Šunj Beach (Lopud): Sandy Beach Near Dubrovnik + How to Visit

Šunj Beach is one of the rare sandy beaches in the vicinity of Dubrovnik - a wide, shallow bay on car-free Lopud in the Elaphiti Islands. It’s best known for soft sand underfoot, knee-deep water that stays shallow for a long way out, and an easy island-day-trip feel just one ferry ride from Dubrovnik.

Šunj sits on the outer side of Lopud, roughly a 20-30 minute walk from the harbour and the village area (including the Lopud Bay beaches). In the main season, electric golf cart transfers usually operate as a convenient alternative if you’re travelling with kids, beach gear, or anyone who prefers to skip the walk.

Šunj Beach quick overview

• Beach type: Sandy bay with very shallow, gently sloping water
• Best for: Families, relaxed swimming, wading, and anyone who prefers sand over pebbles
• How to get there: Dubrovnik → Lopud ferry, then walk (about 20–30 min) or take a seasonal golf cart transfer
• Shade: Limited on the sand - bring sun protection, especially in summer
• Facilities: Typically most services in peak season (food/drinks, rentals, basic amenities)
• FKK area: A section is traditionally naturist; the central area is usually the most family-oriented
• Good to know: It stays shallow for a long distance, so you’ll walk farther to reach deeper swimming

Quick answers

• How do you get to Šunj Beach? Take the ferry from Dubrovnik to Lopud, then cross the island to Šunj either on foot (typically around 20-30 minutes) or via seasonal electric golf cart transfers. Most visitors come as part of a day trip from Dubrovnik, so the key planning step is checking return ferry times before you head to the beach.
• Is it better to walk or take a golf cart? Walk if you’re travelling light and want a simple, scenic route across the island. The golf cart is the more comfortable choice in summer heat, with children, or if you’re carrying towels, water, and snorkel gear. If mobility or stamina is a concern, plan on the cart and save your energy for the beach.
• What is Šunj Beach like? Šunj is a broad sandy shoreline with very shallow water that stays ankle- to knee-deep for a long way out. That makes it especially popular for families and relaxed swimming, but it also means strong swimmers may need to wade out farther to find deeper water. Compared with many Adriatic beaches, the soft sand is the main draw.
• Are there toilets, showers, and sunbeds? In peak season, Šunj typically has the most services on Lopud’s “outer” side, including places for drinks and simple meals and rental options like sunbeds and umbrellas. Outside the busiest summer period, services can be reduced, so it’s smart to bring water, snacks, and your own shade if you’re visiting in shoulder season.
• Where is the FKK (naturist) area? Part of Šunj is traditionally used by naturists, usually toward one end of the bay rather than the central organised section. If you want a classic family atmosphere, set up closer to the busiest middle area and beach bars. If you’re specifically looking for the quieter naturist zone, walk toward the less developed side of the beach.
• When is the best time to visit? For fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, arrive in the morning or later afternoon rather than midday. July and August are the busiest months (especially with Dubrovnik day-trippers), while late spring and early autumn are often calmer with pleasant swimming conditions. If you want the beach at its quietest, avoid the peak ferry arrival window.

What makes Šunj different from many beaches around Dubrovnik is how easy it is to spend an unhurried, full "beach day" here: soft sand instead of pebbles, a shallow bay that suits kids and casual swimmers, and enough seasonal services to keep things comfortable without losing the island feel. Next, we’ll cover exactly where Šunj is on Lopud and the simplest ways to reach it - including ferry planning, walking directions, and when a golf cart transfer is worth it.

Where is Šunj Beach on Lopud?

Šunj Beach (Uvala Šunj) is on the south to south-east side of Lopud, on the opposite side of the island from the main harbour and village. Because Lopud is car-free, the beach is reached on foot or by small local transfers, which is part of what keeps the bay feeling relaxed even in peak summer.

