Seeing signs advertising an inexpensive boat trip from the public pier in Budva, I was curious to explore this potential adventure. Usually taking a boat anywhere is costly. The best day trip to Hawaii from Budva is not only affordable but fun too!
Galeb Tours
Walking along the esplanade at Slovenska, visitors will see numerous sandwich boards, and vendors trying to sell tickets for this ride. I randomly chose Galeb Boat Tours, not really seeing a difference with any of the companies.
The vendor explained that to go directly to Hawaii would cost €6. To take a longer excursion, past the tiny old island city of Sveti Stefan and past the blue grotto would only be €7. Sold! I wanted the scenic route and my boat was due to leave at 9am. Departures are every ½ an hour with most of these companies, so you won’t have to wait long if you show up on the spot.
The Boat
A modern enough craft, with plenty of seating, most of which was taken by the time I arrived on the pier. I took the last row, hanging right off the back of the boat and was hoping I would not be drenched along the way.
This little boat had half of the seating facing the rear, and half forward. Forward is better for this trip and on the left side for uninterrupted photography opportunities along the way.
The sea was gentle and the driver very careful. I never once got wet or felt bounced about which is what usually keeps me away from smaller boats.
Sveti Stefan
A small 15th century fortress sits upon this tiny island that is connected to the mainland by a small land bridge. Once home to over 400 residents, the island is not open to the public anymore. The Yugoslav government turned the property into a private and exclusive 5 star resort and one of the churches into a casino.
The views from the water however, are exceptional. Our boat took us around the far side and we were able to see this beautiful old walled city with clarity.
The blue grotto is nothing more than a small cave in the limestone of St. Nikola’s Island. I could see virtually nothing from the boat, as a larger yacht was parked in front.
Hawaii Beach
This is the name of the beach area on St. Nikola. Galeb Tours will drop its passengers on the wide and long pier. It is evident that this is where you will catch the boat back to Budva, once you have finished your visit at the beach. You can take a return boat any time you wish, no pre-booking necessary, they run until 7pm each night in the summer.
There are a few clubs here that are using the best parts of this beach space. These are large clubs and were virtually empty when I arrived. Most people are hopping off the boats and heading for the public areas, which aren’t the greatest to be honest.
I walked around extensively, first to find a hiking trail so I could explore the Island. I could not find a trail or path inland for the life of me. There is a fenced private residence behind the clubs and try as I might, I could not see a way past this in order to adventure away from the beaches.
Beach Areas
The space that is left for the public to use, is rocky, slimy and really not the best. I found a nook beside a large boulder and set out my sarong and towel to have a little bake in the sun.
The water here is clear but not crystal. The rocks are incredibly slimy and slippery and getting into the sea, especially without water shoes, is treacherous. It took me ages to walk out as my feet kept sinking into the slimy gravel. To get back to my towel that was beside the waters edge was equally difficult.
If I were to recommend any free place along here to others, it would be the opposite of where I was. Walk to the very end of the pier and look left. Here you will see a small patch of white stones and a little beach. There were only two other people here when I discovered this area right before I was ready to depart the island. Its much cleaner and looks less slippery than the other end of Hawaii Beach. Instead of facing the open sea you will be looking at Slovenska Beach and Budva city.
Food
Besides the beach clubs, that have their own food and drink, I could see two distinct and large restaurants with tons of seating. While I did not check the prices or go inside, they looked inviting, clean and I’m sure would offer some tasty fare.
Return Ride
The boat ride back to Budva is super quick and easy. When a boat pulled up near the Galeb spot on the pier, I showed my ticket and they motioned me aboard. This was not a Galeb boat, but another company, a restaurant in fact. I was dropped off quite close to the marina and had a shorter walk home because of that.
My thoughts are that once you are on the island, virtually any company will bring you back if they have room on the boat.
This was a fun and picturesque day trip from Budva and a great escape from the city. Being on the water was so pleasant and such a nice change of pace. The cost is inexpensive and did not play into my decision to go. Definitely worth the time, money and effort to go see little St. Nikola Island.
