You might not hear much about it, but Zagorska Sand beach in Montenegro boasts a Google Maps rating of 4.7.

It has been praised as an ideal spot for those looking to escape the daily grind and enjoy the serene sounds of the waves.

Situated at the base of Zagora village in Donja Grebelj, this secluded beach attracts many visitors.

The open sea offers tranquility and an incredibly clear, almost surreal shade of blue that captivates travelers, especially those arriving by boat from Budva, which takes about 45 minutes.

Zagorje Sand is marked on maritime maps as Nerin Bay. Adventure seekers, including divers and rock jumpers, find it hard to resist this hidden gem.

When you arrive at the beach, you’re greeted by peace, the soothing sounds of water, and a cell signal that’s practically non-existent. It’s essential to bring everything you need in coolers or bags, as there are minimal amenities, except for some rock formations resembling caves where you can leave your umbrellas.

“Challenging to Reach, but Worth It”

“An absolute treasure that requires navigating a rugged trail… the water is crystal clear, but be sure to wear shoes for the rocks and sea urchins. This beach lacks amenities, so bring everything you’ll need, but it’s worth the trek,” say visitors.

“My favorite beach, a hidden gem… If you can’t handle a tough walk, give it one star, but it’s great exercise,” some reviews on Google Maps state.

Almost every reviewer emphasizes the importance of taking your trash back with you, as there are no bins available.

The Stunning View

Though its name suggests sandy shores, the beach is actually surrounded by rocky terrain.

Anyone hiking in should be prepared for a workout.

We tested the land route, which is particularly challenging on the return due to steep and rocky paths.

Visitors arriving by car can park on a cliff that offers breathtaking panoramic views.

Many stop to snap photos of the scenery.

Most park their cars partway and walk the remaining 15 minutes to the bay.

Terrain to the Water

On the way to the bay, you’ll notice trails made by off-road vehicles. While it’s possible to drive close to the beach, there’s a risk that the return trip could prove difficult.

We saw this with a 25-year-old Lada Niva, struggling on multiple sharp turns (there are nine!).

Locals tend to organize trips to the beach on weekends, with younger folks hiking and older individuals opting for tractors as a safer choice.

Anyone planning to spend the day at this beach should prepare for a challenging return trip. It’s recommended to bring a full day’s supply of food and drink, including prosciutto, cheese, tomatoes, and chilled watermelon.

Affection for Zagorje

Locals express a strong connection to Zagorje Sand, often delighting in their newfound family members and offering high praise for the unique area.

The love for Zagorje Sand is readily apparent when interacting with the locals, who show great respect for their natural surroundings.

Last year saw fewer protests when locals learned that a public company planned to conduct a tender for leasing the beach.

They stood firm in their refusal to allow any commercial development, wanting Zagorje to remain a natural space.

“This Beach Belongs to the Locals”

“This is a beach for local families who want to experience wild nature and avoid commercialization,” locals asserted.

They also signed a petition to prevent leasing Zagorje Sand, which could restrict access for swimming and relaxation.

Local officials responded, assuring residents there would be no tenders that might impact their ability to enjoy the beach.

They protested against rowdy visitors, particularly foreign tourists, and requested inspections of off-road vehicles that had made their way onto the beach.

While some visitors lack the same sense of responsibility, conscientious locals and environmentally-aware tourists work together to maintain the beach, ensuring that litter doesn’t make it into the water.

This site attracts couples, larger groups, and families seeking a more authentic experience in Montenegro beyond the usual tourist trails.

Jelena Andrić, Forbes Serbia