⛱️ Sea for kids in Montenegro: how to choose a resort by beach and depth

A gentle entry into the sea and shade often matter more than the view from the room. With small children, the beach is what determines whether your vacation will be relaxing. The resorts along the coast of Montenegro sit almost right next to each other, but they differ significantly in water depth, beach surface, and infrastructure.

Below, we break down each resort: beach surface, water entry, activities for kids, and what to plan for in advance. Montenegro's coast uses the euro, and you can easily move between neighboring resorts in the middle of your vacation.

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How to choose a resort for a family vacation

💡 In short:

For calm water with toddlers, look at Becici, Rafailovici, Petrovac, and Radovici.
For a town, cafes, and excursions, Budva, Kotor, and Herceg Novi work well.
Beaches and infrastructure: 09/2026, according to the National Tourism Organisation of Montenegro.

According to the tourism portal of Montenegro, the coast's beaches are divided into sandy, pebble, and concrete platforms. For a child, what matters is not only the water entry but also shade, restrooms, and proximity to the hotel. On the concrete platforms of Perast and Herceg Novi, you'll feel that difference right away, while on the sandy beaches of Ulcinj and Radovici, it's easier for kids to get into the sea.

1. Budva

Panorama of Budva with tiled roofs, sea and mountains

Budva welcomes the most tourists on the coast. It has both pebble and sandy stretches, and the promenade is packed with entertainment for kids. You'll find trampolines, swings, slides, and an amusement park with rides for every age.

Adults have plenty to do as well: bars, restaurants, and walks through the Old Town with its narrow cobblestone streets. Venetian-style buildings and small houses with tiled roofs are surrounded by a fortress wall. Hotels range from budget options to large complexes, so there's a wide choice in terms of price.

Parents with children usually take apartments away from the discos and nightclubs. The beaches are equipped with children's and sports areas, sun loungers, changing rooms, restrooms, and showers. Besides swimming, you can ride a banana boat or a jet ski.

Who it's for: families who want a town, the sea, and entertainment close to the hotel.
The catch: in summer, the center is noisy because of the nightclubs, so book accommodation farther from the promenade.

Hotels in Budva on Trip.com

2. Bar

Panoramic view of the city of Bar in Montenegro

The country's largest port, Bar still remains a calm family resort. Compared to other coastal towns, prices for accommodation and food are lower here, and hotels of various star ratings maintain decent service. You'll find an option for both a modest and a comfortable stay.

The central beach is covered with fine pebbles, and the entry into the sea is gentle. The coastline is cut with bays, and mountains rise behind the houses. The streets are filled with mandarin and olive trees, which makes the air feel sweet.

On the seaside boulevard with palm-lined walkways, there are playgrounds and rides. A separate reason to come with a child: Stari Bar with its labyrinths of cobblestone streets under the fortress wall. Walking there is interesting for both adults and children.

Who it's for: families who want the sea and a modest budget without big crowds.
The catch: the town has a large port, and part of the waterfront is taken up by docks.

Hotels in Bar on Trip.com

3. Tivat

Yachts and boats in the bay near the town of Tivat

Tivat sits on the shore of the Bay of Kotor next to the international airport, so you'll get to your hotel quickly. The town is modern and calm: a well-developed hotel base, several well-maintained beaches, and an unhurried atmosphere. Majestic mountains, emerald forests, and lagoons create a striking picture.

There are fewer historic monuments here than in Kotor, but there is a city park with exotic plants and shady alleys. Large yachts are moored in the harbor year-round, and they're pleasant to look at with kids. There are plenty of places to eat for every taste.

The main family beach nearby, Plavi Horizonti, is not in the town itself but in Radovici on Lustica. It's covered with sand and surrounded by olive and pine forest. Spreading trees provide welcome shade, and the bottom slopes gently and stays shallow. The beach has loungers, changing rooms, and toilets, and for active visitors there are playgrounds and water attractions.

Who it's for: families who value peace and quiet and proximity to the airport.
The catch: there are almost no historic sights in Tivat itself.

Hotels in Tivat on Trip.com

4. Herceg Novi

Panorama of Herceg Novi with red roofs and the bay

Herceg Novi cascades down a hill at the foot of Mount Orjen, and it's called the botanical garden of Montenegro. Palm trees, mimosas, magnolias, eucalyptus, cacti, oleanders, and cypresses grow here, and the air smells of resin and flowers. You'll feel it right away as soon as you step out of your hotel.

