Bonj Beach in Stari Grad on Hvar – Pebble Beach, Organized Sunbathing Areas, and Family Swimming

Bonj Beach is one of the most well-known and practical swimming spots in Stari Grad on the island of Hvar. Located on the northern shore of the Stari Grad Bay, not far from the historic town center, it is recognizable for its pebble beach, organized sunbathing areas, and facilities that allow for a comfortable all-day stay by the sea. Bonj is easily accessible on foot or by bicycle along the coast, making it particularly appealing to guests who prefer to reach the beach without driving.

Bonj is popular among families with children as well as local residents who come here for daily swimming. In addition to the pebble shore, the beach features paved and stone areas, a hospitality facility, the option to rent sun loungers, and recreational space in the water. A notable advantage is the accessible entry to the water for people with disabilities.

What is Bonj Beach Like?

Bonj is an organized urban beach that combines a natural pebble beach with constructed coastal areas.

The pebble shore extends along the northern side of Stari Grad Bay, with a gradual entry into the water over smooth stones and smaller pebbles. Along the beach, there are organized sunbathing platforms and smaller piers that also provide access to the sea.

Due to its various coastal sections, Bonj caters to guests who enjoy traditional swimming from a pebble beach, as well as those who prefer a flat surface for towels or sun loungers.

The water is clear on calm days, with views across to the opposite shore of the bay, Stari Grad, and the green hills that surround it.

Unlike the remote natural coves of Hvar, Bonj has a distinct character as an urban beach. Its greatest advantages are not solitude and complete peace, but rather good organization, easy access, and proximity to all necessary facilities.

Swimming with Children and Water Activities

Bonj is one of the more practical beaches for families staying in Stari Grad.

The pebble area allows for easier entry into the water compared to beaches that have only concrete platforms and steps. Children can play along the shore, and the most pleasant swimming area is where the pebbles are finer.

During the summer season, the beach also offers water activities, making it interesting for slightly older children.

Bonj is also linked to a long tradition of swimming and water polo in Stari Grad. There is a space for water sports next to the beach, giving the entire coastal area a recognizable sports character.

On the busiest summer days, the pebble area can become crowded. For families with younger children, it is more comfortable to arrive early in the morning when it is usually easier to find a spot by the sea.

Accessible Sea Access for People with Disabilities

One of the important features of Bonj is its accessible entry to the water for people with disabilities.

The beach has organized access that facilitates reaching the water for those with reduced mobility. This is an advantage compared to many natural beaches on Hvar, which have steep or rocky paths.

However, it is important to distinguish between accessible entry to the water and full accessibility of all parts of the beach. Some surfaces, steps, and transitions between different levels may be more challenging to navigate.

For visitors using wheelchairs, it is advisable to select the appropriate access point to the beach in advance.

Sunbathing Areas, Loungers, and Natural Shade

In addition to the pebble beach, Bonj has organized sunbathing areas that stretch along the coast.

Some sections feature paved and stone platforms, and during the season, there is an option to rent sun loungers.

In the background of the beach, Mediterranean greenery grows, including pines that provide natural shade in parts of the coastal area.

The platforms and pebble beach are mostly exposed to the sun during the day, so it is advisable to bring your own sun protection or use an umbrella for longer stays.

Due to the combination of pebbles, sunbathing areas, and shaded spots among the greenery, Bonj is suitable for both a quick morning swim and several hours of relaxation by the sea.

Showers, Café, and Restaurant by the Beach

Bonj is one of the better-equipped urban beaches in Stari Grad.

The beach has showers, and the hospitality offerings include a café on the beach and a restaurant nearby.

This is particularly convenient for families and guests who wish to stay at the beach for an extended period without needing to return to the town center for drinks or lunch.

In recent years, the coastal area of Bonj has also received a renovated beach facility, with more modern hospitality spaces and amenities for bathers.

The availability of certain services depends on the tourist season, so outside of summer, not all facilities should be expected to operate daily.

Renovated Beach with a Long Tradition

Bonj has played an important role in the daily life of Stari Grad for decades.

The old beach was recognizable for its pebble shore, concrete coastal sections, small piers, and water polo area. Over time, some facilities deteriorated, leading to the renovation of the beach area.

As part of the reconstruction, a new building with a modern appearance was constructed, featuring hospitality and supporting facilities. Stone and simple architectural lines were used in the design to blend the structure into the coastal landscape.

Sunbathing areas and recreational spaces have been preserved, so Bonj remains a place where daily swimming, sports activities, and socializing by the sea intersect.

Today, it is one of the important summer spots in Stari Grad, especially among families and guests staying in the town.

Snorkeling

Bonj is not an extremely secluded cove, but snorkeling can still be enjoyed here.

Along the rocky edges of the beach, the seabed differs from the pebble section. Underwater rocks, small fish, and marine vegetation can be seen there.

The best conditions for exploring the underwater world are during calm seas, especially in the morning when there are not many bathers at the beach.

Since Bonj is located in Stari Grad Bay, it is advisable to avoid venturing towards busier parts of the sea and areas frequented by boats.

