The most beautiful Danube beaches (Part 1) | Natural Heritage of Serbia

On the Danube, until today, so many documentaries have been filmed and publications written that little is unknown about this great river.

Probably even the sparrows know that the second longest river in Europe flows through as many as 10 countries and that the largest part of all these countries belongs to Serbia (over 20%); that on its way to the Black Sea, it cuts through one of the most beautiful gorges in the Old Continent (Đerdap Gorge) and reaches the greatest depth among all European rivers (82 meters); that some of the most beautiful cities in Europe have sprung up along the banks of the Danube (Vienna, Budapest, Belgrade...), and that numerous centuries-old fortifications testify to its historical significance.

From the foot of the Black Forest to the Black Sea, the Danube is a river that gives life to the regions it flows through. While for millions of people the Danube literally means life, it seems that the tourism potential of this river has not been fully utilized. Danube tours and cruises are more focused on visiting the European capitals on the Danube than on getting to know the river itself and its hidden corners.

And it is precisely such beautiful but less known locations in Serbia that we present in the following lines. These are the Danube beaches, formed in the play of the great river and its deposits over the centuries.

Tikvara Beach

Tikvara Beach is located in Bačka Palanka, right next to the marshland and pond complex of the same name, which has the status of a protected nature park. This beach is actually "back-facing" the Danube because it is located on its branch, which is connected to the main river by two narrow canals. Although modest, the beach can be considered well-maintained, with reed umbrellas, benches, showers, changing cabins, and garbage cans. Shallow water and the finest river sand make it safe even for children during low water levels. Situated on a kind of spit between two bodies of water, Tikvara is also very attractive in terms of location. And the local riverfront restaurants, the proximity of the city, and the overall ambiance make it one of the favorite destinations for the residents of Bačka Palanka and its surroundings.

Čelarevo Beach

About 8 kilometers downstream from Tikvara, also on the left bank of the Danube, is the beach Čelarevo. It is located less than a kilometer away from the village of the same name, well-known for the production of the famous "Lav" beer. Equipped with straw umbrellas and a few scattered sun loungers on the fine river sand, this clean and relatively spacious beach is an ideal spot for locals and travelers alike. The nearby riverside tavern with a view of the river and Neštin Island enhances the experience for adults, while the playground with swings and a sand volleyball court guarantees fun for children.

Beočin Beach

Further downstream, but now on the right bank of the Danube, is Beočin Beach, also known as Karaš, named after the nearby restaurant. Facing Futog directly, this beach is significantly larger and more organized than the ones mentioned earlier. It has complete beach infrastructure, including umbrellas, natural shade, changing rooms and showers, catering facilities, and children's amenities. With its fine sand, Beočin Beach even competes for one of the most beautiful beaches along the entire course of the Danube in Serbia. In its immediate vicinity, there is a ferry that connects the two banks of the Danube, so people from Futog, and even residents of Novi Sad, often gather at Karaš.

Vok Beach

However, people from Futog more often visit the beautiful, yet completely wild, beach located on their side of the Danube. This is Vok Beach, unorganized but irresistible for true nature lovers seeking peace and quiet. Since it faces the open Danube, swimming in the river is possible at one's own risk and with increased caution. Even without swimming, staying at this place is pleasant and relaxing, thanks to the usual tranquility the river brings, natural shade, and fine sand. The nearby café adds a special touch to a perfect day by the water, on the edge of Novi Sad's urban jungle.

Štrand

Certainly the most famous beach in Novi Sad and probably the most well-organized bathing area along the entire course of the Danube is Štrand. Novi Sad's counterpart to Belgrade's Ada Ciganlija, Štrand is one of the top tourist attractions of the "Serbian Athens" in the summer. Situated beneath the Liberty Bridge, it stretches along the Danube for about 700 meters with a width of around 50 meters. Fine sand, sun loungers, and umbrellas, along with various entertainment facilities, cafes, and restaurants in the background, make this place almost indistinguishable from beaches in famous resorts. For over a century (established in 1911), this sandy beach has been a cult location in Novi Sad and the most beautiful riverside spot that can be visited in this city. Štrand is a place that attracts visitors, walkers, and enthusiasts throughout the year, enjoying the unique view of the great river, and during the summer months, more than a million people pass through this beach.

Kamenička Beach

Opposite Štrand, on the right bank of the Danube, lies the famous Kamenički Park, and as an integral part of it, the authentic Kamenička Beach. This beach is mostly shaded by centuries-old trees that were planted in the park in the early 19th century when this former court park of the Hungarian noble family Karačonji was formed. Kamenička Beach is not developed for swimming, and in fact, one could say it is inexplicably neglected. It is mostly visited by couples or nature lovers who want to be alone or simply get away from the hustle and bustle of Novi Sad. Together with Kamenički Park, this beach is a unique attraction of Sremska Kamenica and offers an exceptionally beautiful view of Novi Sad, the Liberty Bridge, and the mighty Danube. Due to the river's speed and the sudden drop of the riverbed, swimming at Kamenička Beach is not recommended for inexperienced swimmers.

Officer's Beach

The second most popular bathing spot for Novi Sad residents is located on the Petrovaradin side of the Danube, beneath the Žeželj Bridge. Officer's Beach, better known as "Oficirac," has existed in this location for over two centuries. It is named after the fact that officers of the Austro-Hungarian army used to bathe there in the 19th century with their wives and families. Beautiful, spacious, easily accessible, with enough shade and refreshment spots, it serves as an alternative to Štrand but is actually the first choice for many Novi Sad residents. Watching the sunset from Officer's Beach is considered a special pleasure by many. Although it used to be developed, "Oficirac" is now officially a wild beach, so swimming in the Danube is done at one's own risk, with extra caution, as the mighty river often does not forgive beginner mistakes.

"Venecija" Beach

The last Danube beach upstream from Belgrade is "Venecija" in Stari Banovci. Despite being an idyllic local spot mainly known to Banovci residents, it has gained some popularity in recent years, and guests from Belgrade often arrive by boats. The beach is named after a nearby restaurant, which is its trademark. It cannot be said that it is spectacularly developed, but that certainly does not stop it from being covered with towels and umbrellas during the summer months. In this part of the river, the Danube is enriched by the waters of the Tisza, which flows into it about 15 kilometers upstream, making the impression of the great river from "Venecija" even more impressive.

In the second part of the article about Danube beaches, we will visit the ones in Belgrade and other locations downstream from the capital city.