Banje Beach

Banje Beach is the best-known city beach of Dubrovnik, Croatia, set on the shore below Hotel Excelsior along Ulica Frana Supila, a short walk east of Ploče Gate. The character of the shoreline depends on the section. The free public part is made up of gravel, pebbles and rocks, while the beach-club section is laid out with finer sand, loungers, day beds and parasols. The water of the Adriatic is typically clear and deep blue, and the open bay faces the walled Old Town and the wooded island of Lokrum, which gives the beach one of the most photographed views on the Dalmatian coast. The beach is a modest strip rather than a long stretch of sand, and it sits in a fairly open bay, so it is exposed to summer afternoon winds and passing boat wakes more than a sheltered cove would be. The atmosphere is lively and social rather than secluded. The beach club runs a restaurant and bar, rents jet-skis and other water equipment, and charges roughly EUR 33 (about $38) for two loungers and a parasol, with prices varying by season. Visitors who prefer to avoid the fee can use the public section, though space there fills quickly on summer days. Facilities in the club area include food, drinks and sunbed service, while the public stretch is more basic. Lifeguard hours are not published, so visitors should check on arrival. Access is on foot: the route runs east from Ploče Gate along the coastal road for about 10 minutes, followed by a steep set of steps down to the shore. The beach club advertises a free shuttle from the Old Port, according to Croatia Traveller, and the city's Libertas buses serve the Ploče area. Parking is limited near the access road, so walking from the Old Town is the practical choice. The best conditions fall between June and September, when the sea is warm enough for relaxed swimming and the club is fully operating. Sunset and early morning bring softer light on the city walls and a calmer feel before the day crowds arrive.