For entry over rocky sections of the shore, water shoes are useful.

How to Get to Bonj Beach?

Bonj Beach is located on the northern side of Stari Grad Bay, west of the town center.

The most pleasant way to reach it is on foot along the coastal promenade from the center of Stari Grad. The path follows the sea and passes along an organized coastline, allowing access to the beach without significant elevation changes.

The walk from the center typically takes about ten to fifteen minutes, depending on the starting point.

It is also possible to reach Bonj by bicycle, which is practical for guests staying in Stari Grad or its immediate vicinity.

The beach is close enough to the town center that swimming can easily be combined with a morning coffee by the waterfront, sightseeing in Stari Grad, or an evening stroll.

Parking at Bonj Beach

Bonj is located along the coastal area of Stari Grad, but there is no large public parking lot directly by the beach.

For those arriving by car, it is most practical to use permitted public parking spaces in the wider area of the town and then continue on foot to the beach.

During July and August, parking spaces near the center can be occupied, so for guests staying in the town, walking or cycling is a simpler option.

Access by car to certain parts of the coast may be restricted due to traffic regulations, so it is not advisable to rely on parking directly next to the pebble shore.

Bonj or Lanterna – Which Beach to Choose?

Stari Grad has two very practical urban beaches, but they are not the same.

Bonj, on the northern side of the bay, has a more pronounced pebble area, organized platforms, facilities for children, and accessible entry to the water for people with disabilities.

Lanterna, on the southern side of the bay, is better known for smaller pebble sections, concrete sunbathing areas, and a nearby pine forest.

For families who prefer a pebble beach, Bonj is often the more practical choice. For guests who prefer sunbathing on platforms and entering the water via steps, Lanterna may be more appealing.

Both beaches are within walking distance from the town center, making them easy to visit during a stay in Stari Grad.

What Else to Visit Near Bonj?

After swimming, it is worth taking a walk to the historic core of Stari Grad, one of the oldest towns on the Adriatic.

The most famous landmark is Tvrdalj of Petar Hektorović, a Renaissance summer residence with a fish pond and characteristic stone inscriptions.

Nearby, there are narrow stone streets, small churches, galleries, restaurants, and the town waterfront.

For lovers of natural beaches, the Maslinica Cove, known for its sandy shore, is also interesting, while on the southern side of the bay is the Lanterna Beach.

The wider area of Stari Grad includes the Stari Grad Plain, a cultural landscape protected by UNESCO, which can be explored on foot or by bicycle.

When is the Best Time to Visit Bonj?

The most pleasant time for swimming is from June to September when the sea is warm enough for extended stays.

During July and August, Bonj can be very busy, especially due to its proximity to the center and facilities that attract families.

For a quieter swimming experience, it is advisable to arrive in the morning, before the peak daily crowds.

June and September are particularly attractive to guests who want warmer water but fewer people on the beach.

Even outside the season, the beach is a pleasant place for a walk along the sea and a break on the shore of Stari Grad Bay.

Why Visit Bonj Beach?

Bonj is one of the best choices for daily swimming during a holiday in Stari Grad.

Its greatest advantages are the pebble beach, organized sunbathing areas, the option to rent loungers, hospitality offerings, and easy access from the center.

Notably, the accessible entry to the water for people with disabilities distinguishes Bonj among urban beaches on Hvar.

For families with children, it is practical due to the pebble shore and fun water activities, while it provides a pleasant place for swimming and relaxation without the need for a car for other visitors.

If you are staying in Stari Grad and want an organized beach that you can visit whenever you wish, Bonj Beach is one of the most practical places on the island of Hvar.

Useful Information

• Name: Bonj Beach (Plaža Bonj).
• Location: Northern shore of Stari Grad Bay, Stari Grad, Hvar Island.
• Type of Beach: Organized urban pebble beach with stone and concrete sunbathing areas.
• Entry into the Water: Via pebble shore and organized coastal sections.
• Suitable for Children: Yes, especially the pebble section of the beach.
• Access for People with Disabilities: Organized accessible entry to the water.
• Sunbathing Areas: Pebble beach and organized platforms.
• Loungers: Seasonal rental available.
• Showers: Available during the season.
• Hospitality Facilities: Café on the beach and a restaurant nearby.
• Entertainment Activities: Seasonal water activities for children.
• Water Sports: The beach has a tradition of swimming and water polo.
• Natural Shade: Pines and Mediterranean greenery along parts of the beach.
• Snorkeling: Possible along the rocky edges of the shore.
• Arrival on Foot: Coastal promenade from the center of Stari Grad, approximately 10–15 minutes.
• Arrival by Bicycle: Possible along the coast.
• Parking: Public parking in the surrounding area; there is no large parking lot directly by the beach.
• Entry: Free access to the public beach.
• Best Time to Visit: June – September.
• Nearby: Historic core of Stari Grad, Tvrdalj of Petar Hektorović, Lanterna Beach, and Maslinica Cove.
• Recommended for: Families with children, individuals needing accessible sea entry, and guests wanting an organized beach close to the center.