Discovering Hidden Beaches by Sailboat: Dubrovnik’s Secluded Coastal Gems

Dubrovnik is one of the most iconic destinations on the Adriatic Sea, but its true treasures lie just beyond the city walls, tucked into the rugged coastline, where cliffs meet crystal-clear waters. If you're planning a Croatia boat vacation to the most beautiful beaches, skip the crowded city shores and explore the Dalmatian Coast hidden beaches by sailboat.

Where can you find secluded coves in Dubrovnik by boat? Right here, we unveil the top secret spots only accessible from the sea, perfect for travellers who value solitude, unspoiled nature, and the magic of swimming in complete peace.

1. Lokrum Island – Dead Sea Lagoon & Southern Cliffs

Just 10 minutes by boat from Dubrovnik’s old harbour lies Lokrum Island, a lush nature reserve where you’ll find several secret swimming spots near Dubrovnik that boats can reach. On the southern side, hidden beneath cliffs, are narrow rocky shelves and caves perfect for a peaceful swim. The small salt lake known as the “Dead Sea” is also a surreal stop if you want to anchor and relax in calm, turquoise water.

Best reached on a small sailboat or dinghy. Avoid the crowded northern docks and approach the island’s wild southern edges.

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2. Kolocep Island – Secret Coves on the West Coast

One of the Elaphiti Islands, Kolocep, is only a short sail from Dubrovnik but feels worlds away. Its western side is a paradise of cliffs, pine trees, and deep blue sea. Here, you'll find beaches only reachable by boat near Dubrovnik, such as Blue Cave Beach, which lies inside a small sea grotto and opens up into a hidden pebble shore accessible only by swimming or kayaking from your anchored boat.

If you’re wondering how to find secluded coves around Dubrovnik on a sailboat, Kolocep is your answer: sail west of the island and look for small inlets under the cliffs.

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3. Lopud Island – Sunj Bay and Beyond

Sunj Beach on the southern side of Lopud is popular among boaters for its shallow, sandy bottom, ideal for anchoring overnight. But the real gems are further west—small, wild coves like Spiaza and Pakljena, where pine trees meet the sea and not a single building is in sight. These are the type of untouched beaches near Dubrovnik, only accessible by boat.

Ideal for a quiet afternoon, with space to swim, snorkel, or enjoy lunch aboard in total peace.

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4. Šipan Island – Pristine Bays and Fishermen’s Hideouts

The largest of the Elaphiti islands, Šipan is home to many hidden inlets used for centuries by local fishermen. Secret Cove Dubrovnik boat lovers will find the northern coastline especially attractive—places like Vrbova Bay and Stara Luka offer calm anchorages, olive groves in the background, and zero crowds. It’s one of the best places to experience the quiet beauty of the Dalmatian coast at its purest.

Spend the night here under the stars—it's a peaceful contrast to Dubrovnik’s lively marinas.

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5. Sunj Bay – A Classic to Explore by Boat

Though more well-known than other hidden coves, Sunj Bay on the island of Lopud still offers peaceful corners if you arrive by boat. Avoid the central beach and head toward the edges of the bay, where lush greenery and shallow waters create a calm and private setting. Its soft sand and gently sloping seabed make it one of the most beautiful beaches in Dubrovnik accessible by boat, ideal for combining comfort with natural surroundings.

Perfect for a daytime stop or overnight anchorage, it’s a popular destination in many Dalmatian Coast sailing itineraries and also offers a few small restaurants that can be reached on foot from the shore.

Photo credits: www.palacenatali.com

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How to Explore the Secluded Coastline of Dubrovnik by Sailboat

The best way to explore Dubrovnik’s hidden beaches is through a custom boat itinerary. Whether you're captaining your boat or booking a sailboat rental in Dubrovnik with skipper, plan to set sail each day in search of quiet bays, turquoise waters, and untouched anchorages. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy privacy, swim off your boat, and discover remote spots far from the tourist crowds.

If you're looking for unique boat trip destinations for hidden beaches around Dubrovnik, try this 7-day sailing route:

• Day 1: Depart Dubrovnik and sail to Lokrum Island. Anchor off the southern cliffs and swim in the Dead Sea lagoon or explore the small caves along the rugged shoreline.
• Day 2: Head to Kolocep Island and discover its western coast, full of secret coves and sea caves like the Blue Cave. Spend the night anchored in a quiet bay.
• Day 3: Continue to Lopud Island. Explore the wild western side before anchoring in the calm, sandy Sunj Bay—a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a sunset swim.
• Day 4: Sail north to Šipan Island. Drop anchor in Vrbova Bay or Luka Šipanska and enjoy a peaceful day of snorkelling, relaxing, and dining under the stars.
• Day 5: Return south along the mainland coast and make a stop in one of the secluded inlets near Cavtat, such as Tiha Bay—quiet, scenic, and only reachable by boat.
• Day 6: Venture to Mljet National Park, exploring the unspoiled coves near Okuklje and the forested shores of Prožurska Luka. Ideal for nature lovers and overnight anchorage.
• Day 7: Sail back toward Dubrovnik, pausing for a final swim near the cliffs of Cavtat or along Lokrum’s eastern coastline before returning to port in the afternoon.

This 7-day Dalmatian Coast sailing itinerary from Dubrovnik blends short sails with unforgettable nature, making it ideal for travellers who want to combine adventure with quiet relaxation in some of the best beaches only reachable by boat near Dubrovnik.

Plan your Croatia sailing holiday to the most beautiful beaches

From secret coves around Dubrovnik to beaches only reachable by boat, this coastline is a dream for sailors and explorers. Swap the crowds for quiet bays, and enjoy the real magic of the Adriatic with your floating base.

Start planning your adventure with our top-rated sailboat rental Dubrovnik itineraries and set a course for a hidden paradise.