Note: While Danče Beach is perfect for swimming, it can be a bit rougher on windy days because it’s more open.

Facilities: There is a free shower and bathroom at Danče Beach. You can also find a small bar (drinks only).

Getting here: Once you reach Gradac Park, follow a path along the monastery and cemetery until you reach the beach. Danče Beach is about a 10-minute walk from Pile Gate in the Old Town of Dubrovnik.

If you’re looking for a local spot to escape the crowds and experience the true spirit of Dubrovnik, Danče Beach is the place to be.

5. Buza Beach

Tucked away beneath the city walls of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Buža Beach is one of the best beaches in Dubrovnik if you like cliff jumping and unique views.

Literally translated as “hole in the wall,” Buza Beach is nestled in a small opening in the ancient city walls, providing stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

This rocky beach is a favorite among locals and tourists for its secluded atmosphere and breathtaking surroundings. You can relax on the rocks, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, cliff jump, or simply soak up the sun while enjoying the picturesque view. 

Buža Beach also has a great local bar, but the prices are a bit higher there. Actually, there are two different bars, one is Bard (Mala Buža) and Buža Bar. They are located on two different cliffs, a few minutes from each other.

Good to know: The bar is cash-only!

The area at Buža Bar is very small, so it easily gets crowded, especially in summer, as Buža Beach is also a popular sunset spot in Dubrovnik, even though you can’t really see the sun setting directly.

Facilities: Buža Beach (and bars) don’t have bathrooms, showers, or any changing facilities.

6. Betina Cave Beach

Betina Cave Beach is the perfect beach in Dubrovnik for those seeking adventure. Located on the southern side of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, this gem offers a unique beach experience in a secluded cove.

Betina Cave Beach is not your typical beach with sandy shores or pebbles. Instead, it is a rocky cove surrounded by cliffs and caves, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling or swimming. 

Getting there: The only way to get to Betina Cave Beach is by kayak. You can join one of the awesome kayaking tours in Dubrovnik, a highlight for many tourists. We recommend the morning tour for the best experience.

Alternatively, you can rent a kayak at Banje beach and kayak there yourself. It should take around 20 minutes one way.

Since Betina Cave Beach is a popular stop for kayaking tours, it can get very busy with kayaks, especially during the peak season.

7. Lokrum Island Beaches

Just a short boat ride from the Old Town, Lokrum Island offers a natural sanctuary steps away from the city. This uninhabited island is a haven for nature lovers, with its lush vegetation, rocky shores, and pristine beaches.

The Island of Lokrum is home to several beaches, each with its own unique charm. You can explore the rocky coves, relax on the pebble beaches, or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. 

Lokrum is also known for its great FKK beach (nudist beach).

The island is also known for its botanical gardens, nature trails, and the iconic Lokrum Monastery, as well as a place where Game of Thrones was filmed. It’s where you can take a photo on the original GOT throne.

Getting there: Lokrum Island is just a 15-minute ferry ride from the Old Port, making it an easy day trip.

Entrance fee: The ferry ticket from Dubrovnik to Lokrum Island costs 26 EUR for adults and 4 EUR for children, which includes the entrance fee to the island.

You can also kayak around Lokrum Island on a Lokrum Kayaking Tour. But note that it can be quite a physical activity, as you cover quite a lot of distance.

However, those kayaking tours usually don’t include visiting the island’s attractions but only kayaking around the whole island and some swimming or cliff jumping.

8. Porporela

If you’re looking for a romantic beach setting with breathtaking sunset views, Porporela is the perfect destination. Located in the heart of the Old Town, this scenic promenade offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding city walls.

Porporela is not a traditional beach but a paved walkway stretching along the coastline. 

You can take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, enjoy the warm sea breeze, and watch the sun slowly set over the horizon. The romantic ambiance and picturesque setting make Porporela an ideal spot for couples or anyone looking to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Dubrovnik’s coastline.

9. Bellevue Beach

Located between Lapad Peninsula and Dubrovnik Old Town and nestled beneath the Hotel Bellevue, this pebble beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views.

Bellevue Beach offers sun loungers and umbrellas for rent, allowing you to relax and unwind comfortably.

