Dubrovnik beaches are a dream. This guide shares the best beaches in Dubrovnik, where to find them, and what you need to plan the perfect Croatian beach holiday — including beach hotels with ocean views and beach bars where you can sip something cold in the Adriatic sunshine.

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The Ultimate Guide to PLANNING A DUBROVNIK BEACH TRIP

Let’s talk about the best beaches in Dubrovnik. The city sits on the edge of the Adriatic Sea, the northernmost part of the Mediterranean, separating the Balkan peninsula from Italy. With over 3,600 miles of coastline and a seemingly endless string of islands, it’s no surprise that Croatia is a beach lover’s dream.

Dubrovnik, in particular, is tucked away in the southern part of the country along the Dalmatian Coast, where the shoreline is dramatic. Think cliffs, rocky coves, and ridiculously clear turquoise water. It’s no wonder this place earned the nickname the Pearl of the Adriatic. Every direction you turn is a postcard-worthy shot of Dubrovinik, so pack your camera.

In this guide, I’m sharing the best beaches in Dubrovnik, plus my top picks for beach hotels in Dubrovnik if you want to wake up with the sea in your backyard. You’ll also find the most scenic beach bars in Dubrovnik, where you can kick back with a drink and soak up that Adriatic magic.

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Are There Sandy Beaches in Dubrovnik?

Fair question. I wondered the same. Growing up in California, I am used to long, sandy beaches. The biggest shock for me was learning that soft, sandy beaches are not the norm in Dubrovnik.

So, are there sand-filled beaches in Dubrovnik? The short answer: not really, but kind of.

Dubrovnik is known more for its pebble beaches. The rocky coves and crystal-clear waters more than make up for the lack of sand. That said, there are a few exceptions where you can dig your toes into something resembling sand. Just don’t expect to see long stretches of powdery white beach like you’d find in, say, the Caribbean.

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When to Visit Dubrovnik

Without a doubt, summer is the peak travel season in Dubrovnik, Croatia. But with the beautiful, warm, and sunny weather also comes the crowds of people. I can see why, though, because I love a warm day on the beaches in Dubrovnik.

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Dubrovnik is a popular stop for cruise ships, so the days can be jam-packed when a ship docks and releases a swarm of passengers into the town. The locals I spoke to in Dubrovnik told me that July and early to mid-August are the busiest times.

My trip to Dubrovnik took place over the last few days of August and the first few days of September. Based on things I had read before visiting, I honestly expected the crowds to be much worse than they were. Dubrovnik’s Old Town and main beaches were still pretty busy during the day, but not to a point where I was absolutely miserable (and crowds often make me feel that way).

I’d gladly revisit Dubrovnik at the same time of year again and personally recommend the end of August or early September as a good time to visit. The weather is still perfect for spending time on the beach and in the water, but the peak season has begun to die down, so the crowds have lessened.

If you don’t really care about sunbathing or swimming in the Adriatic Sea, then Dubrovnik would be beautiful any time of year. I had a blast swimming and spending time on the beach, but the Dalmatian Coast is so stunning that I’d be happy to admire the scenery any time of year. Please note, though, that many businesses and restaurants close during the offseason.

The Best Beaches in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Banje Beach (Plaža Banje)

Banje Beach easily takes the title for the most popular—and busiest–beach in Dubrovnik. Some people call it “touristy”, and sure, it is, but I still have a great time here. The beach draws a big mix of locals and visitors, and with a location like this, it’s easy to see why.

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This beach sits right next to Dubrovnik’s Old Town, so you get these unreal views of the ancient city walls and terracotta rooftops while you swim or lounge by the water. To reach it, walk down a flight of stairs—nothing too crazy, just worth knowing if you’re carrying beach gear.

Right in the middle of the beach, there’s a beach club. It’s convenient but a bit overpriced—no surprise given its prime location. Same deal with the lounge chairs: you have to pay to use them and they ain’t cheap. Unless I plan to spend the whole day at the beach, I skip it. Not worth the cost for a brief visit.

My favorite “trick” for visiting Banje Beach? I go early. Thanks to the jet lag from flying in from California, I wake up early. Why not check out the beach at 8:00 in the morning? Even at this time, it’s perfect—already warm, super peaceful, and almost empty. A few locals swim laps or stretch along the shoreline, and I soak in the views without the usual crowds.

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Bellevue Beach

Just below the beautiful Hotel Bellevue sits one of Dubrovnik’s underrated gems—Bellevue Beach. It’s tucked into a small bay and delivers the same jaw-dropping views and clear water as the city’s more famous beaches.

The beach also serves as the home base for Dubrovnik’s local water polo team, so visitors who show up at the right time might catch a practice or even a match in action—a fun bonus. The beach itself features a classic Croatian mix of pebbles and a small amount of sand.

Locals recommend visiting in the morning, when the sun hits the bay directly and illuminates everything. By the afternoon, the cliffs cast long shadows and the beach slips into the shade.

For anyone trying to avoid the harsh afternoon sun, Bellevue Beach makes a perfect retreat. And for travelers who want quick access without the hassle, staying at the Hotel Bellevue—or one of the nearby beachfront options mentioned later—puts this little slice of paradise steps away.

