Utjeha Beach
The rugged scenery of Utjeha is marked by its major topographical feature – centuries-old olive trees that build the backdrop of this 180-meter-long stone and pebble beach. Utjeha Beach is known for its exceptionally clean water and finds itself on the exclusive list of Montenegro’s blue flag beaches.
It is no wonder then that this quaint and charming refuge is popular with locals and tourists – despite it being pebbly and stony underfoot. You will find beachgoers on hired sunbeds or perched against the surrounding cliffs and concrete terraces, like lizards basking in the sun.
But most people come here primarily to enjoy the turquoise-colored water which is the result of underground freshwater springs. These streams of water make the sea a little colder but also carve out beautiful sub-aquatic landscapes, perfect for swimming and especially snorkeling.
This is not a particularly comfortable beach for lounging due to the stones and pebbles. Make sure to bring something soft if you don’t want to rent a sunbed. There is a beach club, a beach bar, and two restaurants on the beach (best avoid), offering snacks and drinks, including seafood, cevapi, and the like.
The Best Blue Flag Beaches
Discover our selection of the best Blue Flag Beaches in Montenegro, from intimate coves to sweeping, sandy beaches backed by dunes.
Safety and Access
The fact that you rarely hear traffic noise on the beach does not mean that it is not easily accessible. Utjeha Beach can be reached by car and there is a paid parking lot in the immediate vicinity to the sea. Securing a free spot is usually easy, except on some busy weekends when locals come in larger numbers.
Due to the large pebbles, this would be a difficult beach to access for people with reduced mobility. The Olive Bay is a popular cove to anchor boats for the day; there are some moorings along the southern flank. To secure a safe stay on the beach, there is a lifeguard on duty here. On-site facilities include outdoor showers and toilets.
Things to do on Utjeha Beach
Snorkeling and scuba diving are some of the most favorite activities on Utjeha Beach besides luxuriating in the scorching sun. Be sure to bring your equipment because there are no rentals available on the beach. At dawn, the sea is calm and the serene water is inviting for a relaxing sunrise swim.
When the sun sets below the horizon, psychedelic skies form the background for a romantic walk on the beach and along the cliffs. Some people also bring SUP boards to explore the beautiful evening scenery by sea. There is also a small selection of paddle boats and kayaks for hire.
There is a secret cove hidden at the far end, just a short walk from the main beach. Keep walking past the concrete platform and jaunt over slippery rocks to reach a tiny, pebbly cove beach with serene waters. Taking off your textiles is highly encouraged, in fact, it is a requirement for staying here.
Hotels on Utjeha Beach
There are no hotels on Utjeha Beach. For hotel accommodations, you’ll need to head back up to the Adriatic Highway and then continue either towards Ulcinj or Bar, where you will find a decent selection of luxury boutique and resort hotels with good amenities.
The modest Hotel R in the neighboring Cold Bay is not a bad choice either; you’re right on the shoreline and they have a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool, overlooking the sea. Alternatively, the 4-star Hotel Kalamper in nearby Dobra Voda offers a good Spa center and well-appointed rooms.
It is also possible to stay at one of the beachfront campsites, where accommodation is quiet and simple, or at vacation rentals close to the beach.
Ulcinj
A coastal town with a turbulent history, Ulcinj is famous for its beautiful old town overlooking the Adriatic Sea.
Restaurants near Utjeha Beach
Even though there are some eateries right on the beach, a picnic lunch or dinner with plenty of drinks might be the better option, or you could also head over to the neighboring bays and visit one of the restaurants found there. In Dobra Voda, the simple yet delicious Konoba Balkan has you covered for after-swim hunger pangs.
For seafood, choose Konoba Vongola, a local tavern that specializes in seafood and is located in the neighboring Cold Bay. Alternatively, on the upper mountain road, you will find Konoba Ribar, a local favorite with amazing views, friendly waiters, and good prices.
Nearby Utjeha Beach
Visit the nearby coastal town of Ulcinj, a former pirate’s stronghold with narrow cobblestone streets and beautiful Venetian and Ottoman stone architecture. This is the heart of Montenegro’s southern coast and is about 15 minutes away by car. Discover the well-preserved old town and enjoy some good nightlife vibes along its coastal promenade.
At a 20-minute drive north, Bar is a lively port city with good infrastructure and one of the nicest boardwalks with many good restaurants and cafes. If you visit Bar by car, pay a visit to the Old Town which has been turned into an open-air museum after a devastating earthquake in 1979. It is a rich, historical site in an incredible setting.
Bar Old Town
Engulfed by towering Mount Rumija and overlooking the sea, the Old Town of Bar is a must-visit during your trip to Montenegro