The surrounding cliffs and lush vegetation provide a stunning backdrop that adds to the beach’s natural beauty.

Bellevue Beach in Dubrovnik is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping. A water polo playground is nearby, where you can see locals and athletes play.

Getting there: Bellevue Beach is only about 1.4 km (0.9 miles) away from Pile Gate at Dubrovnik Old Town. You can walk to the beach in about 15 minutes or take the bus number 10 or an Uber.

Accessibility: There are some stairs involved to get to the beach.

Facilities: Bellevue Beach has showers, toilets, and changing facilities.

10. Lapad Bay Beach (Sunset Beach)

Located on the Lapad Peninsula, Lapad Bay Beach, also known as Sunset Beach, offers a family-friendly atmosphere and various activities for all ages. This sandy/pebble beach is a favorite for its calm waters and beautiful surroundings.

Lapad Bay Beach (Sunset Beach) is a perfect beach in Dubrovnik for families with children. Its shallow waters provide a safe and enjoyable swimming experience. The beach also offers a variety of water sports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, as well as beach volleyball and other recreational activities. 

You can also enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade (we highly recommend it), lined with restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops.

Travel tip: If the main beach gets too busy, you can always walk around small rocky areas and find a corner for yourself. Almost every spot has stairs that lead into the water, making it fairly easy to get in. That’s what we did!

Lapad Bay Beach is called Sunset Beach for a reason. It offers incredible sunset views, making it the best beach for watching sunsets in Dubrovnik.

11. Sunj Beach, Elaphiti Islands

Located on the island of Lopud in the Elaphiti Islands, Šunj Beach offers pristine sands and a serene beach experience. This is one of the rare sandy beaches, making it one of the best beaches in Dubrovnik for many.

Sunj Beach is a paradise for beach lovers, with its soft sand and shallow waters. The beach offers sun loungers and umbrellas for rent (10 EUR for a sunbed and 10 EUR for an umbrella), allowing you to relax and unwind in comfort.

You can also explore the island of Lopud, which has a charming village, historical landmarks, and scenic hiking trails.

Facilities: There are a couple of bars, toilets, and changing facilities at Šunj Beach.

Getting there: Šunj beach is the best accessible on an island hopping trip. However, you can also get there by ferry.

To reach the Elaphite Islands and Sunj Beach from Dubrovnik, you can book a private boat tour or shared boat tour or ride the ferry from Gruž to Lopud for 4 EUR. Once you arrive on the island, you can walk for about 30-45 minutes on an uneven path, or you can take a buggy/golf cart for 3 EUR per person one way (cash only).

If you want to see more than one island and get more out of your day, a boat tour is a better option due to infrequent ferry times.

There is also an option to take a kayak tour to Elaphite Islands.

12. Coral Beach Club

If you’re seeking an exclusive and luxurious beach experience in Dubrovnik, the Coral Beach Club is the perfect place. Located in the Babin Kuk part of the Lapad peninsula, this beach club offers a private, upscale atmosphere with all the desired amenities.

While this isn’t a private beach, and you can come and swim here for free, the beach is known and named for its famous beach club.

The Coral Beach Club boasts a fine pebble beach, luxurious sun loungers, and a beach bar serving various drinks and refreshments. You can enjoy various water sports activities, including paddleboarding and kayaking, or simply relax and soak up the sun in style.

Getting there: The easiest way to get to Coral Beach Club is by public transport (bus number 6, Pile to Babin Kuk) or Uber.

13. Copacabana Beach

Another beach at Babin Kuk is Copacabana Beach, which offers vibrant beach life and a wide range of water sports activities. This pebble beach is known for its energetic atmosphere and bustling beach bars.

The beach offers a variety of water sports, including jet skiing, banana boating, and parasailing, as well as beach volleyball and other recreational activities. 

You can relax on sun loungers and enjoy a refreshing drink from one of the beach bars. 

Good to know: Most things at Copacabana Beach are cash only.

Facilities: Copacabana Beach has showers and toilets, but they are paid. Make sure to bring coins for the shower.

Getting there: The easiest way to get to Copacabana Beach is by public transport (bus number 6, Pile to Babin Kuk) or Uber.

