Complete Travel Guide To Island Lopud, Croatia

Lopud is one of the Elaphiti Islands, a small car free island northwest of Dubrovnik. It has a single village, a long seafront promenade and several walking paths leading to quiet bays and viewpoints. The island is best known for Šunj, one of the rare sandy beaches in the Dubrovnik area, which makes Lopud popular with families, swimmers and day trippers looking for a slower pace between days in the city.

Regular ferries connect Dubrovnik and Lopud throughout the year, with more departures in summer, and the compact layout means you can easily explore the island on foot in a day or stay longer if you prefer a quieter base than the city.

Quick facts about Lopud Island

• Lopud is part of the Elaphiti Islands, located northwest of Dubrovnik.
• The island is fully car free, making it quiet and easy to explore on foot.
• Lopud village is the only settlement, set around a long seafront promenade.
• Šunj Beach on the far side of the island is one of the rare sandy beaches near Dubrovnik.
• Regular ferries from Dubrovnik operate year-round, with more departures in summer.
• Travel time from Dubrovnik to Lopud is usually 50-60 minutes, depending on stops.
• Best for families, swimmers, walkers and relaxed day trips.

Where is Lopud and how far is it from Dubrovnik?

Lopud is part of the Elaphiti Islands, a small archipelago northwest of Dubrovnik, located roughly in the middle between the islands of Koločep and Šipan. The island lies about 9 nautical miles from Dubrovnik, close enough for an easy day trip but far enough to feel quieter than the city.

Passenger ferries on the regular Dubrovnik - Koločep - Lopud - Šipan ferry line usually take around 45 to 60 minutes to reach Lopud, depending on the specific departure and intermediate stops. All ferries arrive into Lopud village, so you step off directly on the main seafront promenade.

Car free island and who it is best for

Lopud is completely car free, which is one of the reasons it remains quieter and more relaxed than many other islands near Dubrovnik. All movement on the island is on foot, with a few electric golf carts used for luggage transport and transfers to Šunj Beach.

This setup makes Lopud especially suitable for families with children, swimmers looking for a peaceful beach day, couples wanting a slow-paced escape, and anyone who prefers walking paths, coastal viewpoints and calm surroundings over busy resort areas.

Lopud in a day versus staying overnight

Lopud is compact enough to visit comfortably as a day trip from Dubrovnik. With regular ferries, you can walk the seafront, explore the village and spend several hours at Šunj Beach without feeling rushed, especially if you take an early departure.

Staying overnight offers a different experience. Once day trippers leave, the island becomes very quiet, with empty promenades, calm beaches and a slower rhythm that appeals to travellers looking for rest, swimming and evening walks. A small number of hotels and guesthouses operate seasonally, so booking ahead is recommended if you plan to stay longer.

How to get to Lopud Island from Dubrovnik

Most visitors reach Lopud by regular passenger ferry from Dubrovnik. The ferry runs year round on the Dubrovnik - Koločep - Lopud - Šipan route, with more departures during the main season, and all boats arrive directly to the waterfront in Lopud village. In summer you can also visit as part of organised Elaphiti islands boat trips that include swimming stops and time on Lopud.

Jadrolinija ferry route, travel time and ticket basics

The regular passenger service on the Dubrovnik - Koločep - Lopud - Šipan route is operated by Jadrolinija and runs throughout the year from Port Gruž. Ferries usually take 45 to 60 minutes to reach Lopud, depending on the departure time and intermediate stops.

During the main season there are several daily departures in each direction, making Lopud suitable for both early starts and relaxed afternoon visits. In July and August, for morning departures, arriving 45-60 minutes early is recommended. Ticket prices are stable each year and published in the official timetable. For 2025 the one way fare for adults is 4.91 EUR, with reduced fares for children aged 3 to 12 (typically 1.59 to 2.26 EUR depending on age). The 2026 fare is expected to follow the same pricing structure once released.

For the most accurate travel times and current prices, always check our detailed and frequently updated Dubrovnik - Lopud ferry timetable before travelling.