The town's appearance blends Byzantine, Romanesque, and Eastern styles. Medieval forts, towers, bastions, Orthodox churches, and monasteries have survived. Exploring them takes a full day.

With kids, it's important to understand: the town is built on slopes, and the narrow streets are riddled with staircases. Climbing from the shore to your apartment with a stroller is inconvenient, so choose accommodation closer to the waterfront. The beaches here are small stretches with pebbles or concrete slabs.

Who it's for: families with older kids who are ready to do a lot of walking.
The catch: steep staircases between the shore and the town, tough with a stroller.

Hotels in Herceg Novi on Trip.com

5. Ulcinj

Panorama of Ulcinj with the sea and the city beach

Ulcinj, at the very south of the coast, is considered the sunniest resort in the country. Its thousand-year history has left a mix of Eastern and Western styles, and on the green hills old stone houses stand next to low-rise hotels.

Families come here for the sandy beaches. Wide stretches of sand are washed by the clean water of the Adriatic, and on the shore you'll find everything you need for a vacation. Fans of active leisure have access to yachting, fishing, surfing, and diving, as well as catamarans and jet skis.

Playgrounds are set up for children. The pace of life here is unhurried, which suits contemplative families. A walk through the Old Town with its mighty citadel and medieval monuments will leave pleasant impressions.

Who it's for: families who need sand and maximum sun on the coast.

Hotels in Ulcinj on Trip.com

6. Kotor

Church of St. Luke in the Old Town of Kotor

Kotor lies deep inside the Bay of Kotor between the calm bay and the Lovcen mountain range. Its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and that's the main reason to come here. The welcoming town offers good conditions for a family vacation.

Labyrinths of cobblestone quarters with stone houses, ancient churches, and craft shops transport you to the Middle Ages. Behind the fortress walls, masterpieces from the Venetian era have survived, and they're interesting for people of all ages. You can easily spend half a day here.

Cozy guesthouses, modern villas, and authentic hotels offer comfortable apartments. The beaches are small and pebbly, but with a gentle entry into the water. Strong waves and cold currents are rare, which matters for kids.

Who it's for: families who want to combine the sea with walks through a medieval town.
The catch: the beaches in town are small and pebbly; for a wide stretch of sand you'll have to drive.

Hotels in Kotor on Trip.com

7. Becici

Sandy beach of Bečići with umbrellas and calm sea

Becici is right next to Budva, but noticeably quieter. The small village is geared toward a relaxed vacation, and it's comfortable here with kids. The two-kilometer shoreline is surrounded by green hills and mountains.

The beaches are covered with golden sand and fine pebbles, the entry into the sea is gentle, and the depth increases gradually. Buoys mark off the safe swimming area. You have access to banana boats, catamarans, and jet skis, and along the promenade there are rides and playgrounds.

Modern hotels line the first row, with shops, cafes, and restaurants nearby. The streets are lush with Mediterranean greenery, and the sound of the surf barely disturbs the quiet. For a calm vacation, this is one of the best bases near Budva.

Who it's for: families who want a quiet beach steps from their hotel.
The catch: there are no historic sights in the village itself.

Hotels in Becici on Trip.com

8. Perast

Cobblestone street in the old town of Perast

Perast occupies a narrow strip between the mountains and the clear water of the Bay of Kotor. The town consists of a waterfront promenade, with quiet streets lined by centuries-old houses rising up from it.

Stone houses, Catholic churches, defensive towers, and Venetian Baroque palaces recall the town's glorious past. The atmosphere of antiquity and the views of the mountains and sea are especially strong here. You'll appreciate them right from the promenade.

You can stay with the whole family in a cozy guesthouse or villa. The shoreline consists of several concrete platforms with easy access into the bay, changing rooms, showers, loungers, and umbrellas. There are several restaurants with open terraces, and the cuisine is Mediterranean.

Who it's for: families who value architecture and quiet without crowds.
The catch: there's no sandy beach, so you'll swim from concrete platforms.

Hotels in Perast on Trip.com

9. Petrovac

Panorama of Petrovac with two islets and mountains

Petrovac sits in a bay on the Budva Riviera, surrounded by mountains, olive groves, and pine forests. It's a calm place for a family vacation in nature, and you'll feel it as soon as you arrive. You can stay in either a hotel or a villa.

The main town beach, made of fine pebbles, is shaped like a crescent and stretches along the entire bay. It has loungers, umbrellas, changing rooms, toilets, and showers. Visitors can enjoy water attractions, playgrounds, and sports areas.

