Picture yourself lounging on sun-kissed rocks as the Adriatic’s crystal waves lick your feet – welcome to Dubrovnik’s beaches, where medieval charm meets coastal paradise!
From iconic pebble coves framed by ancient city walls to secret swimming spots only locals frequent, this guide unveils the top 10 beaches in Dubrovnik.
Whether you’re chasing Instagram-worthy views at Banje Beach or craving quiet moments at Šulić’s cliff-jumping haven, you’ll find golden-hour magic, azure waters, and practical tips (like where to park) to craft your perfect Croatian Riviera beach day.
Ready dive in? Pack your swimsuit and reef-safe sunscreen.
Popular Tourist Beaches
Plaža Banje (Banje Beach)
Location: Banje Beach sits just steps from Dubrovnik's Old Town, a 5-minute walk from Ploče Gate. The Dubrovnik Airport is approximately 20 km away.
Banje Beach blends pebbles and coarse sand, offering postcard-perfect views of Dubrovnik’s medieval walls and Lokrum Island. The turquoise Adriatic waters stay calm and clear, ideal for swimming, though the steep stairs down to the beach might challenge those with mobility issues.
While the free public area gets crowded quickly, the private beach club section lures visitors with plush loungers, bamboo canopy beds, and DJ beats. By night, the vibe shifts to a chic cocktail bar and nightclub, drawing celebrities and jet-setters.
Families appreciate the shallow entry and lifeguard services, but be prepared for pebbles that feel rough underfoot. Amenities like showers and toilets are available, though prices for rentals and drinks are steep. Despite the crowds, it’s a must-visit for the iconic photo ops and lively atmosphere.
Parking & Access:
Street parking near the beach is scarce and pricey, with heavy traffic in peak season. Opt for buses to Ploče Gate and walk 2 minutes.
Things to do:
- Swim or snorkel in the transparent waters (watch for occasional jellyfish).
- Rent a jet ski or paddleboard for adrenaline-filled fun.
- Play picigin, a local ball game in shallow water.
- Sip cocktails at the beach club while sunset paints the Old Town walls gold.
- Take a short boat ride to Lokrum Island for secluded swimming spots.
Tips:
- Arrive before 10 AM to snag a free spot on the pebbles.
- Pack water shoes as the stones get scorching hot by midday.
- Skip pricey rentals; bring a towel and umbrella to save €€€.
- Visit in May/September for fewer crowds and milder weather.
- Grab snacks from nearby bakeries instead of beachside eateries.
Copacabana plaža (Copacabana Beach)
Location: Situated on Lapad Peninsula, Copacabana Beach lies 4 km west of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and 20 km from Dubrovnik Airport.
Croatia’s answer to its Brazilian namesake, Copacabana Beach mixes practicality with natural beauty. The 200-meter stretch features a mix of smooth pebbles and raised concrete platforms, ideal for sunbathing or renting loungers under parasols.
Families love the shallow, calm waters perfect for kids, while thrill-seekers can jet-ski, parasail, or paddle through the Adriatic. Unique touches like sculptures by local artists and a horticultural landscape add artistic flair.
Accessibility shines here: wheelchair-friendly pebble paths run along most of the beach, and a lift system helps visitors enter the sea. As dusk falls, the vibe shifts - foam parties and live music transform the beach into an open-air nightclub. Facilities include showers, changing cabins, and beachside restaurants serving Mediterranean bites.
Parking & Access:
Parking is limited near the beach and fills quickly during summer. A small lot near Valamar President Hotel offers level access, but no reserved disabled spots.
Things to do:
- Rent jet skis or join a parasailing session over the Adriatic.
- Play beach volleyball or tennis on dedicated courts.
- Explore Koločep Island on a guided snorkeling trip with champagne.
- Dance at evening foam parties or enjoy cocktails at sunset.
- Admire installations by Croatian artists along the shoreline.
Tips:
- Wear water shoes as pebbles can be uncomfortable barefoot.
- Check schedules for themed parties or nightclub events.
- Use the wheelchair lift for safe sea access.
- Bring cash for rentals, as some vendors don’t accept cards.