Private boat trips and Elaphiti island cruises that include Lopud

Besides the regular ferry, many visitors reach Lopud as part of organised Elaphiti islands boat tours from Dubrovnik. These full day or half day cruises usually visit all three main islands - Koločep, Lopud and Šipan - with time for swimming, walking through the villages and relaxing on Šunj Beach on Lopud. Lunch and drinks are often included on full day trips, making them a simple option if you prefer a packaged experience instead of planning everything yourself.

Private speedboat tours and yacht charters are also widely available, allowing you to customize the route and the time spent on each island. Typical itineraries combine swimming stops at caves and bays around Koločep with a longer stop on Lopud for the sandy beach, followed by a late afternoon visit to Šipan before returning to Dubrovnik. Prices vary depending on boat type, group size and season, so it is best to compare a few offers in advance and check what is included (fuel, drinks, lunch, pick up and drop off).

If you are mainly interested in spending time on Lopud Island itself rather than multiple islands, the regular ferry from Dubrovnik is usually the most economical and flexible option. Organised 3-island tours are a good choice if you want to see more of the Elaphiti archipelago in a single day and do not mind having a set schedule.

Best departure times and practical tips for day trippers

For a relaxed visit to Lopud, the best choice is usually a morning ferry departure. This gives you enough time to explore Lopud village, walk or transfer to Šunj Beach, swim, have lunch and return on a late afternoon or early evening ferry without feeling rushed.

During the main season, some departures fill quickly, especially the first boat of the day and the mid-morning return from Lopud. It is a good idea to arrive at Port Gruž at least 20-30 minutes early to buy tickets and board without stress. For the way back, the busiest return times are usually between 16:00 and 18:00.

Lopud is a car free island, so plan on walking. The footpath to Šunj takes around 20 to 30 minutes, but you can also use golf cart transfers or boat taxis from the harbor if you prefer to save time or avoid the hill. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water in summer, as shade is limited on the path.

If you intend to explore several islands in one day, consider an organised Elaphiti islands tour, but if your focus is mainly on Lopud, the regular ferry remains the most flexible and budget friendly option.

Best beaches and walks on Lopud Island

The beaches of Lopud Island are small but exceptionally scenic. Year after year, the shallow, sandy Šunj Beach is described as one of the finest family friendly beaches on the Dalmatian coast, thanks to its soft sand and long, gently sloping seabed. But Šunj is not the only place to swim here. The charming Bay of Lopud in front of the village has two smaller sandy beaches and several easy access swimming spots that keep a more traditional island feel.

This car free and very green island is made for combining easy walks and swimming. Well marked footpaths, shady sections through pine forest and panoramic viewpoints mean you can turn a simple beach day into a relaxed mini hike across the island. For more background and photos, you can also read about parks and beaches on Island Lopud.

Šunj Beach on Lopud Island

Šunj Beach is one of the few true sandy beaches in the Dubrovnik area. It lies on the far side of Lopud Island, in a broad, shallow bay backed by low green hills and pine trees. From the main village and beaches in Lopud Bay it is usually a 20 to 30 minute walk, or a shorter ride by golf cart or boat taxi. Golf cart transfers operate in season and are inexpensive, offering a quick alternative to walking. The bay is protected and the seabed is sandy for a long distance, so the water stays shallow for tens of meters, which is ideal for children, older visitors and non swimmers.

The main part of Šunj is a classic family beach, with sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, a couple of simple beach bars and restaurants, and basic facilities such as toilets and outdoor showers. In high season there are also options for water activities like stand up paddle boards or pedal boats, and you will often see excursion boats anchoring here for a few hours. Expect more crowds in July and August, especially in the central part of the bay, but it is usually quieter in the shoulder season and early or late in the day.

If you walk further west along the sand and pass the large rock at the edge of the main bay, you reach the unofficial FKK naturist section of the beach, where nudity is common and the atmosphere is calmer. This part has fewer facilities and more of a wild feel. Read more background and practical tips in our guide to FKK naturist beaches and campsites in Dubrovnik and Croatia.

Overall, Šunj works well if you want to spend several hours swimming and relaxing in one place. Families and anyone who prefers sand underfoot instead of pebbles will find it especially comfortable compared with many other beaches around Dubrovnik.

Lopud Bay beaches

The Bay of Lopud, right in front of the village where the ferry arrives, has two small sandy beaches and several concrete and rocky swimming points. These village beaches are very easy to reach, with cafés, restaurants and accommodation close by, so they are convenient if you only have a short time before or after your ferry or prefer to stay near the seafront promenade.

