Danče Beach

Danče Beach, Dubrovnik’s oldest public swimming spot, is situated on a rocky outcrop below Gradac Park, a short distance from the Old Town. The beach is popular with locals and in-the-know tourists for its swimming, sunbathing, water polo, and sunsets.

Long before the arrival of mass tourism, Danče Beach, pronounced “dan che,” was a favorite among locals. It is also home to the Jug Water Polo Club, founded in 1923. In the summer months, you might see locals training in the sea.

Today, the rocky beach remains popular with locals who seek a quiet swimming area away from tourists yet still close enough to reach by foot or public transportation. Though the beach feels secluded, it is only about 15 minutes on foot from Pile Gate.

Unlike many other beaches in Dubrovnik, Danče Beach features a rocky shoreline. Instead of sand, you will find large rocks, concrete sunbathing platforms, and ladders with access to the ocean. Water shoes are a good idea.

Due to its natural rocky setting along an unprotected coast, as well as its deep and cold water, Danče Beach is not recommended for children or inexperienced swimmers. This is especially true when the sea is rough, or it’s windy.

The crystal-clear waters though of Danče Beach make it a popular spot for swimmers to jump off the rocks into the Adriatic Sea. The clear water also makes the area a popular place for snorkeling.

If you plan to swim, the best time to visit is from noon until sunset, as the beach is sunniest during this time. In the morning, the beach is shaded by Gradac Park, located to the east and overlooking the coastline.

A pathway leads from the beach up to Gradac Park, passing the 15th‑century Gothic‑Renaissance Franciscan convent complex of the Church of St. Mary along the way.

As Danče Beach faces west, it is also one of the best spots in Dubrovnik to watch the sunset. The golden rays of the sun setting over the blue waters of the Adriatic are beautiful.

Smaller than most of Dubrovnik’s beaches, Danče Beach has limited amenities. Amenities include a small café-bar serving basic refreshments, snacks, and cheap beers, as well as free showers and toilets.