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

Bonj Beach is one of the most well-known and convenient 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 centre, it is distinguished by its pebble beach, organised sunbathing areas, and amenities that ensure a pleasant all-day stay by the sea. Bonj is easily accessible on foot or by bicycle along the coast, making it particularly appealing to visitors who prefer to reach the beach without driving.

Bonj is popular among families with children, as well as local residents of Stari Grad who come here for daily swimming. In addition to the pebble shore, the beach features paved and stone-laid areas, a catering facility, the option to rent sun loungers, and a recreational space in the sea. A notable advantage is the well-maintained access to the water for people with disabilities.

What is Bonj Beach Like?

Bonj is an organised municipal beach that combines a natural pebble beach with constructed sections of the coast.

The pebble shore stretches 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 organised sunbathing terraces and smaller piers from which the sea can also be accessed.

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 a municipal beach. Its greatest advantages are not solitude and complete peace, but rather its good facilities, easy access, and proximity to all necessary amenities.

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 terraces and steps. Children can play along the shore, and for swimming, it is most pleasant to choose the section with finer pebbles.

During the summer season, the beach 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 adjacent to the beach, giving the entire coastal area a distinctive sporting character.

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

Sea Access for People with Disabilities

One of the important features of Bonj is its adapted access to the sea for people with disabilities.

The beach has a designated access point that facilitates entry to the water for those with reduced mobility. This is an advantage over many of Hvar's natural beaches, which often have steep or rocky paths leading to them.

However, it is important to distinguish between adapted access to the sea and complete accessibility of all parts of the beach. Certain areas, steps, and transitions between different levels may be more challenging to navigate.

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

Sunbathing Areas, Loungers, and Natural Shade

In addition to the pebble beach, Bonj features organised sunbathing areas that extend along the coast.

In some sections, there are paved and stone-laid terraces, and during the season, there is the option to rent sun loungers.

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

The terraces and pebble beach are mostly exposed to the sun during the day, so it is advisable to bring your own sun protection or use a parasol 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 municipal beaches in Stari Grad.

The beach features showers, and the catering options 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 centre for drinks or lunch.

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

The availability of certain services depends on the tourist season, so outside of summer, it should not be expected that all facilities will 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 known for its pebble shore, concrete sections of the coast, small piers, and a space for water polo. Over time, some facilities became dilapidated, prompting 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 ensure the structure blends into the coastal landscape.

The sunbathing areas and recreational space have been retained, allowing Bonj to remain a place where daily swimming, sports activities, and socialising by the sea converge.

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

Snorkelling

While Bonj is not an exceptionally secluded cove, it is still possible to enjoy snorkelling here.

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

The best conditions for exploring the underwater world are during calm seas, particularly in the morning when there are fewer bathers at the beach.

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

Footwear suitable for rocky areas is useful for entering the water over the stony parts of the coast.

How to Reach Bonj Beach?

Bonj Beach is situated on the northern side of Stari Grad Bay, west of the town centre.

The most pleasant way to arrive is on foot along the coastal promenade from the centre of Stari Grad. The path follows the sea and runs alongside the organised coast, allowing access to the beach without significant inclines.

The walk from the centre 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 centre that swimming can easily be combined with a morning coffee by the harbour, 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 area directly by the beach for bathers.

For those arriving by car, the most practical option is to use the 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 centre can be occupied, so for guests staying in the town, walking or cycling is a simpler choice.

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 immediately by the pebble shore.

Bonj or Lanterna – Which Beach to Choose?

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

Bonj, on the northern side of the bay, has a more pronounced pebble area, organised terraces, facilities for children, and adapted access to the sea for people with disabilities.

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

For families who prefer a pebble beach, Bonj is often the more practical choice. For guests who prefer sunbathing on terraces and swimming from steps, Lanterna may be more appealing.

Both beaches are within walking distance of the town centre, making them easily accessible during a stay in Stari Grad.

What Else to Visit Near Bonj?

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

The most famous landmark is the 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 is also interesting, known for its sandy shore, while on the southern side of the bay lies the Lanterna Beach.

The wider area around 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 longer stays.

During July and August, Bonj can be very busy, especially due to its proximity to the centre and the amenities 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 appealing to guests who want warmer water but fewer people on the beach.

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

Why is it Worth Visiting 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, organised sunbathing areas, the option to rent loungers, catering facilities, and easy access from the centre.

Notably, the adapted entry to the sea for people with disabilities sets Bonj apart among the municipal beaches on Hvar.

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

If you are staying in Stari Grad and wish for an organised beach that you can visit whenever you like, Bonj Beach is one of the most convenient spots 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: Organised municipal pebble beach with stone and concrete sunbathing areas.
• Entry to the Sea: Via pebble shore and organised coastal sections.
• Suitable for Children: Yes, especially the pebble section of the beach.
• Access for People with Disabilities: Adapted entry to the sea.
• Sunbathing Areas: Pebble beach and organised terraces.
• Loungers: Seasonal rental available.
• Showers: Available during the season.
• Catering 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.
• Snorkelling: Possible along the rocky edges of the coast.
• Walking Access: Coastal promenade from the centre of Stari Grad, approximately 10–15 minutes.
• Bicycle Access: Possible along the coast.
• Parking: Public parking in the vicinity of the town; no large parking area 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 adapted access to the sea, and guests seeking an organised beach close to the centre.