Restaurants, bars, shops, and walking paths run along the shore. History lovers will enjoy exploring the old buildings and churches. The resort's main landmark, a Venetian fortress, stands right by the water.

Who it's for: families who want a calm sea and short walks around town.
The catch: the beach is pebbly, with no sand.

Hotels in Petrovac on Trip.com

10. Sutomore

Sutomore beach with umbrellas and mountains

Sutomore became known for its sandy and pebbly beaches with clear turquoise water. The bays, cliffs, and lagoons around it form a picturesque setting, while cypress and pine groves protect the coast from cold winds coming off the mainland.

It's convenient with kids here: the water entry is gentle, and along the shore you'll find bars, restaurants, and shops. The pace of vacation is unhurried, and it's easy to add variety with excursions.

Tourists ride catamarans and jet skis, go diving and fishing, parasail, and take boat trips. In the town and its surroundings, houses built of dressed stone, the remains of a fortress, and several old churches have been preserved. Local hotels and private guesthouses offer comfortable apartments.

Who it's for: families who want sea, sand, and a modest budget.

Hotels in Sutomore on Trip.com

11. Sveti Stefan

Beach with loungers and Sveti Stefan island

Sveti Stefan, a small island on the Budva Riviera, is connected to the mainland by a narrow artificial causeway. Its stone houses with bright terracotta roofs have long been the signature image of the coast.

Wealthy and famous guests come here, so accommodation prices are high. The old medieval buildings have kept their exterior appearance, while inside are apartments belonging to prestigious hotels. The cobbled streets are covered in ivy.

On both sides of the causeway there are sandy beaches with loungers and umbrellas. The water entry is gentle, so swimming with kids is safe. The resort has sports areas, bars, restaurants, an art gallery, and a beauty salon.

Who it's for: families who value prestige and quiet away from noisy entertainment.
The catch: high prices and few options for budget travel.

Hotels in Sveti Stefan on Trip.com

12. Rafailovići

Coastal town by the mountains with a beach and boats

Rafailovići hides in a picturesque bay surrounded by mountains. Winding cobblestone streets are immersed in lush Mediterranean greenery, and all the infrastructure sits right at the water's edge.

Hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants are located on the Adriatic shore. Low-rise buildings with open terraces and blooming gardens give the village a cozy feel. The atmosphere here is calm, and you'll quickly get used to it.

The shore is covered with soft golden sand and fine pebbles, and the entry into the turquoise bay is gentle and safe for children. A small water park operates on the beach, and there are playgrounds. Water activities are typical for the coast: catamarans, banana boats, and jet skis.

Who it's for: families who want sand and quiet near Budva.

Hotels in Rafailovići on Trip.com

13. Dobra Voda

Dobra Voda occupies the southern part of the Bar riviera and sits on green rocky slopes descending to the sea. This corner is considered one of the most environmentally clean on the coast, and the air here really is different.

The village consists of a seaside promenade and a private residential area. There are no noisy entertainment venues or shopping centers here. There are enough guesthouses, hotels, shops, and restaurants, and the air smells of oaks, olives, and Mediterranean herbs.

The sand-and-pebble beach stretches along the shore, with a gentle entry into the sea. The shore is equipped with loungers, umbrellas, and changing rooms, and water attractions operate in season. You'll remember the sunrises and sunsets over the sea and mountains for a long time.

Who it's for: families looking for seclusion and clean air.
The catch: there are few activities for children, everything is limited to the beach.

Hotels in Dobra Voda on Trip.com

14. Radovići

Plavi Horizonti beach and hotel in Radovići

Radovići occupies part of the Luštica peninsula and is known for its tranquility. There are no upscale hotels or standalone villas here: low stone houses have been converted into mini-hotels with comfortable apartments. In the village you'll find several grocery stores and a supermarket.

The main reason to come with a child is Plavi Horizonti beach, one of the most popular on the coast. It holds the Blue Flag for water and shore quality. The sandy strip is framed by a pine forest and an olive grove, and the resinous scent of pine needles mixes with the sea air.

Children especially love the gentle entry into the clear turquoise water and the wide shallows. The area is equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, showers, and toilets. There are sports grounds, water attractions, and a children's area under the trees. Cafes and a restaurant are within walking distance.

Who it's for: families who want a sandy beach with clean water.
The catch: the village is small, and there are almost no evening activities.

