Why Dubrovnik’s Best Beaches Are Only Reachable by Boat
Dubrovnik’s public beaches — Banje, Copacabana, Lapad — are packed from June to September. But less than 10 minutes by boat from any of them, you will find secluded coves with crystal water, no sunbed fees, and barely another person in sight. The catch: there are no roads or footpaths to these spots. The only way in is by boat.
With a rental from RentBoatDubrovnik.com, you can visit 3-5 hidden beaches in a single half-day trip. Pair it with a Lokrum Island stop or a sunset cruise and you have the perfect day on the water.
7 Hidden Beaches to Visit by Boat
1. Betina Cave Beach
Located between Lapad and the Old Town, Betina Cave is a small pebble beach tucked beneath overhanging cliffs. A sea cave at one end provides natural shade. The water is deep turquoise and protected from waves. Just 5 minutes from Marina Frapa — the perfect first stop.
2. Sveti Jakov Coves
East of the Old Town, below the luxury hotels, there are several rocky coves that are nearly empty even in August. You can reach Sveti Jakov beach by a steep staircase on foot, but the coves either side are boat-only. Anchor and swim in — the water is some of the clearest near the city.
3. Lokrum South Cliffs
Most visitors to Lokrum Island stay on the north side near the ferry dock. The southern coast has dramatic cliff faces and tiny rocky platforms perfect for sunbathing and cliff jumping. Only accessible by boat, and almost always deserted.
4. Zaton Bay
A sheltered bay 10 minutes northwest of Dubrovnik. The water is shallow and warm — excellent for families with young children. There is a small beach bar with cold drinks. You can combine Zaton with the Elafiti Islands since it is on the way.
5. Danca Beach
Below the Danca neighbourhood west of the Old Town. This rocky beach faces south, gets sun all day, and is sheltered from northern winds. There is a small bar serving drinks in summer. Anchor 20 metres offshore and swim in.
6. Kolocep West Coast Coves
The west side of Kolocep island has a string of tiny coves between the main harbour and the Blue Cave. Pine trees come right down to the water, providing natural shade. These coves are 20 minutes from Dubrovnik and virtually unknown to tourists.
7. Mlini Beaches
South of Dubrovnik toward Cavtat, the village of Mlini has several small beaches with clear water and a beachfront restaurant. Less crowded than Cavtat and easier to anchor. Stop here on the way to or from Cavtat for a swim and coffee.
Best Boats for Beach Hopping
- Small Boat Pasara — €80/day, no licence needed. Perfect for Betina Cave, Danca, and the coves near Lapad.
- Tiburon 180 — €130/day, no licence needed. More stable, better for families, slightly more range.
- Barracuda 530 — €180/day. Fast enough to reach Kolocep and Mlini in the same trip.
- Quicksilver 675 — €300/day. If you want to combine hidden beaches with island hopping.
All boats include fuel, insurance, and safety equipment. No licence boats available — see our no-licence guide.
Tips for Finding Hidden Beaches
- Go early: The few people who know about these spots arrive after 11 AM. Be there by 9:30.
- Bring everything: There are no facilities at most hidden beaches. Pack water, snacks, reef shoes, sunscreen, and a snorkel.
- Check the wind: North-facing coves are calm during Jugo (south wind). South-facing coves are calm during Bura (north wind). Your skipper knows which to pick.
- Anchor properly: Over sand, not rock. Let out enough rope. Our safety briefing covers this.
- Leave no trace: These beaches stay beautiful because there are no bins. Take all rubbish back to the boat.
Are there sandy beaches near Dubrovnik?
The only true sandy beach is Sunj on Lopud island, part of the Elafiti Islands. Near Dubrovnik itself, beaches are pebble or rocky — but the water is cleaner and more beautiful because of it. Reef shoes make rocky beaches comfortable.
Can I reach hidden beaches without a boat?
A few (Sveti Jakov, Danca) have steep footpaths. The rest — Betina Cave, Lokrum south cliffs, Kolocep coves, Zaton Bay — are only accessible by boat. Renting even a small Pasara at €80/day opens up an entirely different Dubrovnik.
What is the best boat for beach hopping on a budget?
The Small Boat Pasara at €80/day is the most affordable option. No licence required, fuel included. It covers all the beaches within 15 minutes of the marina. For a slightly bigger range, the Tiburon 180 at €130/day adds more stability and comfort.
How many beaches can I visit in one day?
In a half-day (4 hours), plan for 2-3 beaches with swimming time at each. In a full day (8 hours), you can comfortably visit 4-5 beaches plus Lokrum Island. Do not rush — the joy is in floating, not motoring.
Discover your own secret beach. Browse all boats or call +385 91 600 1201 to book.
Related Guides
Looking to Rent a Boat or Book a Boat Tour in Dubrovnik?
Browse our fleet of 9+ boats starting from €150/day. Private boat tours, island hopping tours, half-day & full-day rentals with optional skipper.
View All Boats →
