We agree that visiting Dubrovnik doesn’t have to be all about its attractions and sights. It can simply also be about lounging on a lovely beach on a sunny day.
You’re in luck because beyond the ancient city walls, you can find many stunning Dubrovnik beaches with breathtaking views, crystal-clear waters, and various activities.
There is a beach for everyone in Dubrovnik, from popular beaches near the Old Town to secluded spots further away.
Do note that you can’t expect a sandy beach in Dubrovnik, although a few can be found on nearby islands.
However, the pebble beaches are equally beautiful, if not more so! Spoiler: Our favorites are Pasjača Beach for a more peaceful time, and Banje Beach for breathtaking views!
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. Also read: Best Time To Visit Dubrovnik
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
When Banje Beach gets busy, Sveti Jakov Beach can be an alternative for a more peaceful beach experience in Dubrovnik.
Sveti Jakov Beach is a mix of pebbles and rocks, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more natural beach setting. The clear waters are perfect for swimming, and the surrounding cliffs provide a picturesque backdrop.
While Sveti Jakov Beach is more peaceful than some other beaches in Dubrovnik, it is still a small beach, so it will get pretty busy during the high season.
There are free showers and changing facilities on Sveti Jakov Beach, and a restaurant and a bar are also available (working until mid-October). For a more comfortable beach experience, you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas for 15 EUR each for the day.
Accessibility: There are quite a few stairs to get down to the beach.
How to get to Sveti Jakov Beach
Sveti Jakov Beach is less than 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) south of Dubrovnik Old Town, reachable in about 25 minutes on foot from Ploče Gate.
You can also take bus number 8 from Pile Gate bus station. Then, walk to the beach for about 10 minutes from the bus stop.
Additionally, if you rent a car in Dubrovnik, you can drive there, but parking is limited and pricey.
3. Šulić 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 sits in a small bay behind the Lovrijenac Fortress, with views of the hill and cliffs on each side.
You can enjoy swimming in the clear waters, sunbathing on the rocks, and snorkeling. Further down the side of the cliff is also a small ledge suitable for jumping. Facilities: Šulić Beach has free outdoor showers and toilets.
Šulić Beach is a “hidden gem” with 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, and our favorite is Beach Bar Dodo, where you can relax and enjoy a refreshing drink while admiring the view.
- Also read: Dubrovnik Bars and Beach Clubs
4. Danče 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.
Danče Beach may be small, but it is charming, with the cliffs surrounding the beach offering nice views of the Adriatic Sea.
Sometimes, Danče Beach is written as “Dance Beach”, which is incorrect. But you can dance, if you’d like!
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.
If you’re looking for a local spot to escape the crowds and experience the true spirit of a Dubrovnik beach, Danče Beach is the place to be.
While Danče Beach is perfect for swimming, it can be a bit rougher on windy days because it’s more open and not in a protected bay.
Facilities: There is a free shower and bathroom at Danče Beach. You can also find a small bar (drinks only).
Getting there: 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 the Old Town’s Pile Gate.
5. Buža 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 diving and unique views.
Literally translated as “hole in the wall,” Buža Beach is accessed through a small opening in the ancient city walls with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
Travel tip: If you want to stay in the heart of Old Town, we recommend Dubrovnik Old Town Apartments, which offer great rooms right in the historical part!
This rocky beach is a favorite among locals and tourists for its atmosphere and breathtaking surroundings.
You can relax on the rocks, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, cliff jump, or soak up the sun while enjoying the picturesque view.
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Buža Beach also has a great local bar, but the prices are a bit higher. Actually, there are two different bars, one is called Bard (Mala Buža) and the other is Buža Bar.
They are located on two different cliffs, a few minutes from each other.
The area at Buža Beach is very small, so it easily gets crowded, especially in summer, as Buža Bar is also a popular spot for sunsets, even though you can’t really see the sun setting.
Good to know: The bar is cash-only!
Facilities: Buža Beach (and bars) don’t have bathrooms, showers, or any changing facilities.
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6. Betina Cave Beach
Betina Cave Beach is the perfect beach in Dubrovnik for those seeking some 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 boat or kayak. You can join one of the awesome kayaking tours, a highlight for many. 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, as well as the Best Nudist Beach in the World.
