Best Beaches in Dubrovnik
Pebble coves, sandy bays, and rocky swimming spots along the Adriatic coast
Dubrovnik Beach Guide
Dubrovnik is blessed with crystal-clear Adriatic waters and a coastline dotted with beaches to suit every preference. From the famous Banje Beach right outside the Old Town walls to secluded rocky coves on Lokrum Island, there is a perfect swimming spot for everyone.
Most beaches here are pebble or rocky rather than sandy — but the stunning turquoise water more than makes up for it. The sea temperature ranges from a refreshing 18°C in May to a warm 26°C at the peak of summer in August, making Dubrovnik a great swimming destination from late spring through early autumn.
Whether you are looking for a lively beach club with music and cocktails, a quiet cove for snorkelling, or a family-friendly bay with shallow water and playgrounds, Dubrovnik has it covered. Below you will find the 8 best beaches in and around Dubrovnik, along with practical tips to help you make the most of your time on the coast.
Banje Beach
Dubrovnik's most iconic beach sits just east of the Old Town, with views of Lokrum Island and the city walls. Split between a free public section and a beach club with sunbeds and cocktail service. The crystal-clear water and proximity to the Old Town make it the top choice for most visitors.
Location: Frana Supila, east of Ploce Gate
Facilities: Sunbeds, showers, beach bar, water sports
Best for: First-time visitors, photo opportunities, easy access
Lapad Beach
A family-friendly bay in the Lapad neighbourhood with calm, shallow waters and a beautiful seaside promenade lined with cafes and pine trees. The gentle slope into the sea makes it ideal for children. The surrounding area has plenty of restaurants and accommodation options.
Location: Lapad Peninsula, 4 km from Old Town
Facilities: Sunbeds, playgrounds, restaurants, promenade
Best for: Families, relaxed swimming, full-day beach visits
Copacabana Beach
A lively 100-meter pebble beach on the Babin Kuk peninsula with excellent facilities and stunning views of the Dubrovnik Bridge. Popular for water sports including jet skiing and parasailing. The beach faces west, making it one of the best sunset spots in Dubrovnik.
Location: Babin Kuk Peninsula
Facilities: Water sports, restaurants, sunbeds, parking
Best for: Water sports, sunset views, active beachgoers
Sveti Jakov Beach
Often considered Dubrovnik's most beautiful beach, Sveti Jakov is a secluded cove reached by descending 166 steps through fragrant Mediterranean vegetation. The reward is a quieter atmosphere and one of the most dramatic views of the Old Town from across the bay.
Location: Vlaha Bukovca, east of Old Town
Facilities: Beach bar, sunbeds (limited)
Best for: Stunning views, photography, escaping the crowds
Lokrum Island Beaches
A 15-minute ferry ride from the Old Town harbour brings you to Lokrum, a nature reserve with rocky swimming spots, hidden coves, and the famous Dead Sea — a sheltered saltwater lake perfect for swimming. The island also has botanical gardens and resident peacocks.
Location: Lokrum Island (ferry from Old Town harbour)
Facilities: Restaurant, changing areas, nature trails
Best for: Nature lovers, snorkelling, a half-day escape
Buza Beach
RockyTucked beneath the southern city walls, Buza is less of a traditional beach and more of a unique rocky swimming platform carved into the cliffs. Access is through a small hole in the wall marked with a hand-painted sign reading 'Cold Drinks With the Most Beautiful View.' The cliff-side bar serves drinks while you sunbathe on the rocks, and the swimming is straight off the ledge into deep, clear Adriatic water. It is one of the most memorable swimming experiences in Dubrovnik.
Location: Outside the southern city walls, Old Town
Facilities: Cliff bar, no sunbeds or showers
Best for: Adventurous swimmers, cliff jumping, unique experience
Bellevue Beach
PebbleA sheltered cove set below the Hotel Bellevue, reached by a staircase cut into the cliffside. The beach is surrounded by dramatic rocky cliffs on both sides, creating a naturally protected bay with calm water. It faces west and catches the afternoon sun, making it one of the best sunset beaches in Dubrovnik. Less crowded than Banje or Lapad, it is a favourite among locals who want a quieter swim close to the city centre.
Location: Vlaha Bukovca, Miramar neighbourhood
Facilities: Sunbeds, beach bar, showers
Best for: Sunset views, quieter atmosphere, couples
Dance Beach
PebbleA small, scenic beach located near the Ploce neighbourhood, just a short walk east of the Old Town. Dance Beach is known for its upscale beach club vibe with DJ sets in summer, comfortable sunbeds, and a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine right on the waterfront. The pebble shoreline slopes gently into turquoise water, and the views across to Lokrum Island are stunning. It is a good option if you want beach facilities without the heavy crowds of Banje.
Location: Frana Supila, Ploce neighbourhood
Facilities: Beach club, restaurant, sunbeds, DJ music
Best for: Beach club atmosphere, dining by the sea, couples
Beach Tips for Dubrovnik
Best Time to Swim
The sea is warmest from June to September (22-26°C). May and October are still pleasant at 18-20°C.
Water Shoes
Most Dubrovnik beaches are pebble or rocky. Water shoes make getting in and out much more comfortable.
Arrive Early
In peak season (July-August), popular beaches like Banje fill up by 10am. Arrive early or visit after 4pm.
Free vs. Paid Sections
Many beaches have both free public areas and paid beach club sections with sunbeds, umbrellas, and service.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dubrovnik Beaches
Most beaches in Dubrovnik are pebble or rocky. Lapad Beach has some sand mixed with pebble, but you will not find large sandy beaches here. Water shoes are recommended for comfort when entering the water.
Yes, Banje Beach has a free public section on the right side of the beach. The left side is operated as a beach club with sunbed and umbrella rental, food and drink service, and typically charges around 30-50 EUR for a sunbed in peak season.
Lapad Beach is the best choice for families. It has calm, shallow water with a gentle slope, a playground nearby, and a promenade lined with restaurants and ice cream shops. Copacabana Beach is another good family option with more space and water sport activities for older children.
The swimming season runs from late May to early October. The sea is warmest in July and August (24-26°C) but these months are also the most crowded. June and September offer warm water (22-24°C) with significantly fewer crowds. For the best balance of weather and crowd levels, early June or mid-September is ideal.
Yes, Lokrum Island has several excellent swimming spots including rocky coves along the coastline and the famous Dead Sea (Mrtvo More) — a sheltered saltwater lake in the centre of the island that is perfect for swimming. Ferries run every 30 minutes from the Old Town harbour and the crossing takes about 15 minutes.
Banje Beach and Buza Beach are within walking distance of the Old Town (under 5 minutes). Sveti Jakov and Dance Beach are a 15-20 minute walk east. For Lapad and Copacabana, take local bus lines 4 or 6 from the Pile Gate area — the ride takes about 15 minutes. Lokrum Island is reached by ferry from the Old Town harbour.
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