Most beautiful beaches in the Balkan Peninsula
The Balkans are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. Nestled along the Adriatic, Ionian, Aegean, and the Black Seas, this region has truly no shortage of incredible beaches to offer.
In this article, we put together a list of the best beaches in the Balkans. Some of the destinations here will be better known than others – and that’s on purpose.
We made sure to include the popular beach destinations in the Balkans, but also the hidden gems. Let’s dive in!
The best beaches in the Balkans per country
The Balkan region has a lot of incredible beaches, but they are spread across a very large area. So, to make things easier for you, we’ve organized them per country.
Click below to skip to the list of the most beautiful beaches in each Balkan country:
Best beaches in Albania
Ksamil Beach, Albania
By Mal of Raw Mal Roams
Located on the southern coast of the Albanian Riviera, Ksamil draws visitors with its amazing beaches. Ksamil has been nicknamed “Albanian Maldives” because of its crystal-clear waters, soft white sands, and idyllic islands dotting the coastline. Especially in the past few years, Ksamil definitely earned its spot in the list of the best beaches in the Balkans.
Ksamil is fairly small but boasts several beaches that come with different vibes. The main beach in Ksamil is organized and busy, and here you can rent a comfy set of sun loungers and spend a day listening to music and relaxing with snacks and cold drinks served directly to your sun bed.
Ksamil Beach is super safe for kids with its shallow and gentle waters, but also perfect for kayaking or practicing your balance on a stand-up paddle board.
There are also other beaches nearby, which are equally gorgeous, such as Monastery Beach, famous for its turquoise water, and a quaint monastery nearby. There are regular buses running between Saranda and Ksamil, but the easiest way to get there is to rent a car in Albania, which will give you the flexibility to see more amazing beaches and towns.
Gjipe Beach, Albania
By Ausra from The Road Reel
Just a quick 20-minute drive north from the quaint seaside town of Himare, followed by an invigorating short hike down a rustic dirt track boasting spectacular coastal vistas, you will find Gjipe Beach. This is one of the most beautiful beaches in Albania and in the entire Balkan region.
Gjipe is a pebbly beach, surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Although not as unknown or wildly untouched as it once was a few years back, Gjipe remains a breathtakingly beautiful spot on the Albanian Riviera.
To get to the beach, you will have to be driving in Albania or hire a taxi. If you have a strong 4×4, you can reach the beach directly. Otherwise, there is a parking lot (more like a sandpit) where you can leave your vehicle for 300 LEK (cca 3 EUR) for the day. Then, you will have to trek for 20-30 minutes down to the beach.
The path is a mix of sandy trails and rocky terrain but is relatively easy to follow. Yet, given the bit of effort it takes to reach this beach, you’re likely to find it blissfully uncrowded.
And while you’re there, don’t miss the chance to explore the spectacular Gjipe Canyon, which cuts a stunning path inland, just a few hundred meters from the beach.
If you want to immerse yourself in the wilderness, the beach also has a campsite where you can set up your tent. A couple of rustic bars are also open during the summer season. Yet, I recommend bringing your supplies (water and snacks). Water shoes will be handy as well.
Aquarium Beach in Himare, Albania
By Jenoa from The Travel Folk
Aquarium Beach (Gjiri I Akuariumit) is one of the most stunning beaches in Himare, which is also located in the Albanian Riviera. This secluded beach features vibrant blue water, Mediterranean rocks (perfect for cliff jumping!), and a small sandy area where you can lay out your towels.
To get here, you will have to hike. There are two trails leading to Aquarium Beach. One from Jale Beach and another from Livadhi Beach near Himare. It’s about a 20-minute hike from Jale Beach and a 30-minute hike from Livadhi Beach. Both are dirt trails and are easy to follow. Alternatively, you can take a boat from Himare, but the hike is definitely worth it!
The summer months in the Albanian Riviera can get particularly busy. Make sure to arrive at Aquarium Beach in the morning to try and get a spot before the crowds if you are visiting in July and August.
