To witness the transformation of one of Montenegro’s most beautiful beaches into a concrete expanse, simply visit Galija Beach.

Ksenija Šoljaga, councilor from the Movement for the City, shared her thoughts on the ongoing construction at the beach near Sveti Stefan.

The Vijesti editorial team was given access to a video showcasing the significant work being done at this once-hidden gem.

“In the lead-up to the tourist season, we are witnessing unscrupulous concreting and illegal construction that is systematically ruining our coastal natural heritage. Sadly, this is occurring under the watchful eye of the Public Enterprise ‘Morsko dobro’, which seems to be ignoring blatant legal violations and environmental destruction. It raises an important question: whose interests are they serving if not those of the citizens and our coastal protection? Such activities represent a direct assault on Montenegro’s natural resources as well as a negative impact on tourism and the economy. Is replacing sand with concrete and illegal construction for planned development the vision of our governing bodies?”

“We urge all responsible parties to act immediately, halt this brazen destruction, and prioritize the interests of Budva’s citizens and all of Montenegro over those of a select few. The coast is not privately owned; it belongs to everyone!” stated Šoljaga.

The “Sveti Stefan” Local Community has also lodged a protest, demanding prompt action from the authorities.

Blažo Kažanegra, a local resident and civic activist, lamented that Galija Beach is no more.

“Every concrete piece looks the same no matter the country—here, in China, or Dubai. However, every stretch of coastline is unique. We swiftly sacrifice our uniqueness for the sake of concrete. Ultimately, we will see that tourists do not come here for concrete, and concrete won’t hold any appeal,” he remarked.

Meanwhile, the tenant, the Podgorica-based company “Beach”, claims to have all requisite approvals, a certified investment project, and permits for beach development, alongside a submitted construction application to the Ministry of Spatial Planning.

The Public Company for Coastal Zone Management has dispatched inspectors to assess whether the construction is compliant with the approved project.

In March, a hillside collapse resulted in large boulders demolishing the restaurant and beach bar, which led the tenant to request remediation of the site.

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