Budva is famous for its beaches, but finding clear water and a little more space means going beyond the usual Mogren, Jaz and Slovenska Plaža circuit.
This selection follows the coast towards Sveti Stefan and Petrovac. These places are not completely “secret”, but they are quieter and more scenic alternatives to the central beaches. In high season, the best strategy is simple: leave early, travel light and always check local access and parking conditions.
Quick choice
Most scenic water
Drobni Pijesak
Easiest without a car
Kamenovo
Best at sunset
Crvena Glavica
Most space
Buljarica
Drobni Pijesak: turquoise water below the coastal road
Between Sveti Stefan and Petrovac, Drobni Pijesak is a small bay protected by green slopes. Its name means “fine sand”, although the shore mixes pale gravel and small pebbles. The main reason to visit is the colour of the sea: on calm days the water turns one of the most striking shades of turquoise on the Budva Riviera.
The final access road is steep and parking fills quickly. Services are seasonal and may change, so bring water and do not expect a large fully equipped beach.
Crvena Glavica: red rocks and small coves
South of Sveti Stefan, Crvena Glavica is not a single beach but a series of inlets divided by ochre and red rocks. The seabed is mostly rocky, so water shoes make entry easier and a simple mask is enough to explore the coastline.
It is less suitable for pushchairs or travellers looking for full beach-club facilities, but it is an excellent choice for quiet, snorkelling and sunset photography. Access and management of individual coves may change, so always respect signs on site.
Kamenovo: the best compromise near Budva
Kamenovo is not truly hidden, but many visitors skip it and stop at Bečići or Rafailovići. It has a wider shoreline, easy access and a good balance of public space and services. Mornings are relaxed; afternoons are livelier.
It is the most practical choice without a car: reach it by taxi, local bus or on foot from Rafailovići. If you want attractive water without trails or steep descents, start here.
Perazića Do: a cinematic-looking bay
Near Petrovac, Perazića Do is framed by the mountain and a large unfinished building that gives the landscape an unusual, instantly recognisable character. The sea is clear and the bay feels wilder than the urban beaches.
Include it in a panoramic walk from Petrovac or arrive by car after checking the final stretch locally. This destination suits travellers who appreciate authentic, imperfect places rather than beach-club comfort.
Buljarica: long, open and still lightly developed
South of Petrovac, Buljarica is one of the longest beaches on the Riviera. The landscape is open, the shore mixes coarse sand and gravel, and even in the busiest months it is easier to find space away from the main entrances.
It suits independent families, road-trippers and anyone who wants to stay on one beach all day. Vegetation and wetlands behind the shore make insect repellent useful around sunset.
A one-day route from Budva
Leave Budva early and take your first swim at Kamenovo. Continue to Crvena Glavica or Drobni Pijesak before midday, then finish at Buljarica and have dinner in Petrovac. Trying to visit all five beaches in one day turns the trip into a race, so choose two or three.
Morning
Kamenovo or Drobni Pijesak
Afternoon
Crvena Glavica or Perazića Do
Sunset
Buljarica and Petrovac
What to bring
Frequently asked questions about Budva beaches
Which is the quietest beach near Budva?+
Drobni Pijesak and some coves at Crvena Glavica are generally more peaceful, especially in the morning. No Riviera beach is truly empty in July and August, so arriving early matters.
Can these beaches be reached without a car?+
Kamenovo is the easiest, by taxi, local bus or on foot from Rafailovići. A car, scooter or transfer is more convenient for Drobni Pijesak, Perazića Do and Buljarica.
When is the best time for swimming near Budva?+
June and September usually offer the best balance of pleasant water, open services and fewer visitors. In July and August, aim to reach the beach before 9:30.
Do I need water shoes?+
They are recommended at Crvena Glavica and useful on pebble beaches. Also carry water, sun protection and cash because seasonal parking and services may not accept cards.
Keep planning
Discover Budva beyond its most famous beaches
Compare destinations, local services and other guides to build your Montenegro coast itinerary.