The Best Beaches in Montenegro: A Guide Beyond Budva
Montenegro's 295-kilometer coastline includes 73 official beaches, ranging from pebbled coves tucked beneath cliffs to long sandy stretches that wouldn't look out of place on the Atlantic. The variety is part of what makes the coast so distinctive — there's a beach to match almost any preference, and many of the best lie outside the well-known Budva strip.
For Long Sandy Stretches
Long Beach (Velika Plaža), Ulcinj. At 13 kilometers, this is the longest continuous sandy beach on the Adriatic coast. The beach sits at the country's southern tip, near the Albanian border, and offers genuinely uncrowded space even in peak summer. The fine dark sand is known for its therapeutic properties, with several traditional spa hotels making use of it.
Long Beach is divided into sections, with organized beach bars and clubs at the northern end (closer to Ulcinj town) and quieter, almost empty stretches further south. Kite surfing and windsurfing are popular here thanks to consistent afternoon winds.
Ada Bojana. Just south of Ulcinj, this triangular island sits where the Bojana River meets the Adriatic. The seaward side is a clothing-optional beach with fewer crowds and a relaxed atmosphere. The river side offers traditional stilt-house restaurants serving river-and-sea seafood, particularly the local specialty of fresh-caught fish prepared in salt crust.
For Secluded Coves and Cliff Beaches
Drobni Pijesak, near Sveti Stefan. A small cove of fine sand reached by a steep path from the road. It's almost invisible until you're nearly upon it. Limited parking and the descent keep crowds manageable even in August. A single café operates at the back of the beach in summer.
Žukotrlica, Bar. A pebble beach in a deep cove backed by pine forest. Popular with locals from Bar but largely off the tourist radar. The water clarity is exceptional, and the shaded back of the beach offers natural relief from the sun.
Buljarica, near Petrovac. A 2.5-kilometer stretch of mixed sand and pebble, partly undeveloped, with extensive marshland behind it. The southern end remains wild and almost empty. The beach was famously the longtime home of Sea Dance Festival and retains a slightly bohemian character.
For Families With Children
Slovenska Plaža, Budva. The main town beach in Budva, with shallow water entry, lifeguards, every imaginable facility (sun beds, beach bars, water sports, playgrounds nearby), and easy walking access to the old town. It's busy and not the most beautiful, but it works for families needing convenience.
Pržno, near Sveti Stefan. A small, sheltered pebble beach with calm waters and several waterfront restaurants directly behind it. Excellent for families with younger children who want a quieter alternative to Budva. The famous islet of Sveti Stefan is visible from the beach.
Plavi Horizonti, Tivat. One of the few entirely sandy beaches on the bay, with very shallow water that stretches well out from shore. The pine-shaded back of the beach provides natural shelter, and the beach has a relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere.
For Old Town Atmosphere
Mogren Beach, Budva. Two adjoining beaches separated by a short tunnel, located directly under the cliffs of Budva's old town. The setting is genuinely beautiful, with clear water and dramatic backdrops. Mogren is busy in summer but worth the visit for the views alone, especially in the late afternoon when the old town walls catch the sun.
Žanjic, Lustica Peninsula. A pebble beach on the southern side of the Bay of Kotor, accessible by boat from Herceg Novi or by car via the Verige strait. The water is exceptionally clear, and a former monastery and traditional restaurants are within a short walk.
For Cliff-Top Drama
Crvena Glavica, near Petrovac. A series of small beaches with reddish-pink sand, distinctive on the Adriatic. The color comes from the mineral content of the surrounding cliffs. The beaches are reached by paths from the main road and remain less developed than nearby alternatives.
Galija and Skočiđevojka, Petrovac. Two small beaches just outside Petrovac town. The names — referring to a galley ship and to a leaping maiden from local legend — hint at the dramatic cliffside setting. Both are reached by stepped paths and reward the effort with clear water and intimate scale.
For Beach Clubs and Nightlife
Jaz Beach, near Budva. A 1.2-kilometer beach known for its sand and live music venues. Jaz has hosted some of the largest concerts in Montenegrin history (including Madonna and the Rolling Stones) and remains the prime venue for major beach events. Daytime atmosphere is more relaxed.
Trsteno, near Budva. Several beach clubs operate on this small sandy beach during summer, drawing a younger crowd from Budva. Music, DJ sets, and a party atmosphere extend well into the evening in July and August.
Practical Tips for Beach-Going
Most popular beaches charge for sun beds and umbrellas in summer (typically €15-€30 for a set of two beds and an umbrella). Free public sections exist at most beaches but tend to be smaller and more crowded in peak season.
Beach season runs from late May through early October, with water temperatures peaking in August. June and September offer the best combination of warm water, manageable crowds, and good prices on accommodation.
Many smaller beaches lack facilities, so packing water, food, and shade is wise when heading to less-developed coves. Parking can be a serious problem in July and August — arrive early or use bus connections where available.
The country's beach diversity is one of its strongest assets, and visitors who venture beyond the obvious choices in central Budva tend to leave with the most memorable beach experiences. The smaller, harder-to-reach beaches reward the effort, and the long sandy stretches in the south offer something genuinely rare on this coast.
( Vijesti online )