Herceg Novi Beaches

Overview

Herceg Novi, located at the scenic entrance to the Bay of Kotor, presents a delightful beach experience. The coastline here is predominantly made up of pebble beaches and well-maintained concrete platforms, which often contribute to the exceptional clarity of the water. While vast sandy expanses are not the norm, the sea is consistently clean and inviting for swimming.

Key coastal highlights include Žanjic Beach, renowned for its pristine waters and accessible by boat. Igalo is a highly popular choice, known for its areas of sand, therapeutic mud, and family-friendly environment. For a lovely sandy outing, Plavi Horizonti on the Luštica Peninsula is an iconic regional escape. In the heart of the town, Plaža Žalo offers easy access as the main urban beach.

While its beaches are a major draw, Herceg Novi also boasts a rich history, evident in its charming Old Town and historic fortresses. This overview touches on just a few of the beautiful spots available. For a wider selection, be sure to explore our longer list of beaches in this guide.

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FAQ

Are there sandy beaches in Herceg Novi or are they mostly pebble/concrete?

Herceg Novi's coastline primarily features pebble beaches and concrete swimming platforms. While there are some smaller areas with sand, or a mix of sand and fine pebbles, particularly at Igalo Beach and some hotel beaches like Portonovi Beach Club, you generally shouldn't expect long, wide sandy stretches like in some other Mediterranean destinations. Many locals and visitors enjoy the clarity of the water often found at pebble and rocky beaches.

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Is the water clean and good for swimming in Herceg Novi?

Yes, the water in Herceg Novi is generally considered clean and clear, making it excellent for swimming. The town is located at the entrance of the Bay of Kotor, and many beaches, especially those on the Luštica Peninsula accessible by boat, boast crystal-clear waters. The swimming season can last up to five months, with sea temperatures in summer typically ranging from 22 to 26 degrees Celsius.

When is the best time to visit Herceg Novi for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Herceg Novi is from June to August when temperatures are warm (28°C to 31°C) and the sea is ideal for swimming. The swimming season can extend from May to November. If you want to avoid the biggest crowds of July and August, consider visiting in June or September when the weather is still pleasant and the sea is warm.

How do you get to the beaches around Herceg Novi, especially those on the Luštica Peninsula like Žanjice?

Beaches along the main Herceg Novi promenade are accessible on foot. For beaches on the Luštica Peninsula, such as Žanjice, Mirišta, and Rose, the most common and recommended way to get there is by taxi boat or organized boat trips from Herceg Novi's marina. While some, like Žanjice, can be reached by car, the journey can be long and on narrow roads. Boat trips often cost around €10-€20 for a day trip.

Žanjic Beach

What are the best areas to stay in Herceg Novi for easy beach access?

Staying along the Šetalište Pet Danica promenade gives you direct access to many of the town's beaches and swimming platforms. The Savina neighborhood is a good choice for quieter beaches and a more residential feel, with Hotel Perla being right on the beach. Igalo is popular for families and those interested in its therapeutic mud beach. For a luxury experience with a private beach, Portonovi resort is an option.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

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Are Herceg Novi beaches suitable for families with children?

Yes, several beaches in Herceg Novi are suitable for families. Igalo Beach is particularly popular due to its shallow waters and areas with sand and therapeutic mud. Savina Beach, with its mix of sand and small pebbles, is also considered ideal for kids. Plaža Boka (Baby Beach) is another good option with fine pebbles, sand, and shallow entry.

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What's the typical cost for renting sunbeds and umbrellas on Herceg Novi beaches?

You can expect to pay around €8-€10 for a set of two loungers and an umbrella on most Herceg Novi beaches. This is generally cheaper than in some other Montenegrin coastal towns like Kotor. Many beaches also have free areas where you can lay your own towel, but these can fill up quickly in peak season (July and August).

Are there lively beaches with music and a party atmosphere in Herceg Novi?

Yes, Herceg Novi has beaches with a more vibrant and party-like atmosphere, particularly popular with younger crowds. People's Beach is known for its beach bar and music, transforming into a nightclub vibe as the sun sets. La Bamba in Igalo is another spot known for music, water activities, and evening parties. Several beach bars along the promenade also offer music and a lively scene.

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People Also Ask

What are some quieter, more secluded beach options near Herceg Novi?

For a quieter experience, consider beaches on the Luštica Peninsula like Rose Beach, known for its peaceful and intimate atmosphere, or Mirišta Beach, a peaceful pebble beach great for snorkeling. Lalovina Beach is also mentioned as a more tranquil spot. Some smaller coves along the Savina area can also offer a more relaxed setting.

Is Herceg Novi primarily a beach holiday destination, or does it offer more?

While Herceg Novi has many appealing beaches and is great for a seaside holiday, it offers much more. It's a town rich in history with a charming Old Town (Stari Grad), medieval fortresses (like Kanli Kula and Forte Mare), the Savina Monastery, and a long, picturesque promenade (Šetalište Pet Danica). It's also known for the Igalo Institute with its health tourism. So, it combines beach relaxation with cultural exploration and wellness.

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How do Herceg Novi's beaches compare to those in Budva?

Herceg Novi's beaches are generally smaller, often pebbly or concrete platforms, and situated within the scenic Bay of Kotor or on the Luštica Peninsula. Budva is known for longer, often sandier beaches along its Riviera, which can be more crowded and have a more intense nightlife scene. Herceg Novi offers a potentially more laid-back atmosphere with stunning bay views, while Budva is more of a bustling beach resort town. Boat trips to secluded coves are a highlight in Herceg Novi.

Are there any nudist (FKK) beaches in or near Herceg Novi?

Njivice, located a few kilometers from Herceg Novi, has a section of its beach that is known to be clothing-optional or FKK (Freikörperkultur - free body culture). It's advisable to confirm the specific designated areas locally upon arrival as practices can change.

What is the 'Herceg Novi Riviera' and what kind of beaches does it include?

The Herceg Novi Riviera refers to the 25 km stretch of coastline around Herceg Novi, encompassing various settlements like Igalo, Savina, Meljine, Zelenika, Kumbor, Đenovići, and Njivice, as well as beaches on the Luštica Peninsula accessible by boat. It includes a mix of public beaches, hotel beaches, pebble coves, concrete platforms, and a few sandy spots, offering diverse experiences from lively town beaches to more secluded bays.

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Meljine Beach

Đenovići Beach

Can you walk along the coast to access different beaches in Herceg Novi?

Yes, the Šetalište Pet Danica is a long coastal promenade, approximately 7 km, that connects many of Herceg Novi's beaches, from Igalo to Meljine. It's a pedestrian walkway lined with cafes, restaurants, and access points to various small beaches and swimming areas. This makes it easy to explore different spots on foot.

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Meljine Beach

Are there any unique beach experiences in Herceg Novi, like therapeutic mud?

Yes, Igalo Beach is famous for its therapeutic mud (peloid), which is believed to have healing properties. Many visitors and locals apply the mud to their skin for its benefits. This makes Igalo Beach a unique wellness-focused beach destination within Herceg Novi.

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