The shallow sandy sections in the bay are good for a quick dip with children, while stronger swimmers can head out a little further from the shore or use the ladders along the waterfront to enter deeper water. During the day the bay feels lively, with excursion boats coming and going and people walking the promenade, but in the early morning and evening it is often much quieter and more atmospheric.

If you walk a little away from the main central stretch of the bay you will find quieter corners where you can spread a towel on the sand or flat rocks and enjoy the view towards Šipan and the open sea.

Walk from Lopud town to Šunj Beach

One of the classic things to do on Lopud is to combine a walk across the island with swimming at Šunj. The route starts in Lopud, the only settlement on the island, which has just a few hundred permanent residents. From the seafront you pass old stone houses with traditional architecture, a former grand hotel and gardens full of flowers before the path climbs gently between two hills and continues through a stretch of pine and Mediterranean scrub.

The walk to Šunj is around 1.6 to 2 kilometers one way and usually takes about 25 minutes at a normal pace. The path is mostly paved or packed earth but can be uneven in places, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Shade comes and goes, especially in the middle of the day, so bring water, a hat and sunscreen in summer. On the way back you can either follow the same route or take a slightly different path for varied views over the island and sea.

If you prefer not to walk both ways, golf cart transfers operate between Lopud village and Šunj in season, and there are often boat taxis available directly from the harbor, which gives you a nice view of the coast from the sea.

Things to do on Lopud Island

Lopud is a small island, but there is plenty to fill a relaxed day: easy walks, beaches, quiet historic sites and a long seafront promenade with cafés and restaurants. Most activities are centered around Lopud village and the paths leading to Šunj, but if you enjoy exploring on foot, there are several viewpoints and hidden corners worth seeking out.

Strolling through Lopud village and the seafront promenade

Lopud village stretches along a wide, pedestrian seafront lined with palm trees, cafés and old stone houses. It is one of the most pleasant promenades in the Elaphiti Islands and perfect for a slow morning or early evening walk. From the harbor you can follow the waterfront past small sandy beaches, traditional houses with gardens, and the remains of the former Grand Hotel Lopud, once an elegant spa hotel from the early 20th century.

The village has several small churches, art galleries and a few local shops where you can buy snacks or beach items. For coffee or a simple lunch, many visitors choose one of the seaside terraces overlooking the bay.

Churches, monasteries and historic sites

Lopud has a long history as a maritime settlement, and several religious and historic buildings still stand today. The most striking is the Franciscan Monastery of Our Lady of Šunj, located on the eastern side of the bay. The monastery complex dates back to the 15th century and includes a stone cloister, a small church and a terrace with views over the sea and village.

On the opposite side of the bay sits the Church of St. Nicholas, another historic landmark with a quiet courtyard and a beautiful view of the waterfront. Scattered around the island you will also find remnants of summer residences, watchtowers and old stone paths used by islanders for centuries.

Short hikes and viewpoints, including the Spanish Fort

For travelers who enjoy walking, Lopud offers several short hikes that reward you with sweeping views over the Elaphiti archipelago. One of the best known is the climb to the Spanish Fort (Spanjola), a 16th century fortification set on a hill above the village. The walk takes about 20 minutes uphill and the viewpoint offers one of the best panoramas on the island, especially in the late afternoon when the sun lowers over Šipan.

You can also continue on lesser known paths towards small chapels, abandoned terraces and forested ridges. Most trails are easy to follow, but wearing proper footwear is recommended, as some sections are rocky or uneven.

Activities for families and relaxed visitors

Lopud is an easy destination for families thanks to its car free layout, shallow beaches and short walking distances. Children can safely play along the promenade and in the shallows of both Lopud Bay and Šunj. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are sometimes available in high season, and many visitors enjoy simple activities like collecting shells, walking to viewpoints, or feeding fish along the harbor walls.

For those wanting a calmer experience, the island is perfect for swimming, reading under the shade of pine trees, photography and slow exploration. Even at the height of summer, it is possible to find quieter corners if you wander a little away from the main village and Šunj’s central section.