- Combine your visit with a boat excursion to the Elafiti Island.
Family-Friendly Beaches
Šunj (Sunj Beach)
Location: Šunj Beach is located on Lopud Island. It’s a 40-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik’s Gruž Port or a 15-minute speedboat trip, making it an easy day trip from the city center.
Šunj Beach is a rare gem in Croatia - a true sandy beach with golden shores and shallow, crystal-clear waters that stretch over 1 km. Perfect for families, the water remains knee-deep for nearly 100 meters, letting kids splash safely while parents relax. The beach is backed by fragrant pine forests, offering natural shade for picnics, and framed by volcanic rocks that create calm, pool-like conditions.
Two beach bars serve snacks and drinks, and sun loungers/umbrellas are available for rent. While the main area is family-focused, a small nudist section sits discreetly at the western end. The lack of cars on Lopud adds to the tranquility, replaced by electric golf carts for easy transport.
Pro tip: The water’s clarity makes it ideal for spotting fish; bring snorkels!
Parking & Access:
Park at Dubrovnik’s Gruž Port before taking the ferry. On Lopud, the beach is a 20-minute shaded walk from the harbor or a 5-minute golf cart ride.
Things to do:
- Play picigin (a local shallow-water ball game) with kids.
- Rent pedal boats or kayaks to explore hidden coves.
- Snorkel near rocky outcrops to spot colorful fish.
- Take a golf cart tour of Lopud’s lush trails and historic ruins.
- Join a boat tour to nearby Blue Cave or Green Caves.
Tips:
- Arrive before 10 AM to secure loungers and avoid midday heat.
- Pack water shoes as rocks near the shoreline can be slippery.
- Bring cash for rentals and snacks (limited ATMs on the island).
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine ecosystem.
- Combine your visit with a lunch stop at Rajski Kutak Bindo for cliffside views.
Uvala Lapad (Sunset Beach)
Location: Located on Dubrovnik's Lapad Peninsula, this family-friendly beach is just a 15-minute bus ride from the Old Town and 25 km from Dubrovnik Airport.
Uvala Lapad blends pebble shores with sandy patches, offering a versatile coastal experience. Framed by a pine-shaded promenade and calm, turquoise waters, it’s ideal for families thanks to its gentle, shallow slopes.
The beach is lined with cafes, ice cream stands, and restaurants like Caniço, which clings to the cliffs. While the main area can get lively, quieter spots await farther along the coast.
Summer brings inflatable water parks and playgrounds, keeping children entertained for hours. Concrete sunbathing platforms mix with natural pebble sections, and amenities like showers and lifeguards add convenience. At sunset, the bay transforms into a golden spectacle, drawing crowds to its namesake Sunset Beach.
Parking & Access:
Limited free parking is available nearby but fills quickly in peak season. For stress-free access, use public transport or park at Dubrovnik Daily Parking (a 10-minute walk).
Things to do:
- Splash in shallow waters or rent paddleboards/kayaks.
- Stroll the promenade for gelato or seaside dining.
- Let kids loose at the summer water park or playgrounds.
- Snap sunset photos from the beach or nearby Petka Hill.
- Join a Segway tour to explore Lapad’s hidden gems.
Tips:
- Arrive before 10 AM to snag prime spots in summer.
- Some areas have sharp pebbles, so pack water shoes.
- Skip pricey sunbed rentals and bring a towel.
- Visit weekdays for fewer crowds.
- Combine your trip with a hike to Velika Petka Forest Park.
Hidden Gems
Pasjača plaža (Pasjača Beach)
Location: Nestled in Konavle’s Popovići village, Pasjača Beach lies 30 km south of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and 12 km from Cavtat. It’s a 40-minute scenic drive from Dubrovnik Airport (DBV).
Created in the 1950s by villagers carving into the coastline, Pasjača feels like a natural amphitheater – secluded, intimate, and wildly photogenic. The beach stretches just 80 meters, with shallow waters perfect for floating under the Mediterranean sun.
This jaw-dropping beach is a secret cove wedged between 250-meter cliffs and the Adriatic Sea. Imagine soft golden pebbles mixed with sand, framed by dramatic gray-brown cliffs that plunge into turquoise waters so clear you’ll feel like you’re swimming in liquid glass.
