Visiting Lokrum Island: Everything You Need to Know ⋆ Lifeguin

Lokrum Island: How to Get There & Best Things to See Near Dubrovnik

There isn’t a shortage of pools or beaches to swim in Dubrovnik. But when you want to escape the summer crowds of the Old Town, Lokrum Island is the perfect getaway. Just 600 meters from Dubrovnik’s coastline, this small island in the Adriatic Sea offers peace, nature, and a touch of history, all within a 15-minute ferry ride.

Lokrum is a protected nature and forest reserve, stretching from northwest to southeast, home to scenic trails, hidden beaches, botanical gardens, and even free-roaming peacocks. Whether you come for a few hours or stay the whole day, it’s a refreshing change of pace from the bustling city streets.

We spent about half a day there since the weather turned stormy and we didn’t want to risk the return by boat, but we could easily imagine spending an entire day exploring. From light hikes and sea swims to a relaxed lunch under the trees, Lokrum truly has it all.

When in Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island is a must-visit, a calm, green escape just across the sparkling Adriatic.

How to Get to Lokrum Island

Getting to Lokrum Island is quick and easy. The island lies just 600 meters from Dubrovnik’s Old Town, and regular ferries make the short journey across the Adriatic several times a day.

Ferry from Dubrovnik Old Port

The ferry to Lokrum departs from the Old Port (Porat) inside Dubrovnik’s city walls.
The ride takes about 10–15 minutes and offers beautiful views of the Old Town from the sea.
Tickets can be purchased directly at the port ticket booth or online. The price usually includes round-trip ferry transport and entrance to the Lokrum Nature Reserve.
Ferries typically run every 30 minutes during the summer season (April–November).

Operating Hours

First ferry: around 9:00 AM
Last return: around 6:00–7:00 PM (varies by season)
Check the schedule before your trip, especially in spring and autumn, when departures are less frequent.

The last boat back is at 7 pm (and don’t get confused when you see on the island notes saying the last boat leaves at 6 pm).

Pro Penguin Tip

Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon for a quieter experience; midday boats are the most crowded. And remember, no one can stay overnight on Lokrum, so plan to catch the last return ferry back to Dubrovnik.

Where to Buy Tickets to Lokrum Island

The first boat to the island leaves at 9 am sharp, and you can buy tickets directly at the port. If you take the first boat as we did, buy the ticket at the ticket office. Payment by card is available.

You can find the ticket office at the port between all the stands selling various courses and trips. Beware, as you can easily miss it. We haven’t noticed it for two days walking around 😅.

Later, you can also buy tickets next to the boat leaving for Lokrum Island, but in the morning (before 9 am), the person selling them wasn’t there yet.

After getting your tickets, the overall boat ride is about 10 – 15 minutes long and very enjoyable.

Lokrum Island Ticket Prices

Tickets for Lokrum Island include both the ferry ride and entry to the Lokrum Nature Reserve, which helps preserve its unique ecosystem and historic sites. You can buy your tickets directly at the Old Port ticket booth in Dubrovnik or online.

Here’s a quick overview of current prices:

Adults: 27 € (includes round-trip ferry + entrance fee)
Students: 5 € (with a valid student ID)
Children (5–15 years): 5 €
Children under 5 years: Free
Plushies: free entry
Dubrovnik residents: discounted tickets available with local ID

Pro Penguin Tip: Keep your ticket safe, you’ll need it again when boarding the return ferry. Also note that prices may slightly increase during high season, so it’s always best to check the official Lokrum website or Dubrovnik Tourist Board before your visit.

A little bit of the history of Lokrum Island

Lokrum has been inhabited since prehistoric times.
Certain records state that Lokrum was settled by the Benedictine monks around 915 A.D.
The entire island used to be owned by the monastery, which was later destroyed.
In the 15th and 16th centuries, a new monastery in the Gothic-Renaissance style was constructed to the south of the old Romanesque one.
Over the cloister door, a timeless and ever meaningful message is inscribed: “Harmony makes small things grow; lack of it makes great things decay. ”
At the beginning of the 1860s, in the southeast corner of the new monastery’s courtyard, the summer villa of Maximilian I, the Emperor of Mexico, was constructed.
After Emperor Maximilian’s execution, the island was surrendered to the Habsburg Family in a deal between Franz Joseph I of Austria and Leopold II of Belgium.
Then the island was given to Archduchess Elisabeth Marie of Austria as part of her marriage dowry; Yugoslavia claimed it under the Treaty of Saint-Germain.
The French ruled the island, and in 1806, the French army began constructing a fort on Lokrum due to the island’s strategic importance.
In 1959, a Botanical Garden was founded on Lokrum, which contains native and imported tropical and subtropical plants, as well as other vegetation originating in Australia and South America.
The island is also occupied by families of peacocks brought over by Maximilian from the Canary Islands.