Where to eat and drink on Lopud

Lopud has a small but good selection of places to eat, mostly concentrated along the seafront promenade in the main village. Expect simple, fresh Mediterranean food, seafood dishes, pasta, grilled fish, salads and easy beach friendly options. Because the island is car free, everything is within a short walk of the harbor.

Seafront restaurants and konobas in Lopud village

Most restaurants on Lopud overlook the bay, offering relaxed terrace seating and views of the sea. Menus often include grilled fish, seafood risotto, pasta dishes, and classic Dalmatian starters like octopus salad. Prices on the island are similar to Dubrovnik’s coastal areas, with higher prices in peak season and lower prices at lunch.

For a more traditional experience, look for small konobas tucked away from the main promenade that serve homemade dishes, local wine and simple grills. These spots can be quieter and feel more local, especially in the evenings once day trippers have left.

Reservations are usually not necessary at lunchtime but can be helpful in July and August for dinner, especially at the most popular seafront restaurants.

Cafes, ice cream and simple food near the beaches

Along the promenade you will find several cafes for coffee, cold drinks and ice cream, ideal for a break while exploring the village. Near the sandy beaches in Lopud Bay you can pick up snacks or a quick meal such as sandwiches, salads or pizza slices.

At Šunj Beach, two beach bars operate during the main season, serving drinks, simple meals and snacks. These are convenient if you plan to spend most of your day at the beach, but keep in mind that prices are often slightly higher than in the village.

Where to stay on Lopud Island

Lopud has a limited but appealing range of accommodation, mostly small hotels, boutique properties and family run guesthouses. Because the island is car free and very peaceful at night, staying here offers a quieter experience than Dubrovnik while still being easily connected by ferry.

Hotels and guesthouses overview

The island offers several small hotels and guesthouses, many of them located close to the seafront or within a short walk of the promenade. Rooms often come with balconies, sea views or access to gardens filled with citrus and pine trees. Accommodation is highly seasonal, with most places operating from spring to autumn, so booking early is recommended for stays in July and August.

Guesthouses and private rooms tend to offer the most affordable options, while boutique hotels provide more amenities such as pools, wellness areas or on site dining. Because the island is compact, no accommodation is far from the beaches or ferry arrival point.

Choosing between staying on Lopud or in Dubrovnik

Staying on Lopud Island is ideal if you want to slow down, spend most of your time at the beach and enjoy quiet evenings without traffic. It suits couples, families and travelers who prefer walking paths, nature and a relaxed rhythm.

If you decide to stay on the island, you can check availability and prices for hotels and apartments on Island Lopud in advance, especially for school holidays and peak summer dates.

Choosing Dubrovnik as your base gives you more nightlife, dining options, cultural attractions and flexibility for day trips. It is the better choice if you want to explore a different part of the region each day and return to a lively town in the evening. With several daily ferries, staying in Dubrovnik and visiting Lopud for the day is very easy, but staying on the island will always offer a more peaceful experience.

When to visit Lopud Island

Lopud can be visited year round, but the experience changes noticeably with the seasons. Most travelers come between May and October, when ferries run more frequently, restaurants are open and the sea is warm enough for swimming. Before planning a beach day, it can be helpful to check local conditions on our weather in Dubrovnik page, as Lopud follows the same coastal climate patterns. Outside the main season the island is very quiet, with fewer services, but still pleasant for walking and nature.

Weather and sea temperatures by season

From late spring to early autumn, Lopud enjoys typical Mediterranean weather with long sunny days and warm seas. June, July and August offer the warmest water and the most reliable beach weather, with sea temperatures usually between 23 and 26°C. May and September are excellent for those who prefer slightly cooler temperatures, fewer crowds and easier hiking conditions.

In October, the sea can still be warm enough for swimming at the beginning of the month, but expect more variable weather. From November to April, most businesses close and ferries operate only a basic schedule, although the island remains beautiful for quiet walks.

Crowds, ferry frequency and high season versus shoulder season

During high season (mid June to late August), Lopud receives many day trippers, and Šunj Beach can become busy in the central part of the bay. Ferries run more often in summer, but the first morning departure and the late afternoon return are the most crowded, so arriving early at Port Gruž is a good idea.

