Continue down the Dalmatian coast past Split to almost as far south as you can go in Croatia. What’s there? Dubrovnik. This stunning town on the shores of the Adriatic attracts millions of visitors each year. You might recognise the seaside Lovrijenac Fortress from the epic series Game of Thrones – a site that’s increased the number of visitors in recent years. However, what has attracted travellers to Dubrovnik, long before A Song of Ice and Fire, is its spectacular beaches!
Okay, they may not boast the white or golden sand that you may be familiar with when compared to the rest of the Mediterranean; however, the rugged rocky beaches of the Dalmatian Coast are perfect for sunbathing and dipping in those gorgeous azure waters. Many of them are small and can fill up quickly, especially during the high season.
Not to worry, though – we’ve put together a list of the five best beaches in Dubrovnik. There’s a mixture of popular beaches and some that are off-the-beaten-track. You can head to those when looking for some rest and relaxation away from the throngs of holidaymakers. Let’s take a closer look!
When to go to beaches in Dubrovnik
There are a few factors to take into consideration when deciding the best time to visit Dubrovnik. Its Mediterranean climate means that between April and October, temperatures rarely dip below 20 degrees, and there’s very little rain.
However, while the high season gets great weather, there is something else to think about – overcrowding. Dubrovnik is a small town, and many of the beaches immediately surrounding it are equally as small. With cruise passengers welcomed for almost 200 days of the year, in addition to other tourists, it can get very crowded.
Visiting outside high season – in April, September and October – is a good idea. The temperatures are manageable (rather than scorching hot), there are fewer cruise ships, and prices are slightly lower. However, if you can only visit in the high season, don’t worry. You might just have to head to the Dubrovnik beaches that are off-the-beaten-track!
Although visiting in the winter months is a possibility, it’s not recommended. Many of the restaurants and hotels in Dubrovnik are seasonal, and you’ll have much less choice when it comes to places to stay and eat.
Most Popular Beach in Dubrovnik | Banje Beach
- Who It’s For: Families, cruise day-trippers to Dubrovnik, and anyone who wants to try some water sports!
- Don’t Miss: The rocky part of the beach; it’s free to sunbathe here – perfect if you’re on a budget.
One of the most popular beaches in Dubrovnik, Banje Beach is just five minutes’ walk from the Old Town. This picture-perfect beach is sandy and has excellent views of the Old Town. Since it’s located in one of the best areas in Dubrovnik and close to the Old Town, it can get very crowded, especially during high season. It’s no surprise though; this is one of the few sandy beaches in the area, offering water sports during the day and parties at night.
Best Airbnb: Studio Apartment Ivana
Ideal for a couple, this studio apartment is affordable, and you can see the Old Town from your very own balcony.
Best Hostel: Hostel & Rooms Ana – Old Town Dubrovnik
Less than ten minutes from the beach, Hostel & Rooms Ana is one of the top-rated hostels in Dubrovnik.
Best Hotel: Hotel Adria
One of the cheaper hotels in Dubrovnik, there’s a buffet breakfast with a view on offer at the Hotel Adria.
Best Beachfront Apartment: Ragusina Luxury Apartments
Located between Banje Beach and the town walls, this stunning apartment is pricey, but it’s well worth it for a special occasion!
Banje Beach Club
If you’re happy to pay for a spot on the sand, head to Banje Beach Club. Enjoy food and drinks without leaving the beach!
Dubrovnik Cable Car
Head to the summit of Mount Srd for spectacular views across the Old Town and out to Elaphiti Island on the Dubrovnik Cable Car.
Dubrovnik City Walls
Being this close to the Old Town, you can’t miss a chance to learn more about the history and take a walk on the city walls.
Explore Old Town
You’ve spent all day chilling on the beach. Now, with your killer tan, you can explore the Old Town by night!
Go Hiking
Maybe don’t do this one the morning after; however, if you fancy getting awesome views of Dubrovnik without the crowds and stretching your legs, this hike will do the trick!
Day Tour to an Oyster Farm
Take a day trip and learn about Croatian cuisine at a nearby oyster farm.
Best Beach For Swimming in Dubrovnik | Sulic Beach
- Who It’s For: Anyone who wants to swim in Dubrovnik’s blue waters. Game of Thrones fans shouldn’t miss it either!
- Don’t Miss: Lovrijenac Fortress. Though you probably know it as King’s Landing!