The walk from the harbour area and the main promenade is roughly 1.6-2 km each way, usually around 20-30 minutes depending on pace and heat. You cross the low ridge through shaded woodland sections, then drop into the wide sandy bay. The closest "landmarks" on the Lopud village side are the waterfront and the Lopud Bay beaches, which makes Šunj an easy add-on to any Lopud day trip.

• Island: Lopud (Elaphite Islands), Dubrovnik Region
• Position on Lopud: South to south-east coast, outer side of the island
• Distance from Lopud harbour: About 1.6-2 km one way
• Typical walking time: About 20-30 minutes (longer in midday heat or with beach gear)

In practical terms: if you arrive by ferry, you start at Lopud harbour, follow the signed footpath across the island, and you will reach the sand as the bay opens up in front of you. If you are short on time, travelling with children, or carrying bags, a seasonal golf cart transfer can save the walk while still keeping the trip simple.

How to get to Šunj Beach

Getting to Šunj is a simple two-step trip: (1) ferry from Dubrovnik to Lopud, then (2) cross Lopud on foot or by seasonal transfer. Lopud is car-free, so once you arrive at the harbour you either walk the marked path to the other side of the island or take a local electric golf cart taxi.

Step 1: Dubrovnik to Lopud ferry

Public ferries to Lopud depart from Dubrovnik's main port area (Gruž) and continue to other Elaphiti islands like Koločep and Šipan on the same route. For the most practical planning overview (including where to buy tickets and how the lines work), see our guide to the Dubrovnik to Elaphiti Islands ferry.

2026 ticket prices (Dubrovnik - Lopud, one way): adults pay EUR 3.40 in the off-season (Jan 1 - May 28, 2026 and Sep 28 - Dec 31, 2026) and EUR 5.40 in the main season (May 29 - Sep 27, 2026). Children aged 3-12 pay EUR 1.90 year-round, while children under 3 travel free (infants under 1 are noted on the adult ticket; ages 1-3 receive a free ticket).

• Where you depart: Dubrovnik port (Gruž)
• Where you arrive: Lopud harbour (main settlement)
• Tickets: buy at the port or online where available
• Timetables: sailings are seasonal and can change, so always re-check the latest official schedule before your trip

If you are travelling in peak summer, aim for an earlier departure so you get the calmest beach time and more flexibility for the return. On some dates, services can differ from weekday patterns, so do not assume the same timetable every day.

Step 2: Lopud harbour to Šunj (walk, golf cart, boat taxi)

From the harbour promenade, follow signs for "Šunj" and cross the island on the main footpath. The route is easy to navigate, with a short steeper section near the ridge, then a gentle descent into the bay.

• Walk: about 20-30 minutes one way (longer in midday heat or with bags). Wear trainers or sturdy sandals for the hill.
• Electric golf cart taxi: a popular shortcut in summer, especially for families and anyone carrying gear. Prices vary by season and provider, so confirm the fare before you set off.
• Boat taxi: in peak season, small boats may offer transfers depending on the day and demand.

A simple strategy is to take the cart one way (to save energy in the heat) and walk back when temperatures are lower.

Return trip tips (do not miss the last boat)

• Check the last return sailing to Dubrovnik before you leave the harbour for the beach.
• Build in buffer time: plan to leave Šunj 30-45 minutes before departure if walking back, or earlier if you want to stop for food.
• Carry some cash: local transfers (especially golf carts) can be informal and cash-friendly.
• Shoulder season reality: fewer sailings and fewer beach services, so plan snacks, water, and shade accordingly.

What to expect at Šunj Beach

Šunj is popular because it feels different from many beaches around Dubrovnik. Instead of pebbles, you get a sandy seabed and a wide, gently sloping bay, so the water stays shallow for a long distance. That makes it especially appealing for families, casual swimmers, and anyone who wants an easy, relaxed beach day on Lopud.