Beach Buza at Buza Bar (Buža Beach)

Of all the beaches in Dubrovnik, Beach Buza easily takes the title for the most unique. It clings to the cliffs just outside the Old Town walls, wedged between centuries-old stone and the Adriatic Sea. At first glance, it barely looks like a beach at all—but then again, spending time in Croatia tends to stretch the definition of “beach” in the best way.

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Because Buza Beach sits in such an unexpected location, essentially on the edge of a cliff, getting there takes a little creativity. Technically, visitors could paddle up by kayak, but most people access it through Buza Bar. The entrance? A literal hole in the Old Town wall that leads straight to the bar perched above the sea.

From the bar, a short staircase winds down to the rocky platforms below, where swimmers and sunbathers claim their spots on the concrete ledges and flat rocks. It’s an ideal place for a quick dip or to sit back and soak up the views of the Adriatic and Lokrum Island (which, btw, visiting Lokrum Island is a must!) And since it is a bar, grabbing a cold Croatian beer while lounging above the sea makes sense.

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Lapad Beach (Uvala Lapad Beach)

Lapad, a peninsula and suburb just northwest of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, offers a laid-back vibe and a ton of waterfront appeal. Lapad Bay, in particular, draws travelers thanks to its lineup of upscale seaside hotels, making it a popular home base for those visiting the area.

The bay features several beach areas, with Uvala Beach as the central hub. Here, you can rent lounge chairs and umbrellas, and take advantage of amenities like showers and changing rooms. Since it sits near so many hotels in Lapad Bay, the beach does get busy. It’s easy to wander farther along the bay to find a quieter spot to swim or sunbathe.

Beyond the beach scene, Lapad is known for its pedestrian-friendly streets and relaxed atmosphere. The area offers plenty of restaurants and shops. It’s just a short drive from the Old Town, but it feels like its own little world. That’s a big part of why so many travelers choose to stay here—it has a bit of everything without being in the thick of the Old Town crowds.

It’s worth considering as a place to stay, especially for anyone who prefers a more low-key setting. And like the rest of Dubrovnik’s beaches, don’t expect soft sand here. Lapad Bay is the usual mix of pebbles, big rocks, and some poured concrete platforms perfect for sunbathing.

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Lokrum Island

Just a quick 15-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Lokrum Island makes an easy day trip. It’s the closest island to the city (the same one visible from Banje Beach) and offers a totally different beach vibe.

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For travelers looking to escape the crowds and find a more peaceful spot by the water, Lokrum Island delivers. In my own experience, I enjoy a visit to Lokrum Island after getting my fill of the high-energy scene at Banje Beach. It’s the perfect change of pace. Lokrum Island is one of my favorite places to swim in the sea.

The great thing about Lokrum? It’s full of small, tucked-away swimming spots where visitors can stretch out and feel like they have the sea all to themselves. The island’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, which is good news, since cars aren’t allowed here.

No one lives on Lokrum, and there’s no option to stay overnight, so it stays relatively calm and quiet. It’s a great way to spend a half-day surrounded by rocky beaches, crystal-clear water, and nothing but nature.

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Best Beach Bars in Dubrovnik

If you’re planning a beach holiday in Croatia, you can’t miss Dubrovnik’s best beach bars. With the city’s position on the Adriatic Sea, there’s an excellent selection of scenic spots to enjoy a cold beverage with stunning coastline views. You’ll find everything from rustic, no-frills charm to upscale day clubs. Let’s get into it.

Buža Bar

First up is the legendary Buža Bar, tucked just outside the Old Town walls. This spot is iconic for a reason. You sip a drink on the edge of a cliff, watching locals and tourists jump into the Adriatic Sea below. The vibe is rustic and straightforward. Don’t expect crafty cocktails, but rather cold Croatian beers, wine, and a view that makes you forget what day it is.

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Can you swim at Buža Bar?

Absolutely—you can swim at Buža Bar. It’s one of my most memorable experiences in Dubrovnik. The bar offers direct access to the Adriatic Sea via steps and rocky ledges. It’s common for visitors to take advantage of this and enjoy a refreshing swim. However, the water here is deep and there are no lifeguards, so it’s essential to exercise caution and assess the conditions before diving in.

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How do I get into Buža Bar?

To reach Buža Bar in Dubrovnik, you’ll begin at Gundulic Square and ascend the Jesuit Staircase (this staircase is famously featured in Game of Thrones). At the top, turn left toward the city walls. Keep an eye out for a “Cold Drinks” sign pointing right and follow this until you spot a small iron gate doorway. It’s literally a hole in the wall.

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Banje Beach Club

Does Dubrovnik have beach clubs? It sure does. If you want to combine beach lounging with a party atmosphere, Banje Beach Club is the place to go. It’s a classic beach bar by day and a full-on beach club by night. You get front-row views of Dubrovnik’s city walls and Lokrum Island, plus easy access to the sea. Yes, it’s touristy. But sometimes you make sacrifices to have a cocktail in hand and music in the background while you soak up the sun.