There are no facilities at this beach, so pack everything with you, including snacks, plenty of water, sunscreen, and towels.
Best beaches in Croatia
Betina Cave Beach in Dubrovnik, Croatia
By Kristin of Global Travel Escapades
If you are looking for a unique beach with striking features and pristine clear waters, Betina Cave Beach in Dubrovnik is the right place for you. It’s nestled just south of the bustling Dubrovnik Old Town, within a cave. Compared to most other beaches in the area, this secluded beach offers a more intimate experience, as it is only reachable by sea.
This means you’ll have to visit the beach by kayak with a local guide. The biggest perk of this is that you’ll also have the unique opportunity to discover a less explored area of the city while learning about the local history.
As soon as you arrive, you’ll notice that the beach is adorned with fine pebbles instead of sand. We recommend you bring along some flip-flops. For activities, Betina Cave Beach is ideal for snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing with a snack while taking in the picturesque scenery.
Visiting Betina Cave Beach is definitely a very unique and different experience, which is why we simply had to include it in this list of the best beaches in the Balkans.
Zlatni Rat in Bol, Croatia
By Ella from Many More Maps & Martina from PlacesofJuma
Zlatni Rat, more famously known as the Golden Horn, is one of Croatia’s most famous beaches and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in the Balkans. You’ll find this beautiful long beach in the windsurfing town of Bol, on the island of Brac.
Although the beach itself is a sight to behold, especially when you walk along the long sandy stretch into the ocean, its real appeal lies with drone photographers. No matter how cool this beach looks from the ground, it looks a million times cooler from above!
The sea at this dream beach is crystal clear, radiating in the most beautiful shades of blue and turquoise. A wonderfully fragrant pine forest, aged over a hundred years, also creates a breathtaking contrast to the gleaming golden beach and the intense blue of the sea. In the background, the imposing mountain Vidova Gora rises – all of this creates a panorama reminiscent of a travel magazine.
It’s very easy to visit Zlatni Rat Beach, either as a day trip from Split or as a stop on your trip to Brac Island specifically. You can take the ferry from Split to Bol and then stroll about 25 minutes along the promenade to the beach, or opt for water taxis and a small train for convenient transportation. Another option is a guided tour from the surrounding islands or the mainland!
For an overnight stay, numerous excellent accommodations are available in the vicinity. One recommendation is the BRETANIDE Sport & Wellness Resort, an all-inclusive hotel not far from the beach.
Pro tip: Zlatni Rat is not only stunning but also globally renowned. If you truly want to experience this dream beach in a quiet and romantic setting, the best time to visit is during the off-season.
It’s worth bearing in mind that this beach, like most of Croatia’s beaches, is a pebble beach, so water shoes are a must if you want a comfortable experience.
Hawaii Beach in Pula, Croatia
By Natali from She’s abroad again
Most people traveling to Croatia for summer holidays go to the islands or the south of the country. However, the northern coastal region of Istria hides some fantastic beaches! On your search for the most beautiful beaches in the Balkans, this region is definitely a must-visit.
Nestled between the rough cliffs, Hawaii Beach is one of the best beaches in Pula, the biggest city in the region.
This pebbled cove got its name thanks to the crystal clear turquoise water. It is not a sand beach like those in Hawaii, but that’s why the sea is so clear and perfect for snorkeling.
This sheltered beach is perfect for everyone, as you have a soft entrance and a wide section with shallow water for non-swimmers.
You should bring everything you’ll need for a beach day with you, as there are no facilities or a bar on the beach. Sun umbrellas and loungers are available for rent though!
Hawaii Beach is easy to get to by car or public transport from Pula. It is situated in Verudela, about 5 km from the city center of Pula. You can also get there by car if you will be driving in Croatia.
Once you get to the parking or the bus stop, you’ll have to walk for about 5 minutes towards Park Plaza Hotel. The beach is in the cove under the hotel!