Sand, shallow water, and swimming conditions

The main draw is the combination of soft sand and a gradual entry into the sea. You can wade out slowly, float, and swim without sudden drop-offs, and kids can play close to shore (with normal supervision). If you prefer deeper water for longer swims, you will usually need to walk farther out than you would at a steep pebble beach.

Shade, sun exposure, and comfort

While the bay is backed by greenery, the sandy area itself has limited natural shade, especially around the central organised zone. In peak summer, plan for strong sun and very hot sand around midday - beach shoes or sandals make a big difference for walking comfortably, especially for children. Bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and extra water, or rent an umbrella if available when you arrive.

Best time to visit (season and time of day)

Šunj can get busy in July and August because it is one of the best-known sandy beach day trips from Dubrovnik. For a calmer experience, arrive earlier in the day (before the main wave of ferry visitors and excursions) or come later in the afternoon when many day-trippers start heading back. Late spring and early autumn are often more relaxed while still offering excellent swimming conditions.

If you want the Šunj experience without planning your whole day around ferry timetables and peak arrival windows, a private boat trip is the easiest upgrade. You can depart when it suits you, stop for a swim in quieter coves en route, and arrive at Šunj when the bay is at its calmest - then linger as long as you like before heading back. It’s ideal for couples and families who want a stress-free beach day, extra space, and the flexibility to avoid the biggest crowds.

Facilities, rentals, and beach services

Šunj is set up for a comfortable beach day in the main season, with the most services usually concentrated around the central, busiest part of the bay. Outside peak summer, expect fewer options and bring more of what you need (water, snacks, and your own shade) in case rentals or bars are limited on the day.

Toilets, showers, and changing

Basic amenities are typically available at Šunj during the main visitor months, including public toilets and outdoor showers, plus simple changing facilities near the organised beach area. If you are visiting early or late in the season, do not assume everything is operating all day - plan a bit more self-sufficiently and use the harbour area as your reliable backup for supplies.

Sunbeds and umbrellas

In summer, you can usually rent sunbeds and umbrellas at Šunj, which is worth it if you are staying through midday heat because natural shade on the sand is limited. Prices can change by season and operator, but commonly range around EUR 5-10 per sunbed or umbrella for the day, and some local providers list rentals around EUR 7 per item per day. If you care about a specific setup (two beds plus one umbrella), ask the total price before you sit down and confirm whether it is per item or a set.

Food and drink

You will usually find at least one beach bar or casual restaurant at Šunj in peak season, serving cold drinks, coffee, and simple meals you can eat between swims. If you want a long, sit-down lunch, many visitors return to the harbour-side restaurants in Lopud village after the beach, but staying at Šunj for a lighter meal is easy when the beach bar is operating.

Water activities and rentals

Beyond swimming and floating, Šunj is a good spot for easy water play because the bay is protected and shallow. In summer, you may find rentals such as pedal boats, stand-up paddleboards, or small boats through local operators on Lopud, and you can also join organised activities like sea kayaking day tours that include the sandy bays around the island. Availability is seasonal, so if a specific activity matters to you, plan it for the busiest months or book ahead.

FKK (naturist) area and beach etiquette

Šunj is a mixed beach: most visitors use the central area in swimwear, while a dedicated section is traditionally used as FKK (naturist). The split is usually obvious on the ground, and there is often a small sign marking the naturist side. If you are travelling with children or prefer a classic family beach atmosphere, set up in the busier middle section closer to the beach bars and rentals.

Where is the FKK area? When you are facing the sea, the FKK section is typically on the left side of Šunj. If you want to avoid it, simply walk a little toward the centre or right-hand side of the bay and you will be in the standard textile zone.

• Respect the zones: If you choose the FKK side, expect naturist norms and keep a comfortable distance from others.
• Photography: Avoid taking photos or videos that include other beachgoers, especially on the naturist side.
• Keep it low-key: Šunj is relaxed, but it is still a shared public space. Loud music and disruptive behaviour are not appreciated.
• Families: The most family-oriented area is usually the central part of the beach where services are concentrated.