No bars, no loungers, just raw beauty: think Instagram-worthy rock arches, hidden sea caves, and a WWII-era secret tunnel in the cliffs (yes, really!).
Pro tip: visit at golden hour when the cliffs cast long shadows over the water, turning the whole scene into a living postcard.
Parking & Access:
Free parking for ~50 cars awaits near Popovići village, but arrive before 10 AM in summer. The real adventure? A 15-minute downhill hike via steep, rocky stairs.
Things to do:
- Snorkel through crystal-clear pools teeming with fish.
- Explore the cliffside WWII escape tunnel (bring a flashlight).
- Shoot award-worthy photos of the cliffs-sea contrast.
- Hunt for sea caves accessible at low tide.
- Picnic on pebbles with Konavle-region snacks from nearby villages.
Tips:
- Pack water, snacks, and an umbrella – there are zero facilities here.
- Wear hiking sandals; the path’s gravelly and steep.
- Visit weekdays before 9 AM for solitary sunrise swims.
- Time your visit with low tide for cave exploring.
- Combine with lunch in Cavtat’s seafood taverns post-beach.
Plaža Sveti Jakov (Sveti Jakov Beach)
Location: Just 1 mile east of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and a 25-minute drive from Dubrovnik Airport, this hidden gem feels worlds away from the city’s busier beaches.
Imagine a crescent of sun-bleached pebbles dotted with smooth rock platforms and tiny sandy patches, framed by cliffs and overlooking Lokrum Island’s emerald forests. The Adriatic here glows in unreal shades of turquoise – so clear you’ll spot sea urchins and schools of silvery fish darting between rocks.
What makes Sveti Jakov special isn’t just the view of Dubrovnik’s iconic orange rooftops across the bay, but its local vibe. By 10 AM, Banje Beach is packed with cruise crowds, but here you’ll find Croatian families spreading towels between fragrant pines and Italian tourists debating which seafood plate to order at the cliffside restaurant.
The 160-step descent from Sv. Jakov Church feels like a pilgrimage – thighs burning, camera clicking nonstop at the panorama. At the bottom, a laid-back beach bar plays chillhouse tunes while kids skip stones into the shallows. For adventurers, sea kayaks wait to paddle through hidden sea caves.
Parking & Access:
Limited paid parking near the church fills up by 9:30 AM in summer. The steep staircase challenges mobility-impaired visitors.
Things to do:
- Snorkel through underwater rock gardens teeming with damselfish.
- Claim a front-row sunset seat – the sky turns Old Town’s walls gold.
- Join a kayak tour to Lokrum’s hidden coves and Blue Cave.
- Sip Croatian wine at Caniço Beach Bar’s cliffside tables.
- Hunt for Rudjer Bošković’s 18th-century optics cave along the coast.
Tips:
- Arrive before 9 AM to snag free shaded spots under pine trees.
- Wear water shoes – pebbles get scorching and rocky patches are slippery.
- Bring a waterproof phone case for Instagram-worthy underwater shots.
- Carry cash – some vendors don’t accept cards for lounger rentals.
- Book the boat transfer if visiting with kids or heavy coolers.
Natural Beaches
Plaža Bellevue (Bellevue Beach)
Location: Bellevue Beach sits 0.3 km from Dubrovnik’s Old Town, a 20-minute walk from Pile Gate. Dubrovnik Airport is 17 km away, about a 30-minute drive.
Tucked into Miramare Bay, this natural pebble beach feels like a hidden cove framed by dramatic limestone cliffs. The water here is ridiculously clear; think liquid emerald with a mix of smooth pebbles and rocky outcrops underfoot.
While it’s compact (expect crowds in summer), the vibe is pure Adriatic charm: locals play water polo in the same spot they’ve used since the 1920s, and daredevils leap from cliffs into deep turquoise pools.
Half the beach is managed by Hotel Bellevue, but everyone shares the same stunning views. Morning sun worshippers get primo spots before the cliffs cast afternoon shade, making it ideal for avoiding scorching summer heat. Don’t miss the underwater cave 30m offshore, a snorkeler’s secret spot.
