Petrovac is that rare spot on Montenegro's coast where the resort is compact, green, and genuinely convenient for families with children. It lacks the club scene of Budva, the crowds of Becici, and the price premium of Sveti Stefan. What it does have is a 600-metre beach with a gentle slope into the water, a car-free promenade, and three walking trails you can tackle with a stroller. The nearest airports are Tivat (30 km, ~40 minutes by car) and Podgorica (50 km, ~1 hour).
Key facts:
- Three beaches within walking distance – the main town beach, Lucice Beach, and Buljarica Beach
- Gentle slope into water – the town beach has a gradual depth increase, important for children under 6
- Pedestrian centre – the promenade is closed to traffic, so kids can run freely
- Walking trails – the "Health Trail" to Perazica Do beach (2 km, paved, lit tunnels) and a path to Buljarica (3 km through pine forest)
- Hotels rated 8+ from €70 per night – good 3-star options run €70–100 in summer, 4-star from €100 (Updated: March 2026)
- Two islands offshore – Katic & Sveta Nedelja, reachable by rented boat for about €20
- Check visa requirements for your nationality before booking
Beaches: Where to Swim with Kids
Petrovac Town Beach
Petrovac Beach stretches 600 metres of reddish-brown fine pebbles mixed with sand. The entry into the water is gradual and the sea floor is even – a significant advantage over the rockier beaches of Budva. At the far end of the beach, a waterslide and children's playground keep younger visitors entertained while parents decompress.
The catch: during peak season (mid-July to late August), roughly half the beach is taken up by paid sunbeds. Renting two loungers with an umbrella costs €15–30 per day depending on the operator and row. The free section exists but fills up by 10 AM. Tip: arrive by 8:30 or head to Lucice instead.
Lucice Beach
Lucice Beach is a small sandy cove about 15 minutes' walk from the centre along the promenade. The water is noticeably clearer, and in June and September the crowds thin out significantly. For families with small children, this is arguably the best option – sandy bottom, shallow water near the shore, and pine trees providing shade in the morning.
Note: At Lucice Beach, the depth increases more rapidly than at the town beach. With children under 4, stay close to the water's edge.
Sunbed prices here start at around €15 per bed. Cafés nearby serve pizza and seafood with a typical lunch bill of €10–15 per person.
Buljarica Beach
Buljarica Beach is one of Montenegro's longest beaches at over 2 km, located about 1 km from central Petrovac. A scenic trail through pine forest leads there (roughly 30 minutes on foot), or you can drive. The beach is essentially wild: minimal infrastructure but ample space even in high season. For families who value quiet and freedom, it is an excellent choice. The only drawback – the pebbles are larger, so water shoes for kids are essential.
Walking Trails: Where to Go with Kids
"Health Trail" – Petrovac → Perazica Do
The main family trail in Petrovac. It begins near Monte Casa Hotel at the northern end of the promenade. Length – approximately 2 km one way, surface – asphalt and concrete, with benches and railings throughout. Strollers, bicycles, and scooters all work fine.
The path runs through pine forest along clifftops with views of the coastline and Katic & Sveta Nedelja Islets. You will pass through two lit tunnels (total length around 500 m) – children usually enjoy them, but a phone flashlight is a sensible backup. At the end, a small semi-wild beach at Perazica Do has a bar and sunbeds (around €20 per pair). The water here is emerald-coloured and significantly cleaner than the town beach.
Trail to Buljarica
The second route starts from the southern end of the promenade and winds through pine forest to Buljarica Beach. Distance – approximately 3 km, with minimal elevation gain. The trail is partly paved, partly packed earth. Strollers work but with more effort than the "Health Trail". The pine canopy keeps things comfortable even in the heat.
Trail to Gradiste Monastery
For families with children over 7, the climb to Gradiste Monastery makes a rewarding half-day outing. The route begins from the town centre and passes through olive groves and forest. Distance – around 2.5 km with noticeable uphill sections. The monastery is active and has a viewpoint overlooking the coast. The return follows the same path – bring water and snacks.
Where to Stay: Hotels for Families
Accommodation in Petrovac falls into three categories: full-service hotels, self-catering apartments, and villas. For families with children under 5, hotels tend to be more practical (breakfast, playground, pool). With older children, apartments are often better value – cooking your own meals is cheaper than dining out three times a day.
Price Guide (Updated: March 2026)
The prices below are for hotels and apartments rated 8.0 or higher on Booking. Cheaper options exist, but with ratings below 8 you risk noise, poor cleaning, or unreliable air conditioning – with children, that matters.
In low season (April–May, October), prices drop 30–40%: a 3-star hotel rated 8+ can be found from €50, apartments from €40.
What to look for:
(or book on Trip.com)
A 5-star option with a private beach, pool, and spa. It has an on-site restaurant, playground, and organised activities. Best for families willing to pay for full-service comfort.