If you are unsure where to sit, start in the central area, then take a short walk along the shoreline to get a feel for the vibe on each side before you commit to a spot.

Are dogs allowed at Šunj Beach?

Yes - Šunj Beach is generally considered pet-friendly, and dogs are commonly seen on the beach during the day. That said, local rules can change seasonally and the most important thing is what is posted on-site, so check any signs when you arrive and follow instructions from beach staff if rentals or organised areas are operating.

• Keep dogs on a leash when walking through busy areas, especially near the central beach bars and sunbed zone.
• Choose quieter edges of the bay if your dog is nervous around crowds or kids, or if the middle section is packed.
• Bring water and shade for your dog - the sand and sun can be intense in midsummer, and there is limited natural shade on the beach.
• Clean up after your pet and be respectful of other swimmers, especially in shallow areas where children play.

If you want the easiest dog-friendly plan, visit in the morning or later afternoon when the beach is less crowded, then return to the village promenade for shade and a calmer walk back to the harbour.

Tips for families, swimmers, and older travellers

Šunj is one of the most family-friendly beaches in the Dubrovnik region because the bay stays shallow and the seabed is sandy rather than rocky. With a little planning, it can also be a comfortable beach day for older travellers and anyone who prefers an easier swim setup.

• Bring beach shoes: the sand can get very hot around midday in summer, especially for children walking between the towel and the water.
• Plan shade: natural shade is limited on the sand, so pack a hat and sun protection, or arrive early to secure an umbrella rental if available.
• Pack extra water and snacks: beach bars are usually seasonal, and it is always easier if you are not dependent on what happens to be open that day.
• For confident swimmers: expect to wade farther out to reach deeper water because the slope is very gentle.
• For older travellers: consider the seasonal golf cart transfer from the harbour to avoid the warm uphill walk, especially in July and August.
• Keep an eye on the return plan: if you are day-tripping from Dubrovnik, check the last ferry time before you settle in for the afternoon.

If you are visiting with very small children, a simple strategy is to arrive early, spend the hottest hours under an umbrella, then leave Šunj before peak afternoon heat and walk back when the path is quieter.

Accessibility notes (paths, surfaces, mobility options)

Lopud is car-free, so reaching Šunj always involves either walking or using a small local transfer. If anyone in your group has limited mobility, plans to use a stroller, or prefers to avoid hills, it is worth thinking about the crossing before you leave the harbour.

• Walking route: the main path is straightforward but includes a short uphill section and uneven surfaces in places. In summer heat, the climb can feel harder on the way to the beach.
• Strollers: a sturdy, larger-wheel stroller is more comfortable than a lightweight travel stroller. Many families find it easier to use a baby carrier for the hill, then switch to the stroller on flatter sections.
• Wheelchairs: the cross-island path and the sandy beach itself can be challenging for standard wheelchairs. If accessibility is a priority, plan on local assistance and consider whether a seasonal transfer can help with the harbour-to-beach crossing.
• Golf cart transfers: in the main season, electric golf cart taxis are often the simplest way to reduce walking and arrive at the beach without the hill. Confirm pickup points and pricing at the harbour before you set off.
• Heat and footing: bring supportive footwear for the walk and beach shoes for the sand, which can become extremely hot around midday in summer.

If you are unsure whether the walk will be comfortable, a good compromise is to take a golf cart to Šunj and walk back later when temperatures are lower, or vice versa.

Plan your visit

A little planning goes a long way at Sunj. Because most visitors come on a day trip, the two things that shape your experience are timing (when you arrive and leave) and comfort (shade, water, and footwear for hot sand).

How long to stay at Sunj Beach

If you want a quick swim and photos, 2-3 hours is enough. For a proper beach day with swimming, lunch, and downtime, plan 4-6 hours and bring or rent shade. Families often prefer a split-day approach: arrive early, take a longer break during the hottest midday period, then head back before the last return ferry pressure builds.

