Španjola Beaches

Overview

Welcome to Herceg Novi, a charming coastal town in Montenegro where the mountains meet the sea, creating a unique beach experience. The coastline here offers a delightful variety, from small pebble coves and characteristic concrete platforms, known locally as 'pontas', to some inviting sandy stretches. You'll find the waters of the Adriatic are generally crystal-clear, perfect for swimming and enjoying a refreshing dip. Herceg Novi is ideal for a relaxed holiday that beautifully combines sunbathing and seaside leisure with the exploration of a historic town.

Among the highlights, Rafaello Beach stands out as a popular and convenient spot right in town. For those seeking an acclaimed destination with a vibrant atmosphere, Žanjic Beach on the Luštica Peninsula is a must-visit, often reached by scenic boat trips. Families and wellness enthusiasts will appreciate Igalo, famous for its therapeutic mud and extensive, shallow beachfront. And for ultimate convenience, Beach Topla is just steps away, located directly on the town's picturesque promenade, Šetalište Pet Danica.

Herceg Novi caters to diverse preferences, whether you're looking for lively areas or more tranquil spots. The 'ponta' bathing platforms are a distinctive feature of the local beach culture, offering direct access to deeper waters. While these are some of the favorites, many more beautiful locations await your discovery. For a comprehensive guide to all the coastal gems, be sure to explore our longer list of beaches in and around Herceg Novi.

Top Beaches

FAQ

What are the beaches like in Herceg Novi, near Španjola Fortress?

Herceg Novi's coastline offers a mix of small pebble beaches, concrete platforms (often called 'pontas'), and some sandy stretches. You won't find wide, expansive sandy beaches like in some other destinations, as the steep mountains meet the sea, leaving a narrower shoreline. Many beaches are well-equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, and often have cafes or restaurants nearby. Some popular beaches are part of hotel complexes but are often accessible to the public.

Can you swim in the sea at Herceg Novi and what's the water like?

Yes, you can definitely swim in the sea at Herceg Novi. The water is generally described as crystal-clear and suitable for swimming and snorkeling. Water quality tests have historically shown good results for the Herceg Novi coast. The swimming season can last up to 5 months, with sea temperatures in summer (July/August) averaging 22-26°C.

Are there sandy beaches in Herceg Novi or are they all pebbles/concrete?

While many beaches in Herceg Novi are pebble or concrete platforms, there are some sandy options. Igalo Beach is known for its sandy, shallow waters and therapeutic mud. Raffaello beach is also a popular sandy/pebbly option. Some smaller coves might also have sandy patches. However, pebble and concrete bathing areas are more common along the Herceg Novi Riviera.

Igalo

Rafaello Beach

How do I get to the beaches on the Luštica Peninsula like Žanjice or Mirišta from Herceg Novi?

The easiest and most popular way to reach beaches like Žanjice and Mirišta on the Luštica Peninsula from Herceg Novi is by boat. Taxi boats and organized boat trips are readily available from the city harbor. These trips often take around 20-30 minutes. While some beaches might be accessible by road, the journey can be longer and the roads narrow, making boat travel the preferred option for many.

Žanjic Beach

Is it easy to find accommodation with beach access in Herceg Novi?

Yes, Herceg Novi offers a range of accommodation with good beach access. Many hotels are located directly on or very near the Šetalište Pet Danica promenade, providing easy access to various beaches and swimming platforms. Areas like Savina and Igalo have hotels and apartments close to their respective beaches. Staying along the promenade or in these areas is convenient for a beach-focused holiday.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Igalo

Are the beaches in Herceg Novi good for families with children?

Yes, Herceg Novi has several beaches suitable for families. Igalo Beach is a favorite due to its sandy, shallow waters. Savina Beach, with its mix of sand and small pebbles, is also considered ideal for kids. Many beaches offer amenities like sunbed rentals and have nearby cafes, which can be convenient for families. Some beaches, like Plaža Boka (Baby Beach), are noted for their shallow, calm waters perfect for young children.

Igalo

What's the best time of year to visit Herceg Novi for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Herceg Novi is generally from June to September. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea temperature is pleasant for swimming, typically ranging from 22°C to 26°C. July and August are the peak tourist months with the warmest weather. May and October can also offer good beach weather with fewer crowds, though the sea might be cooler.

Are there beaches with a party atmosphere in Herceg Novi?

Yes, if you're looking for a livelier beach scene, People's Beach in Topla is known for its vibrant beach bar and party atmosphere, especially popular with younger crowds as it transforms into a nightclub in the evening. La Bamba in Igalo also offers music and a party vibe on a concrete platform.

Beach Topla

People Also Ask

Do I have to pay to use the beaches in Herceg Novi?

Generally, entrance to public beaches in Herceg Novi is free. However, you will usually have to pay if you want to rent sunbeds and umbrellas. Some beaches may have designated areas where you can lay your own towel for free, while other sections are reserved for paid loungers. Some hotel beaches might have restricted access or fees for non-guests, but many are open to the public with the expectation of renting their facilities or purchasing from their bars/restaurants.

Are there quiet, more secluded beaches near Herceg Novi?

Yes, for a more peaceful experience, you can find quieter spots. Lalovina Beach is a public pebble beach tucked away in a small cove. Beaches on the Luštica Peninsula, like Žanjice, Mirišta, and Rose, accessible by boat, offer a more tranquil atmosphere away from the main town bustle. Some smaller, unnamed coves along the coast can also provide a more secluded feel.

Žanjic Beach

What is the Šetalište Pet Danica and how does it relate to the beaches?

The Šetalište Pet Danica is a 7-kilometer long coastal promenade that connects Igalo, Herceg Novi, and Meljine. It runs alongside many of the town's beaches, concrete bathing platforms, cafes, and restaurants. It's perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride, allowing easy access to different swimming spots and enjoying the coastal scenery.

Igalo

Herceg Novi Beach

Meljine Beach

What kind of beach holiday is Herceg Novi best for?

Herceg Novi is great for a relaxed coastal holiday that combines swimming and sunbathing with exploring a historic town. It's suitable for those who appreciate scenic beauty, clear waters, and a Mediterranean atmosphere. It caters to various travel styles, from families looking for calm waters to those interested in boat trips to more secluded coves or lively beach bars. It's less about vast sandy expanses and more about charming pebble coves, concrete platforms integrated into the town, and boat-accessible gems.

Are there any unique beach experiences near Herceg Novi, like the Blue Cave?

Yes, a popular excursion from Herceg Novi is a boat trip to the Blue Cave (Plava Špilja) on the Luštica Peninsula. This natural sea cave is famous for the mesmerizing blue light effect created by sunlight reflecting through the water. Many tours also include stops at nearby beaches like Žanjic and Mamula Island, offering a memorable day out on the water.

Žanjic Beach

What should I know about the 'ponta' beaches in Herceg Novi?

Many of Herceg Novi's 'beaches' are actually 'pontas' – concrete platforms or piers built along the rocky coastline. These are very common in the Bay of Kotor. They provide flat areas for sunbathing and usually have ladders for easy access into the sea. While different from natural sandy beaches, they are a characteristic part of the local beach culture and offer deep water swimming right from the edge.

Plaža Ponta

Is Herceg Novi very crowded during the beach season?

Herceg Novi, like many popular coastal destinations, can get crowded during the peak summer months of July and August. However, it's often considered to have a more relaxed atmosphere compared to some other Montenegrin coastal towns. If you prefer to avoid the biggest crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (May, June, September) when the weather is still pleasant for beach activities. Boat trips to beaches on the Luštica Peninsula can also offer an escape from the busiest town beaches.