Podkamenica Beach in Nečujam – A Small Cove for Those Who Prefer Peace and Simple Swimming

Podkamenica is one of the quieter areas of Nečujam and is not a destination for extensive facilities, but rather for the sea, tranquility, and a small local bathing spot. It is located on the western side of the Nečujam bay, further away from the main beach, shops, and most dining establishments. It is primarily used by people staying in nearby houses and apartments, as well as those who already know where to swim in Nečujam without large crowds.

The distance from the center of Nečujam to Podkamenica is approximately two to two and a half kilometers by road. Walking takes about half an hour, and longer in the summer heat. This is not a walk to be done casually in flip-flops with a towel over your shoulder, especially if carrying an umbrella, water, and items for children. A car or scooter is much more practical, but even then, parking right by the sea is not guaranteed.

Access to Podkamenica is via an asphalt road through the western part of the settlement. The road is passable for regular cars, but it is narrow and in several places there is not enough space for easy passing. The last part descends towards the houses by the shore, and a driver visiting for the first time should drive slowly and look for a place to turn around. It is not advisable to descend all the way without checking for available space below.

Parking is limited to a few spots along the road and smaller pull-outs. Podkamenica does not have a large public parking area, and some areas near the houses are private. In summer, the closest spots fill up quickly, so the car often needs to be parked further away, requiring a walk down to the shore. It is important not to block access, entrances to houses, or access to small piers.

The bathing area is not a large beach. It consists of several smaller pebbly sections, concrete surfaces by the houses, stone slabs, and small piers. For someone visiting for the first time, it may seem that there is no main beach, but this is typical for this part of Nečujam. People spread out where they find enough space, some on the pebbles, some on the concrete, and some on the rocks along the edge of the cove.

The most practical entry into the sea is at the small pebbly section. The access is gentler and easier, although there are stones and seaweed in the shallow area. Water shoes can be beneficial, especially for children. From the concrete and stone areas, entry is via steps or directly into deeper water, making these parts better for more confident swimmers.

The sea here is generally calm as Podkamenica is well sheltered within the larger Nečujam bay. When there is no strong wind, the water is usually still and suitable for longer swims. Small boats are moored along the shore, so care should be taken with ropes and buoys, especially when swimming further from the bathing area. There is not heavy traffic, but boats do occasionally enter and exit the bay.

Shade should not be completely relied upon. There is some shade at the back of the shore, under pine trees and near the houses, but shaded spots are limited and fill up quickly. The pebbly and concrete areas by the sea are mostly in the sun for a large part of the day. Those planning to stay for several hours should bring an umbrella.

There are no beach bars, restaurants, or shops at Podkamenica. There are also no rental sunbeds, showers, public toilets, or changing cabins. Water, food, and all other necessities must be brought along. This is important as returning to the shop on foot if something is forgotten will not be quick.

Podkamenica is best suited for those who do not require music, sunbeds, or a café by the sea. It is a place to swim, find a piece of shade or concrete, and spend a few quiet hours by the cove. It is not the most practical due to the narrow road and limited parking, but this is precisely why it does not have the crowds found at the main beach in Nečujam.