(or book on Trip.com)
A 4-star boutique hotel situated right on the beachfront promenade in the heart of Petrovac. The hotel features 36 elegantly designed rooms, a private beach, and a restaurant with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the Katič and Sveta Nedjelja islets. With its intimate atmosphere, beachfront location, and attentive service, the hotel is a popular choice for couples and families alike.
(or book on Trip.com)
A small family-run hotel, located in Buljarica – a few minutes' walk from the beach and about two kilometres from the centre of Petrovac. The on-site restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine and is praised by guests for generous portions and a warm, homely atmosphere. It's an ideal choice for travellers seeking a quiet retreat away from the busy promenade, while still being within easy reach of the beaches.
Apartments (Apartments Del Mar and similar)
(or book on Trip.com)
For self-sufficient travellers. Full kitchens, central location, parking. Average price – €50–70 per night in summer. Book through Booking.com.
Getting There and Around
From the airport: The closest airport is Tivat (TIV), 30 km away. International carriers operate seasonal flights from various European cities. From Tivat airport, a transfer to Petrovac via KiwiTaxi or Welcome Pickups costs €35–50.
In town: Petrovac is pedestrian-friendly. Everything is within 15 minutes' walk: beach, promenade, shops, restaurants. A car is only needed for day trips to Kotor, Budva, or Sveti Stefan.
Car rental: If you are planning excursions, renting a car is the most practical option. Through EconomyBookings – from €25–35 per day for an economy class. More details in our car rental guide.
Parking note: Parking in Petrovac is notoriously difficult in summer. Free spaces are almost non-existent; paid parking runs €1–2 per hour. If booking a hotel, confirm parking availability in advance.
Food and Prices
Lunch at a promenade restaurant runs €10–15 per adult (fish, salad, drink). A dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant comes to €30–50. Cappuccino – around €2, bottled water – €1–1.50. Mini-markets in Petrovac charge more than supermarkets in Budva – stock up at a Voli or Idea on the drive from the airport.
Children's menus are uncommon in Petrovac restaurants, but pasta, pizza, and grilled meat are available everywhere. Portions are generous – one dish can usually be shared between two children.
Day Trips from Petrovac
Petrovac makes a convenient base for exploring the coast. A few family-tested options:
For water-based adventure near Budva, the Budva Bay kayak and SUP tour to coastal caves is highly rated (4.9 stars, 217 reviews) – from €45 per person.
Underground exploration is another option: the guided Lipa Cave adventure (4.8 stars, 342 reviews) costs from €17 per person and takes about an hour. It is suitable for children and offers a refreshing break from the beach.
For an adrenaline boost, tandem paragliding over Bečići (4.9 stars) starts from around €96 – best for older teenagers and adults.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Petrovac suitable for holidays with toddlers (under 3)?
Yes, it is one of the best options on the Montenegrin coast. The gentle slope into the water at the town beach, the car-free promenade, and the compact centre make everything accessible on foot. The trail to Perazica Do is stroller-friendly. The main downside – in peak season (August) the beach gets crowded and the heat can be tiring for small children.
2. How much does a week in Petrovac cost for a family of four?
Roughly €1 200–2 200 excluding flights. Breakdown: a 3-star hotel (rated 8+) with breakfast – €490–700 for 7 nights, dining out – €300–500, sunbeds – €100–200, one excursion – €50–120, transport – €50–100. You can save by taking an apartment with a kitchen and cooking some meals yourself.
3. When is the best time to visit Petrovac with children?
June and September are ideal. Water temperatures reach 22–24 °C, beaches are not overcrowded, and accommodation prices drop 20–30% compared to July-August. In May, the water is still cool (18–20 °C), but the town is quiet and walks are pleasant.
4. Do I need a car in Petrovac?
Not for the town itself. For day trips along the coast (Kotor, Budva, Sveti Stefan) or into the mountains – yes. Buses run but are impractical with children and strollers. More on this in our transport guide.
5. Is it safe to swim at Petrovac beaches?
Yes, the town beach has lifeguard stations during the season. The water is clean and there are no currents. At Lucice, note that the depth increases faster. At Buljarica, there are no lifeguards – swim with caution.
Summary
Petrovac is a resort that does not try to be everything to everyone. There are no waterparks or nightclubs – but there is what families actually need: calm water, a walkable centre, trails through pine forest, and hotels where children are genuinely welcome. For a first trip to Montenegro with kids, it is one of the most sensible starting points.
Related reading:
- Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Montenegro
- Affordable Seaside Hotels in Montenegro
- Car Rental in Montenegro
- Popular Itineraries: What to See in 1–7 Days
- Kotor vs Budva: Detailed Comparison
- Montenegro Prices in 2026
Sources:
- Visit Montenegro – official tourism portal
- Booking.com – current hotel prices in Petrovac
- Trip.com – current hotel prices in Petrovac