6 Best Beaches in Dubrovnik
December 18, 2023
Situated in southeastern Croatia, Dubrovnik is known as the most picturesque city on the Dalmatian coast and is often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ – and it’s not hard to see why. Blessed with a spectacular coastline dotted with beautiful beaches, both in the historic Old Town and the surrounding areas, Dubrovnik guarantees an unforgettable beach holiday for travellers. In this spectacular coastal landscape, you will find stunning pebbled bays, warm turquoise waters, as well as some sensational scenery. Keep reading to discover the six best beaches in Dubrovnik.
Copacabana Beach
For those seeking an active beach experience, Copacabana Beach is an excellent choice. Nestled on the Lapad Peninsula, this half-moon shaped, sandy-pebbled beach boasts a vibrant atmosphere with a range of water sports activities, beach volleyball courts, and lively beach bars. If relaxing is more your style, there are sun loungers and umbrellas available along the shoreline. The shallow waters make it an ideal spot for families with children, and the stunning sunsets are not to be missed.
Banje Beach
Located just a stone’s throw from the historic Old Town, Banje Beach is known by many as one of the best beaches in Dubrovnik. With its dazzling white pebbles, clear turquoise waters, and a backdrop of the city walls and historic architecture, Banje Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. Indulge in water sports, sip cocktails at beachside lounges, or simply relax and soak up the breathtaking views. While beautiful, Banje’s popularity does mean it gets quite crowded, especially in the summertime. It’s also worth mentioning that there are hardly any natural shady places. However, sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented for a fee.
Just behind the bay is the Banje-Beach Restaurant, a popular seafood-orientated restaurant in the day and a lively beach club in the evening – perfect for dancing the night away!
St Jakov’s Beach
St Jakov’s Beach is a secluded beach at the end of a coastal walk east of Dubrovnik Old City, a favourite among locals and those seeking a quieter beach experience. Named by several magazines as one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia, the shore here is pebbly sand while the sea is especially clean and vividly blue – well worth taking the 163 steps down the cliff to see for yourself. There are sun loungers and parasols available for rent and there’s a beach bar and restaurant at the southern end that provides the necessary refreshments in a wonderful setting. Off in the distance, you’ll see the bustling harbour with the mighty Fort St Ivana guarding its entrance. Up on top of the cliff is the St Jakov Church, which gives the beach its name. Old and charming, it’s definitely worth visiting.
Bellevue Beach
Nestled in a deep, picturesque bay surrounded by steep cliffs and a large cave, Bellevue Beach is one of the best beaches in Dubrovnik due to its close proximity to the city. It’s a great location for swimming and snorkelling, as well as cliff jumping for thrill-seekers. Facing southeast, there is plenty of shade on the beach from the early afternoon. Alternatively, if you are after the sun, the best time to enjoy this beach is in the early morning.
Danče Beach
Danče (pronounced dan-che) is one of the oldest beaches in Dubrovnik and is a popular spot amongst locals. It’s around five minutes west of the Old Town and access is via a narrow downhill path, so be careful. On the left side along the way, you will see the Franciscan Church and Monastery that overlooks the beach. It’s a rocky beach, so you’ll find no sand here to relax upon, however, there are several large rocks and jetties for sunbathing, as well as a few ladders for climbing in and out of the sea. The water is a bit cooler here due to its unprotected location, but the water is calm and clear. There’s also a small cave nearby that you can swim into and explore. After a refreshing dip, there are some freshwater showers to wash off before stopping in at the small local cafe-bar serving basic refreshments and snacks.
Buža Beach
For more sensational views of the sea, head to Buža beach. It’s located on the south side of the Old Town wall and has a fantastic view of the neighbouring island of Lokrum. The rocky beach is located on sloping shores and there are plenty of rocks and cliffs where you can plunge into the sea. Afterwards, visit the Buža Bar. Buža translates to ‘a hole in the wall’, and here you’re expected to do just that – walk through an actual hole in the wall to get to this hidden bar. It is not easy to find but is well worth the effort as the ‘hole’ takes you through to a bar cut into the cliff with breathtakingly beautiful views of the sea. They only sell beer and wine, no cocktails or cappuccinos, and there are no toilets so make sure you go before you venture here as, once you have your position overlooking the sea and the sun starts to set, you do not want to be anywhere else on earth!
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