If you’re on the hunt for a beach holiday that’s nothing short of spectacular, try visiting the beaches in Kotor, Montenegro and nearby.
Trust me, Montenegro’s coastal scene packs a serious punch, with breathtaking beauty and affordability that could give even the famed Rivieras a run for their money.
Who needs the pricey shores of far-flung tropical islands (or even Croatia and Greece), when Kotor is just a stone’s throw from anywhere in Europe, has excellent connectivity and very wallet-friendly prices once you arrive?
And oh, the beaches… well, there’s a stunning variety on offer in this Balkan region that’s sure to stir up some serious wanderlust too.
While most of the beaches in Kotor are pebbled, there are some white sand beaches you can easily visit on a day trip – where beautiful mountainside cliffs that surround the Bay of Kotor make you feel as if you’re in a solitary, secluded paradise.
Honestly if you’re looking for an epic coastal escape in Europe, and want to make sure you don’t blow your budget, marvellous Montenegro is hard to overlook, so let’s get stuck in…
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Public and Private Beaches in Kotor, Montenegro
Before you arrive in Montenegro to admire Kotor’s truly stunning natural beauty, you need to be aware of both the public and private beach sections.
Kotor’s beaches are technically free, but some have public and private areas.
Public sections are free to enter of course, but could also mean limited space.
If you’re visiting a particularly popular beach, arrive early before the crowds to nab the best spots!
Only 50% of the space on beaches can have loungers on, so there should always be at least some space (apart from a few exceptions).
Meanwhile, private sections usually charge beachgoers for sun loungers and umbrellas.
You rent them as a pair – prices typically start around €25, but do vary.
Book ahead to secure your spot, especially during the summer.
If you visit a beach in Kotor, in September or beyond (i.e. outside the summer months), the private sections are typically closed.
You can still enjoy the beach for free at these times, but you won’t be able to rent loungers or access the facilities.
Map of the Best Beaches in Kotor
Check out this handy map guide for the best Kotor beach locations…
Beaches in Kotor, Montenegro
A visit to the small town of Kotor isn’t complete without going to the beach at least once.
Sure, this charming town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but you really should venture further than Kotor’s city walls and not ignore the clean beaches along its inviting inlet coastline.
Bookend your visit to Kotor’s main attractions (such as the Maritime Museum of Montenegro) with a stop at one or more of these fantastic beaches – a delightful way to take in the stunning scenery of this remarkable bay.
One of the most breathtaking coastal spots in the whole of Europe in my opinion, the way the mountains jut directly up from the water here (which by the way is so still it looks like a lake), is absolutely incredible!
Kotor Beach
If you only have a day to experience all the amazing things to do in Kotor, but still want to squeeze in some beach time, Kotor Beach is your answer.
Just a short walk north of the old town of Kotor, this popular bay has everything you’d expect from a beach in Kotor – calm waters accented by a pebbled shore.
Even the walk to Kotor Beach is a treat on its own.
As you stroll away from one of Montenegro’s most picturesque towns, you’ll be greeted by the sights of elegant towers mingled with a jumble of red roofs.
Further along, you’ll find cruise ships full of people looking to experience the history and beauty that have made Kotor so popular.
Once you reach Kotor Beach, you’ll realise that the entire town is, in fact, at the head of a deep fjord, with limestone hills surrounding the bay, making for the perfect photo opp!
July and August are Kotor Beach’s high seasons, so you should try to arrive early to avoid the crowds during these months and grab a good spot.
Two sun loungers and an umbrella cost €25 to rent here.
Oh and don’t forget your water shoes to conquer the pebbles!
If you start getting hungry, a beachside cafe serves ćevapi (Balkan sausages), fries, tuna steaks and other snacks fairly affordably.
If you’re travelling with children, it’s good to know that the beach’s southern end is roped off, making it a great place for kids to swim safely.
If you happen to be a guest at one of Kotor’s beachfront hotels, you’ll get free beach access here.
Yes, hotel guests get to lounge at this beach without having to rent a sun lounger every time – nice added perk!
Kotor Natural Beach
A hidden gem at the southern end of Kotor Old Town, Kotor Natural Beach offers a tranquil escape for any beach lover.
Unlike the groomed shores and sun loungers of other pebble beaches, Kotor Natural Beach boasts an unspoiled beauty.