Zrce Beach in Pag Island, Croatia
By Adri from Traveltipzone
If you’re looking for the best beaches in the Balkans, Zrce Beach on the Croatian island of Pag should be on the list. Located near the town of Novalja, Zrce Beach is one of the most popular and exciting beaches in the entire Balkan region.
The crystal-clear water, the small pebble beach, and the stunning surrounding landscape make Zrce Beach a great choice. It is also one of the best-equipped beaches in Pag Island and its surroundings. If you enjoy water sports like diving or jet-skiing, Zrce Beach will be a paradise for you.
However, Zrce Beach isn’t just loved for its natural beauty. It’s also famous for its nightlife and beach parties. There are several clubs and bars on the beach, and during the summer, festivals are also held here.
The best way to get to Zrce Beach is by car, as public transportation on Pag Island is limited. Driving also allows you to explore other stunning beaches on Pag Island during your trip, such as Jadra Beach or Simuni Beach.
If you’re planning to visit Zrce Beach, it’s advisable to book accommodation in advance, as summer accommodations in the area fill up quickly due to their popularity. Staying in Novalja is recommended, where Hotel Olea and Kaneo Beach Hotel Novalja are excellent choices.
Bačvice Beach in Split, Croatia
By Imee Magbag from Croatia Travel Guides
Located near the historic center of Split, Bačvice Beach is a popular coastal destination that attracts both tourists and locals. Its accessibility from the city center adds to its charm, making it a convenient escape for those seeking sun, sea, and relaxation.
Aside from its natural beauty, Bačvice is a hub of activity. The beach offers vibrant beach bars, cafes, and restaurants, creating a lively atmosphere.
Bačvice Beach stands as a diverse destination that captures the essence of the Croatian coastal experience. This beach is perfect for family or couples traveling with their kids.
If you are visiting Bačvice Beach, you can go either with the city transport like bus or taxi, but if you want to avoid crowds, the best way to go to Bačvice is on foot since it is accessible from the city center. This way, you can get there early to secure a good spot.
If you are planning to stay for the weekend in Bačvice, some of the best hotels in Split Croatia are located nearby. One hotel worth mentioning is the beautiful Briig Boutique Hotel.
Velika Plaza Beach in Omiš, Croatia
By Michela from She Goes the Distance
Sandy beach – check. Mountain landscape – check. Water activities – check. Centuries-old fortresses around you – check!
Where can you get all these top, unique beach qualities in the Balkans? At the hidden gem beach of Velika Plaža in Omiš.
Omiš is an underrated town located at the meeting point of the Cetina River and the Adriatic Coast, the ideal under-the-radar spot to add to your Croatia itinerary. Because the river meets the sea along this beach, the water is cool and crisp, incredibly refreshing on a summer day.
This beach stands out not only for being long, sandy, and comfortable – which is not always an easy find on the Dalmation Coast – but also for the incredible mountain landscape to the left of it. The mountains are beautiful in their own right but made even more enchanting by the presence of the Starigrad Fortress and the Mirabella Fortress in view.
Another appealing part of this beach is that it is budget-friendly enough to actually enjoy. Rent a padel boat for as little as 7.50 EUR an hour to go out to the buoys and take in the amazing view looking toward Velika Plaža.
You can up the ante with more adrenaline-filled activities in the area, including canyoning and rafting. Or, just spend the day soaking up the sun on the sandy shores.
Best beaches in Montenegro
Sveti Stefan, Montenegro
By Helen from Helen on Her Holidays
The beach at Sveti Stefan in Montenegro is one of the most beautiful in the Balkans (and even in Europe). This beach is very unique, with two wide pink sweeps on either side of a little islet. The islet is the original fishing village of Sveti Stefan, which is now an exclusive resort.
The stone walls and terracotta roofs of the historic fishing village give a stunning contrast with the turquoise color of the Adriatic Sea.