Lokrum Island Curse

Many believe Lokrum Island to be cursed. Legend says that the island’s Benedictine monks were forced to leave by an individual of power, commonly the pope or the ruling nobility. The monks were given a set time to leave the island. On the night of the deadline to go, it is said the monks traveled the island, leaving a trail of candle wax and placing a curse on the island and anyone who tried to claim it for their own in the future.

They went around the island this way three times, which took the entire night, ceremoniously chanting the terrible and harsh words of the curse:

“Whosoever claims Lokrum for his own personal pleasure shall be damned!”

The curse laid on the island soon began to take effect. One of the three Dubrovnik aristocrats jumped out of a window, the other drowned in the sea on the way to Lokrum, and a servant killed the third.

Best Time to Visit Lokrum Island

Lokrum Island is open from April to November, and each season offers a slightly different experience. Since it’s a nature reserve with no overnight stays, timing your visit makes a big difference in how you experience it.

By Season

Spring (April–June). One of the best times to visit. The island is lush and green, with flowers in bloom and the weather pleasantly warm. Crowds are still manageable, making it ideal for peaceful walks and photos.
Summer (July–August). The busiest season, but also the best for swimming and sunbathing. Arrive early to find a good spot by the water and enjoy the vibrant energy.
Autumn (September–October). Warm sea, fewer tourists, and golden light that makes the island extra photogenic. A great choice if you prefer a calmer vibe.
Winter (November–March). The island is closed to visitors, as ferry service stops for the season.

By Time of Day

Morning. The best time to go. You’ll enjoy cooler temperatures, soft light for photos, and fewer people on the trails and beaches.
Midday. The busiest and hottest period, especially in summer. Perfect for a swim or a meal at one of the island’s cafés.
Afternoon. A great time to relax by the sea or explore before catching one of the last ferries back to Dubrovnik.

Pro Penguin Tip. Catch the first ferry of the day, as we did, if you want to feel like you have the island to yourself. It’s pure magic watching Dubrovnik fade in the distance as you sail toward this little green oasis.

Our Waddle to Lokrum Island

We caught the first ferry of the day, and it felt like the best decision we could have made. The early light over Dubrovnik’s Old Town was soft and golden, and the sea was perfectly calm. As the boat picked up speed, we watched the city walls slowly shrink behind us, seeing Dubrovnik from the water gave us a completely new perspective on its beauty.

The ride itself is surprisingly fast, taking only about ten minutes, but it’s long enough to enjoy the salty breeze and that “we’re off on an adventure” feeling. We couldn’t help but smile when we realized that “Game of Thrones: Pirates of the Caribbean” moment was happening for real, the open sea, the ancient city behind us, and a lush green island ahead.

By the time we reached Lokrum, we were wide awake, excited, and ready to explore. It’s a short journey, but one that sets the tone for a magical day on this beautiful island just off Dubrovnik’s shores.

Top Things to Do on Lokrum Island, Dubrovnik

There’s so much to discover on Lokrum Island, so get ready for quite the waddle! Though the island is small, covering only 0.8 square kilometers (0.31 sq mi), it’s filled with hidden corners, scenic paths, and fascinating history waiting to be explored.

Since Lokrum is a protected nature reserve, visitors are asked to respect its environment. It’s strictly forbidden to damage natural or cultural sites, leave waste, bring dogs, light fires, or smoke anywhere on the island. Staying overnight is also not allowed.

Getting around is simple. You can pick up a map at the Ranger House, located right by the ferry drop-off point, but it’s not really necessary; clear signs and walking paths guide you across the island with ease.

Fort Royal

After setting foot on Lokrum, we decided to start our waddle toward the island’s highest point, Fort Royal, before it got flooded with people. It turned out to be the perfect choice.

Fort Royal sits 96 meters (315 feet) above sea level, perched on a hill called Glavice. The walk up is short but steep, so prepare to break a light sweat. Still, every step is worth it, not only for the fort itself but also for the spectacular panoramic views over Dubrovnik and the Adriatic.

The fort was originally built by the French army during Napoleon’s occupation of Croatia due to Lokrum’s strategic location. Later, when the Austrians took control, they renamed it “Maximilian’s Tower.”

Today, Fort Royal stands as one of Lokrum’s key historical landmarks, a peaceful spot where nature, history, and incredible views come together. The circular fort is an impressive structure made up of an outer defensive wall with towers (antemural) and a central round fortification.

