Some places are so well hidden that you almost don't believe they really exist. Pasjaca Beach is one of them. This secluded beach is hidden behind high cliffs, a half-hour drive from Dubrovnik. There is no promenade, no beach bar, just a narrow path that zigzags down to a small strip of sand and pebbles on the Adriatic Sea. What do you find there? Crystal clear water, steep cliffs and an unparalleled sense of peace. Even in summer it remains relatively quiet here. In this article you can read all about the location, the special access via a tunnel, what you can do there and why Pasjača Beach is absolutely worth a visit during your roadtrip or city trip in Croatia.
About Pasjaca Beach
Pasjača Beach is a hidden beach on the southern coast of Croatia, about 30 kilometers from Dubrovnik. You will find it at the foot of steep cliffs near the village of Popovići, hidden between rocks and greenery. No promenade, beach bar or crowds, but a narrow pebble beach with bright blue water in a secluded bay.
Once you see the view of the coast, you will understand why this place is so popular with locals and roadtrippers. The steep drop, the turquoise water and the feeling of discovering something secret make Pasjača one of the most beautiful hidden beaches in Croatia.
Watch the video below where you walk through the tunnel and suddenly find yourself face to face with the bright blue water of Pasjača Beach. Put it in 4K and full screen. Then you will immediately understand why this place is so special.
Pasjača Beach was formed by natural erosion of the cliffs, with the debris collecting at the bottom and forming a small beach. In the 60s, this temporarily disappeared when the gravel was used to build a road, but in 2007, the beach was restored and a path was cut out so that visitors could reach it again.
Location and accessibility
From Dubrovnik you can drive to the village in about half an hour Popovici, where the beach is hidden under high cliffs. Pasjača Beach is not accessible by public transport, so a private (rental) car is a must.
The route there takes you along the spectacular coastal road D8, which is known as one of the most beautiful driving routes in Europe. Just before you seem to end up at the sea, a small road leads you inland to a parking lot on top of the cliffs. From there you walk down a steeply carved path and a short tunnel, straight into this remote paradise.
Tip: Are you on your way to or from Dubrovnik Airport? Or are you just picking up your rental car? Pasjača Beach is just 10 minutes away from the airport. Perfect for a quick stop, for example if you want to see something special before your flight or cool down upon arrival.
Are you looking for one? fully arranged city trip to Dubrovnik with flights, transfers and hotel in one? Then take a look at Vakantiediscounter.nl and Prijsvrij.nl. Both websites have a great offer for Dubrovnik, but are very different.
The Holiday Discounter focuses mainly on super low prices, you can book a trip there from 249 euros pp.
Price-free focuses mainly on city trips in combination with luxury hotels of 4 or 5 stars.
What to do at Pasjača Beach
Pasjača Beach is not a place with beach bars, sun loungers or water sports rental and that is exactly what makes it so special. Here it is all about peace, nature and the raw coastal landscape. You don't need much to enjoy yourself here for hours.
Swimming in crystal clear water
The Adriatic Sea here is exceptionally clear, with a turquoise glow that looks almost unnatural. The beach slopes steeply, so you can easily find yourself up to your waist in the water. A refreshing dip on a hot day is irresistible. If you swim a little way from the beach, you will see the cliffs silhouetted even more impressively against the horizon.
Sunbathing on a quiet pebble beach
The beach consists of fine gravel and pebbles, so bring a good beach towel or mat. There is little natural shade, so a parasol or hat is not an unnecessary luxury. Unlike many other beaches in Croatia, it is often wonderfully quiet here, even in high season.
Photography & filming
The location at the foot of the cliffs, the contrast of rocks and sea, and the play of light and colour make this beach a dream for photographers. Drone footage is spectacular here (if permitted), but you can also capture beautiful shots with a regular camera, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Cliff jumping (for advanced)
For those who dare: some visitors jump from the cliffs around the beach into the sea. This is of course at your own risk and only suitable for experienced cliff jumpers. Always check the depth and surface first, and never jump alone.
Also nearby: About a 20-minute drive from Pasjača Beach is the medieval fortress Sokol Grad, , also known as Falcon Castle. This historic building towers over the area and offers beautiful views over the landscape. A nice stop if you have some time to spare, for example before or after your visit to the beach.
How do you get to the beach (on foot)?
Reaching Pasjača Beach is an adventure in itself. From the small parking lot on the edge of the village of Popovići you walk towards a steep cliff. What follows is a carved path that takes you down along sharp bends, rock faces and viewpoints. Sometimes with fences or walls, but not everywhere.
After a few minutes of walking you will reach a small tunnel, literally carved out of the rocks. As soon as you walk through it, a spectacular view opens up: a narrow, secluded beach with bright blue water, surrounded by steep cliffs. Most people stop here for a moment, not only to catch their breath, but because the view is almost unrealistically beautiful.
Note:
- The descent is quite steep and not suitable for people with a serious fear of heights.
- The trail is uneven and rocky, so wear sturdy shoes or sandals with grip.
- Keep a close eye on young children; there are no railings or stairs.
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Practical tips for your visit
Pasjača Beach is a remote and relatively unknown place, which means: few facilities. With these practical tips you are well prepared:
- Footwear
The path to the beach is steep and rocky. Wear sturdy shoes or walking sandals, no flip-flops. - Swimwear & towel
The water is enticingly clear, don't forget your swimsuit and something to lie on. - Sun protection
There is almost no natural shade. Bring sunscreen, a hat or cap and possibly a parasol. - Eat Drink
There are no shops or restaurants. Make sure you have enough water and snacks with you. - Arrive early = rest
During high season the beach can get crowded after 10am. Come early for a quieter experience and a parking spot. - Parking
There is a small parking lot near the start of the trail. - Respect for nature
Don't leave any trash behind. Take everything you bring with you and keep the beach clean.
Overnight stay nearby
Accommodations
You will probably visit Pasjača Beach as a day trip from Dubrovnik or as a stopover when arriving or departing from the airport. But if you want to enjoy this quiet coastal spot for longer, there are also nice accommodations in the area.
- Apartment Milenka
Simple but cozy apartment with sea view, a short distance from the beach. The hospitable owner lives next door and is happy to give tips about the area. - Mocici Apartments
Good base near Dubrovnik airport. Spacious apartments with air conditioning and a garden, ideal for a relaxing start or end to your trip. - Tila Luxury Suite
A modern furnished suite with balcony, sea view and luxurious finish. Quietly located and a short drive from Pasjača Beach.
Campsites
In the region you will find a few small campsites, often not affiliated with large booking sites. Check apps like Park4night en iOverlander for small-scale and wild camping spots. Please note that wild camping in Croatia is subject to rules, you are not allowed to just go anywhere. Are you going in high season? Then book in time via platforms such as allcamps of Voda tent.
Conclusion
Pasjača Beach is exactly the kind of place you want to come across during your roadtrip through or holiday in Croatia. The view from the cliff, the narrow path down, the moment you walk out of the tunnel and suddenly see that bright blue water - it feels like a reward for those who take the trouble to deviate from the beaten track. No crowds, no facilities, only nature and peace. That is exactly what makes this beach so special.
Are you looking for one? fully arranged city trip to Dubrovnik with flights, transfers and hotel in one? Then take a look at Vakantiediscounter.nl and Prijsvrij.nl. Both websites have a great offer for Dubrovnik, but are very different.
The Holiday Discounter focuses mainly on super low prices, you can book a trip there from 249 euros pp.
Price-free focuses mainly on city trips in combination with luxury hotels of 4 or 5 stars.
