Top 7 Most Popular Beaches In Croatia
Today, Croatia is pulling out all the stops. Trees froth with blossoms, fields are speckled gold with wildflowers, and there’s the scent of summer in the air. The temperature is 68 F. Perfect for boat trips, islands and exploring fishing ports — the kind where nets dry in the sunlight, cats snooze on doorsteps, and harbor restaurants come with terrace tables brightened by red-checker cloths.
It is not an exaggeration to claim that pretty much every beach or waterfront you go to on the Dalmatian coast will dazzle you with its beauty and refreshing water. Croatia is known for its crystal clear sea so it’s no wonder that the Blue Flag certificate has been awarded to over 100 beaches along the coast for the quality of their water and surroundings. Beware that Croatia’s shoreline is a rockier rather than a sandier one, so most of the beaches are filled with pebbles and rocks. No pain, no gain; while you are walking on those rocks remember that they’re a reason for why the sea is so clean and showcases such beautiful colors. Since it might be hard for you to choose specific locations, here are some suggestions for some fun in the sun.
1. Zlatni rat
Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) is a narrow golden white pebble beach located on the island of Brac. The famous sandbar has a shape as flexible as liquid gold which constantly changes its shape, leaning back and forth as winds and sea currents guide it to one side or the other. The swan’s neck veers 634 miles out into the sea. The beach is a great destination for windsurfers due to reliable afternoon westerly wind. When you’re tired of being in the sun, relax under the shade of century-old pine trees in the grove of which one can find remnants of a Roman villa Rustica. Feeling frisky? Find your way to the most western edge of the beach and several other coves to the west of the main beach which are clothing-optional. The beach is on a promontory which is protected as a geomorphological phenomenon due to its rock-hard ridge which has resisted the erosive forces that have removed the softer rock to the sides of it.
2. Kornati
The Kornati, made up of 140 islands (all varying in size) are the densest archipelago in the Mediterranean sea. In 1980, the eighty-nine southernmost of the 140-odd islands, islets and reefs of the Kornati archipelago were declared a national park, protecting the islands and their marine surroundings. There are no permanent settlements, just simple houses in a few coves. The pristine blue water and various rock and island formations are a sight to see.
Close by is Dugi otok Island which boasts one of the most beautiful sandy beaches along the Adriatic – Saharun beach. This almost kilometer long beach is as famous for its pure white sand and incredibly turquoise water. Since Dugi otok island is still one of those hidden Croatian gems its beaches and coves are never too crowded. If you visit Dugi otok be sure not to miss Telaščica bay as well – it’s a protected nature park which encompasses five islands and over twenty smaller bays.
3. Dubrovnik
What’s better than immersing yourself in the spectacular architecture of southern city Dubrovnik? Check out the view while swimming in the water at Banje Beach. The city’s most famous beach offers breath-taking views of the famous stone walls that engulf Dubrovnik. The water is always warmer than at most other Croatian beaches. Those seeking less of a touristy beach experience and more of a local one, head to Lapad Beach, where the sandy horizon is dotted with pine and palm trees.
4. Brela
Many Croatians claim the most beautiful beaches of the Adriatic are found in Brela, on the Makarska Riviera. The pristine turquoise sea swallows up pearly pebble beaches with iconic Brela Stone rising out of the water; large rocks jutting out of the sea with trees growing from them. Stunning views encompass never too-crowded beaches even in the high season summer months. Go to: Punta Rata Beach While there, also check out surrounding beaches at Tucepi, Baska Voda and Podgora. There is no wrong place to lay down your beach towel in this part of the Adriatic.
5. Hvar
Hvar hosts some of the most beautiful coves in Dalmatia. Though few sandy beaches can be found in the northern part of the island, Hvar is best known for its azure blue pebbly beaches. Moreover, Pakleni Islands – a must destination for all the lovers of secluded coves and untouched nature – are just a short boat ride away. On the island of Hvar, check out Skozanje and Jedra coves along with Zavala and Dubovica beaches.
6. Vis
Vis is one of the farthest inhabited islands in Croatia and is considered to be one of the last places where you can really experience the Meditteranean as it once. This illuminates the laid back way of life, delicious simply prepared food, crystal clear sea and nature. Check out sandy Stoncica beach and secluded Stiniva beach. Also check out Srebrna, a beach named after the silver reflection of moonlight that creates a glistening garden of pebbles at night. Considered one of the island’s most beautiful beaches, its ideal for anyone seeking a more private area. Thick vegetation surrounds Srebrna so you’re bound to find shade following an afternoon in the Adriatic’s beautiful, bright sun.
Last but not least don’t miss out on Blue Grotta Cave.
7. Bacvice, Split
For many of its inhabitants Split is not so much a city as a religion, centered around a collection of semi-mystic locations. Among the holiest of holies is undoubtedly Bačvice beach, a shallow bay of sand and shingle that has played an important role in the early childhood and teenage years of virtually anyone who has ever called the city home. Immensely popular as a family beach, it’s also a buzzing social hub, with a café-packed pleasure pavilion rising immediately to the east. Bačvice is also famous for being the spiritual home of picigin, a uniquely Dalmatian sport that involves a lot of acrobatic leaping around as players try to prevent a small ball from hitting the water.