The Botanical Garden

Lokrum is famous for its beautiful botanical garden, home to an impressive variety of plant species, from towering eucalyptus and palm trees to striking cacti, agave, and aloe vera. Most of these trees and plants were introduced in the 19th century by Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg, who owned the island at the time and wanted to transform it into a peaceful green retreat.

The garden was officially established as a botanical reserve in 1959 and now features around 800 species of exotic plants from all over the world. Wandering through its shaded paths feels like entering a tropical oasis, with the scent of herbs and flowers in the air and the sound of peacocks echoing in the distance.

It’s a lovely waddle, perfect for slowing down, enjoying nature, and soaking in the calm side of Lokrum.

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Peacocks of Lokrum Island

One of the most charming things about Lokrum Island is its colorful population of peacocks. The moment you step off the ferry, you’ll likely spot them wandering freely across the paths, gardens, and picnic areas, completely unbothered. They are not native to Croatia. They were brought to Lokrum in the 19th century by Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg, who received a few pairs from the Canary Islands. Over the years, they’ve made the island their home, thriving in its mild climate and lush greenery.

Today, peacocks are symbolic residents of Lokrum, adding a touch of magic to the island’s peaceful atmosphere. You’ll often see them spreading their bright feathers, calling from the treetops, or casually posing for photos (they seem to love the attention!).

Pro Penguin Tip.Be gentle and keep a respectful distance; the peacocks are friendly but wild. If you’re lucky enough to visit in spring, you might even see tiny peachicks following their parents around the gardens. It’s one of the sweetest sights on Lokrum and a must-see moment for any visitor.

Skalica Port

As you waddle down from Fort Royal, you’ll arrive at Skalica, Lokrum’s oldest and most historic port. It’s a peaceful little spot surrounded by rocky shores and crystal-clear water, and from here, you get one of the most stunning views of Dubrovnik’s Old Town across the sea.

Skalica isn’t just beautiful; it’s also steeped in legend. According to local stories, this was the landing site of King Richard the Lionheart in the 12th century. On his return from the Third Crusade, a fierce storm is said to have forced his ship toward the Adriatic, where he found refuge on Lokrum. In gratitude for surviving, he vowed to build a church, a promise that, according to legend, led to the construction of Dubrovnik’s Cathedral of the Assumption.

The cross of “Triton”

Triton Cross, Lokrum Island, erected to the memory of 95 crew members of the Austro-Hungarian K.u.K. – Warship “Triton” who died in a strong explosion on 09th of May 1859.

Charlotte’s Well

A beautiful oval stone pool, built during the time of Maximilian of Habsburg, was probably used to water the exotic plants and to bathe the landlords and their guests.

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The Dead Sea of Lokrum

One of Lokrum’s most unique spots is its small “Dead Sea”—a saltwater lake connected to the Adriatic through underwater channels. The water here is incredibly calm, clear, and slightly warmer than the open sea, making it one of the best and most relaxing places to swim on the island.

The lake was formed over millions of years through a mix of tectonic movements, karst processes, and sea erosion. These geological forces gradually widened ancient cracks in the limestone, allowing seawater to flow in and shape the peaceful lagoon we see today.

Because it’s sheltered by rocks and surrounded by greenery, the Dead Sea feels like a natural swimming pool, a perfect spot to float, unwind, and listen to the sounds of nature. The only thing to watch out for is the slippery stones at the edges, so it’s wise to enter the water carefully.

While waddling toward the Dead Sea, make sure to stop by the White Cliffs, one of Lokrum’s most scenic spots. From here, you’ll be treated to another beautiful view of the Adriatic, with waves crashing rhythmically against the rocks below.

Take a moment to sit on the bench near the edge and listen. The sound of the sea echoing between the cliffs is incredibly calming.

The Church of Annunciation

Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, the Church of the Annunciation is the only surviving ecclesiastical building on Lokrum. And one of its most peaceful corners. Despite its age, it’s beautifully preserved, standing quietly amid the greenery as if time had forgotten it.

Now and then, holy masses are still held here, filling the old stone walls with song and echo. The church is part of a larger Benedictine monastery complex, where monks once lived in near-complete isolation. According to legend, the monks placed a curse on Lokrum when they were forced to leave in the early 19th century, warning that anyone who tried to claim the island for themselves would suffer misfortune.

We waddled around the courtyard and could almost feel the quiet history in the air. It’s one of those spots where you slow down, breathe, and imagine the centuries of footsteps that came before yours.

The Monastery Complex

This was one of our favorite places on Lokrum, and the waddle there is just as lovely as the destination itself. Surrounded by palm trees and the sound of peacocks calling, the Monastery Complex feels like stepping into another time.