The beach is divided into two parts: one is a private section reserved for hotel guests, and the other is a public area accessible to everyone. The private beach is beautifully manicured with sun loungers. The public beach is more pebbly but still has beautiful views of the islet. There are a couple of beach bars and you can rent sun loungers.
Sveti Stefan is on a hill leading down to the ocean; the best views of the beach and islet are from a layby on the main road up the hill. If you will be driving in Montenegro, you can easily find the spot by checking it on Google Maps.
Getting to Sveti Stefan is easy, and can be done as a day trip from Kotor. The village is close to the coastal town of Budva, and there’s a bus service that connects it to Sveti Stefan.
Slovenska Beach in Budva, Montenegro
Budva is one of Montenegro’s main coastal towns and it is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Balkans. To be fair, it was hard to pick only one of Budva’s beaches to feature on this list of the best Balkan beaches.
Slovenska Beach is one of the best beaches in the region because it is very long, so you can easily find a spot that is not crowded. Located outside the Old Town, it is a great place for enjoying with family or friends.
Other beaches worth checking out around Budva are Mogren Beach and Jaz Beach.
I personally like Slovenska Beach better just because it gets considerably less crowded since it is longer. However, Mogren and Jaz are just as stunning.
Perast, Montenegro
Perast is a very unique place in Montenegro because even though it is considered a beach destination, it is located within the Bay of Kotor.
The best way to visit Perast is on a day trip from Kotor, but you can also choose to sleep in this small town if you prefer. What makes Perast special is that it is a considerably smaller town so it has a very cozy atmosphere.
The highlight attraction of Perast is the two sister islands located right in front of the town – the Lady of the Rocks and St George Island. You can visit them on a short boat trip from Perast or if you book a boat trip from Kotor.
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Herceg Novi, Montenegro
If prefer staying in resorts to smaller towns, then Herceg Novi is the place for you.
This beach town is also located within the Bay of Kotor, but it provides a much different experience than Perast, for example. While Perast is small and quiet (except for the tourists visiting the Lady of the Rocks daily), Herceg Novi attracts families and people wanting to spend a few days by the beach at the resorts.
The beach itself in Herceg Novi is very nice. The water is calm, without any waves, making it perfect for kids. Just make sure you bring your water shoes because they are all pebble beaches.
Valdanos, Montenegro
By Emma from Journey of a Nomadic Family
Valdanos Beach, a semi-abandoned post-communist retreat nestled into a 2000-year-old olive grove and protected by steep, wooded hillsides, is a hidden gem located near Montenegro’s border town of Ulcinj.
A true enchanting escape from the busy beaches of Ulcinj, this rugged stretch of coastline served as a naval base for the Yugoslav Royal Navy but has a long history dating back to the Illyrians, Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians.
Valdanos Beach is 5km from Ulcinj, so you’ll need to drive or cycle to get here. The drive takes you through a mesmerizing and enchanting olive grove with wild-looking gnarly trees. Take some cash so you can buy some fresh olive oil from one of the road stalls.
What sets Valdanos apart and makes it one of the best beaches in the Balkans is its serene atmosphere and the absence of large crowds. The cove lacks any real modernity and is a reflection of brutalist architecture left to decay, but the waters are gentle and clear and are great for snorkeling. Like many Adriatic beaches, it is pebbly and there are sea urchins on the bottom. Sea shoes are recommended.
Whatever you need at the beach, you’ll need to bring with you. I recommend bringing a book, a picnic towel and snacks, your snorkeling gear, and maybe even some games.
Best beaches in Slovenia
Moon Bay Beach in Strunjan, Slovenia
Moon Bay is hands down the most beautiful beach in Slovenia and it holds a well-deserving spot on this list of the best beaches in the Balkans.
Moon Bay is quite secluded because, to reach it, you have to do a short hike from the main parking lot at Strunjan. The hike is short but it is steep when going down to the beach.
Once you get to the viewpoint on the way to Moon Bay, you will quickly understand how it got the fame for being the most beautiful beach in Slovenia. This place is stunning! The crystal clear waters contrast with the rock cliffs that surround it, making it a calm bay that is the perfect place to swim.
