10 May Can You Swim in the Adriatic Sea in May or October?
If you’re planning a trip to Croatia in spring or autumn, one of the first things you might wonder is: Can you actually swim in the Adriatic Sea in May or October? The short answer is yes — but there are a few things you should know before you dive in.
What’s the Water Like in May?
May is the start of the swimming season in Dubrovnik and along the Dalmatian coast. Sea temperatures hover around 18°C to 21°C (64°F to 70°F), depending on the weather that year. For some, it’s refreshing. For others, it’s a little brisk. Locals often start swimming in late May, especially on warm sunny days when the shallow bays heat up quicker than the open sea.
If you’re someone who doesn’t mind cooler water and wants to beat the summer crowds, May can be a beautiful time to enjoy the sea. The water is clear, the air is fresh, and beaches are far less crowded than in July or August.
What About October?
October is the tail end of the swimming season. After months of summer heat, the Adriatic stays pleasantly warm well into early October. Sea temperatures are typically between 20°C and 23°C (68°F to 73°F), especially in the first two weeks of the month.
Weather-wise, early October often still brings sunny days with daytime air temperatures around 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 79°F), which means swimming is not only possible — it’s actually enjoyable. Later in the month, it depends more on the year and your tolerance for cooler conditions.
Where to Swim Near Dubrovnik in Shoulder Season
If you’re visiting Dubrovnik in May or October and want to make the most of the sea, the Elaphiti Islands are a perfect option. With fewer visitors and plenty of quiet coves, the water around Koločep, Šipan, and Lopud is often calmer and warmer than on exposed city beaches.
These islands are easy to access on a day trip, and offer an authentic Adriatic experience: turquoise bays, stone villages, and peaceful nature. One of the best-known swimming spots is Šunj Beach on Lopud — a wide, sandy bay with shallow, warm waters ideal for early or late-season swims.
One of the Best Ways to Swim: By Boat
Instead of staying on the shore, why not spend the day on the sea itself? A boat tour gives you access to quiet bays, hidden beaches, and swimming spots you’d never reach on foot. And with fewer crowds in May and October, it often feels like you have the Adriatic to yourself.
Galleon Tirena, a 16th-century wooden replica ship, offers full-day Elaphiti Islands tours from Dubrovnik. It’s one of the most unique and memorable ways to experience the Adriatic coast. You can relax in the shade, enjoy a traditional lunch, and dive into the clear sea — all while sailing like they did centuries ago.
It’s an ideal choice for travelers looking for a mix of culture, nature, and refreshing dips in Croatia’s most beautiful waters. Even in the shoulder season.
Book your Elaphiti Islands tour here and enjoy the Adriatic like a local — even outside of peak summer.
Final Thoughts
Yes, you can absolutely swim in the Adriatic Sea in May or October — especially if you’re visiting Dubrovnik. The water may be a bit cooler, but the peaceful atmosphere, warm sunshine, and natural beauty make it more than worth it. With the right mindset (and maybe a towel close by), these months can deliver some of the most rewarding travel moments.
Whether it’s a spontaneous dip on Lopud or a day-long adventure with Galleon Tirena, the Adriatic is always waiting.