Lopud — The Island with the Sandy Beach
Lopud is the most popular of the Elaphiti Islands — and for good reason: It is home to Šunj Beach, the only true sandy beach in the Dubrovnik region. The island is car-free (only golf carts for luggage), about 5 km² in size, and reachable by ferry from Gruž in 50 minutes.
Šunj Beach
The Šunj Beach is located on the south side of the island, accessible via a 20-minute walk through olive groves and pine forest from the ferry dock. A crescent-shaped bay with fine sand, shallow entry (ideal for children), and turquoise waters. In summer, there is a beach bar and sun loungers (15€/day). The journey there is part of the experience: past abandoned Renaissance villas and the Franciscan monastery.
The Village of Lopud
The small harbor with its pastel-colored houses, promenade, and oleander gardens has the charm of a forgotten paradise. In the 15th and 16th centuries, Lopud was an important port of the Republic of Ragusa with 30 ship-owning families and a fleet of 80 ships. The crumbling Renaissance villas and the Kaštio fortress bear witness to this heyday. Today, only about 250 people live on the island year-round.
- Restaurant Obala: Right at the harbor — fresh grilled fish, black risotto, and Dalmatian wine. Main courses 12–22€.
- Franciscan Monastery: With a small art collection and a quiet cloister. Free entry.
💡 Tipp
Take the first ferry (at 9 or 10 AM) and you’ll have Šunj Beach almost to yourself. Day-trippers don’t arrive until after 12 PM. Bring snacks and water — there’s only a small bar on the beach. For the return trip: check the last ferry!
