Jaz Beach, Montenegro – Complete Travel Guide & What to Expect

jaz beach montenegro

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Explore Jaz Beach, Montenegro: What to Know Before You Go

Just 2.5 km west of Budva’s historic center lies a place where pebbles glisten in the sun, waves roll in rhythm, and rock legends once echoed between the cliffs and campers. Welcome to Jaz Beach, one of the largest and most iconic beaches on the Montenegrin coast — a mix of natural beauty, festival history, and that timeless Adriatic charm.

Unlike many neighboring sandy shores, Jaz is a pebble beach, long and spacious — almost 1.3 kilometers in total, divided into two sections. The main stretch is about 850 meters long, while the smaller, once nudist area adds another 450 meters of secluded coastline. Its vastness makes it perfect for spreading out your towel even in the busiest months.

Behind the beach, there’s a designated area for campers and RVs, giving a unique option for those who prefer waking up with the sound of waves instead of air conditioning. But Jaz isn’t just about swimming and sunbathing — it also holds a piece of music history.

Echoes of the Stage: When Jaz Beach Was Montenegro’s Music Capital

Back in 2007, Jaz made headlines as the smallest town ever to host The Rolling Stones — with over 40,000 people dancing in the coastal hinterland of Budva. A massive field behind the beach was leveled, equipped with infrastructure, and transformed into a proper concert venue.

A year later, in 2008, came another unforgettable night — Madonna’s first-ever performance in Montenegro, part of her Sticky & Sweet Tour, with nearly 48,000 fans in attendance. That same summer brought Lenny Kravitz, Goran Bregović, Dino Merlin and others to the shore, turning Jaz into a regional festival hotspot.

In 2014, Jaz hosted the famous Sea Dance Festival, part of EXIT Adventure, with names like Jamiroquai, Underworld, Rambo Amadeus, and a lineup that brought energy, light, and music to the bay.

Below is a photo of an original performer pass from the very first Sea Dance Festival at Jaz Beach in 2014.

jaz beach montenegro festival
Performer Pass – Sea Dance Festival 2014, Jaz Beach - Original photo by Balkscape.com. All rights reserved.

📍 IMPORTANT: Since 2018, Sea Dance Festival has been relocated to Buljarica Beach near Petrovac. Although Jaz is no longer a live music venue, its legendary concerts are still part of the beach’s unique identity.

Today, Jaz offers something else: space. In a region where much of the coast is built up or tightly packed, Jaz remains one of the last undeveloped open zones — surrounded by green hills and backed by potential. It’s not polished. But it’s real.

Visiting Jaz Beach: Travel Info, Access & Tips

If you’re planning a trip to Jaz Beach near Budva, here’s everything you need to know — from how to get there and where to park, to beach facilities, atmosphere, food, and the best time to visit.

How to Get to Jaz Beach

Jaz Beach is located approximately 2.5 km west of Budva, along the main road toward Tivat and the airport. It’s easily accessible, especially if you’re based in Budva or nearby.

You can reach Jaz Beach by:

  • 🚗 Car – the most convenient way, especially outside peak season (5–10 minutes)

  • 🚕 Taxi – affordable for small groups; check local prices

  • 🚌 Local bus – seasonal public transport available in summer months

⚠️ Note: In July and August, heavy traffic is common. A 10-minute drive in spring can take up to 30 minutes during peak hours.

🅿️ Jaz Beach Parking

There is a large open parking area located directly behind the beach. It’s mostly gravel, with a seasonal parking fee during summer.

  • Arrive early in the morning, especially on weekends, to secure a good spot.

🏖 Jaz Beach Type & Atmosphere

Jaz Beach is a natural pebble beach, with clear and calm waters, and a long stretch of coast that attracts all kinds of visitors.

  • 👣 Water shoes are strongly recommended due to smooth but sometimes sharp pebbles.

  • Suitable for families, solo travelers, and young crowds, depending on time of day and season.

  • The beach is wide and rarely feels overcrowded, though afternoons in high season can get busy and lively.

🚿 Jaz Beach Facilities

Though not luxurious, Jaz offers basic and functional infrastructure for a comfortable day at the beach:

  • 🚿 Outdoor showers

  • 🚽 Mobile toilets

  • 💧 Non-drinkable water taps (for rinsing only)
    → Bring your own drinking water or purchase from kiosks and bars.

There are no lockers, so keep valuables safe.

🍔 Food and Drinks at Jaz Beach

In summer, you’ll find several seasonal beach bars and snack stands along the main stretch. The offer typically includes:

  • Cold drinks, coffee, cocktails

  • Ice cream and snacks

  • Simple grilled food, fast food options

🍽 Note: Restaurants and menus may change from year to year — options are casual and summer-oriented.

⛺ Jaz Beach Camping

Right behind the beach is an official auto camp, designed for:

  • 🚐 RVs and camper vans

  • 🏕 Tent camping is not explicitly confirmed, so it’s best to contact the camp directly:
    📞 +382 33 474 895

The area is spacious and shaded in parts, with sea views and basic amenities.

🗓 Best Time to Visit Jaz Beach

Montenegro’s coast has a long swimming season, but your experience will depend on the month:

  • 🟢 June & September – perfect for swimming, relaxing, and avoiding crowds

  • 🟡 July & August – hot, vibrant, but crowded and louder; come early or on weekdays for more comfort

🌞 Morning hours are cooler and quieter. Afternoons bring more people and music from beach bars.

Bonus tip: Don’t forget your water shoes, sunscreen, and some patience if you’re visiting in peak summer. Despite occasional crowds, Jaz Beach remains one of Montenegro’s most atmospheric and iconic coastal spots.

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Where is Jaz Beach on the map?
Travel Tips

Carry cash – many small places don’t take cards

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