The Balkans are full of gorgeous beaches along the wave-washed shores of the Adriatic and Mediterranean. Whether you are looking for golden sandy beaches, secluded coves or the sea for snorkeling, the Balkans have something for everyone. We have gathered the best beaches and coves in the Balkans for you to have an unforgettable vacation. Here are the places to have a sea vacation in the Balkans.
Dhermi Beach, Albania
Dhermi Beach is one of the best places for a beach vacation in the Balkans, famous for its crystal clear turquoise waters and fine sand. Surrounded by rugged mountains and Mediterranean pines, this beach offers the perfect setting for swimming and soaking up the sun. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, windsurfing and snorkeling in the clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.
Jaz Beach, Montenegro
Jaz Beach near the town of Budva is one of the largest beaches in Montenegro and is famous for its fine sandy shore and crystal clear sea. Surrounded by rocky cliffs and green hills, this beach offers a magnificent space where you can relax and enjoy the sea. With its shallow waters and relaxed atmosphere, Jaz Beach is also a great place for families with small children.
Zlatni Rat Beach, Croatia
Zlatni Rat Beach on the Croatian island of Brac is one of the most emblematic beaches in the Balkans. Known as the “Golden Horn”, this beach is characterized by its distinctive sandy shape in the form of a tongue extending into the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea. Known for its shallow sea and constant wind, Zlatni Rat Beach is an exceptional place for people who love water sports, especially kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Navagio Beach, Greece
Navagio Beach on the Greek island of Zakynthos, also known as “Shipwreck Beach”, is one of the most beautiful and photographed beaches in the world. Located at the foot of high limestone cliffs, this secluded beach is only accessible by boat, adding to its mystery and charm. Surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea, this beach is a paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts and photographers.
Velika Plaza Beach, Montenegro
Velika Plaza Beach near the town of Ulcinj is one of the longest and most pristine beaches in Montenegro. This 12 km long beach with golden sand offers plenty of space to enjoy the sea and sun without crowds. Water sports lovers can also enjoy kitesurfing and windsurfing on the windy waves of the Adriatic Sea.
Sunny Beach, Bulgaria
Sometimes referred to as the “Pearl of the Black Sea”, Nesebăr was declared a “World Heritage Site” by UNESCO in 1983 due to the numerous and well-preserved historical buildings in the city center. The city was historically under Greek, Byzantine and Ottoman rule. This mix of cultures and architectural styles has made the old town of Nesebăr one of the most romantic places on the Bulgarian coast. The centuries-old buildings built around the narrow streets manage to impress tourists today.
Sunny Beach, about 3.5 km from Nesebăr, has become the most popular beach among tourists and locals. Thanks to its 8 kilometers of fine golden sand, Sunny Beach is considered the largest and most spectacular beach in the country. Sunny Beach also contains some of the country’s last remaining natural sand dunes, making the surroundings even more spectacular. There are many restaurants, tents for rent and crazy nightclubs around Sunny Beach, which is one of the best places for a beach vacation in the Balkans. You can also do water sports here.
Portorož Beach, Slovenia
Portorož Beach, the most popular beach in Slovenia, is filled with luxury seaside resorts featuring shops, restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines, and numerous accommodation options. If you’re looking for a vibrant atmosphere, Portorož Beach is the place for you. The combination of white sandy beaches, the deep blue waters of the Adriatic Sea, and clear skies make it a perfect spot for swimming and relaxation.
Mirror Beach, Albania
Among the beaches of Saranda in Albania, the most special is Mirror Beach, a gorgeous little beach surrounded by huge rocks. The glare of the afternoon sun reflecting in the sea is the reason why the locals call it “Plazhi Pasqyra”, which translates as Mirror Beach in English. The sea here is indeed incredibly clear and has a stunning turquoise color. Also, what sets it apart from other Saranda beaches in Albania is that there are no resorts or hotels in the area. So it’s just peace, quiet, waves and you.
Sveti Jakov Beach, Croatia
Located just south of Dubrovnik’s main center, this small but gorgeous beach is ideal for getting away from the crowds, especially during the peak months of July and August. The beach is about half an hour’s walk from the city center and you have to descend more than 100 steps to get there. But trust us, because it is worth it! The beach is pebbly and there is an on-site café serving refreshing drinks and light snacks. There is a lot of shade on the beach as the pine trees stretch towards the shore. You can also see the city walls of Dubrovnik from the beach.
Sveti Stefan Beach, Montenegro
One of the most photogenic coastal towns in the Balkans, Sveti Stefan is located on a peninsula connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus. The entire old village on the peninsula is now a luxury resort; you can literally stay in a centuries-old building. A pleasant coastal walk in Sveti Stefan, one of the places to go on a sea vacation in the Balkans, offers the most amazing views of this beautiful town. This is a must-stop for anyone traveling along the coast of the Western Balkans.
Queen’s Beach, Croatia
Queens Beach in Nin is one of the best beaches on the north coast of Croatia. If you are looking for a quiet sea vacation, this beach is for you. You can easily reach the beaches of Nin, one of the places to have a sea vacation in the Balkans, by car or bus. This sandy beach with blue flag status is a great place for those who want to swim, sunbathe and do water sports.
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