The island is also known for its botanical gardens, nature trails, and the iconic Lokrum Monastery. Plus, it’s a place where Game of Thrones was filmed – 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. You can also kayak around Lokrum Island on a Lokrum Kayaking Tour (with swimming and cliff jumping).
Entrance fee: The ferry ticket from Dubrovnik to Lokrum Island costs 30 EUR for adults and 5 EUR for children, which includes the entrance fee to the island.
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8. Porporela
For a romantic beach setting with breathtaking sunset views, Porporela is the perfect destination. Though, it’s not a traditional beach, but rather a paved walkway stretching along one part of the coastline.
Located in the heart of the Old Town, this scenic promenade offers stunning views of the city walls, Fort of St. John, and the Old Harbor.
The picturesque setting makes Porporela an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Old Town.
9. Bellevue Beach
Located between Lapad Peninsula and Dubrovnik Old Town and beneath the Hotel Bellevue, this pebble beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful scenery.
Bellevue Beach offers sun loungers and umbrellas for rent, allowing you to relax and unwind comfortably and the surrounding cliffs provide a stunning backdrop.
Bellevue Beach in Dubrovnik is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping. There’s also a water polo playground nearby, where you can see locals and athletes play.
Did you know?
Our (Croatia) men’s national water polo team won gold medals in the Olympics, World, and European Championships, making it one of the world’s most successful men’s water polo teams.
Getting there: Bellevue Beach is only about 1.4 km (0.9 miles) away from the Old Town. You can walk to the beach in about 15 minutes, take the bus number 10, or an Uber.
Accessibility: There are stairs to get to the beach.
Facilities: Bellevue Beach has showers, toilets, and changing facilities.
Tip: Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik is located right above the beach and offers amazing beach views.
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 activities for all ages.
This pebble beach is a favorite for its calm waters and beautiful surroundings, plus many local businesses, bars, and restaurants. We loved Lapad Beach and also stayed in an apartment right above it.
Travel tip: Lapad peninsula is a popular area to stay in Dubrovnik as it offers more spacious accommodations than the Old Town. Book your hotel in advance for the best deal, especially in high season!
Must-read: Dubrovnik Hotel Guide
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 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), which is 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.
We mentioned the name Sunset Beach, and for a reason, as Lapad Beach offers incredible sunset views, making it the best beach for watching sunsets in Dubrovnik.
11. Šunj Beach
Located on the island of Lopud in the Elafiti Islands archipelago, Šunj Beach offers a sandy beach experience, as it’s one of the rare sandy beaches. And that makes it one of the best beaches in Dubrovnik for many.
- Must-read: Best Dubrovnik Day Trips
Facilities: There are a couple of bars, toilets, and changing facilities at Šunj Beach.
Getting there: Šunj beach is the most accessible on an island-hopping trip. However, you can also get there by ferry from Gruž for 4 EUR.
Once you arrive on the island, you can walk there in about 30-45 minutes or take a buggy/golf cart for 3 EUR per person one way (cash only).
You can also reach the Elaphite Islands and Šunj Beach on a private boat tour or a shared boat tour. If you want to see more than one island and get more out of your day, we highly recommend it.
There is also an option to take a kayak tour to Elaphite Islands.
Did you know?
You can stay overnight on Lopud Island if you want more time there. In that case, we suggest booking a stay in Boutique Hotel Tomić or Lafodia Resort & Wellness.
12. Coral Beach Club
If you’re seeking an exclusive 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 swim here for free, the beach is known and named for its famous beach club.
The Coral Beach Club has a fine pebble beach, luxurious sun loungers, and a bar serving various drinks and food. You can enjoy water sports, 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.
Facilities: There are showers and toilets at Coral Beach Club.
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13. Copacabana Beach
Another beach at Babin Kuk is Copacabana Beach, which offers vibrant beach life at its bustling beach bar.
The beach offers a variety of water sports, including jet skiing, banana boating, and parasailing.
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.
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14. Pasjača Beach
Pasjača Beach is a secluded beach tucked away beneath a steep coastal cliff with a dramatic backdrop and stunning views.
Located in the Konavle region near the village of Popovići, 40 minutes southeast of Dubrovnik, Pasjača Beach is still somewhat of a hidden gem. It’s our favorite and one of the most beautiful beaches in Dubrovnik.
