Dubrovnik-Neretva County, Dalmatia, Croatia

Dubrovnik Beaches

Overview

Dubrovnik is world-famous for its magnificent Old Town, but it's also a fantastic destination for enjoying the Adriatic Sea. While not solely a beach resort, it beautifully blends cultural exploration with coastal relaxation. Visitors often wonder about the beaches here; expect stunning pebble and rocky coves lapped by exceptionally clear, turquoise waters. True sandy beaches are uncommon in this part of Croatia, but the scenic beauty and water quality more than compensate.

Right beside the ancient city walls, Banje beach offers iconic views and a vibrant atmosphere, making it Dubrovnik's most famous stretch of coast, though it can get busy. For equally breathtaking, postcard-worthy vistas of the Old Town and Lokrum island, but often with fewer crowds, head to Sveti Jakov Beach, nestled below its church. Further south, the unique Pasjača beach captivates visitors with its dramatic setting beneath steep cliffs, a truly memorable spot.

For those seeking activities and a lively vibe, the Lapad peninsula is a popular hub. Here, Copacabana Dubrovnik provides water sports and family-friendly fun. Nearby, the wider Lapad Bay area (Uvala Lapad) is also favoured, particularly by families. If you dream of sand between your toes, a boat trip to Lopud island is essential to experience Šunj, one of the region's rare sandy shores. While Dubrovnik offers beach bars and nightlife, it's generally more suited to couples and families than dedicated partygoers.

Whether you seek the buzz near the Old Town, the activity hubs of Lapad, secluded cliffside gems, or a sandy island escape, Dubrovnik's coastline has much to offer. The clear Adriatic waters invite swimming from late spring through early autumn. Beyond these highlights, numerous other coves and swimming spots await discovery. Explore our full guide to find the perfect beach for your Dubrovnik adventure.

FAQ

Is Dubrovnik actually a good destination for a beach holiday?

Dubrovnik is famous for its stunning Old Town, but it also offers beautiful beaches along its coastline and nearby islands. While perhaps not solely a 'fly and flop' beach destination compared to others, it combines cultural sightseeing with excellent swimming and sunbathing opportunities. Many visitors enjoy splitting their time between exploring the city and relaxing by the Adriatic Sea.

Is Dubrovnik better for families, couples, or party holidays?

Dubrovnik primarily attracts couples and families, offering historical sites, scenic beauty, and relatively relaxed beaches. While there are bars and nightlife, especially in the Old Town and some beach clubs, it's not typically known as a major party destination like some other Mediterranean or Croatian islands. Families appreciate the calmer waters at some beaches like Lapad.

What are the beaches like in Dubrovnik? Are there sandy beaches?

Most beaches in and around Dubrovnik are pebble or rocky, often set in picturesque coves with incredibly clear turquoise water. True sandy beaches are rare in this part of Croatia. Some beaches, like Lapad Bay Beach, have sections with imported sand or fine gravel, while others feature concrete platforms for sunbathing and sea access.

Can you swim in the sea around Dubrovnik? Is the water clean and warm?

Yes, swimming in the Adriatic Sea around Dubrovnik is very popular. The water is known for being exceptionally clean and clear, often winning Blue Flag awards. Water temperatures are pleasant for swimming from late May/early June through September, peaking in July and August.

Are there hotels in Dubrovnik with their own private beach?

Several luxury hotels in Dubrovnik boast private or semi-private beach areas for their guests, often concrete platforms or sections of pebble beach with exclusive sunbeds and service. Examples include Hotel Excelsior, Villa Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik President Valamar Collection Hotel, and the Sun Gardens Dubrovnik resort (located outside the city).

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Are Dubrovnik beaches very crowded?

Beaches closest to the Old Town, like Banje Beach, and popular spots like Copacabana and Lapad Bay can get very crowded, especially during peak season (July and August). However, you can find quieter spots, particularly if you venture further from the main tourist hubs or visit beaches accessible mainly by boat or a short hike.

Banje, Dubrovnik

Copacabana Dubrovnik

Which beaches are closest to the Old Town?

Banje Beach is the most famous beach right next to the Old Town's Ploče Gate, offering iconic views. Šulić Beach (below Fort Lovrijenac) and Buža Bar's swimming spots (through holes in the city walls) are also within walking distance, offering unique swimming experiences directly off the rocks.

Banje, Dubrovnik

Beach Šulić

How do you get to beaches like Lapad or Copacabana?

Beaches in the Lapad peninsula area, including Lapad Bay (Uvala Lapad), Copacabana, and Cava Beach, are easily reached from the Old Town or other parts of Dubrovnik by local bus (routes 4 and 6 are common). Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available. It's about a 10-15 minute bus ride.

Copacabana Dubrovnik

Cava

People Also Ask

Do you have to pay to get onto beaches in Dubrovnik?

Public beach access in Croatia is generally free. You don't pay an entrance fee for the beach itself (like Banje, Lapad, Copacabana). However, some managed beach clubs or hotel beaches might charge for entry or require you to rent their sunbeds/umbrellas for access to their specific section or facilities.

Banje, Dubrovnik

Copacabana Dubrovnik

Can you rent sunbeds and umbrellas? How much do they cost?

Yes, most popular beaches like Banje, Copacabana, and Lapad Bay offer sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. Prices can vary significantly depending on the beach and the season, but expect to pay anywhere from €10-€30+ per day for a set (two beds and an umbrella). Some find it quite expensive, especially at the most popular spots.

Banje, Dubrovnik

Copacabana Dubrovnik

What shoes should I wear for Dubrovnik beaches?

Because most beaches are pebble or rocky, and the seabed can be uneven or have sea urchins, it's highly recommended to wear water shoes or aqua socks. They make walking on the pebbles much more comfortable and protect your feet in the water.

Are there any beaches good for families with small children?

Lapad Bay Beach (Uvala Lapad) is often recommended for families as it has calmer, shallower waters, some finer gravel/sand areas, playgrounds nearby, and plenty of cafes and facilities. Copacabana Beach also has some family-friendly features like inflatable water parks (seasonal).

Copacabana Dubrovnik

Where can I find quieter, less crowded beaches?

For quieter experiences, consider Sveti Jakov beach, located a bit further east of the Old Town (requires a walk down many steps). Beaches on Lokrum Island (accessible by ferry) offer rocky spots for swimming in a nature reserve setting. Exploring smaller coves along the coast, sometimes requiring a car or boat, can also lead to more secluded spots.

Sveti Jakov

Lokrum Island Beach

What's the best time of year for Dubrovnik's beaches?

The main beach season runs from June to September when the weather is warmest and the sea temperature is ideal for swimming. July and August are the hottest and busiest months. May and October offer pleasant weather but potentially cooler sea temperatures, though beaches are much less crowded.

Is Banje beach or Lapad beach better?

It depends on what you're looking for. Banje Beach offers iconic Old Town views and a lively atmosphere but can be very crowded and pricey. Lapad Bay beaches are in a more relaxed area with more space, family-friendly features, and numerous cafes/restaurants, but lack the direct Old Town view. Many visitors try both.

Banje, Dubrovnik