Just five minutes’ from the Old Town, this beach was once a hidden gem. Thanks to GOT, you can now take hidden out of the equation! It’s still a stunning beach, though, and a must-visit on any Dubrovnik itinerary. Calm waters mean it’s great for swimming from the concrete platform here. If you don’t fancy a dip, you can always just sip on a cocktail at the beach bar.
Best Airbnb: Granny Kate’s Rooms 1
One of the closest Airbnbs to Sulic Beach, this charming apartment is affordable and welcoming. The bedspread might cause arguments with couples, though!
Best Hostel: Kings Landing Hostel Old Town
In-keeping with the theme of Game of Thrones at Sulic Beach, why not stay in a themed hostel? It’s fit for a King or Queen!
Best Hotel: Hotel Lero
Another affordable Dubrovnik Hotel, Lero is less than a mile from the Old Town and offers a swimming pool. Perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring!
Best Apartment: Ideal location quiet apartment
For groups and families, this affordable apartment can sleep up to six. It won’t break the bank either, so you’ll have more money to spend in the Old Town!
Lovrijenac Fortress (King’s Landing) – SPOILER ALERT
See where Jamie Lannister won the battle against Euron Greyjoy in series 8 of GOT at Lovrijenac Fortress.
Ala Mizerija
With views of the fortress and the beach below, there’s nowhere better for a spot of lunch than Ala Mizerija. [image_credit]
Love Stories Museum
One of the quirkier things to do in Dubrovnik, the Love Stories Museum is the perfect place to dip out of the midday sun while keeping your heart warm!
Go Kayaking
Sulic Beach is great for swimming, but if you fancy covering a bit more ground, take a half-day tour in a kayak.
Explore Game of Thrones Locations
See some of the filming locations for Game of Thrones on this themed walking tour.
Go on a Scavenger Hunt
Get competitive with this unique scavenger hunt, where you’ll learn about the city’s history and have a lot of fun!
Most Beautiful Beach in Dubrovnik | Pasjaca Beach
- Who It’s For: Those who want to combine hiking with relaxation will love Pasjaca Beach.
- Don’t Miss: Heading inland to check out this wine-growing region, and tasting it, obviously!
This unique beach is another former hidden gem that has become a hotspot for adventure travelers and backpackers visiting Dubrovnik. Pasjaca Beach was recently named the best beach in Europe so who can blame tourists for flocking to its shores! However, you still won’t find it too crowded as many visitors find the half an hour journey from Dubrovnik too much effort. If you don’t, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia!
Best Airbnb: Friendly Apartments
Within walking distance of the beach, these spacious apartments come with access to a garden and a kitchen.
Best Hostel: Hostel Lina
There aren’t any hostels out this way. Instead, enjoy this cheap Dubrovnik Hostel and spend what you’ve saved on renting a car or an Uber to get out to Pasjaca.
Best Hotel: Hotel Konavle
In the town of Cilipi, you’ll find this hotel. It’s not too glam, but really handy for Pasjaca Beach and Dubrovnik Airport.
Best Village Home: Lovely and Peaceful near Dubrovnik
In the village of Cilipi, this traditional country house will show you how peaceful life is in rural Croatia. Pick fresh veg from the garden or hike in the nearby forest.
Stare Stijene
The observation deck above Pasjaca Beach gives epic views of the beach and coastline.
Kojan Koral
Get the adrenaline flowing with buggy safaris and horseriding at Kojan Koral.
Konavoski Dvori National Restaurant
Try traditional Croatian food by the Ljuta River at the nearby Konavoski Dvori National Restaurant. [image_credit]
Visit The Vineyards
Take a walk through the vineyards of the nearby wine region. You’ll get to taste local products as well as three types of Croatian wine.
Croatian Cooking Class
Learn to cook traditional Croatian fare with a local grandm
Best Beach for Families | Sunj Beach
- Who It’s For: Families who want to escape the crowds and are happy to head to nearby Lopud Island.
- Don’t Miss: The ancient monastery which overlooks the village of Lopud. It dates back to the 15th century.
Sunj Beach is on the island of Lopud, a short ferry ride from Dubrovnik Old Town. This chilled out and car-free island offers the chance to disconnect and switch off at the beach – one of the only sandy beaches in the area – or explore the island at your own pace. Rent kayaks to circle around it, or explore the interior on a bike. Whichever you choose, you’re bound to be bowled over!
Best Airbnb: Studio Adriatic Paradise
Couples will love this studio apartment on Lopud. It’s just 20 metres from the main sandy beach, with restaurants and bars on your doorstep, too.