Izola, Slovenia
Izola is one of the main towns on the Slovenian seaside. It is mostly visited by locals and visitors from nearby countries.
I have a feeling that most foreign travelers tend to go to Portoroz and Piran, which are the most famous beach destinations. Even though they are also great beach destinations, for me personally, Izola is the best spot to go to.
The beach is located close to a park, so you can find nice spots to lie down in the shadow, and enjoy a full day by the sea. Izola also has very nice and cozy restaurants where you can stop for lunch after the beach.
Read also:
Best beaches in Bulgaria
Balchik, Bulgaria
By Mel from BRB Travel Blog
Balchik is a small sea town located in the Dobrich province, on Bulgaria’s northern coast of the Black Sea.
While Balchik is known to be one of the best beaches in the Balkans on the Black Sea shore, this small town has more to offer than just the beach strip. It is the whole surrounding that makes it worth a visit!
Cape Emine should be your first stop for hiking and swimming. The Cape is a special place because it is where the Balkan Mountains meet the Black Sea.
Then, make a stop at the stunning Balchik Palace and botanical garden. The Palace and its garden were built for Queen Marie of Romania. The palace has different styles that are characterized by an architectural design combining Proto-Bulgarian, Gothic, Oriental, and Moorish elements.
The botanical garden has more than 2,000 plant species from 85 families. It has a rich collection of palm trees and is the second-largest cacti and succulent collection.
Roses are the symbol of Bulgaria, and the rose garden is something that you cannot miss as it is beautifully set overlooking the beach.
Getting to Balchik is very easy, the town is only 40 kilometers away from the biggest city on the Bulgarian coast, Varna. If you will be coming on a trip from Sofia, check flights for Varna International Airport and, from there, take a taxi, bus, or a rental car. If you are doing a Bulgaria road trip, Balchik can be easily reached via the main coastal road.
Make sure you read our tips for driving in Bulgaria before you hop on the trip.
Lozenetz Beach, Bulgaria
By Maria from Map and Camera
Lozenets is a sleepy little village in the winter months. But, in summer it becomes a lively seaside resort. In fact, Lozenets Beach is one of the best beaches in Bulgaria.
Lozenets actually has two beaches. The central beach is more than a kilometer of fine sand with dunes, surrounded on both sides by black volcanic rocks.
The bay is shallow and big waves form on one side of the beach, making it ideal for water sports. There is a windsurfing and kitesurfing school on this part of the beach. At the opposite end of the beach, the water is calm, ideal for small children. In the middle section, there are facilities for beach volleyball, several beach bars, and restaurants serving seafood and traditional Bulgarian food. The whole beach is lifeguarded.
The second is a smaller beach in Lozenets, and it is part of a bar on the rocks in a small bay. It is a music venue with popular artists and DJs performing almost every night.
Accommodation in Lozenets ranges from luxury hotels with spa facilities to family-run guesthouses. You can check the options of places to stay here.
Lozenets is located in the Strandzha National Park, which is full of walking trails, wildlife, and relaxed villages. I know that very few people associate Bulgaria as a destination for the best beaches in the Balkans, but you would be surprised at how interesting this place is.
We hope this blog post has helped you decide the best beach to go to during your Balkan trip. If you need any additional help planning your vacation, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!
Other articles about the Balkans
Organizing your trip
To help you plan your trip to the Balkans, we have put together our favorite planning resources:
- Flights: Get affordable flights to the Balkan region on Skyscanner.com.
- Travel insurance: Make sure you are protected during your trip. We use SafetyWing whenever we are traveling abroad.
- Renting a car: We always use Discover Cars to get the best car deals.
- Accommodation: Find the best hotels and apartments on Booking.com.
- Activities: Get fun ideas of what to do and buy unique activities with Get Your Guide.
- SIM Card: Stay connected during your trip with Airalo.
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