The best part about this beach is that it’s free, so grab your towel, soak up the sun and enjoy a refreshing dip in crystal clear water without spending a single cent.
Even parking is free, so there’s no need to stay in a luxury hotel for this one!
Although this beach has no amenities, there are two small cafes nearby if you fancy a bite.
As a bonus, the ruins of Fjord Hotel add a touch of history to this already gorgeous landscape.
Parking Beach Club
Parking Beach Club got its unofficial name because it’s at the end of a large open car park. Talk about a convenient location!
Budget-conscious travellers will be happy to hear that the Parking Beach Club is another free beach, so there’s no need to worry about paying for a sun lounger.
You can even rent a kayak should you wish to experience its clear waters up close.
Who knew walking across a parking lot would lead you to such a beautiful, small beach with its own unique charm?
Not me!
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Beaches Near Kotor
You don’t have to stay within Kotor to access more of the area’s fantastic coastline.
Indeed, a few small day trips away from Kotor will allow you to enjoy more of Montenegro’s picturesque landscape in almost no time at all.
Renting a car will get you to these beaches and give you access to some of the best places the beautiful Bay of Kotor has to offer.
But if you want to keep things budget-friendly, the main bus station outside Kotor’s Old Town walls will get you around for a fraction of the price.
As long as you don’t mind the occasional extra walk, of course.
Here are some of the best beaches near Kotor, within a 45-minute drive / bus ride…
Mogren Beach
The beautiful Mogren Beach lies around the corner from Budva, a major resort town, along the Budva Riviera.
It’s actually a double treat, offering two beautiful beaches: Mogren 1 and Mogren 2.
A unique cave tunnel through a small headland connects these two beaches, which are 400m in length.
Unlike the beaches in Kotor, Mogren 1 and 2 are both sandy beaches and surrounded by lush pine and oak forests, making them both truly scenic spots.
Plenty of sun loungers are available for rent and snack bars are nearby too if you feel peckish.
And if you want a bit of adrenaline, Shark’s Rock is a 15-metre cliff just beyond Mogren 2.
It’s a popular spot for jumping into the sea, with a marked spot to help you dive safely, but as always do take care – we don’t recommend this one for visitors.
Jaz Beach
Jaz Beach has earned its reputation as a favourite spot amongst locals and, with two distinct areas, it’s easy to see why.
Although the main beach can get crowded, it has rows of sun loungers for rent and several beach bars playing lively music.
If you want to do water sports, there’s an inflatable water park, jet ski rentals and parasailing facilities too – ideal for families with teenage kids.
But if you want a quieter experience, head towards the left side of the beach and follow the boardwalk path.
As you go further, you’ll find a more spacious beach surrounded by verdant green hills, which slowly transitions from pebbles to sand, making this beach a more comfortable spot for lounging.
The quiet beach’s area is also excellent for snorkelling, thanks to its abundant marine life.
Just don’t forget to protect your feet against the sea urchins!
Even though the quieter side isn’t as crowded, you’ll still find clean public toilets and a small beach bar.
Plavi Horizonti Beach
Just a short drive from Kotor, Plavi Horizonti beach in the Tivat municipality rests in a horseshoe-shaped cove.
The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and stunning mountain views, making for a lovely beach visit.
If you’re looking for fine sand, Plavi Horizonti has loads of it.
The beach gently leads to shallow waters, perfect for kids and non-swimmers.
The water quality, though not as clear as other beaches around Kotor, is generally clean and suitable for swimming.
However, due to the slightly warmer water temperature, don’t be surprised if you find the occasional algae.
If you’d rather enjoy the scenery, sun loungers and umbrellas usually cost around €20 to rent as a pair.
Several restaurants and showers, toilets, and changing rooms are nearby and daily parking will set you back €5.
July and August are the most popular months during the summer season, so the best time to avoid crowds is early morning – I suggest around 9am.
Morinjska Plaža
Unlike other famous beaches near Kotor, Morinj Plaza Beach (or Morinjska Plaža) offers a peaceful and uncrowded beach experience.
You’ll find this lovely place between Risan and Herceg Novi.
Even during peak summer months, the beach area sees a relatively low number of visitors compared to other nearby public beaches, so is a great one for those seeking some relaxed downtime.
Although the beach offers clear waters, it does have a sharp, rocky shore.
The water here is also cooler, thanks to nearby springs emptying into this part of Kotor Bay.
