8 Best Beaches in Kotor, Montenegro | Bay of Kotor Beaches
Discover the best beaches in Kotor to perfectly combine the old-world charm of Kotor with the stunning beaches and water that surround it.
Kotor, a picturesque coastal town in Montenegro, is known for its stunning natural beauty, historic architecture, and access to the Adriatic Sea. It is one of the best places to visit in Montenegro to experience the unique history and culture of Montenegro.
While Kotor itself doesn’t have sandy beaches like some other coastal destinations, it offers several beach options in the surrounding area. Unfortunately, you will have to drive or take a boat to reach almost all the beaches near Kotor, but the country is small and the scenery is beautiful so it is well worth it.
Here are some of the best beaches in Kotor.
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💡 Short on time? No problem! Here are my favorite Beaches in Kotor
⛱️ Lustica Bay
⛱️ Limoneto Restaurant & Beach
⛱️ Sveti Stefan
⛱️ Žanjic Beach
In This Post
8 Best Beaches in Kotor | Bay of Kotor Beaches
Kotor Beach
- Location: Kotor Beach
- Distance: 11 minutes walking
Kotor Beach, also known as “Plaža Kotor,” is a popular coastal spot nestled along Montenegro’s stunning Bay of Kotor. It’s conveniently located within walking distance (about 15-20 minutes) from the historic Kotor Old Town, making it easily accessible for both tourists and locals.
While Kotor is more renowned for its picturesque fjord and medieval architecture, this beach provides a relaxing coastal escape.
The beach is busiest during the peak summer season, particularly in July and August, when tourists flock to the area. Expect larger crowds on weekends, as both residents and visitors seek the sun and sea.
To avoid the crowds and enjoy a more serene experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, such as spring or early autumn.
Kotor Beach offers sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, providing some comfort during your stay. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, swim in the bay’s crystal-clear waters, or take in the scenic surroundings, Kotor Beach offers a pleasant retreat along Montenegro’s captivating coastline.
💡 INSIDER TIP: This is the CLOSEST beach to Kotor. If you are looking for an easy beach day to escape the intense summer heat Montenegro is known for, without traveling far, this is your top option.
Plavi Horizonti Plaža
- Location: Plavi Horizonti Plaža
- Distance: 30 minute drive
Plavi Horizonti Plaža, commonly referred to as Plavi Horizonti Beach, is a hidden gem on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, situated in the Tivat municipality, just a short drive from Kotor.
To reach this idyllic destination, you can drive or take a taxi from Kotor, enjoying scenic coastal views along the way. Alternatively, you can catch a bus from Kotor to Tivat and then arrange for local transportation to the beach.
One of the standout features of Plavi Horizonti is its relative tranquility. It’s typically less crowded than some of the more central beaches near Kotor, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a more peaceful beach experience. The level of busyness naturally fluctuates with the seasons, with July and August being peak tourist months.
Plavi Horizonti Beach offers various amenities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, beachside cafes, restaurants, and water sports options, making it a well-rounded destination for families and beachgoers.
For a quieter visit, consider exploring during the shoulder seasons, such as late spring or early autumn, when the crowds thin out, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of this Adriatic oasis.
If you are looking to enjoy Kotor on a budget check out this Kotor backpackers guide!
Lustica Bay
- Location: Almara Beach
- Distance: 30 minute drive
Lustica Bay is one of the best beaches near Kotor where you will find clean, high-end beaches, clear blue waters, and a breathtaking mountain backdrop. Lustica Bay presents a captivating escape and is easily one of the best beaches in Kotor that
While here you can enjoy a plethora of different activities from exploring the charming town to relaxing on one of the beaches.
Lustica Bay is another one of Montenegros’ more luxurious places to visit with upscale accommodations, golf courses, and fine dining. It is also home to one of the most beautiful beaches in Montenegro Almara Beach Club.
💡 INSIDER TIP: This is an amazing beach option where you can either enjoy the free beach or pay for a sunbed. The sunbeds at Almara Beach Club are one of my favourites for stunning coastal views and easy access to the restaurant part of the beach club.
Žanjic Beach
- Location: Žanjic Beach
- Distance: 45 minute drive
Žanjic Beach, nestled on the Lustica Peninsula in the Bay of Kotor, is renowned for its pristine beauty. To reach Žanjic Beach from Kotor, you can drive, take a taxi, or utilize local bus services. The drive offers picturesque views along the coastal road.
During the summer months, Žanjic Beach can get moderately busy, especially on weekends, as both locals and tourists flock to its shores to enjoy the clear waters and lush surroundings. To experience a more tranquil visit, consider going during weekdays or the shoulder seasons.
