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By Anna Fishman

Croatian beaches are popular destinations for European tourists but most American overlook it. The Lapad Beach is located west of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. It’s a clean and family-friendly pebble beach, flanked by hotels and restaurants. Its sitting at the end of the (arguably) nicest promenade in Dubrovnik. There is no entrance fee, but you do have to pay for the chair and umbrella rentals. Because the Lapad Bay is nestled in the shallow bowl between the hills of Dubrovnik, it has the benefit of a spectacular view of those hills rising up on three sides, the Adriatic Sea on the fourth, and the Elaphite Islands in the distance – something truly special to enjoy while you are lazily floating on your back.

Additionally the water is shallow and crystal blue near the shore and the bottom is even softer. Its a mixture of gravelly and also sandy areas. Also in the summer, that shallow strip of water gets quite warm by the sun and is an ideal place to swim with children. The hills slope around the beach are densely covered with hotels and rental villas that can be reached by winding steps (quite a work-out, so you don’t have to feel guilty ordering dessert every night). The Lapad can get heavy crowds, but the quality of the beach experience makes it worthwhile to visit earlier in the mornings (before 10 am) and later in the day (after 4 pm).

Off The Beaten Path: Croatia's Hidden Gem, Lapad Beach

The view only gets better in the evenings, with the twinkling lights of the surrounding hotels and the promenade. The promenade is just the place to enjoy dinner, grab a gelato cone. Or you can pick up some souvenirs or choose a local tour, as well as just taking an after-dinner stroll. Admittedly, the restaurants on this strip know for catering to tourists and thus are both somewhat pricier. Its not really a three-star rated establishments. But all of them are simple and clean, carry fresh seafood that Dubrovnik’s culinary scene is known for. Also boast friendly, hospitable staff (a real differentiator from the service industry in many other European tourist destinations).

I am personally, partial to fried sardines with Karlovačka Light beer at one of the smaller cafes right at water’s edge, to catch the best view of the setting sun. There is an abundance of places to stay, eat and drink around the Lapad Beach.

Lapad Beach in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Lapad Beach in Dubrovnik, Croatia

For more ideas on how to enjoy Croatia, check out one of our sample itineraries here

Here are some “extras” I can help you with to make your travel experience seamless.
Want to arrange for a special anniversary dinner, bespoke champagne tasting, catamaran day trip, or a private, pre-opening museum tour for your family? You got it.
Private, luxury transfers: relax and also enjoy your vacation without worrying about driving in a foreign destination after a long transatlantic flight. We can arrange for a luxury car with drivers that have knowledge of each destination.
Unmatched culinary experiences: Looking also for a reservation at a specific Michelin-star restaurant or a private walking food tour, wine tasting, or whiskey experience? We can help.
A digital itinerary on an app that’s available even when your phone is offline. The app includes all activities, vouchers, and confirmations. You never have to worry about losing your printed travel documents again.

Off The Beaten Path: Croatia's Hidden Gem, Lapad Beach

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