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.
How to Get There
On foot from Budva center ~30-45 min.
From TIV airport (Tivat) by taxi/transfer ~28 min.
From TGD airport (Podgorica) by taxi/transfer ~51 min.
Description
What this place is
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.
When to visit: May–October; off-season boats may be limited.
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.
