Top 10 Stunning Beaches in Montenegro

The distance from one end of Montenegro’s coast to the other is not even 100km (62 miles) as the crow flies, yet this tiny country still manages to boast some of the best scenery the Mediterranean has to offer. Tucked between historic, fortified towns are small, sparkling coves, divided by rocky headlands and lapped by remarkably clear Adriatic waters.

Beaches stretch from the breathtaking Bay of Kotor right down to the Albanian border. Here’s an overview of Montenegro’s very best spots for swimming, sunbathing, and diving into the crystal waters of the Adriatic.

1. Pirates Bar Beach, Perast

This small stretch of pebbles may seem like a misnomer for a beach, but once you’re floating in the water, with a Venetian fantasy of a town on one side and the sky-blue-domed church of Gospa od Škrpjela Island on the other, it’s easy to see why it earns a spot on this list. The setting on the Bay of Kotor is magnificent, with towering mountains plunging straight into crystal-clear waters, although be aware that water quality can vary in the innermost part of the bay.

Fortunately, Perast is positioned at the apex of the bay, providing access to the clean waters of the incoming tide. The town is characterized by its beautiful Venetian-style palaces and churches. Swimming terraces are scattered along the waterfront, but there’s only a tiny sliver of actual beach, right down at the west end of town, adjacent to the popular Pirates Bar. If you can’t find a spot on the pebbles, ladders lead directly into the water from the terrace of the bar itself.

2. Dobreč Beach, Luštica Peninsula

For a proper swim with some space to spread out afterward, you’re better off catching a water taxi out to Dobreč at the end of the Luštica Peninsula. This fine beach can only be accessed by boat, which helps reduce the crowds, although it can still be busy. The water quality here at the mouth of the Bay of Kotor is superb, and there’s a good restaurant available, making it a great spot to spend the day.

3. Ploče Beach, Budva

While Budva’s main beach, Slovenska Plaža, can be overwhelming during the summer, a 15-minute drive or €5 boat ride west along the shore leads to Ploče Beach. This isolated spot is extremely popular, featuring restaurants, swimming pools set into sunbathing terraces, and inflatable water slides for kids. There’s even a bar with tables positioned in shallow water, creating a fun atmosphere amidst the surrounding greenery and stunning coastal views.

4. Sveti Stefan Beach, near Budva

Although staying in the walled village of Sveti Stefan comes at a high price, everyone can enjoy the picturesque views over this island resort from the beach. Be cautious which side of the causeway you decide to relax on, as the almost-always-deserted northern end belongs to a luxury resort, which charges a significant day-use fee for non-guests. However, the pinkish pebbly sands at the southern end are free and perfect for swimming.

5. Drobni Pijesak Beach, Rijeka Reževići

Drobni Pijesak translates to ‘ground sand,’ and this hidden cove features a 240m (787ft) stretch of sandy beach nestled between lush hills and sapphire waters. Located just below the coastal highway, this beach is tranquil, offering a single beach bar and restaurant that enhances the laid-back atmosphere.

6. Murići, Lake Skadar

For those seeking an alternative to Adriatic beaches, lakeside Murići is an excellent choice. Situated on the southwestern shore of Lake Skadar, beneath the dramatic Rumija mountain range, this stunning location invites visitors to paddle in its crystal-clear waters, with schools of tiny fish darting through the underwater vegetation.

7. Lučice Beach, Petrovac

Despite the rapid overdevelopment in Petrovac, Lučice Beach around the headland still retains its charm. Set against a backdrop of cypress trees and oleander bushes, this beach features a restaurant and a water slide, making it a wonderful destination for families.

8. Ladies’ Beach, Ulcinj

Heading southeast from the busy Mala Plaža beach in Ulcinj, you’ll discover a series of charming rocky coves, each equipped with a beach bar. Ladies’ Beach is unique as it offers a tranquil environment and is strictly a women-only space, perfect for relaxation away from the hustle and bustle.

9. Velika Plaža, near Ulcinj

Velika Plaža, which translates to “Big Beach,” boasts an impressive 12km-long stretch of sand just southeast of Ulcinj. While the setting is beautiful, the shallow waters are more suited for toddlers than for serious swimming. In summer, the southern end of the beach comes alive with beach bars and kitesurfing schools, making it perfect for adventure seekers.

10. Ada Bojana, near Velika Plaža

This 3km-long sandy beach sits just across the Bojana River from Velika Plaža, extending to the Albanian border. Unlike Velika Plaža, Ada Bojana offers deeper waters suitable for proper swimming. Historically known as a naturist resort, this lovely beach island retains that tradition, allowing for a unique experience in a serene environment.