Sveti Nikola Island

What is this place

Sveti Nikola Island is the largest sea island off Montenegro’s coast, set less than 1 km south of Budva. The elongated, green “Školj” features quiet coves and three sandy beaches totaling about 840 m.

Key features

• Size – length ~1.7–2.0 km, area ~36–47 ha per various sources; highest point ~120–121 m on a cliff ridge.
• Three main sandy beaches total ~840 m; many small wild coves are boat-only.
• A small St Nicholas chapel was restored after the 1979 earthquake; an old graveyard surrounds it.

What to see

• The northern access zone with pier and beaches, overlooking Budva Old Town.
• The tiny St Nicholas chapel and sweeping Budva Riviera views.
• Wild coves on the sheer south side – reachable only by boat/SUP.

History

The island is a classic Adriatic abrasion remnant. For centuries it sheltered fishermen and sailors.

The St Nicholas chapel dates to medieval times; after the 1979 quake it was rebuilt in the early 2000s. As Budva boomed in the 20th–21st c., Sveti Nikola became a prime day-trip spot and picked up the “Hawaii” moniker.

Practical information

Location: opposite Budva, ~0.8–1.0 km from the Old Town.

Getting there: summer taxi-boats from Slovenska and other Budva beaches; wild coves are boat/SUP-only. Do not attempt to wade the Tunja bar due to depth, currents and slippery rock.

Access: shore is public; loungers/umbrellas and some piers are paid private services.

Visiting hours: daytime.

Time needed: 2–6 hours.

Best time: early morning and late afternoon for softer light and cooler temps.

Notes: scarce shade – bring water and sun protection; water shoes help on rock.