Velika Plaza Beach, Montenegro (Ulcinj)

With 73 kilometers of coastline, Montenegro is a popular destination for millions of tourists each year. All of these 73 kilometers are separated into different kinds of beaches: short or long, sandy, rocky, cement, etc. Out past Salina Ulcinj, the sands at Velika Plaza in Montenegro are a significant beginning and landing point for migratory birds. “Great Beach” is the local nickname for Velika Plaza. (Photo by Sergei Gussev via Flickr)

Velika Plaza is a beautiful beach with warm, pleasant water. It’s a top destination for travelers who love long sandy beaches and relaxing sunbeds. As noted by The New York Times in “Top Places to Go”, Velika Plaza ranked among the top 20 travel destinations for 2010. Let’s get more familiar with this lovely sandy seashore.

About Velika Plaza Beach (Ulcinj, Montenegro)

Velika Plaza Beach, stretching along the Adriatic coast of Montenegro near the town of Ulcinj, is a stunning natural wonder and one of the longest sandy beaches in Europe. Spanning an impressive 12 kilometers, this expansive beach is characterized by its soft, fine sand and shallow waters, making it an ideal destination for families and sun-seekers. The beach’s open horizon and consistent winds also create perfect conditions for water sports, particularly kitesurfing and windsurfing, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.

The backdrop of the beach is relatively undeveloped, allowing visitors to enjoy a sense of serenity and unspoiled natural beauty. The nearby Ada Bojana Island, formed by a river delta, is an additional attraction, renowned for its nudist resort and relaxed bohemian atmosphere. Velika Plaza’s unique combination of natural charm and serene environment, coupled with the warm Mediterranean climate, makes it a hidden gem on the Montenegrin coast, offering a tranquil escape from the more crowded tourist spots in the region.

Geography and Beach Conditions

The shores here are gentle and sandy. In certain spots, the sea reaches a depth of about one and a half meters just 70 meters from the coast. Because of the fine sand, the water can appear slightly cloudy compared with rocky beaches. There are no coves or bays along the whole length of Velika Plaza in Montenegro, so the wind is continually blowing and waves are rising. This unique composition makes the beach a genuine haven for kitesurfers.

The Montenegrin name “Velika Plaza” is often translated as “Great Beach.” The shoreline is enormous — about 20% of Montenegro’s total beach area. Velika Plaza attracts travelers not only by its size but also by its unusual dark sand of volcanic origin. A similar sand exists on only one other beach in Montenegro, located on the island of the same name on the border with Albania.

A river separates Velika Plaza from the nearby Ada Bojana island. The vast majority of the island’s shoreline is dedicated to a naturist resort, yet there are also regular public sections. Farther south, the river forms the border between Montenegro and Albania. Consider renting a small boat for a ride along the island or up the Bojana River, or go for a walk around Ada Bojana.

Beach Rules and Regulations in Montenegro

Montenegro relies heavily on tourism. The comfort of visitors is treated with great care, and there are important rules to maintain quality and access:

1. The whole coastline is solely state property. There are no private beaches in Montenegro.
2. The state frequently rents beaches; however, the requirements for leased beaches are strict.
3. Cleaning on the beaches during the tourist season happens daily — typically twice a day, morning and evening.
4. Paid sunbeds can occupy up to half of the beach area. The remainder is free for towel space.
5. In front of hotels, the entire beach section can be lined with sunbeds; however, they must be free for hotel guests.
6. Entrance to any beach and access to the sea are free for everyone. No decorative barriers may block public access.

These laws are rarely disregarded. Some beaches restrict free visiting (you can reach them only by booking a restaurant table), some nearby beaches require payment (you need to rent a sunbed set), and access to the King’s beach near the Miločer estate is only possible by paying for lawn chairs (around €120 per set). These are exceptions. In the end, wherever you are staying, you can easily find a free and suitable beach to enjoy.

Facilities and Services at Velika Plaza

Just behind the main stretch lies Ada Bojana island, and beyond it is Albania. Velika Plaza comprises twelve distinct beach sectors. Each has sunbeds with umbrellas, restrooms, and showers. You’ll also find parking areas, playgrounds, cafés, and other facilities. Some sections remain free of sunbeds and other equipment. Parking lots are large; it’s often possible to park in the shade.

Along the shore, expect several rows of sunbeds, changing cabins, showers, restrooms, and large loungers for massage, plus beach cafés. The typical cost for a set of two sunbeds and one umbrella in high season starts around €10 (off‑season often about €7), with similar pricing across the beach sectors. There are no large cities right next to Velika Plaza, but you’ll find plenty of traveler‑oriented shops and cafés in nearby villages.

Kitesurfing Academies

There are surf stations in the southern part of Velika Plaza. Both experts and beginners come here. There are classes for all levels, equipment for rent, experienced instructors, and often a café on site. Kitesurfing at Velika Plaza is ideal for novices. The wind here typically blows 2–5 hours per day in a consistent direction, making learning simple, and the experts love this spot. The best time to arrive at the stations is from late June to mid‑August.