Pro tip: The concrete sunbathing ledge above the beach offers extra space when the pebbles get packed.
Parking & Access:
Limited free parking near Hotel Rixos Libertas, but spaces fill fast. A steep 100-step descent leads to the beach; no ramp access.
Things to do:
- Cliff jump from 3m–8m ledges into deep water.
- Snorkel around volcanic rock formations and the hidden sea cave.
- Watch or join locals in impromptu water polo matches.
- Grab a kava (coffee) at the cliffside café while soaking in bay views.
- Hunt for smooth “lucky stones” in the pebble mix (local tradition).
Tips:
- Visit before noon for sun; after 4 PM for shaded swimming.
- Water shoes can be a game-changer for rocky entries and cliff climbs.
- BYO umbrella/towel as loungers are for only hotel guests.
- Check tide charts: low tide reveals tide pools, high tide boosts cliff-jump depths.
- The beach bar prices are Dubrovnik-fancy.
Lokrum (Lokrum Beach)
Location: Lokrum Beach sits on Lokrum Island, just 600 meters southeast of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. The island is a quick 10-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Port, while Dubrovnik Airport is roughly 30 minutes away by car.
Lokrum’s beaches are all about raw, natural beauty. Think rugged rocky coves framed by pine forests and crystal-clear turquoise waters. There’s no sugar-white sand here, but the dramatic volcanic cliffs and hidden saltwater pools more than make up for it. The star attraction is the Dead Sea (Mrtvo More), a salty lake connected to the Adriatic via underground tunnels, where you float effortlessly like a cork.
The beaches blend into the island’s wild landscape, with peacocks strutting nearby (thanks to 19th-century Canary Islands imports) and remnants of a medieval Benedictine monastery adding historic charm.
While most shores are rocky, you’ll find metal ladders for easy water access and secluded spots like the FKK Rocks nudist beach for those seeking privacy.
Parking & Access:
A paid parking is available near Dubrovnik’s Old Port, but spaces fill fast in summer. The island itself is car-free. You’ll have to reach it via frequent ferries.
Things to do:
- Float in the Dead Sea’s super-salty waters.
- Explore the Benedictine Monastery and its tropical botanical gardens.
- Snap a throne selfie at the Game of Thrones exhibit.
- Cliff-dive off volcanic rocks (caution advised).
- Hunt for peacocks roaming pine forests.
Tips:
- Wear grippy shoes as rocks get slippery.
- Pack snacks/water as there are only a few pricey cafes on the island.
- Arrive pre-10 AM to beat crowds and secure ferry seats.
- Check ferry return times – the last boat leaves by 7 PM.
- For quiet swims, head to Galija Beach (east side).
Local Favorites
Plaža Danče (Danče Beach)
Location: Plaža Danče sits just 10 minutes west of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, tucked behind Gradac Park.
Danče Beach is where Dubrovnik locals ditch the crowds for crystal-clear swims and laid-back vibes. This rocky cove mixes concrete sunbathing slabs with natural cliffs, creating a raw, unfiltered Adriatic experience.
The water here is very clear - you’ll see fish darting below before your toes even hit the sea. It’s deep right off the rocks, perfect for cannonballs or showing off your best cliff-jumping moves (look for the 3-meter ledges).
History buffs will dig that this spot birthed Dubrovnik’s legendary “Jug” water polo team; you might still catch locals playing pickup games. The beach faces the open sea, so waves can get playful when winds pick up (great for drama, less so for toddlers).
A tiny bar slings cold beers, and there’s a free shower to rinse off saltwater. Mornings here are magic: just you, seabirds, and the sound of waves slapping volcanic rocks. By afternoon, it morphs into a locals’ hangout where sunscreen-scented conversations mix with the clink of coffee cups.
Parking & Access:
Parking’s tight near the beach and pricey in summer; locals usually walk.
Things to do:
- Dive into deep turquoise waters from volcanic ledges.
- Snorkel around underwater rock formations (watch for octopuses).
- Cheer on amateur water polo games in the open-sea “pool”.
