Beaches in Ohrid | 14 Best Beaches You Can’t miss

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Last Updated on April 3, 2025 by sydabroad

If you’re looking for the best beaches in Ohrid, North Macedonia, keep reading! 

Ohrid is a beautiful lakeside city known for its rich history, charming old town, and incredible natural beauty. It is located on the shore of Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The lake offers crystal clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxation. 

In this guide, we’ll cover all the best beaches in Ohrid — from the lively spots near the city to more secluded, relaxing escapes. With Lake Ohrid’s massive size, there’s no shortage of beautiful beaches to explore. Visiting them is hands down one of the best things to do in Ohrid.

I’ve included a map, tips on what to know before you visit, and all you need to know about each beach before visiting Ohrid. During my four months traveling through Europe, the Balkan quickly became a highlight. 

I spent a few amazing days in Ohrid before heading to Tirana, and it was a perfect mix of exploring and enjoying the beauty of the lake. 

Let’s dive into the best beaches in Ohrid, North Macedonia! 

Looking for more Balkan travel guides? 

• 13 Best Things to Do in Ohrid, North Macedonia 
• Amazing Things to Do in Shkoder, Albania 
• Is Tirana Worth Visiting? + A 1 Day Itinerary 
• How to Spend 3 Days in Split, Croatia 

Map | Best Beaches in Ohrid 

14 Best Beaches in Ohrid, North Macedonia

1. Potpesh Beach 

Good for swimming? Yes

Best for: Those looking for a social beach vibe with great lake views 

Location: Potpesh Beach 

Potpesh Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Ohrid. It’s typically pretty busy, especially during a weekend in the summer. This is the spot for you if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere. 

Potpesh is very conveniently located — it’s in Ohrid’s old town along the boardwalk. You’ll have the option to rent a lounge chair and they have a bar that offers refreshing drinks. Get here early if you want to get a good spot. It’s a great place to relax with gorgeous views of Lake Ohrid.

The beaches near the old town are very convenient but tend to fill up quickly. If you’re traveling during the shoulder season you probably won’t have to worry about this as much. But just keep this in mind if you’re visiting during the summer and looking to visit one of the popular beaches.

2. Kaneo Beach 

Good for swimming? Yes

Best for: Swimming and Relaxing

Location: Kaneo Beach

Kaneo Beach is another conveniently located beach in Ohrid right in the old town. To get to Kaneo Beach, you’ll continue walking past Potpesh Beach and follow the sidewalk behind Kaneo Restaurant. 

Again, you can rent umbrellas and lounge chairs here. This beach has a more chill, peaceful vibe compared to some of the busier spots in the city. There is a lakeside restaurant where you can get local dishes and drinks with amazing views. I do still suggest getting here early, especially if you are here during the busy summer months to get a good spot. 

Regardless of whether you plan to visit these beaches near Ohrid’s old town or not, you should at least walk along the boardwalk near Kaneo Beach. It’s such a fun lively spot to explore. It’s also beautiful during sunset. If you don’t want to lay on a busy beach all day, I suggest coming for a sunset drink at a restaurant nearby. There are plenty of options.

3. Old Swimming Court (Staro Bazenče) 

Good for swimming? Yes 

Best for: Swimming and lounging

Location: Old Swimming Court

The Old Swimming Court is a popular spot for locals with a laid-back atmosphere. It’s great for swimming and relaxing — this spot is known for its wooden structure in the lake where people gather to chill and enjoy the water. 

It’s typically a pretty relaxed vibe and less touristy — a perfect spot for sunset. The Old Swimming Court is a short walk from the old town and because you’re close to the old town, there are plenty of bars and restaurants nearby. 

If you don’t want to go far but are searching for a more authentic/local feel, this is a good spot to check out! It’s not as well known as the other popular Ohrid swimming spots. Old Swimming Court is also right near the center of it all so it’s very easy to get to. I did not get the chance to visit when I was in Ohrid but I’d love to check it out during the next trip!

4. Sveti Stefan Beach 

Good for swimming? Yes 

Best for: Spending a laid-back day near the water

Location: Sveti Stefan

Sveti Stefan Beach is about a 4 to 5 km walk from Ohrid’s old town and is known for its relaxing vibe. It’s the perfect place to escape the summer crowds and it’s lined with beachfront hotels, cute bars, and lakeside restaurants. 

Bring a towel to throw down or you can rent a lounge chair. There are plenty of food options and I suggest visiting during sunset — it’s beautiful. Because this beach is a bit farther from the old town, you’ll see the lake from a unique perspective. Sveti Stefan is worth checking out if you are looking for a hidden gem in Ohrid. 