We really liked Pasjača Beach, and it’s our favorite beach to chill at in Dubrovnik. Plus, the way to get there, especially the part right before the beach, where you walk through a hole in the cliffs, is a fun little adventure (just a 10 to 15-minute walk).
The beach consists of both small pebbles and sand, making it a perfect comfy spot to relax and soak up the sun.
Note: The beach is small, so it can easily feel crowded during summer. However, this is still a hidden paradise and as close to a hidden gem as it gets.
Getting there: To get to Pasjača Beach from Dubrovnik, you can rent a car and take a 40-minute scenic drive along the coast.
An alternative way to get to Pasjača Beach is by first getting to Cavtat and then taking a taxi or Uber. For the return, you will likely need to walk back to the village. There is no signal to call a taxi/Uber at the parking lot or the beach.
15. Bonus: Beaches between Dubrovnik and Cavtat
There are several villages between Dubrovnik and Cavtat, and most have 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.
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). You can take the public bus number 10 (Dubrovnik to Cavtat line).
Alternatively, you can hop on the Dubrovnik – Cavtat ferry and stop at one of the stops along the way, like Srebreno, Mlini, or Plat. Check the timetable here.
Travel tips for visiting Dubrovnik beaches
- 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 stones.
- Most beaches in Dubrovnik are situated between cliffs, so they will be in the shade in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Lots of beaches in Dubrovnik include some stairs to reach them.
- Dubrovnik beaches will be crowded, especially during peak season, as Croatia is a popular tourist destination. To avoid crowds, visit during shoulder season or get there early in the morning.
- While snorkeling at Dubrovnik beaches might be good, don’t expect abundant, vibrant marine life like in Thailand, for example. Set your expectations.
- Have cash with you. Many beach bars or other amenities still rely on cash.
- Parking on most Dubrovnik beaches is limited (and pricey), so it’s best to avoid coming by car.
- Many bars or restaurants will be closed in the off-season.
What to pack for a day at the beach in Dubrovnik
- 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 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
The most suitable months for swimming in Dubrovnik are June, July, August, and September. Although we also personally did it far into October. Must-read: Best Time To Visit Dubrovnik
For families visiting Dubrovnik, Lapad Beach is the best choice. This family-friendly beach offers shallow waters, making it safe for children to swim. It also provides beach amenities such as sun loungers and umbrellas, and nearby restaurants and cafes.
For a more secluded beach experience, visit Pasjača Beach or some beaches outside Dubrovnik (for example, Mlini or Cavtat). However, remember that it’s hard to find quiet beaches in the peak summer season. Even the “hidden gems” will be busy.
Danče, Šulić, Bellevue, Šunj, Pasjača and Coral Beach all offer good snorkeling in Dubrovnik. However, don’t expect an abundance of vibrant marine life. Set your expectations.
Yes, most beaches in Dubrovnik offer the option to rent beach umbrellas and sunbeds for added comfort. A sunbed in Dubrovnik usually costs 10 to 25 EUR, and beach umbrellas 8 to 15 EUR. Prices are higher on more popular beaches, such as Banje Beach, and during the peak season.
Yes, popular beaches in Dubrovnik have lifeguards on duty during the summer months.
Pets are generally not allowed on Dubrovnik’s beaches. However, there are some designated dog-friendly beaches in Dubrovnik where pets are permitted, like Mandrač Beach.
Many popular beaches in Dubrovnik have parking facilities nearby. However, parking spaces are usually limited and can get quite pricey, especially during high season.
Dubrovnik’s beaches vary in terms of accessibility for those with mobility issues. While some beaches, like Copacabana Beach, have wheelchair access and facilities to accommodate individuals with disabilities, many have limited accessibility due to stairs or uneven terrain. We recommend checking reviews and researching specific beaches and their facilities before visiting.
A local-favorite beach in Dubrovnik is Danče Beach, which is less well-known. This hidden gem offers a quiet and peaceful atmosphere away from the tourist crowds and is a favorite spot among locals for swimming and sunbathing.
Dubrovnik’s beaches offer a variety of activities and amenities, like water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding, beach volleyball, sun loungers and umbrellas for rent, beach bars, and restaurants. Most beaches also have toilets, showers, and changing facilities.
Thank you for reading this article on the best beaches in Dubrovnik. Hopefully, we helped you find the perfect beach for your visit!
