Lokrum beach

Description

Just a quick 10-minute boat ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Town lies the magical Lokrum Island – and trust me, it’s worth every second of that short journey. This lush paradise packs quite a punch for its small size! What I absolutely adore about this place is how it mixes untamed nature with fascinating history. [Lokrum Island is home to a stunning botanical garden, a serene salt lake, and an ancient Benedictine monastery that dates back to 1023](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g295371-d483261-Reviews-Lokrum_Island-Dubrovnik_Dubrovnik_Neretva_County_Dalmatia.html).

I gotta tell ya, there’s something truly special about escaping the summer crowds of Dubrovnik and finding yourself in this peaceful oasis. The moment you step off the boat, you’re greeted by resident peacocks strutting around like they own the place (which, let’s be honest, they kinda do!). The water surrounding the island? Crystal clear and perfect for swimming – seriously, bring your snorkel gear!

Key Features

• Ancient Benedictine Monastery ruins – a photographer’s dream!
• Crystal-clear swimming spots along rocky shores
• Peaceful botanical gardens with exotic plants
• Instagram-worthy salt lake (aka Dead Sea)
• Free-roaming peacocks and rabbits everywhere
• Shaded walking trails through pine forests
• Game of Thrones filming locations
• Multiple secluded coves for swimming
• Historic Fort Royal with panoramic views
• Several casual cafes and picnic spots

Best Time to Visit

Okay, here’s the deal – while you can visit Lokrum most of the year, I’d say May through October is your sweet spot. July and August get pretty busy (and hot!), so if you’re like me and prefer fewer crowds, aim for those shoulder months. Early morning visits are amazing – you’ll beat the heat and the day-tripping crowds.

Spring brings gorgeous wildflowers, and fall offers perfect swimming temperatures. The island closes to visitors during winter months, usually from November through March, so plan accordingly. Pro tip: check the weather forecast before heading out – the boats won’t run if the sea’s too rough.

How to Get There

Getting to Lokrum is actually super straightforward. Boats leave regularly from Dubrovnik’s Old Port (right by the Old Town). The first boat usually departs around 9am, and they run every half hour during peak season. Last return boat varies by season – don’t miss it ’cause you can’t stay overnight!

The journey takes about 10 minutes, and honestly, it’s part of the fun. You’ll get some killer views of Dubrovnik’s walls from the water. Tickets are sold right at the harbor – you can’t miss the booth. And here’s a money-saving tip: if you’re planning to visit multiple days, grab a multi-day pass. Way cheaper than buying individual tickets!

Tips for Visiting

Listen up, ’cause these tips will make your visit so much better! First off, bring water shoes – the beaches are rocky, and those stones can get hot. Pack a water bottle (you can refill it at the monastery), snacks, and sunscreen. There are a few cafes on the island, but they’re a bit pricey, so I usually bring my own picnic.

Swimming gear is a must – you’ll kick yourself if you forget it. The best swimming spots are on the south side of the island, but they can get crowded. My secret spot? Head to the far side of the salt lake – way fewer people there.

Don’t chase or feed the peacocks (tempting as it might be). They’re protected, and besides, they’re not shy about coming to say hello on their own! If you’re into photography, early morning or late afternoon light is gorgeous here.

Oh, and wear comfy shoes! The paths are well-maintained, but you’ll do a fair bit of walking. And one last thing – there’s no place to stay overnight on the island, so keep an eye on the time. Missing the last boat back would be… well, let’s just not do that!

Location

Places to Stay Near Lokrum beach

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