Sveti Jakov Beach
Ul. Vlaha Bukovca 14, Dubrovnik, Dalmatia, 20000
A tawny half moon of pebbles and fine shingle, nestled between forested promontories below a historic church, Sveti Jakov Beach may be small but it’s perfectly formed. In fact, many locals consider it Dubrovnik’s most attractive beach. The views across to Lokrum Island are ample recompense for the 150-odd stairs you need to descend to hit the strand.
The basics
Sveti Jakov Beach is home to an unfussy restaurant and beach bar, while there are sunbeds for hire at warmer times of year. Besides swimming and sunbathing, you can also snorkel in the exceptionally clear waters. The beach is a popular jump-off point for kayak adventures out to Lokrum Island and beyond—or you can rent a kayak and DIY. Few tours visit Sveti Jakov Beach, although you may pass by on a Jet Ski adventure to the Elafiti Islands.
Things to know before you go
- Sveti Jakov Beach is a good choice for sun worshippers, kayakers, photographers, and swimmers.
- Although the pebbles are rounded, they can still be hard on the feet. Parents should pack water shoes or jelly sandals for their little ones—and possibly also for themselves.
- Sunbeds are more affordable here than on beaches closer to the old town.
- Due to the steps, Sveti Jakov Beach is not suitable for travelers with mobility issues, while parents will want to use back carriers or slings, not strollers.
How to get there
Sveti Jakov Beach lies slightly over a mile (2 kilometers) from the Old Town’s eastern Ploče Gate. It’s an attractive waterfront stroll, or you can catch buses 5 or 8 from Pile Gate to Viktorija bus station and trim the walk to 800 meters (0.5 miles). Self-driving is best avoided in Dubrovnik as parking can be challenging, but taxis and rideshares are available.
When to get there
Dubrovnik’s best beach weather falls during July and August, which is also high season for Europeans, locals, and cruise travelers, meaning beaches get crowded and the old city can feel more like a stadium concert than a heritage sight. June and September are better bets. Aim to stay late to appreciate Old Town in the early evening light.
Enjoying the Adriatic in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik’s beaches tend to be pocket-sized, while many are reserved for guests of specific hotels. But there are plenty of other waterfront attractions to discover. Calm, reasonably warm waters make sea kayaking a breeze, with Lokrum Island and the Old Town as popular destinations. A wealth of island-hopping trips run to the Elafiti Islands—a cluster of 14 isles and islets—which include Koločep, known for Blue Cave, one of Dubrovnik’s top snorkeling locations due to the vivid blue water and striking underwater formations.
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