Sveti Nikola Island
Ostrvo Sveti Nikola
Green island opposite the Old Town with a chain of coves.
The shoreline alternates small beaches and rocky headlands. The island forms the natural backdrop to Budva’s panorama and is reached by seasonal boats.
Travel time
- On foot from Budva center 24-36 min.
- From Becici by car8 min.
- From Rafailovici by car7 min.
- From TIV airport (Tivat) by car41 min.
- From TGD airport (Podgorica) by car1 h 18 min.
Location
What's here
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.