This idyllic coastal spot is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and embracing the natural charm of the Bay of Kotor.
💡 INSIDER TIP: One of my all time favourite beaches in Montenegro. While here I always book a sunbed at Ribarsko Selo. This is a beach club / restaurant with its own garden and fresh caught fish daily!
Morinjska Plaža
- Location: Morinjska Plaža
- Distance: 35 minute drive
Morinjska Plaža, also known as Morinj Beach, offers a serene and less crowded beach experience in the Kotor Bay region of Montenegro. Situated in the charming village of Morinj, it’s accessible via a short drive or a bus ride from Kotor.
The tranquil atmosphere here is a stark contrast to the bustling beaches of more popular tourist destinations in the area.
The level of busyness at Morinj Beach tends to be relatively low, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a quieter escape. While it can see more visitors during the peak summer months, it still maintains its peaceful ambiance compared to some of the larger, more crowded beaches nearby.
Morinj Beach is a picturesque spot with clear waters and scenic surroundings, making it a great place for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the beauty of Kotor Bay. If you prefer a more laid-back and less crowded beach experience, Morinjska Plaža is worth considering during your visit to the region.
Read More: Best Places to Visit in Montenegro
Limoneto Restaurant & Beach
- Location: Limoneto Restaurant & Beach
- Distance: 45 minutes
Limoneto is a new restaurant/hotel/beach club located within the stunning Bay of Kotor. It is one of the best places to visit in Montenegro for those seeking a relaxing holiday with some of the most stunning views of the lush green mountains.
It is part of the Casa Del Mare hotel group and offers a high-end super luxurious environment from beginning to end. In addition to being one of the best hotels in Montenegro this beach club offers the perfect beach day with amazing food, drinks, and views.
Nikki Beach Montenegro
- Location: Nikki Beach Montenegro
- Distance: 20 minute drive
Nikki Beach Montenegro, located in the Budva Riviera, offers an upscale and vibrant beach club experience that is distinct from the serene ambiance found in many of Kotor’s beaches.
To reach Nikki Beach Montenegro from Kotor, you can take a taxi or hire private transportation for a scenic coastal drive lasting around 30 to 40 minutes.
The beach club is renowned for its lively atmosphere, music, and entertainment, making it a popular hotspot during the summer season. Weekends and peak tourist months see higher foot traffic, with various events and parties.
For a more tranquil and relaxed beach visit, consider weekdays or the off-peak seasons when the crowds are smaller.
Nikki Beach Montenegro caters to those seeking a luxurious beach club experience, so it may not be the ideal choice if you’re looking for a quiet, secluded beach. However, if you desire a high-energy beachfront setting with entertainment and amenities, it’s worth considering during your visit to the Budva area.
Sveti Stefan
- Location: Sveti Stefan
- Distance: 50 minutes
Sveti Stefan, a stunning islet on the Budva Riviera near Kotor, boasts some of Montenegro’s most iconic and beautiful beaches. To reach Sveti Stefan from Kotor, you can take a short 20-30 minute drive along the scenic coastal road.
This renowned destination, with its exclusive resorts and charming historic town, is a must-visit for travelers exploring the Montenegrin coastline.
The busyness of Sveti Stefan’s beaches varies with the season. During the peak summer months of July and August, the beaches tend to be bustling with visitors, both from the resorts and day-trippers.
Whether you seek relaxation, pristine waters, or a taste of luxury, Sveti Stefan’s beaches offer a captivating seaside experience.
💡 INSIDER TIP: This beach is quite small due to the hotel “Aman Sveti Stefan” located on the island. This hotel reserves part of the beach for hotel guests only so there is limited space in the high season.
Best Time to Visit Montenegro
The best time to visit Montenegro largely depends on your travel preferences and the type of experience you’re seeking. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons:
🌞 Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season, and for good reason. Montenegro enjoys warm and sunny weather during these months, making it perfect for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts. The coastal towns and beaches are bustling with activity, and the Adriatic Sea is at its most inviting. However, it’s also the most crowded and expensive time to visit.
🌞 Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to October): These shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices. Spring is ideal for hiking and exploring the stunning national parks. Autumn brings milder temperatures and is great for cultural exploration.
🌞 Winter (November to March): While not as popular as the warmer months, Montenegro has a lot to offer in winter. The mountainous regions turn into a winter wonderland, making it perfect for skiing and winter sports. The Christmas markets in Kotor and other cities are charming.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Montenegro depends on your interests. If you want a beach vacation, go in summer.
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