- Hunt for the hidden sea cave that is accessible by swimming.
- Chill with a Karlovačko beer while eavesdropping on Croatian gossip.
Tips:
- Grab burek (savvy pastry) at Pemo Market before coming; no food vendors here.
- Visit pre-10 AM for solo sunrise swims or post-4 PM for golden-hour social vibes.
- Water shoes are MVP for navigating slick rocks.
- Check wind forecasts as rough seas turn this into a surfer’s playground.
- Peek at Sv. Marija Church’s 500-year-old art on your walk back to town.
Šulić Beach (Kolorina Beach)
Location: Šulić Beach sits just outside Dubrovnik's Old Town walls, a 5-minute walk from Pile Gate.
This pint-sized coastal gem packs a punch with its rocky charm and turquoise waters. Tucked between dramatic cliffs and the medieval Lovrijenac Fortress, Šulić feels like a secret swimming hole frozen in time. The beach mixes smooth concrete platforms with pebble patches, where locals have perfected the art of sunbathing on towels folded over rocks.
What makes Šulić unique? It’s where Dubrovnik’s residents escape the cruise-ship crowds. Morning swimmers share the calm waters with curious fish visible through the crystal-clear sea. By afternoon, the vibe shifts as adventurous types climb the weathered rocks for cliff jumps into deep blue pools – some spots plunge over 2 meters!
Two cliffside bars (Dodo and Ala Mizerija) keep the energy casual with cold drinks and seafood bites. The beach’s natural “sun schedule” is genius – morning shade on the east side, afternoon shade to the west.
Don’t miss the Game of Thrones-worthy views of fortress walls rising from the sea.
Parking & Access:
Parking near Old Town is notoriously tight. Your best bets: arrive before 9 AM for street parking, use the Pile Gate lot (€3/hour), or take bus #6 from Gruž port.
Things to do:
- Cliff jump from designated platforms (watch locals first).
- Snorkel through schools of silvery girice fish.
- Rent kayaks to explore hidden coves.
- Sip Karlovačko beer at Dodo Beach Bar’s cliffside tables.
- Catch sunset silhouetting Lovrijenac Fortress.
Tips:
- Pack water shoes as rocks get hot and slippery.
- Grab a front-row rock by 10 AM in summer.
- Try the octopus salad at Ala Mizerija.
- For photos, come weekdays at golden hour when day-trippers leave.
Frequently Asked Questions about Algarve Beaches
Which beaches in Dubrovnik are considered the finest for water sports?
Copacabana Beach is a top choice for water sports, offering activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and kayaking. Banje Beach also provides thrilling options, including paddleboarding and banana boat rides.
Are there any beaches near Dubrovnik that offer snorkeling opportunities?
Yes, Betina Cave Beach and Grebeni are fantastic snorkeling spots with crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Lokrum Island also offers unique underwater caves perfect for exploration.
Do Dubrovnik beaches have lifeguards on duty?
Some beaches, like Danče, Bellevue, and Štikovica, have lifeguards during the summer season starting from June 21st. However, not all beaches are monitored, so always check before visiting.
Are pets allowed on any of Dubrovnik’s beaches?
Mandrač Beach in the Lapad area is the only designated pet-friendly beach in Dubrovnik. It’s small but offers clean waters and basic amenities for your furry friends.
How accessible are Dubrovnik’s beaches for those with mobility issues?
Copacabana Beach is the most accessible with wheelchair-friendly paths, a sea lift, and concrete piers. However, many other beaches in Dubrovnik lack adequate facilities for those with mobility challenges.
Conclusion
Dubrovnik’s beaches aren’t just photo ops – they’re invitations to swim in history, taste sun-warmed figs from cliffside vendors, and find your perfect stretch of Adriatic paradise.
Whether you’re here for instagrammable sunsets at Banje Beach or quiet morning floats in hidden Šulić Cove, one truth remains: every pebble tells a story here.
Now that you have tips on avoiding crowds, scoring waterfront parking, and locating the creamiest gelato stands between dips, start your Croatian coastline saga.
Which category will you explore first? Let us know in the comments.