Shoulder season (May, early June and September) is often the best time to visit: the weather is warm, the sea is pleasant, restaurants are open and the island feels relaxed without being empty. Šunj Beach has far more space in the mornings and evenings, and walking paths are more comfortable without peak summer heat.

If you prefer quiet surroundings and lower accommodation prices, consider visiting in late April or October, although swimming may not always be ideal and some services may be limited.

Practical tips for visiting Lopud from Dubrovnik

Lopud is an easy island to visit thanks to its compact size, car free layout and regular ferry connections from Dubrovnik. A bit of planning will help you make the most of your day, especially in summer when ferries and beaches can be busier. Below are practical tips on what to bring, how services work on the island and what to expect if travelling with children or older visitors.

What to pack for a Lopud day trip

For a comfortable visit, bring essentials suited to a beach and walking day. A hat, sunscreen and water are important in summer as shade is limited on the path to Šunj. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are useful for the 20 to 30 minute walk across the island. Many visitors also bring a small beach blanket or towel for the sandy areas and a lightweight bag for snacks. If you plan to stay at Šunj for longer, consider bringing a small umbrella for additional shade, as rental options can run out in peak season.

Money, cards and basic services on the island

Lopud has a couple of ATM machines in the main village and most restaurants and cafés accept cards. However, smaller kiosks, beach bars or boat taxis may prefer cash, so it is useful to bring some euros with you. There is a small grocery shop near the harbor for snacks and drinks, and several places along the promenade sell beach items such as inflatables and sunscreen. Public toilets are available at Šunj Beach during the main season.

For peace of mind, it is a good idea to save our overview of important phone numbers in Dubrovnik before your trip, as it includes contacts for emergency services, medical help and other useful local services. Mobile coverage is generally good around the village and beaches, and tap water on the island is safe to drink, so refilling bottles is easy if you bring your own.

Accessibility and visiting with children or older travelers

Lopud’s car free layout is ideal for families with young children, who can safely enjoy the promenade and shallow water in Lopud Bay and Šunj Beach. The walk to Šunj includes an uphill and downhill section, which may be challenging for some visitors. In that case, golf cart transfers from the village to the beach are a convenient alternative.

For older travelers or those with limited mobility, staying near the waterfront in Lopud Bay provides the easiest access to cafés, restaurants and swimming spots without the need for longer walks. The ferry arrives directly at the promenade, so boarding and disembarking is generally straightforward.

FAQ about Lopud Island

Is Lopud worth visiting?

Yes. Lopud is one of the easiest and most enjoyable islands to visit near Dubrovnik. It offers a mix of sandy and pebble beaches, a long pedestrian seafront, car free streets, beautiful walking paths and the famous Šunj Beach. It is ideal for families, swimmers and travelers looking for a relaxed escape from the city.

How long do you need on Lopud?

A full day is enough to explore the village, walk to Šunj Beach and enjoy a swim or lunch by the sea. If you want a quieter pace with evenings on the promenade after day trippers leave, staying one or two nights is a great option. Accommodation is limited, so booking ahead is recommended in summer.

How do you get to Lopud Island?

You can reach Lopud by regular Jadrolinija ferry from Dubrovnik, departing from Port Gruž. The journey takes 45 to 60 minutes depending on stops. Private boat tours and Elaphiti islands cruises also include Lopud, especially during the main season.

Is Lopud really car free?

Yes. Lopud is fully car free, which contributes to its peaceful atmosphere. The only vehicles allowed are electric golf carts used for luggage transfers and transport to Šunj Beach. All distances on the island can be walked comfortably.

How long is the walk to Šunj Beach?

The walk from Lopud village to Šunj Beach takes around 20 to 30 minutes each way. The path includes an uphill and downhill section, so comfortable footwear is recommended. If you prefer not to walk, golf carts and boat taxis are available during the main season.

Can you visit Lopud outside the summer season?

Yes, but the experience is very different. From November to April, most restaurants and services are closed and ferries run a reduced schedule. The island is still beautiful for walking, photography and quiet nature, but it is not ideal for swimming.

Are there any important phone numbers I should save before visiting?

Yes. It is useful to save emergency contacts and local service numbers from our important numbers list, which covers health services, emergency help, taxis and other practical contacts for travelers.

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