Easy half-day plan (Dubrovnik day trip)

• Morning option: take an earlier ferry to Lopud, cross to Sunj before the main crowd arrives, swim and relax, then return to the harbour-side promenade for lunch and an easy ferry back.
• Afternoon option: arrive later, take a golf cart across if it is very hot, enjoy the softer light and calmer water, and leave Sunj with enough buffer time for the walk or transfer back to the harbour.
• Always do this first: check the return sailing time before you leave Lopud harbour, then work backwards so you are not rushing off the beach.

Want more flexibility than the ferry schedule?

If you would rather skip the “last boat back” stress and avoid arriving at the same time as the biggest crowds, a boat tour can be the most relaxed way to do Sunj. With a skipper and a set itinerary, you can time your visit for quieter hours, add extra swim stops in hidden coves, and combine Sunj with other highlights around the Elaphiti Islands in one smooth day on the water. It is a great choice for couples, families, and small groups who want a more private, comfortable beach day with zero timetable juggling.

What to pack

• Beach shoes or sandals: the sand can get extremely hot around midday in summer.
• Sun protection: high-SPF sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses. Natural shade is limited on the sand.
• Water and snacks: beach services are best in peak season, but you will be happier if you are not dependent on what is open.
• Light layers: a thin cover-up or shirt for the walk back, especially if there is breeze across the bay.
• Cash: useful for local transfers and small purchases.
• Snorkel mask: optional, but fun for looking around the rocky edges of the bay.

More things to do on Lopud

Šunj is the headline attraction, but Lopud is worth more than a quick beach stop. Because the island is car-free, the pace is slower and it is easy to combine a swim at Šunj with a shaded promenade walk, a coffee by the harbour, and a quieter beach on the village side before you head back.

• Lopud Bay beaches - the easy option near the ferry, with sand, cafes, and a more convenient setup if you do not want to cross the island.
• Dordic-Mayneri family park - a surprisingly large, shady garden near the harbour area, perfect for a cool-down break after the beach.
• Explore Lopud village - stroll the waterfront promenade, browse small shops, and pick a harbour-side spot for lunch before the return sailing.
• Visit the historic monastery and churches - Lopud has a rich maritime past, and a short wander inland reveals old stone buildings, quiet lanes, and viewpoints that feel far from Dubrovnik crowds.

If you find yourself rushing to squeeze everything into one ferry day, consider staying overnight. With an early morning swim, a quieter Sunj visit, and a slower evening on the harbour promenade, Lopud feels like a different island once the day-trippers leave. For options close to the harbour or tucked into quieter lanes, see our guide to hotels and accommodation on Lopud.

If you are interested in legends: The wretched woman of Lopud (the legend of Šunj)

Where to stay on Lopud

If you want to enjoy Šunj at its best, an overnight stay on Lopud is the simplest upgrade. You can visit the beach early in the morning or late afternoon when it is quieter, avoid ferry rush hours, and enjoy the harbour promenade after the day-trippers leave.

Most accommodation is clustered around Lopud harbour and along the main promenade, which is the most convenient base for restaurants, shops, and ferry departures. If you prefer a calmer stay, look for smaller guesthouses and apartments set a little inland, where nights are quieter but you are still only a short walk from the waterfront.

• Best location for day trips: stay near the harbour to make ferry departures and arrivals effortless.
• Best for peace and quiet: choose accommodation slightly inland, away from the busiest promenade spots.
• Best for Šunj access: anywhere near the harbour works well, then use the walk or a seasonal golf cart transfer to reach the beach.

For a curated list of places to stay, including hotels, apartments, and seasonal availability, visit our guide to hotels and accommodation on Lopud.