Okay, seriously every place on this list is considered good for swimming. I mean the entire lake is calm, clear, and refreshing. But I’d recommend visiting this beach if you are looking for a nice peaceful day in Ohrid. It’s typically not busy — there’s nothing better than an empty beach.

Read about how to spend 3 days in Split, Croatia here 🇭🇷

5. Lazaro Beach 

Good for swimming? Yes 

Best for: A beach club vibe with music, drinks, and a lively atmosphere. 

Location: Lazaro Beach

For backpackers and groups of friends looking for a good time, check out Lazaro Beach. This location is known for its lively atmosphere. It’s typically very social with drinks flowing and lots of music. Lazaro Beach is just a short drive from the old town so you can easily hop in a taxi to visit for the day. 

There’s nothing quite like a good beach club vibe when you’re traveling Europe. And the Balkans is obviously no exception. I found that in comparison to other spots in the Balkans like Albania and Montenegro, the nightlife in Ohrid isn’t that amazing. However, there are still spots to enjoy a fun night (or day) and Lazaro Beach is a great place!

6. St. Naum Beach 

Good for swimming? Yes 

Best for: Pretty views and calm waters (sandy beach!) 

Location: St. Naum Beach

St. Naum is yet another wonderful beach in Ohrid and is known for its calm waters and beautiful views. Ohrid Beach tends to be quieter than most because it is a bit of a drive. You’ll have to take a taxi, a water taxi, book a tour, or rent a car — it’s about 30 km from the old town but well worth it and makes the perfect day trip or half-day trip. 

The town of St. Naum is near the Albanian border and is famous for the St. Naum Monastery. There’s not much to see in the town of St. Naum however, the beach here is really nice because, unlike most beaches in the Balkans, this beach is one of the few sandy beaches along Lake Ohrid. 

If you are looking for a fun day trip consider booking this tour to St. Naum! It’s a full-day tour from Ohrid with pick-up included where you’ll get to experience St. Naum. Go on a sightseeing tour, take a boat ride across Lake Ohrid, and learn all about this fascinating area. Book the day trip to St. Naum here!

7. Ljubaništa Beach 

Good for swimming? Yes 

Best for: Relaxing all-day 

Location: Ljubaništa Beach

This spot is about a 4 km walk from the old town and makes for a nice stroll along the lake’s shoreline. It’s quieter compared to other beaches around Lake Ohrid, making it the best choice if you are looking for a chill afternoon with a pretty atmosphere. 

The nature is gorgeous around here (like many other Ohrid beaches). Ljubaništa Beach is truly a hidden gem in Ohrid.

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8. Trpejca beach 

Good for swimming? Yes 

Best for: Relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty

Location: Trpejca Beach

Trpejca Beach is near the small town of Trpejca and offers a peaceful, chill atmosphere. If you are looking for more of a local and authentic experience I highly recommend checking out Trpejca. The little village itself is so charming and obviously the beach is great. 

You’ll need to hire a car or book a taxi to reach Trpejca. It’s about 20 km from Ohrid and is often referred to as the “Macedonian Saint-Tropez” due to its peaceful atmosphere and crystal clear waters. This is yet another wonderful spot to swim, sunbathe, or even rent a kayak or paddleboard.

9. Lagadin Beach 

Good for swimming? Yes 

Best for: A tranquil spot for swimming and relaxing 

Location: Lagadin Beach

An ideal spot in Ohrid for swimming, sun bathing, and relaxing. This is a bit more of a developed area compared to other beaches in Ohrid. You can rent sunbeds and there are quaint cafes and restaurants nearby to enjoy.

Lagadin Beach is about 8 km from the old town of Ohrid, so you’ll need to take a taxi. It’s comfortable and peaceful, perfect for a laid-back beach day. 

10. Struga Beach 

Good for swimming? Yes 

Best for: Socializing and swimming 

Location: Struga

Struga Beach is about a 25-minute drive from the old town of Ohrid. It’s known to be lively and social, making it a perfect place for backpackers or groups of friends looking to have a good time! There are cafes, restaurants, and bars close by — a wonderful place to spend the day. 

Struga has a mix of sandy and pebbly beaches, and as you know, many beaches in the Balkans are known to be pebbly. So, if you’re looking for a more comfortable beach in Ohrid, Struga Beach is a good option.

11. Peshtani Beach 

Good for swimming? Yes

Best for: Day trip from Ohrid, swimming, relaxing

Location: Peshtani

This is a quiet village around the lake about 10 km from Ohrid. You can reach Peshtani Beach by local bus or water taxi, it’s a nice relaxing spot for the day with good bars and restaurants. 

Peshtani has a quiet and traditional vibe, you’ll get a mix of local culture and natural beauty at  Peshtani Beach. The lakeside village is Peshtani is cute as well, it is definitely something you should check out if you’re in the area. Here you can try local foods, swim, sunbathe, enjoy lakeside cafes, and even rent a kayak or a boat!