Floating Restaurants

The beach is bordered by the Bojana River, which separates it from the island of Ada Bojana. Here, directly on the river, there are locally owned eateries often called Floating Restaurants. These establishments serve fresh fish sourced on and around Velika Plaza. You can choose both sea and river fish because the waterway connects Lake Skadar with the Adriatic Sea. Don’t expect fine dining; these are simple spots travelers love for delicious, fresh food.

How to Get to Velika Plaza

The Adriatic Highway (also called the Jadran Route) is the only major highway that runs along the Montenegrin coast and connects the resort towns. From Budva and Kotor, you can reach Velika Plaza by car or via bus plus taxi.

By Car

The best way to get to Velika Plaza from other Montenegrin resorts is by car — your own or a rental. Take the coastal Jadran road south. When you arrive in Ulcinj, follow the signs to “Velika Plaža.” From the start of the beach (after crossing the Port Milena canal over the bridge), there’s an asphalt road for a few kilometers that runs along the beach sectors.

By Bus

Public transportation in Montenegro is fairly well developed, yet buses don’t go directly to the beach. First, get to Ulcinj, then choose one of the following:

1. Use a taxi (about €10–15). You can often negotiate the fare.
2. In tourist season, boat shuttles operate between Ulcinj and Velika Plaza (about €4).
3. Walk from the last bus stop (about 40 minutes). A more scenic cliffside path above the sea takes ~90 minutes. No guide needed; a paper map or Google Maps is enough.

Where to Stay Near Velika Plaza

There are many accommodation options near Velika Plaza, from hostels to modern hotels with stunning sea views. Below are some of the highly rated stays based on traveler reviews.

Hotel Otrant is rated “Good.” This four-star property sits at the beginning of Velika Plaza, 3 km from Ulcinj’s Old Town. It offers two restaurants and is only one minute from the sea. The hotel primarily caters to adult travelers. HTP Apartments are rated “Acceptable.” Located 300 meters from Mojito Beach, the apartments offer private parking and round‑trip airport transfers.

Niki Apartments are rated “Awesome.” If you are searching for quiet and serenity, this is a good fit. It takes just 10 minutes to reach the beach. These apartments are surrounded by a large green garden, with balconies and kitchenettes. Solace Apartments is rated “Excellent.” The aparthotel is situated around 1 km from the sandy shore. It offers air‑conditioned studios with a kitchen or kitchenette and a private bathroom. Arriving by car is ideal to explore the area. The property has its own pool.

Best Time to Visit Velika Plaza

Late May to late September offers the best beach weather. July–August are the hottest and busiest months, with water temperatures often 24–27°C. For fewer crowds and still‑warm seas, June and September are ideal. Kitesurfers will find the most reliable afternoon winds from late June to mid‑August.

Prices and Costs at Velika Plaza in 2025

• Sunbed set (2 beds + 1 umbrella): typically €10–15 in high season; €7–10 in shoulder seasons (varies by sector and front‑row placement).
• Parking: usually free or a small local fee near certain sectors in peak months.
• Boat shuttle Ulcinj ↔ Velika Plaza (high season): around €4 per person.
• Casual meals at floating restaurants on the Bojana River: expect moderate prices for fresh fish.

Accessibility and Family Facilities at Velika Plaza

Velika Plaza’s long, shallow entry makes it family‑friendly. Several sectors have paved walkways, ramps, and wide spaces between sunbed rows. Restrooms and showers are common, and some cafés provide high chairs and kids’ menus. Always confirm accessibility features with a specific beach operator if they are essential to your visit.

Safety and Beach Etiquette

• Swim zones: Respect buoyed swim areas and watch for kitesurfing corridors, especially on windy afternoons.
• Sun protection: The beach is very open; bring reef‑safe sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water.
• Marine life: Occasional jellyfish can appear in late summer; heed local notices.
• Cash and cards: Many cafés accept cards, but small cash is useful for parking and sunbed attendants.

Sustainability and Environment at Velika Plaza

Help preserve the dunes and fragile coastal vegetation by using marked paths and avoiding off‑road driving. Sort waste where bins are provided, and consider bringing a reusable water bottle. Local initiatives periodically organize beach cleanups; joining one is a great way to give back.

Practical Tips for Visiting

• Wind pattern: Expect calmer mornings and windier afternoons — plan kitesurfing or lessons accordingly.
• Rows and pricing: Front‑row sunbeds cost more; ask attendants before settling in.
• Connectivity: Mobile data is generally good; beach Wi‑Fi varies by café.
• ATMs: Available in Ulcinj; bring some cash for beach extras.
• Driving: Follow signs for “Velika Plaža” and “Ada Bojana.” Avoid driving on the sand.

Velika Plaza FAQs (Updated 2025)