If you want a spot away from the sun, plenty of trees surround the beach, providing some much-needed shade in the hot summer months.
For sun-lovers, loungers are available to rent too.
And if you want a bite to eat, there’s a cafe and a few nearby restaurants serving delicious local seafood and refreshments.
Bajova Kula Beach
Bajova Kula Beach offers the perfect mix of relaxation, history and stunning scenery.
It’s no wonder Bajova Kula is one of the best beaches in Montenegro – honestly it makes you feel like you’re in the most beautiful resort in the area.
Bajova Kula’s white pebble beach leads into clear waters that are great for swimming, as long as you don’t mind the water being cooler than usual.
Plenty of sun loungers and cabanas are available if you’d rather relax, with rental prices starting at €40.
Book in advance to secure your spot.
Thirsty? The nearby beach bar has a shaded terrace where you can enjoy refreshments away from the sun.
Or why not eat in a nearby restaurant in the historical Bajo’s Tower?
Enjoy a delicious Mediterranean menu paired with different types of local and imported wine – delish!
Trsteno Beach
With fine, beige sand and shallow, turquoise waters, you’d be a fool to skip Trsteno Beach.
Measuring only 50m long and 10m wide, Trsteno Beach is not a long beach at all.
As such, it can also get crowded very quickly.
Arriving early in the morning is best if you want to secure your spot, especially if you want one of the few sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent.
However, feel free to bring your towel and lounge in the free area if you prefer to enjoy the views of clear waters against a green, hilly backdrop.
If you want to keep active, there’s plenty to do at Trsteno Beach.
Its warm, shallow waters are perfect for a leisurely swim and its natural cove is ideal for anchoring a boat (although when bringing a boat, do be mindful of Trsteno’s shallow shores.)
If you want to experience marine life, Trsteno’s calm waters are also perfect for snorkelling.
Keep in mind that Trsteno Beach doesn’t have many amenities (although it does have free parking), so you’ll want to bring everything along you might need.
The two beach bars with outdated facilities nearby aren’t recommended FYI!
Slovenska Plaža Beach
Stretching an astounding 1,600m along the Budva Riviera, Slovenska Plaza Beach is the longest beach in Montenegro.
It’s also a lively place, with music playing at all times to keep the energetic vibe going!
Once the sun sets, Slovenska Plaza transforms into a party zone – yikes!
Bars and clubs with live music line the beach, making it an excellent spot for nightlife… if that’s your thing.
If you’d rather enjoy the beach during the day, you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas for around €3 each.
Toilets, changing rooms and showers are available for your convenience too.
A wide range of restaurants is nearby, so you won’t have to worry about bringing your own food.
Due to its popularity, the beach gets crowded quickly, so arrive before 11am to secure a spot.
Kalardovo Beach
Unlike the other bustling beaches around Budva, Kalardovo Beach offers a more peaceful vibe with smaller crowds.
The shallow waters and the part-pebble-part-sandy shore make Kalardovo ideal for families with small children.
If they want to do something else, there’s a playground on the beach, or you can even sign them up for a children’s workshop for €5 – bargain!
You can rent an umbrella and a sun lounger here for €14 too, and there are also showers, toilets and lifeguards on duty for your comfort and safety.
I definitely recommend taking a leisurely stroll along the beach to admire the beauty of the Tivat Riviera, its surrounding mountains and the clear waters.
There’s even a charming little island of flowers nearby as well.
However, food options at Kalardovo aren’t so great, with just one restaurant in the immediate vicinity and walking further to the city centre out of the question because it’s too far.
However, if you come by car, Kalardovo Beach (and its large car park) are only 2 km away from the Adriatic Highway.
Tivat Airport is very close to this beach too.
As you relax, you can enjoy the added view of planes taking off and landing at the international airport, or head here on the last day of your trip, before you fly out, for a final few rays!
Oskar Beach
And finally, the last beach that comes recommended is Oskar Beach.
Located right by the Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort – one of the best places to stay in this area – Oskar Beach is found just a stone’s throw from this hotel, but is open to members of the public too.
In the summer months, it has loungers and and a feel-good vibe.
For those looking for a quieter option – just the other side of the hotel, a 5 minute walk away – there’s an even quieter section of small pebbles and crystal clear waters.
If you’re coming from the road side, rather than the shoreline promenade, just look out for the tobacco kiosk and the path that leads down the side of it, right to the beach.