The site brings together layers of Lokrum’s long history: the remnants of a 12th–13th-century basilica, the Benedictine monastery and cloister garden from the 15th–16th century, and the summer residence of Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg, added in the mid-19th century. It’s where medieval devotion meets imperial elegance, all framed by nature.

We waddled slowly through the old stone corridors and peaceful courtyards, imagining the monks tending their herbs and Maximilian strolling through his gardens. It’s easy to see why he fell in love with this place; the sunlight, the silence, and the scent of flowers make it truly magical.

And yes, you’ll meet more of Lokrum’s peacocks here too, proudly showing off among the ruins as if they were the guardians of this beautiful corner of history.

Game of Thrones and Lokrum Island

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan like us, Lokrum Island is a must-waddle destination! The Monastery Complex isn’t just a historical site, it’s also where you’ll find a touch of Westeros magic.

After parts of the series were filmed in Dubrovnik and on the island itself, the production team donated the original Iron Throne to Lokrum as a thank-you gift. You’ll find it inside the Visitor Centre within the Monastery, surrounded by photos, props, and behind-the-scenes displays from the show’s filming days.

Of course, the best part? You can sit on the Iron Throne yourself and snap your own royal photo. It’s a fun stop even if you’re not a die-hard fan, but for anyone who followed the series, it’s a true highlight.

We couldn’t resist it either. Looking like the tiniest (and fluffiest) ruler of the Seven Kingdoms. Long live the Penguin King of Lokrum!

Beaches and More

Lokrum Island truly has it all. You could easily spend the whole day here and never get bored. Scattered along the coastline are several swimming spots, perfect for cooling off after your island waddle. One of the most popular beaches lies close to the main harbor, conveniently near toilets, showers, and changing rooms, so you can slip into your swimsuit with ease.

The beaches on Lokrum are mostly rocky or set among low cliffs, but that’s part of their charm. The water is unbelievably clear, and some handrails and ladders make getting in and out of the sea safe and straightforward. If you bring a towel or mat, you’ll find plenty of smooth rocks to stretch out on and enjoy the sun.

What we loved most was how peaceful it felt, no loud music, no rush, just the sound of waves and the occasional peacock call echoing through the trees. Whether you choose to swim, sunbathe, or watch the boats drift past Dubrovnik, the beaches of Lokrum offer the perfect mix of relaxation and natural beauty.

Pro Penguin Tip. Bring water shoes if you have them; they make exploring the rocky shore much more comfortable. And don’t skip a dip near sunset; the golden light over the sea is pure magic.

Facilities & Amenities on Lokrum Island

Over the whole island, you will see many fire hydrants ready to be used in case of a fire.
There is no need to worry about drinking water; you can get some at the water stations.
Ferry Dock & Ranger House. The main arrival point has an information desk, maps, and guidance from local staff.
Toilets & Showers. Available near the main harbor and popular swimming areas.
Changing Rooms. Conveniently located close to the beaches, so you can easily get ready for a swim.
Restaurants & Cafés. Several relaxed spots offering cold drinks, snacks, and meals, perfect for a lunch break or coffee stop.
Signposted Trails. Clear walking paths and signs make it easy to navigate the island without a map.
Benches & Picnic Areas. Shady places to sit, rest, or enjoy your own snacks surrounded by nature.
First Aid Station. Basic medical help is available near the main facilities.
No Overnight Stay. You must leave the island by the last ferry (no accommodation available).

Benches with a View

It might sound like a small detail, but on Lokrum, benches truly make a difference. They’re thoughtfully scattered all over the island, perfect for those moments when you want to sit down, take a deep breath, and enjoy the stunning views. After a good waddle in the sun, finding one feels like a little reward.

Our favorite bench was along the path leading up to Fort Royal. You have to waddle a bit to get there, but it’s worth every step. It’s a quiet, hidden spot with a magnificent view of the Adriatic and Dubrovnik in the distance, the kind of place where you could easily lose track of time, just listening to the wind and the sea.

Lokrum Island completely stole our hearts. It’s incredible how just a short ferry ride from Dubrovnik can take you somewhere that feels so peaceful and untouched. From the curious peacocks and hidden benches to the calm waters of the Dead Sea and the views from Fort Royal, every corner of the island has its own quiet kind of magic.

It’s honestly a shame you can’t stay overnight, because Lokrum feels like the kind of place where you’d love to watch the sunset and fall asleep to the sound of the waves. But if you can’t spend the night, spend the whole day, it’s worth it. Wander the trails, swim in the clear sea, have lunch under the trees, and let time slow down.

For us, Lokrum was one of the most peaceful waddles we’ve ever done. If you’re visiting Dubrovnik, don’t miss it; it’s a little green paradise waiting just across the water.

Pack your bag and explore Lokrum Island.

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