Best Hostel: Ivan and Marica Guest House
You won’t find a hostel on Lopud, but Ivan and Marica Guest House is a fine option for budget travellers. Rooms have a terrace with a spectacular view.
Best Hotel: Hotel Glavovic
Since the island is so small, it’s no problem that Hotel Glavovic is on the other side of Lopud from Sunj Beach. Its waterfront location and included breakfast should convince you!
Best Villa: Villa Tete Mare
Space for four guests and a fully-equipped kitchen mean budget-conscious families can save their costs for kayaking and biking on Lopud!
Rector’s Palace
Admire the Gothic and Renaissance architecture on Lopud’s Rector’s Palace. [source: Dreamer4787 (Shutterstock)]
Lopud Franciscan Monastery
Get views out over the Elafiti Islands from Lopud’s 15th century Franciscan monastery.
Obala Lopud
Head to the other side of the island for food by the bay in one of the best restaurants in Lopud.
Sunset Kayak Tour
See the island from the water at sunset on a kayaking tour around Lopud.
Go Snorkeling
Staying for a few days? Why not check out neighbouring Sipan Island’s snorkelling scene?
Quietest Beach in Dubrovnik | Plat Beaches (Zupa)
- Who It’s For: Anyone who is looking to escape the crowds of Dubrovnik. The beaches are family-friendly too.
- Don’t Miss: Beach-hopping. There are five beaches in Plat, so take your pick!
Plat is made up of several small beaches in Dubrovnik. You have Plat, Orphee, Bucanj, Tiha, and Pod Maslovo. This underrated area close to Dubrovnik is gorgeous, with more beaches per square meter than most of the rest of Croatia. If you want a safe place to swim with your children, or to get a slice of local life, head to the beaches surrounding Plat!
Best Airbnb: Studio Apartment Grgic
Overlooking Plat from a hill above the town, this stunning apartment is ideal for a couple. There’s parking too, so it’s perfectly suited to those travelling with a rental car.
Best Hostel: Old Town Hostel
Plat doesn’t have any hostels, so stay in one of the best hostels in Dubrovnik instead. Then, take an Uber or rent a car to get to the beach.
Best Hotel: Hotel Cavtat
Boasting an infinity pool overlooking the bay in nearby Cavtat, this beachfront hotel is one of the best places to stay in town. It’s pricey, but breakfast is included!
Best House with a Hot Tub: Dalmatia Blue Apartment
If you’ve been hiking in the surrounding areas or swimming in the sea, there’s nothing better to come home to than a hot tub. And this one overlooks the Dalmatian Coast!
Poseydon
Beachfront restaurant by Pod Maslovo, where you can enjoy seafood and traditional Croatian dishes.
Zarkovica Animal Shelter
Stop off here on your way to Dubrovnik to see dogs, cats, and wild animals that are being cared for by volunteers.
Drinks on the Beach
Indulge in a sunset cocktail at Coco Beach Bar. [image_credit]
Go Hiking
Swap your flip flops for sturdy trainers or walking boots and take a hike to Konavle.
Explore on Kayaks
Take the river challenge at nearby Mlini… Last for a minute in the 10-degree waters for a free drink!
Go Your Own Way on a Chartered Boat
What better way to explore these less crowded beaches than with by renting a private boat. If you’ve got the moolah, it’ll cost you around €200 for 8 hours of cruising around the coast (captain not included).
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Dubrovnik
Shoutout from Will – The OG Broke Backpacker: Have fun on your backpacking adventure, but please do think about getting insurance – take it from someone who has racked up tens of thousands of bucks on an insurance claim before: you may well need it.
I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable.
If there’s one insurance company I trust, it’s World Nomads. To find out why I use World Nomads, check out my World Nomads Insurance review.
Getting an estimate from World Nomads is simple – just click the button or image below, fill out the necessary info, and you’re on your way!
Final Thoughts on the Best Beaches in Dubrovnik
Now that you’ve seen five of the best beaches in Dubrovnik, it may make it a little easier to plan your trip. With Banje Beach, you have the convenience of it being close to the Old Town, so it’s perfect for families. Sulic will have you re-living Game of Thrones, while you might have the beaches of Plat all to yourself!
While the beaches in Dubrovnik are undoubtedly stunning, they’re all quite close together. That’s a good thing as it means you get to explore this amazing city, too. Whether you want to learn about the Dudrovnik’s history, go hiking, or enjoy stunning views across the bay from Mount Srd, you can fit in a lot during a vacation here.
Just make sure to set plenty of time aside to sunbathe on the rocks – oh, and to cool off in those beautiful azure waters. Have a great trip!
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