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Mini Travel Guide to Kotor, Montenegro
When to Visit Kotor?
I’ve visited Kotor during both late April and early September and found these periods had the perfect weather!
While the crowds of the peak summer season were also super thin (hoorah!), April was a little cold for swimming in the sea, but September was perfect!
As such, I think the best time to visit Kotor is either the months of May or September.
July and August will be fun in Kotor, but hot and very busy!
How to Travel There?
One of the great reasons Kotor makes a fantastic travel destination is because it’s easy to get to from lots of different directions and in lots of ways!
International airports can be found in Kotor’s closest hub Tivat, Montenegro’s capital Podgorica, or just outside the country in nearby Dubrovnik or Tirana in Albania.
All these airports boast budget airline arrivals from destinations around Europe – including Wizz Air, who I flew to Montenegro with and highly recommend.
Check out Skyscanner to compare prices, as they include Wizz Air and other budget carriers in their searches.
From Tivat airport it’s then just a 15 minute drive to Kotor, otherwise if you’re coming Podgorica, Dubrovnik or Tirana airports, you can then easily find a cheap bus or private transfer to Kotor.
For those already travelling in the Balkan / Eastern European area, buses to Kotor can also be easily found from nearby cities including Mostar in Bosnia and Skopje in Macedonia.
Busbud is a great resource for those travelling to and from Kotor, as you can book online bus tickets from a range of companies in advance and choose the best option for you based on price, duration and comfort.
How to Get Around Kotor?
Once in Kotor, you’ll then be delighted to know getting around this city is super cheap and easy.
That’s mainly because it’s undertaken using your own 2 feet!
Yes, Kotor Old Town really is a small place and, with the bus station situated just outside the city walls, there really isn’t any need to navigate Kotor Old Town any other way than your own 2 feet… especially given the traffic can be really bad here in the summer months!
The exception is if you want to head out to explore other parts of the Bay of Kotor, such as the village of Perast or some of the beaches on this list.
For this, it’s best to either cycle, hop on the public Blue Line bus or take a boat trip.
How Much Time Do You Need in Kotor?
I’d honestly advise staying at least 4-5 nights in Kotor.
There’s a lot to see and do in and around the town and it also makes for a nice Montenegro base if you want to venture further afield.
Where to Stay in Kotor?
I highly recommend those looking a treat to check out the Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort.
Is Kotor Safe?
I travelled Kotor as a solo female and felt very safe.
What to Pack for Kotor?
#1 Good Camera – I highly recommend the Sony A6000, which I use for all my travels and which I love not least because it’s light, compact and robust!
#2 Good Walking Shoes – Make sure your feet are comfortable with a pair of New Balance Trainers.
#3 Good Water Bottle – Ensure you have a metal water bottle that you can refill as you go, because the tap water in Kotor is drinkable.
#4 Good Backpack – You can’t go past the Bobby Anti Theft Backpack, which is perfect for helping you avoid pickpockets.
Travel Insurance
World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while travelling and claim online from anywhere in the world.
Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.
How to Pay for Things in Kotor?
The currency in Montenegro is the Euro and I advise bringing some cash with you, as well as a good card you can use to pay for things abroad.
With real exchange rates, no transaction fees and no ATM withdrawal charges, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card when travelling… and it links easily with Google and Apple pay, Grab yours here.
Best eSIM for Kotor?
I highly recommend Holafly, which I used throughout my time in Montenegro and had great connection in Kotor, as well as across the country.
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Can I Take a Tour to Kotor?
If you want to visit Montenegro with a group and an experienced guide, then check out these top tours that include a stop in Kotor.
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Kotor’s beaches offer something special that the typical sandy beach spots can’t match – a unique blend of history, majestic cliff views and a pebbled shoreline that complements the stunning green-blue waters of Kotor Bay.
While they may not have the long sandy wow factor of other European destinations, the nestled location of many beaches in Kotor, and their stunning backdrop, still makes them incredibly special in my opinion.
If you’re ready to redefine your beach experience, your first visit to Kotor in Montenegro really will have you wondering why you didn’t get here sooner!
If you’re planning a visit to Montenegro, make sure you start by reading my article about the things to know before you travel Montenegro, or save / share this article to social media for later!
My 2nd trip to Kotor was sponsored by the Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort as well as the Montenegro Tourism Board but, as always, all views are my own.
This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.