Hotels in Radovići on Trip.com

15. Podgorica

Panorama of Podgorica with the Morača River and a bridge

Montenegro's capital Podgorica lies far from the Adriatic, and it's rarely considered as a resort. But it has plenty of museums, parks, and historical sites, so the city is worth including in your trip for at least a day.

Ancient temples, mosques, medieval ruins, modern buildings, and shopping complexes stand side by side. All of this is located on the banks of the Morača River. Hotels, bars, and restaurants maintain a high level of service.

A walk along the pedestrian Hercegovačka street lets you feel the old spirit of the city. With children, it's worth visiting the royal park with centuries-old trees, lawns, playgrounds, and fountains.

The cultural program can be expanded with an art gallery, an archaeological center, a natural history museum, and the national theater. If you're flying through the capital, set aside half a day here between flights.

Who it's for: families willing to swap the sea for the city and museums for a day.
The catch: there's no sea in the city, so you won't be able to swim.

Hotels in Podgorica on Trip.com

Montenegro resorts for family vacations on the map

The map below shows all the resorts from this selection. Open it on your phone to get a sense in advance of how they're positioned along the coast and how long transfers between them will take.

Montenegro resorts for family holidays with kids

Places on the map

1Budva The most tourists, promenade with trampolines and a funfair
2Bar Large port, quiet family resort with gently sloping pebbles
3Tivat Near the airport, Plavi Horizonti beach with sand and tree shade
4Herceg Novi Montenegro's botanical garden on the slopes, forts and monasteries
5Ulcinj The sunniest resort, wide sandy beaches
6Kotor UNESCO old town in the Bay of Kotor, pebble beaches
7Bečići Quiet village near Budva, golden sand and gentle entry
8Perast Venetian baroque, swimming from concrete platforms
9Petrovac Crescent-shaped bay, Venetian fortress by the water
10Sutomore Sand-and-pebble beaches with turquoise water, low budget
11Sveti Stefan Island-hotel on an isthmus, sandy beaches on both sides
12Rafailovići Golden sand and fine pebbles, small water park
13Dobra Voda Eco-friendly corner of the Bar Riviera, sand-and-pebble beach
14Radovići Plavi Horizonti beach with a Blue Flag, pine forest
15Podgorica Capital away from the sea, museums and royal park

⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

Where is the calmest sea for kids in Montenegro?

The calmest spots are where the entry is gradual and there are almost no waves. With little ones, look at Becici, Rafailovici, Petrovac, and Radovici. Kotor is also quiet, but the beaches are small and pebbly, and the concrete platforms in Herceg Novi are awkward with a stroller.

Which resort should I choose if I need a sandy beach?

You'll find sand in Ulcinj, Radovici, and Becici. Ulcinj has the longest stretches of sand, while Plavi Horizonti in Radovici holds a Blue Flag and is surrounded by pine forest. In Becici the sand is mixed with fine pebbles, but the beach starts right at the hotels.

Where should I stay with kids near Budva, but quieter?

Take a closer look at Becici, Rafailovici, and Petrovac. You can reach Budva in a few minutes, and in the evening you won't be woken by nightclubs. In Becici the beach is steps from the hotels, Rafailovici has a water park, and Petrovac has a calm bay and a Venetian fortress.

Is it difficult with a stroller in Herceg Novi and Kotor?

Yes, in places it is. Herceg Novi sits on slopes, and the streets are full of staircases. The climb from the shore to your apartment will wear you out, so choose accommodation near the waterfront. In Kotor the Old Town is flat, but the streets are cobbled, and the stroller will get a bumpy ride.

When is the best time to go to the sea with kids?

The best window is from early summer to early fall, when the water is warm. At the height of July and August the beaches are crowded and the heat is more intense. If you want fewer crowds, go in late spring or September, but check the forecast before you travel.

In short: what's worth booking

The choice depends on what matters most to you. Below is a quick matrix by type of trip.

If you're traveling with little ones and want calm water: book Becici, Rafailovici, or Radovici.
If you specifically need sand: look at Ulcinj and Radovici.
If you want a city and sightseeing: Budva, Kotor, and Herceg Novi fit the bill.
If budget matters: choose Bar, Sutomore, and Ulcinj.
If you don't have a car: Budva, Becici, and Petrovac are the most convenient.

For a first family vacation in Montenegro, most people book Becici and Budva: the sea is close, and entertainment and the airport aren't far. Book accommodation in advance, because good apartments go fast in summer. For little ones, choose hotels with a gradual entry and shade.

Find hotels in Montenegro on Trip.com

Montenegro resorts for family holidays: 15 places with beach breakdowns