Five stunning beaches in Montenegro you must visit this summer

Montenegro may be the smallest country in the Balkans, but it certainly punches above its weight when it comes to beaches. Increasingly, tourists visiting the region are swapping the often-crowded beaches of Croatia for the unspoiled natural beauty offered by Montenegro’s small but perfectly formed stretch of Adriatic coastline.

The beaches of Montenegro have some of the cleanest and clearest waters in Europe, and some of them even boast beautiful pink pebbles or sand alongside turquoise blue water – a unique sight only found in Montenegro.

From quiet secluded coves to long sandy bays, here is a selection of five of Montenegro’s best beaches.

Sveti Stefan

Originally a residential village dating back hundreds of years, the tiny island of Sveti Stefan is now home to one of the most luxurious and picturesque hotels in the world, Aman Sveti Stefan. However, you don’t have to stay in the hotel to enjoy the coast, as there is a public beach situated at the far end of the causeway. “From the crystal clear water to the soft sandy shoreline, Sveti Stefan is one of the jewels of Montenegro’s coast,” says Aman Sveti Stefan owner Petros Stathis. “The public beach offers a perfect vantage point overlooking Sveti Stefan’s red-roofed buildings and winding cobbled streets.”

Petrovac the old fishing town of Petrovac is widely known for its historic churches, harbour and monasteries, but it also boasts not one but two beautiful golden sand beaches. Numerous cafes, bars and restaurants are set directly on the beach, making Petrovac a popular choice for tourists and locals alike. For those looking for more seclusion, the surrounding area offers a number of hidden treasures. “Heading south towards Petrovac, travellers will find numerous small, secluded beaches and coves, most of them approachable only by water. One of the top beaches of this area is the Drobni Pijesak Beach, a 250m long stretch surrounded by rolling hills and sparkling waters,” said Reigo Eljas, UK & Ireland Country Director at lastminute.com.

Plavi Horizonti beach is often referred to as the best beach in the north of Montenegro, and its clean water and pristine sand has earned it a coveted blue flag. Popular amongst families, Plavi Horizonti is one of the best snorkeling spots in Montenegro, with the clarity of the sea making it easy to see a wide variety of fish and marine life. Out of the water, Plavi Horizonti continues to appeal to the senses with its beautiful setting amongst trees and dramatic rocky outcrops. This quiet and peaceful Montenegrin beach is a must-visit for nature lovers visiting the country.

Jaz Beach

Party lovers take note – Jaz Beach is one of the liveliest (and longest) stretches of beach in Montenegro. It might not be as built up as Budva and Be?i?i, but on a hot summer’s day Jaz Beach is a hub of activity and music. Its popularity doesn’t detract from its natural beauty, however, and its blue waters and pebbly shore look particularly spectacular when viewed from high up on the Tivat road. Jaz has also hosted the annual Sea Dance Festival, a live music event that attracts a vast number of visitors from across the world every summer, and has been named one of Europe’s top 10 summer festivals by Forbes magazine.

Be?i?i

Located three kilometers from bustling Budva, peaceful Be?i?i feels a world away. This beach has small, pink-hued pebbles and shallow, crystal blue waters that are perfect for paddling. Be?i?i’s cove is long and almost 100m wide at some points, and is surrounded by a dramatic mountainous backdrop. Activity lovers flock to this beach every summer to kayak, sail and surf, while those with a sweet tooth enjoy the famous ice cream parlours along the promenade.

Sun bed rentals, cabins for changing clothes and showers make Be?i?i a comfortable and hassle-free option for a day enjoying the beautiful Montenegrin coast.