12. Labino Beach 

Good for swimming? Yes

Best for: Escaping the city and relaxing with a book

Location: Labino Beach

This is one of the best beaches in Ohrid! Labino Beach is secluded and truly a hidden gem along the lake. It’s also just a short walk from the old town making it super easy to find. It’s small — so you should probably go early but despite its size, it’s usually not busy. 

Some friends from the hostel and I spent the hot summer afternoon relaxing at Labino Beach. The water is calm, there are trees to lay under, and it’s seriously the most peaceful place. The beach is pebbly and there aren’t any facilities on the beach so bring some snacks and a towel. 

13. Voena Plazha 

Good for swimming? Yes

Best for: Pretty views of Ohrid and a family-friendly beach  

Location: Voena Plazha

Voena Plazha is about 3 km from the old town and is a nice family-friendly beach with plenty of restaurants, sunbeds, and umbrellas to rent. You aren’t too far from the old town making it a great place to spend the day. It’s quiet and is most known for its pretty views of Ohrid’s old town. 

14. Saraiste Beach 

Good for swimming? Yes 

Best for: Convenience 

Location: Saraiste Beach 

This is the closest beach to the old town. It’s right in the center of it all. Near many bars, restaurants, and plenty of cafes. If you are short on time yet still want to experience Ohrid’s beaches, consider visiting Saraiste Beach. 

FAQs about Beaches in Ohrid 

Can you swim in Lake Ohrid? 

Of course! There’s nothing better than taking a dip in Lake Ohrid on a hot summer day. The water is fresh and crystal-clear, making it perfect for swimming.

Since it’s a freshwater lake, the water is usually calm and clean, thanks to its natural filtration. You’ll see locals and visitors alike enjoying the water, whether it’s the small beaches, hidden coves, or even cliff jumping.

Traveling more of the Balkans? Read about the best beaches in Kotor, Montenegro here 🌊

Are there beaches in Ohrid? 

Yes! So many! Whether you’re looking for a relaxed spot, a hidden cove, or a lively beach with bars and music, you’ll find something that fits your vibe.

Lake Ohrid has a majority of pebble beaches, but you can find a few sandy beaches here and there. Make sure to save this guide with all the best beaches in Ohrid for your trip!

How many days do you need in Ohrid?

I’d say three to four days is the perfect amount of time to enjoy the highlights of Ohrid. This gives you enough time to explore the Old Town, hike up to the fortress, visit the monasteries, and spend plenty of time at the lake.

If you have five or more days, you can slow down and really experience the relaxed lakeside atmosphere or take day trips to places like St. Naum or Galicica National Park.

Are there any creatures in the water?

Lake Ohrid is a freshwater lake so, yes. It’s home to many different fish and small creatures. You’ll definitely see little fish swimming around, especially in the shallower areas near the beaches.

I did see a tiny snake while I was there. But don’t worry — it was just a little water snake and they won’t bother you.

Where to stay in Ohrid? 

Looking for a place to stay in Ohrid? I suggest staying in the Old Town, this way, you’ll be right in the heart of everything. You can wander through the charming streets and have easy access to the best beaches, restaurants, and shopping.

When I visited, I stayed at Sunset Lake Hostel. It was a great hostel experience. I highly recommend Sunset Lake Hostel if you are backpacking through Macedonia. It’s got a social vibe, the location is perfect, and you’ll meet other travelers here.

However, if hostels aren’t your thing, there are plenty of cute boutique hotels and guesthouses to choose from. Find a place to stay in Ohrid here!

Is lake Ohrid worth visiting? 

Absolutely! It’s truly one of the most stunning places I’ve ever visited. Imagine serene sunsets, charming Old Town streets, beautiful mountain views, and crystal-clear waters. No matter what type of traveler you are, Ohrid has something for everyone. If you’re traveling through the Balkans, add Ohrid to your list!

Is the water in Lake Ohrid cold?

It can be quite chilly! But it’s so refreshing on a hot day. I was here in June, and it was HOT, and nothing felt better than a dip in the cool lake. During the summer the lake warms up a bit, and temperatures will be around 22-25 C (72-77 F).

How much do sun loungers cost to rent in Ohrid?

You’ll find that many places offer lounge chairs for rent. The average price for a lounge chair and umbrella is between 400 and 800 Macedonia denars per day (about 7 to 14 euros).

However, the prices can vary depending on the season and the beach. Some beach bars offer free sun loungers if you order food or drinks, so it’s always worth checking.

I hope you enjoyed this guide about the best beaches in Ohrid, North Macedonia! Make sure to check out my Ohrid travel guide here if you plan on visiting, and comment below if you have any questions. 

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