Montenegro does not have many typical sandy beaches. More often, you’ll find a combination of sand, fine pebbles, or rocks. Of course, preferences differ, and many people favour rocky beaches for a more authentic experience. What all Montenegrin beaches share, however, is their unique beauty and the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, which few can resist.
We’ve explored traveller reviews from around the world and selected the 10 most beautiful beaches in Montenegro that we recommend you visit this year.
Choose your favourites based on your preferences and needs: whether you’re looking for a child-friendly beach, prioritise good beach bars, or want proximity to natural shade, you must visit them. You won’t regret it!
Lučice Beach, Petrovac
Located about 500 metres from Petrovac, heading towards another popular beach, Buljarica, this beach stretches around 220 metres and features various types of sand, ranging from finely ground to coarser grains. The water entrance is gradual, so it’s suitable even for weaker swimmers.
This sandy beach is surrounded by a pine forest, where many tourists seek shade after a day in the sun. The sea is crystal-clear, and the atmosphere is peaceful and relaxing. Even those sceptical about summer holidays find it enjoyable due to a pleasant breeze, which, combined with the pines, maintains an optimal temperature and prevents heatwaves from taking over.
Lučice Beach belongs to the municipality of Budva, one of the most popular locations for buying seaside properties in Montenegro. With its natural charm and proximity to urban amenities, the area attracts both investors and people looking for their new home.
There are only a few restaurants and beach bars where you can refresh yourself after swimming in the crystal-clear waters. It’s worth noting that Lučice proudly holds the Blue Flag, an important international eco-label awarded only to the cleanest beaches.
Trsteno Beach, Budva
Located between Jaz and Ploče beaches, about six kilometres from Budva’s centre, Trsteno is known for its clean water and fine white sand. It’s ideal for those seeking a quieter spot for swimming, as it’s only 200 metres long. The sea here is calm with a sandy seabed. Gradual water entrance extends up to 50 metres, so it’s another popular sandy beach for families with young children.
During peak season, it can get crowded, so it’s recommended to visit before 11 a.m. if you want to secure a good spot.
Jaz Beach near Budva / Image Source
Žanjice Beach, Herceg Novi
Žanjice is located in the Mirište bay, surrounded by olive groves and covered in white pebbles. You can reach it by boat from Herceg Novi or by car. The water is azure and crystal-clear, and nearby lies the Blue Cave, a popular attraction for visitors.
Known for its exceptionally clean water, Žanjice is classified as an A-grade beach. You’ll enjoy its beauty while relaxing, surrounded by greenery on all sides.
Buljarica Beach, Budva
Spanning over two kilometres, Buljarica is one of the longest beaches on Montenegro’s coast. Surrounded by untouched nature, it’s perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
The surface is a mix of sand and pebbles, and along the entire coast, you’ll find excellent spots offering food and drinks. Famous for its stunning sunsets, it’s almost empty during the off-season, providing a tranquil retreat.
Queen’s Beach (Kraljičina plaža), Sveti Stefan
This iconic beach near Sveti Stefan is surrounded by lush vegetation and has a prestigious history.
Once the royal family’s favourite spot, it was reserved for guests of a luxurious hotel complex in recent decades. However, since an agreement between the leaseholder and the Montenegrin government was not reached, it is now open to all visitors. You can freely swim and place your towel and umbrella wherever you like.
Sveti Stefan beach, Budva / Image Source
Drobni Pijesak Beach
Tucked away between Sveti Stefan and Petrovac, Drobni Pijesak is renowned for its white sand and turquoise waters. Surrounded by rocks and greenery, it offers a sense of exclusivity due to its steep access path and concealed location off the main road.
Another special thing about Drobni Pijesak? A mountain stream flows into the sea just at the beginning of the beach, offering a refreshing spot for visitors even during tropical summer heat.
Mirište Beach, Luštica
Luštica Peninsula, located across from Herceg Novi, boasts many beautiful beaches, and Mirište is one of them. Situated near Žanjice Beach, it’s predominantly covered in pebbles and bordered by rocks.
This small, hidden beach has crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for diving and relaxing far from the crowds. Nearby, you’ll find intriguing underwater caves. It’s one of the locals’ most beloved spots.
Be mindful of the sea urchins and bring suitable footwear. Barbecues are allowed here, and this beach also offers stunning views of Mamula Island.
Valdanos Beach, Ulcinj
Nestled in a bay surrounded by olive groves, this pebbly beach provides a serene environment and clean waters, perfect for swimming. Once a major pirate port and their hideout, it’s now a popular holiday destination.
Also known as an olive reserve, the area is home to around 80,000 olive trees. The beach is 367 metres long and close to other notable spots like Velika Plaža and Ada Bojana.
Ulcinj beach, Montenegro / Image Source
Crvena Glavica Beach, Sveti Stefan
This hidden, wild beach with reddish sand and surrounding rocks offers a unique landscape and privacy to visitors. Located beneath the main road leading to Petrovac, it’s not a single beach but comprises seven smaller beaches.
Part of this area is the choice of many nudists, and nearby, you’ll find the famous Galija restaurant, known for its excellent seafood dishes.
Utjeha Beach, Bar
Located in the southernmost part of the Bar Riviera, Utjeha is famous for its exceptionally clean waters and white pebbles. It’s ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
This spot serves as a kind of natural air spa, proving beneficial for people with respiratory issues. It’s practical for families, being just a one-hour drive from both Montenegrin airports (in Tivat and Podgorica).
Nearby, you’ll find numerous high quality hotels and restaurants offering delicious specialties. Utjeha also proudly flies the Blue Flag.