Recommended tours that include Šunj Beach

If you want a more effortless Šunj day (and do not want to plan around ferry timetables, crowds, or the last return sailing), a guided tour can be the most comfortable option. Tours also let you combine Šunj with other Elaphiti highlights in one day, like swim stops in quiet bays, snorkeling breaks, and short island visits that would be harder to coordinate independently.

Below are a few tour styles that work especially well for Šunj, depending on whether you want maximum flexibility, a relaxed group day, or an active adventure on the water.

Private speedboat tours

Best for couples, families, and small groups who want control over timing. You can arrive at Šunj outside the busiest windows, add extra swim stops, and decide how long you stay without watching the clock. This is the easiest way to enjoy the beach with a more "private" feel and a smoother, higher-comfort day on the water.

Small-group island cruises and cave swim tours

Best if you want a social, good-value day out with a set itinerary. These tours often combine Šunj Beach with sea cave swim stops and a cruise past scenic coastline, with swim and snorkel time built in. They are a great choice if you want the highlights without doing any planning.

Active tours from Lopud

Already staying on Lopud? Consider kayaking and snorkeling trips that explore the channels around the islands, with stops at caves and quieter coves. They pair perfectly with Šunj because you can do the active part in the morning or late afternoon and still enjoy an easy beach break in the middle of the day.

Address & contact details

Street: Šunj beach
Postcode: 20222
City: Lopud

FAQ: Šunj Beach (Lopud)

How do you get to Šunj Beach?

First take a ferry from Dubrovnik (Gruž port) to Lopud. From Lopud harbour, you cross the island to Šunj either on foot (usually 20-30 minutes) or by seasonal electric golf cart taxi. Always check return ferry times before you leave the harbour.

How long is the walk from Lopud harbour to Šunj Beach?

Most people take around 20-30 minutes each way. The route includes a short uphill section and can feel much harder in midday summer heat, especially with beach bags. If you want the easiest option, take a golf cart one way and walk back later when it is cooler.

Is Šunj Beach sandy?

Yes. Šunj is one of the best-known sandy beaches near Dubrovnik, with sand on the shore and a sandy seabed in the shallow bay. It is popular specifically because it feels different from the pebble beaches that are common along the Adriatic coast.

Is the water shallow at Šunj Beach?

Yes. The bay slopes very gently, so it stays shallow for a long distance, which is one reason it is so family-friendly. If you want deeper swimming, you will usually need to wade farther out than you would at a steep pebble beach.

Are there toilets, showers, and sunbed rentals?

In peak season, Šunj typically has the most services, including beach bars and rental options like sunbeds and umbrellas, plus basic amenities such as toilets and outdoor showers. Outside the busiest summer months, services can be reduced, so bring water, snacks, and your own shade if you are visiting in shoulder season.

Where is the FKK (naturist) area at Šunj Beach?

Šunj is a mixed beach with a traditional naturist section. When facing the sea, the FKK area is typically on the left side of the bay, while the central area is usually the most family-oriented. If you are unsure, start in the middle section and walk along the shore to choose the vibe that suits you.

Is Šunj Beach good for kids?

Yes. Shallow water and sand make it one of the easiest beach choices for families on the Elaphiti Islands. Bring beach shoes or sandals in midsummer because the sand can get extremely hot around midday, and plan for shade because natural shade on the sand is limited.

Are dogs allowed at Šunj Beach?

Dogs are commonly seen at Šunj, but rules can change seasonally and the final word is what is posted on-site. If you bring a dog, keep it leashed through busy areas, carry water, and choose the quieter edges of the bay if the centre is crowded.

Is Šunj Beach accessible for strollers or wheelchairs?

The cross-island route includes uneven surfaces and a short uphill section, and the sand itself can be difficult for standard wheelchairs. A sturdy stroller with larger wheels is more comfortable than a lightweight travel stroller, and many families prefer a carrier for the hill. In the main season, a golf cart transfer can reduce walking for anyone with limited mobility.