14. Pasjaca Beach

Pasjača Beach is a secluded beach tucked away beneath a steep coastal cliff. It provides a dramatic backdrop and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

Located in the Konavle region near the village of Popovići, 40 minutes southeast of Dubrovnik, Pasjaca Beach is still somewhat of a hidden gem. And it’s absolutely one of the most beautiful beaches in the Dubrovnik region.

You can reach the beach by walking a short path and descending a flight of stairs. It should take you about 15 minutes. 

The beach combines small pebbles and sand, making it a perfect comfy spot to relax and soak up the sun. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, making Pasjaca Beach a great spot if you’re looking for a hidden paradise – as hidden as it gets.

Note: The beach is small, so it can easily feel crowded during summer.

Getting there: To get to Pasjača Beach from Dubrovnik, you can rent a car and take a 40-minute scenic drive along the coast. You can take a bus ride to the nearby village of Popovići, but since the village is quite some kilometers away from the beach, and the bus doesn’t go that often, it’s not a good option.

We really liked Pasjača Beach, and it’s our favorite beach to chill at in Dubrovnik.

15. Bonus: Beaches between Dubrovnik and Cavtat

There are several small villages between Dubrovnik and Cavtat, and this area offers a few small but beautiful beaches. It is also a great area to stay in if you’re looking for a more affordable and relaxed place around Dubrovnik.

Some beaches worth visiting between Dubrovnik and Cavtat:

• Kupari Beach
• Srebreno Beach
• Mlini Beach
• Plat Beach
• Cavtat beaches

Getting there: These beaches are about a 15-minute drive from Dubrovnik Old Town, while Cavtat is around 30 minutes away (depending on traffic). However, you can also take a public bus to them (bus number 10, Dubrovnik to Cavtat line).

Travel tips for visiting Dubrovnik beaches

Here are some travel tips to help you have a nicer time at Dubrovnik beaches.

1. Don’t expect many sandy beaches in Dubrovnik, or Croatia for that matter. Most of the beaches in Dubrovnik are small pebble beaches, so you might want to take water shoes with you if you can’t comfortably walk on the pebbles.
   
   
2. Most beaches in Dubrovnik are between cliffs, so they will be in the shade in the early morning or late afternoon.
   
   
3. Lots of beaches in Dubrovnik include some stairs to reach them.
   
   
4. Dubrovnik beaches will be crowded. Croatia is a popular tourist destination, and during peak season, it will be busy. To avoid crowds visit in the shoulder season or get there early in the morning.
   
   
5. While snorkeling at Dubrovnik beaches might be good, don’t expect abundant, vibrant marine life like in Thailand, for example. Set your expectations.
   
   
6. Have cash with you. Many beach bars or other amenities still rely on cash.
   
   
7. Parking on most Dubrovnik beaches is limited (and pricey), so it’s best to avoid coming by car.
   
   
8. Many bars or restaurants will be closed in the off-season.

What to pack for a day at the beach in Dubrovnik

When planning a day at the beach in Dubrovnik, here’s a list of essentials to pack:

• Water shoes: If you can’t walk on small pebbles and rocks, take water shoes with you!
• Beach towel or mat: Pack a towel or mat to relax on the beach if you don’t intend to rent a sunbed.
• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays by packing sunscreen with a high SPF. Try to use reef-safe/ocean-safe cream.
• Hat and sunglasses: Bring a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from the sun.
• Water and snacks: Stay hydrated and energized by bringing water and snacks for your beach day.
• Beach umbrellas or sun loungers: If you prefer some shade or extra comfort, consider bringing a portable beach umbrella or renting sun loungers. And bring some cash to pay for it.
• Beach bag: Pack all your essentials in a beach bag to keep them organized and easily accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where to stay in Dubrovnik

The best area to stay in Dubrovnik is inside the Old Town or the nearby Lapad peninsula and Gruž neighborhood.

Best hand-picked Dubrovnik Old Town hotels

• Budget | Kingslanding Old Town Hostel – Sweetest Thing Apartment
  
  
• Mid-range | Apartment Matić – Villa Four Winds
  
  
• Luxury | Old Town Apartments – Dominus Little Palace

Thank you for reading this article on the best beaches in Dubrovnik. Hopefully, we helped you find the perfect beach for your visit.

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