Lustica Peninsula travel guide: Best beaches on Luštica Peninsula, Montenegro

10 April 2023

Author - Jonathan Howe

Discover the hidden gem of Montenegro – the Luštica Peninsula! In this comprehensive Lustica travel guide, we'll explore the best beaches on this stunning peninsula, perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers alike. Whether you're visiting in August or the winter months, Luštica offers a unique experience for everyone. With private beaches, the famous Blue Cave, and scenic rocky shores, you'll soon see why this region is an unmissable destination.

Luštica is probably one of the most beautiful parts of the Montenegrin coast. Situated on the northern part of the latter, it is a peninsula extending in such a way that it acts as a natural barrier between the open Adriatic sea and the Tivat-Kotor bay complex. The warm Mediterranean climate gifted it with a luxuriant vegetation of pomegranate and fig trees and its mostly rocky shores host dozens of beaches and coves, some of these only accessible by taxi boat.

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The Luštica Peninsula is an enchanting region in Montenegro that offers visitors a mix of pristine beaches, unspoiled nature, and quaint villages. It's an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway, as well as those looking to explore Montenegro during the quieter winter months of December and January.
One of the most popular spots on the peninsula is the Blue Cave, a natural wonder with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. There are also numerous private and rocky beaches along the coast, providing ample opportunity for relaxation and sunbathing.
Klinci Village Resort is a charming accommodation option nestled in the heart of Luštica. This luxury resort boasts stunning views, an infinity pool, and beautifully appointed rooms, making it the perfect base for your Montenegro adventure.

All of this just a few kilometers away from Herceg Novi, Kotor, and Tivat, whose airport is just near. It is the opinion of many that the most beautiful beaches in Montenegro can be found on Luštica. But where to start? Here is a small guide to the best beaches on Luštica to help you decide.

The Luštica Peninsula is an idyllic destination for couples seeking a romantic retreat. Its serene atmosphere and picturesque landscapes make it the perfect place to reconnect and unwind. Enjoy leisurely strolls through charming villages or take a scenic boat tour to explore the stunning coastline. Spend a day at a secluded beach, where you can soak up the sun and swim in the crystal-clear waters. In the evenings, savor a candlelit dinner at a local restaurant, sampling Montenegrin cuisine and sipping on regional wines.

August is a fantastic time to visit the Luštica Peninsula, as the weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures averaging around 28°C (82°F). During this peak season, you can expect longer days and plenty of sunshine, ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits. Join a guided tour to the Blue Cave, where you can swim and snorkel in the shimmering turquoise waters. Or, if you prefer a more active vacation, try watersports like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or sailing along the coastline.

Though the winter months bring cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall, visiting the Luštica Peninsula in December offers a unique and peaceful experience. With fewer tourists, you can explore the region at a more leisurely pace and truly immerse yourself in the local culture. Take advantage of the cooler weather to hike through the verdant hills and discover the rich history of the area, as you visit ancient monasteries and centuries-old fortresses. Additionally, you can experience local Montenegrin customs and traditions during the holiday season, including festive markets and celebrations.

January in the Luštica Peninsula is characterized by its mild temperatures and quieter atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil getaway. While the beaches may be too chilly for swimming, you can still enjoy leisurely coastal walks, taking in the natural beauty of the region. Use this opportunity to visit attractions like the Klinci Village Resort or explore nearby towns, such as Herceg Novi and Kotor, without the summer crowds. Embrace the Montenegrin winter by attending local events, sampling seasonal dishes, and sipping on warm beverages at cozy cafes.

Plavi Horizonti may be the most popular beach on Luštica. Located at the entrance of the peninsula, it can be reached quickly and easily by car. It has one big advantage: it is the largest sandy beach in Luštica! You may not be familiar with the Montenegrin language yet, though we are pretty sure you get what horizont means. But Plavi? Well, it means « blue ».« Blue horizons ». Doesn't sound too bad, does it?

