Montenegro’s Hidden Beaches

A Coastline Full of Secrets

Montenegro’s Adriatic coastline stretches for just under 300 kilometers, but within that short distance lies an incredible range of beaches—many of them still untouched by large-scale tourism. While most visitors flock to the buzzing shores of Budva or the pebbled beaches of Herceg Novi, there’s a quieter, more intimate side to the coast waiting to be explored. These are the hidden coves, tucked-away bays, and remote beaches you won’t find on most tourist maps.

Some are accessible only by boat or by foot through forested trails and rocky paths. Others remain known only to locals, passed down as summer secrets among families and friends. Discovering these hidden beaches is like stepping into your own private slice of the Adriatic.

Why They Stay Hidden

Part of the charm of these spots is that they aren’t easy to find—or get to. Montenegro’s dramatic coastline is carved with cliffs, sea caves, and dense pine-covered hills that naturally shield many small beaches from the road. In some places, villas and resorts occupy the most accessible plots, while the truly special places are just a bit harder to reach.

This isolation helps preserve the environment. There are no large crowds, no music blasting from beach clubs, and no plastic chairs lined in rows. These are the places where you can hear the water lap at the shore, where the smell of salt and pine fills the air, and where a good book and a swim are all the entertainment you need.

Top Hidden Beaches to Discover

Though locals might hesitate to share their favorite spots, a few hidden beaches have gained quiet reputations among those willing to venture a bit further. Some of the most rewarding to seek out include:

• Drobni Pijesak – A small, pebbled beach near Petrovac, known for its crystal-clear waters and steep green cliffs.
• Mirišta Beach – Located near the entrance to the Bay of Kotor, this beach is great for snorkeling and is often visited by boat.
• Žanjice Beach – Tucked on the Luštica Peninsula, accessible by boat from Herceg Novi, and surrounded by olive groves.
• Dobrec Beach – Only reachable by sea, this secluded pebble beach offers calm waters and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Blue Cave Nearby Beaches – The area around the famous Blue Cave is dotted with hidden inlets and mini-beaches ideal for a quiet swim.

What to Pack for the Adventure

Since these beaches are usually far from shops or facilities, it’s important to come prepared. A little planning goes a long way in making your day safe and comfortable.

• Plenty of water – Bring more than you think you’ll need, especially in the summer heat.
• Snacks or a picnic – There are rarely restaurants or kiosks nearby.
• Reef-safe sunscreen – Protect yourself and the marine life.
• A dry bag – Perfect for keeping phones, wallets, and clothes safe if you’re arriving by boat.
• Snorkeling gear – Many of these beaches are surrounded by rocks and reefs ideal for underwater exploration.
• Water shoes or sandals – Pebbles and rocky entries are common, and good footwear makes a big difference.

How to Reach Them

While a few hidden beaches can be reached on foot—often via steep or unmarked trails—the easiest and most scenic way to discover them is by boat. A private boat tour or a rental allows you to explore the coastline freely, stopping wherever the water looks inviting. You can anchor near a deserted beach, swim ashore, and spend hours without seeing another soul.

For those staying in Kotor, Tivat, or Herceg Novi, day trips by speedboat are a great way to unlock this more intimate side of the coast. You’ll not only skip the crowded beaches but also get to explore hidden caves, abandoned military tunnels, and natural landmarks along theway.

The Charm of the Unknown

There’s something magical about arriving at a beach with no signs, no crowds, and no schedule. Montenegro’s hidden beaches offer more than just beauty—they offer stillness, discovery, and the feeling that you've found something truly special. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to read, a secret snorkeling spot, or just a break from the buzz, these beaches deliver a kind of peace that’s hard to come by elsewhere.