Five Places That Reflect the Soul of Boka Bay (Herceg Novi Bay edition)
Visit the most unique bay in the world: Five places you should not miss in Boka Bay
Located along Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, Boka Bay (Boka Kotorska) is one of the most beautiful coastal areas in the Mediterranean. It is a place where nature, relaxation, adventure, and quiet luxury come together naturally, especially during the summer months. Whether you arrive by road or by sea, Boka Bay welcomes you with a mix of history, tradition, calm surroundings, and modern comfort.
From old stone fortresses and dramatic landscapes to small fishing villages and clear blue beaches, Boka Bay invites a slower way of travel. Here, the focus is on real experiences, simple pleasures, and moments that stay with you.
This is not a destination to rush through or simply cross off a list. Boka Bay is best enjoyed slowly, often by boat, with private sea access and carefully chosen stops that reveal its true beauty and peaceful character.
Here are five special places in the Herceg Novi area of Boka Bay that truly capture its spirit, places we find ourselves dreaming about when winter comes.
1. Rose Village - Tradition, Beauty, and Simple Luxury
For travelers looking for peace, authenticity, and classic Mediterranean charm, Rose Village offers a quiet escape from busy places.
Located on the western side of the Luštica Peninsula, Rose is one of the oldest coastal villages in Montenegro. Once an important port and trading point, it has remained largely untouched by mass tourism.
Walking through Rose feels slow and personal. Stone beaches, local fishermen, green shutters, and lace curtains create a calm and honest seaside atmosphere.
Rose is is chosen by travelers who enjoy simple elegance, local life, and the luxury of slowing down, away from crowds and schedules.
Modern villas sit naturally beside old stone houses, surrounded by olive trees. With clear waters and easy boat access, Rose is perfect for those arriving by sea, though it can also be reached by road.
Beautiful secluded Rose Village in Herceg Novi Bay
What to see and do in Rose:
Rose Fortress
Old stone houses and the small harbor
Amazing restaurants with traditional Mediterranean cuisine: fresh fish, mussels, lobster, pasta, njoki
Quiet swimming spots
A rich underwater world with shipwrecks
2. The Blue Cave - Clear water, Nature, and a Sense of Wonder
Located on the Luštica Peninsula, the Blue Cave (Plava Špilja) is one of Montenegro’s most famous natural sights and a highlight of any private boat tour in Boka Bay. The cave was formed over thousands of years by waves shaping the rock at the base of a high cliff.
With two sea entrances, the cave can only be reached by a small boat, which adds to its special atmosphere. When sunlight hits the white seabed below, the water inside the cave shines in bright blue and turquoise tones.
The Blue Cave looks different depending on the time of day. We recommend arriving before 15h to catch the most intense light.
Large boats cannot enter Blue Cave, the smaller boat, the better.
Inside Blue cave in Montenegro
What makes the Blue Cave special:
Bright blue reflections
Clear, transparent water with different rock formations and colors
Incredible snorkling with blue and red rocks underneath
Things to enjoy:
Swimming and snorkeling
Enjoying the open sea
Taking photos or simply enjoying the view
Starting from Kotor, Tivat, or Herceg Novi, visit to the cave takes more or less time, but it is worth it, Blue Cave is truly unforgettable.
3. Mamula Island - Where History Meets Luxury
Located at the entrance of Boka Bay, Mamula Island, set on the small islet of Lastavica, is one of the most recognizable landmarks on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast. Surrounded by open sea and panoramic views toward Herceg Novi and the Luštica Peninsula, the island marks the transition between the Adriatic Sea and the calm waters of the bay.
Built more than 170 years ago during Austro-Hungarian rule, Mamula was originally designed as a strategic coastal fortress. Its distinctive circular form, strong stone walls, and commanding position reflect the architectural precision of the period, carefully placed to oversee an important maritime route entering Boka Bay.
Today, Mamula Island has been transformed into a refined five-star luxury resort and one of the most unique accommodation experiences in Montenegro. The restoration respects the authenticity of the original structure, preserving historic stonework while introducing modern comfort and elegant contemporary design.
Soft neutral tones, natural textures, and warm lighting create a peaceful atmosphere throughout the property. Open courtyards and panoramic terraces invite guests to slow down, offering uninterrupted views of the Adriatic horizon and the surrounding coastline.
What makes Mamula Island special:
Iconic location at the entrance of Boka Bay at its widest point of 3 km
Carefully preserved historic architecture, exactly the same as in time of Austro-Hungary rule
Complete privacy surrounded by the sea
Luxury design balanced with heritage and nature
Things to enjoy:
Fine dining inspired by Montenegrin and Mediterranean flavors
Spa and wellness experiences focused on relaxation
Swimming pools overlooking open sea views
Quiet walks and unforgettable sunsets
Accessible only by boat, Mamula Island is often included as a highlight of our private boat tours exploring the entrance of Boka Bay from Kotor, Tivat, or Herceg Novi (on request). Whether visited for a few peaceful hours or experienced through an overnight stay, it offers a rare combination of history, privacy, and comfort, a place where Adriatic meets contemporary luxury.
4. Žanjice Beach - A Place to Relax by the Sea
Among the beaches near Herceg Novi, Žanjice Beach is one of the prettiest and well-known along the coast.
Often called the “Presidential Beach” ,Žanjice was once a favorite place of former Yugoslav president Josip Broz Tito. Surrounded by olive trees and known for its clear turquoise water, the beach is famous for its excellent sea quality, with the seabed visible from the shore.
Here, visitors can enjoy:
Fresh seafood and local dishes in some of the best coastal restaurants in Montenegro
Snorkeling and diving
Pedal boats and easy swimming
We suggest arriving by boat and combining the visit with nearby hidden bays, turning a popular beach into a more private and relaxed experience.
5. Portonovi Marina -Luxury Dining and Shopping, home to Montenegro’s Most Luxurious Hotel
Located at the entrance of Boka Bay, Portonovi is one of the most elegant marinas in Montenegro. It combines natural surroundings with modern comfort in a calm and welcoming way.
The best way to experience Boka Bay is by private speed boat or yacht. Click on the image and check out our 5 hour private tour.
Known for its luxury marina, Portonovi attracts yacht owners and sea lovers from around the world. The seaside walkway is lined with restaurants, cafés, and boutiques, all overlooking the bay. The atmosphere is peaceful, stylish, and easy to enjoy.
The food scene offers both local specialties and international cuisine, making it simple for everyone to find something they like.
At the heart of Portonovi is One&Only Portonovi, the most luxurious hotel in Montenegro with excellent dining options, multiple pools and golden sand beach. The hotel is known for its high level of service, privacy, and wellness experiences, making it a true highlight of the area.
Local tip: Don`t miss one of the best beach clubs in Montenegro, Tapasake in Porto Novi, part of One&Only resort.
Read more about Boka Bay and especially Kotor Bay here.
If you wish to know everything about our wonderful country, Montenegro, click here.
Your Boka Bay Escape
With private boat trips, carefully planned routes, and thoughtfully chosen places, Boka Bay shows a side few travelers get to experience. From historic islands and natural wonders to quiet villages, beaches, and modern marina life, each stop feels natural and well balanced.
We are here to make your holiday special and hassle-free.
For those looking for more than just a destination, Boka Bay becomes a feeling - unforgettable, one that stays with you long after the journey ends. If you want us to organize a beautiful holiday or just a tour in Montenegro click here.
Inside the Blue Cave in Montenegro, sunlight reflects off the cristal-clear turquoise water, revealing the cave’s rocky walls and natural beauty