The beach was popular among locals even before the advent of international tourism in the region. It is renowned for its fine, light-colored sand and its turquoise water which extends infinitely towards the... well, horizon, a better name for that place couldn't be found, indeed. Another advantage is that the sea there doesn't get too deep too soon, which makes it the right place for families with children. Those who do not feel like taking a dip can have a walk on the dedicated pedestrian path leading to a monument to fallen partisans during WWII, or just sit and enjoy summer bliss on the terrace of the café-restaurant which can be found right behind the beach.

You need to drive a bit further and longer to get to Rose, you can alternatively catch a taxi boat from Herceg Novi or Tivat, but it is really worth going there anyhow. Rose is one of the villages at the tip of Luštica's peninsula. Today a quiet fishermen's village, it used to have strategic importance in the past: you can find several late 19th century fortresses in the area. One of these, fort Rose, has been converted to a hotel and restaurant complex.

Even more famous is the abandoned Yugoslav submarine base and its long tunnel which is a few hundred meters away from Rose itself. It is a popular spot for youngsters who sit on the concrete slabs in front of the tunnel for a barbecue after taking a dip. Only the bravest dare swimming in the tunnel, but it has become a trend, and even a tourist attraction in Croatia, so why not in Montenegro?

For those less keen on history, Rose has other advantages: stunning views of Herceg Novi and the mountains above it, beautiful old houses, and many small beaches. In order to reach the largest one, you need to walk through the village and take a right. You will reach the beach a few minutes after crossing fort Rose. Lay your towel, enjoy.

Mirišta is also situated on the tip of Luštica, but there is a big difference with Rose: instead of facing the bay, the village is facing the open sea. It may not be easy to squeeze your car into the tiny parking spots during the summer, we hence advise you not to park right close to the main beach, which is beautiful but tiny as well. In Mirišta you will find a small sandy patch as well as quays on which you can lay down. A café-restaurant is right next to the beach and the waiters won't mind bringing your drinks directly on the beach. If you walk down the coast a little bit further you will find other beaches and swimming spots. This is a great place for snorkeling too.

A few hundred meters away from Mirišta, you will find Otočić Gospa, a microscopic island on which a church was built. It may be nice to « visit » if you are into stand-up paddle or sea kayaking. The best swimmers can, of course, reach it easily. From cape Arza, where you will find a beautiful fortress, you will be able to get a view of the Prevlaka peninsula, at the border between Montenegro and Croatia. At mid-distance between Cape Arza and Prevlaka, you will see the small island of Mamula. Mamula has a tormented history that we prefer to keep aside for another article.

As attractive as it may seem, do not try to swim to the island! It is actually much further than it looks like and there are strong currents in the channel. Sightseeing of Mamula (visits are now forbidden since the site has been privatized) is generally included in boat tours of the area. To be found in the same area as Mirišta is Žanjice, another heavenly beach, which is much larger, and from which you can enjoy the same view while laying on the available sunbeds, cocktail in hand.

Facing north-east, towards Tivat's bay, with a breathtaking view of Mount Lovćen, the most beloved mountain in Montenegro and the heart of this small nation, Nikki Beach aims at visitors who are both able to enjoy and afford the luxury of the place. Nikki Beach was envisioned as an oasis dedicated to leisure, subtly isolated from the outside world. Turquoise water and palm trees, yacht berths, sushi restaurant, and hotel suites complete with sauna for the most luxurious ones. Indulge in the celebration of life this place invites you to. Ten minutes away from Tivat international airport.

With a shoreline longer than 40 kilometers, it would be almost impossible to list all the beaches and coves you can find on Luštica. So here is our final advice: explore! Even in the midst of summer, at the peak of the tourist season, Luštica has many quiet, secret places waiting only for you to discover them. Among these, your own little corner of paradise awaits. In the meantime, we hope that this guide to the best beaches of Luštica will be a good Kickstarter for your adventure.

In conclusion, the Luštica Peninsula offers an unforgettable Montenegrin experience. From the breathtaking Blue Cave to the secluded rocky beaches, this region provides a diverse range of attractions for visitors. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or a solo adventure, the Luštica Peninsula is a must-visit destination in Montenegro. Don't miss out on this incredible piece of paradise – start planning your trip today!