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Coral Beach Club

Over on the Lapad Peninsula, Coral Beach Club offers a more polished beach day experience. Daybeds, DJs, and full food and drink service right on the water. It’s a bit of a splurge, but if you want to post up somewhere all day with comfort and an elevated vibe, this is the spot. Book a lounger in advance if you’re visiting in peak season.

Beach Bar Ponat

Beach Bar Ponat feels like one of those low-key, tucked-away spots that make you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a local secret. It’s in Dubrovnik’s Lapad neighborhood, between
Mandrač and Copacabana beaches. Cozy floor cushions, hammocks, and shady spots to chill are what you can expect here. The atmosphere feels worlds away from the more touristy beach bars.

Best Beach Hotels in Dubrovnik

If beach access is high on your Dubrovnik wish list, these waterfront hotels have you covered. Because sometimes? You’ve gotta treat yourself.

Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik

Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik is perched on a seaside cliff with sweeping views of the Adriatic from every single room. Yep—every room has a view, which honestly feels like a bit of a flex. One of the best perks is that the hotel sits above Bellevue Beach, one of the prettiest beaches in Dubrovnik (which I covered earlier in this post).

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The hotel is just over half a mile from Old Town, close enough to walk but far enough to escape the thick of the tourist crowds. In the offseason, the indoor pool and spa come in handy on rare rainy days. This 5-star property is a splurge, but this place strikes the perfect balance between luxury and location.

Valamar Dubrovnik President Hotel

President Hotel, Valamar Collection delivers on vacation vibes. The property features a ridiculously scenic pool that overlooks the Adriatic. While the hotel sits a bit further from Dubrovnik’s Old Town (about a 10-minute drive), the distance offers in return a more peaceful and nature-forward setting.

Each room comes with either a balcony or a terrace, so you can soak up the sea views without leaving your room. The property has both indoor and outdoor pools, plus a small pebble beach. Overall, this spot is relaxing, scenic, and just far enough away from town to feel like a true escape.

Hotel Dubrovnik Palace

Hotel Dubrovnik Palace sits on the Lapad Peninsula and brings all of the resort-style perks you’d hope for. There are both indoor and outdoor pools. One with a swim-up bar. Is it just me, or does a swim-up bar make everything feel fancier? Sign me up.

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The hotel has a beach, plus tennis courts if you’re looking to break a sweat. And if you want to venture out, Lapad Beach is nearby.

Bonus: they offer scuba diving on site. I’m not a diver myself, but every time I see that crystal-clear Croatian water, I kind of wish I were. If you’re certified, this would be a sweet place to dive.

Hotel Excelsior

Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik is housed in a former royal villa from 1913. This iconic property has hosted everyone from movie stars to royals. The hotel is just over a 10-minute walk from Old Town, so you’re close to the action but can retreat to peace and quiet when you’re ready to unwind.

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Grand Villa Argentina

If you’re looking for a beachfront stay in Dubrovnik that feels effortlessly elegant and relaxing, Grand Villa Argentina is a standout. Housed in a restored 20th-century mansion, it’s got that historic charm I love. Staying somewhere with a bit of backstory always makes the experience feel extra special. Note: Grand Villa Argentina continues to be in the midst of a property renovation project. The project is expected to complete in late 2025.

SHORT ON TIME? CHECK OUT THIS DUBROVNIK WEEKEND ITINERARY

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What to Pack for a Summer Beach Trip to Dubrovnik

So are you heading to Dubrovnik in the summer? Lucky you! Just make sure your suitcase is up for the job. Here’s what to pack to keep cool, comfortable, and fully prepared for all of the cliffside beaches and cobblestone streets you’re about to experience:

• Water shoes – Most beaches in Dubrovnik are rocky or pebbly (bless the Adriatic aesthetic), so you’ll want something to protect those feet while wading in. And watch out for sea urchins! Ouch! (These are my absolute favorite sandals for rocky beaches)
• Quick-dry beach towel – Lightweight, packs small, and dries fast. Perfect for beach hopping or lying out on concrete sunbathing platforms. (This beach towel is the best for travel.)
• Reef-safe sunscreen – The sun is intense and the water is clear, so protect your skin and the sea. (This Australian sunscreen is reef-friendly, water-resistant, and safe for sensitive skin.)
• Stylish but supportive sandals – Dubrovnik’s Old Town is full of steep steps and slick cobblestones. Don’t you dare show up in heels. (Something like this open-toe sandal would be perfect. You can dress it up or down, and it comes in tons of colors.)
• Dry bag or waterproof pouch – If you plan on kayaking, boating, or even just guarding your phone from the elements at the beach. (I travel with one of these bags because I like taking my camera out on the water.)
• A legit sun hat – Not for style, for survival. I have a bucket hat for beach trips that makes me look like someone’s dad on a fishing trip, and I have no regrets. This is function over fashion, folks. The Dubrovnik sun does not mess around. (The hat I travel with is packable and provides UV protection.)
• Portable mini fan – You laugh, but you wait. This is optional, but let’s be honest, the Adriatic breeze doesn’t always show up when you need it most. (Packable, portable pocket fans are a game changer, my friends.)

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