Dubrovnik is Croatia’s busiest city. The majority of tourists come and leave within a day (particularly the cruisers) – so their first and probably their last destination is Dubrovnik’s Old Town – from the ancient city walls to the history-soaked streets, it’s a must-see. But there are so many other attractions to enjoy, not least the abundance of Dubrovnik beaches.
Guide to beaches in Dubrovnik
Offering travellers a hiatus from the intensity of the crowds and a chance to unwind by the sea, Dubrovnik beaches aren’t huge, and the majority of them aren’t sandy. But what they do offer are havens lapped by the cooling Adriatic sea, where you can stretch out, swim and admire the marvellous views.
There are around 15 beaches in and near Dubrovnik, and many can be reached by foot – particularly those around the Old Town. However, venture out of the city, and there are some really special Dubrovnik beaches that can be easily accessed by taxi or bus. With the kids in tow, we found it easier to throw all our stuff in an Uber (which operates in Croatia). Here are my picks of the best beaches in Dubrovnik.
Copacobana Beach
About a 10-minute car journey from Dubrovnik Old Town, Copacobana Beach has shallow waters and a great beach club that offers up cold drinks and snacks. We spent all day here, and while there are uber-smart sunbeds for rental, we were happy on our beach towels, paddling in the cool water and admiring the views across to Franja Tuđmana Bridge. There is a real chilled-out vibe here – and with clean toilets and accessible facilities, you can see why this is one of the loveliest Dubrovnik Beaches. We found it to be family-friendly and a great mix of couples, groups of friends and kids. Plus when the sunsets Copacobana Beach becomes a lively spot for sundowners.
Banje Beach
Situated just outside Ploče Gate in the Old Town. It’s easy to find, just follow the signs once you head out of the ancient city. This is Dubrovnik’s most popular beach because of its location and with just a few steps we managed to access it easily even with a pram. It’s not huge, however, Banje Beach has great views of Lokrum Island and The Old Town, as well as the option to take part in watersport fun including banana boats and waterskiing. It’s a safe spot for kids, too. At night, the Banje Beach bar comes alive after sunset when revellers come out to party.
Lapad Beach
Lapad Beach is on a peninsula close to the outer walls of the city. With a long promenade filled with cafes and a lounge bar on the beach itself, there are plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas to commandeer for the day. Plus, they also have lots of stuff for kids – including a new playground and trampolines. As well as changing cabins and fantastic facilities, this is an ideal Dubrovnik beach for families. Meanwhile, you can take a stroll along the coastal path that takes you to the end of the Lapad peninsula, where you will be rewarded with stunning views of the Elaphiti Islands.
Sveti Jacov Beach
When several cab drivers who are diligently following their sat navs still can’t find the beach – you know you’re heading to one of Dubrovnik’s hidden gems. Sveti Jacov Beach can only be accessed by a set of steep stairs that winds down the cliff face. With a pram and two young kids, this wasn’t a fun thing to do (and we had to go back up!). However, it really is worth the effort. A small, pebbly beach flanked by a seafront restaurant, it was uncrowded and quiet. But it’s the views that are to die for. With the shimmering Adriatic stretching out before our eyes, you can see the whole of Dubrovnik Old Town and the walls from across the sea… Best moment? Watching the kids play as I sipped a glass of rosé while staring at the scenery.
Danče Beach
One of the oldest beaches in Dubrovnik and a hit with the locals, Danče Beach can be found five minutes from the Old Town. It has large protruding rocks as well as a jetty for sunbathing, and ladders to get in and out of the sea. Because the water is deeper here, it’s safe to jump in and also means it’s beautifully refreshing and clear. With a small cafe too, it’s a great beach to enjoy a swim and to sit back and relax. Kids would need to be proficient swimmers on Danče Beach, which is open to the elements – so this Croatian beach is not suitable for toddlers.
Sunj Beach
This was another one of our favourite beaches in Dubrovnik because it’s sandy! If you’re prepared to take a boat trip, just an hour on a ferry (around €5 one-way), you can reach the pretty island of Lopud. Famed for having the only sandy beach in Dubrovnik, we disembarked onto the island and strolled some 20 minutes to Sunj Beach on the south-west side. (You can also jump in zippy golf buggies to and from the beach for about €3 per person). It’s a gorgeous shallow bay, perfect for families, and while the kids happily played in the sand, we sipped cold beers in the hip beach bar. This is the ideal Dubrovnik beach for getting away from the city.
If you want to explore beyond Dubrovnik’s beaches over several days, choose a Croatia Cruise holiday, and sail along the coast, where you can admire the old stone walls from the sea and hop between islands to discover hidden coves and quieter beaches.
Best of the rest
Bellevue Beach
Located beneath Hotel Bellevue, this dramatic beach is ideal for strong swimmers and cliff diving fans. It’s a pebbly cove surrounded by cliffs and some would consider, more a of a hidden gem.
Šulići Beach
A local favourite tucked near the Lovrijenac Fortress, just outside the Old Town. Small and rocky, with a casual bar and spectacular views of the fort and city walls.
Cava Beach
Situated between Coral Beach and Copacobana, this pebble beach has crystal-clear waters and offers sunbed rentals, beach service, and calm vibes without the full-on party atmosphere.
Lokrum Island beaches
Not your typical beach, but the rocky coastline of nearby Lokrum Island has several peaceful sunbathing spots and hidden swimming areas. Accessible by boat from the Old Town port, it’s ideal for adventurous beachgoers.
Buža Beach (Cliff Bar Beach)
More of a sunbathing ledge than a beach, this iconic spot is found through a hole in the city walls (“buža” means “hole”). Grab a drink from the bar and dive straight into the sea from the rocks – popular with daredevil swimmers.
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