The Best Beaches in Croatia
With an expansive Adriatic coastline and charismatic islands, Croatia lures sun seekers from across the world each and every summer. Whether you want untouched sands and hidden coves or pebbly shores in the heart of all the action, there are beaches to suit everyone. Take a dip on the edge of Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls or escape to remote islands where few others venture.
If you’re in need of inspiration for your Croatian adventure, here’s our pick of ten of the country’s best beaches.
Kamenjak National Park, Premantura
Located at the southern tip of the Istrian Peninsula (just south of Pula) lies the stunning beaches of Kamenjak National Park. It features miles of rugged coastline, caves and coves to explore, with most of the beaches an easy walk from one another. Cliff jumping from the rocky ledges is particularly popular here, as is kayaking and windsurfing. But lazing in the sunshine or feasting on freshly-caught seafood are equally worthy ways to experience the natural beauty of this national park.
Banje Beach, Dubrovnik
If you’re looking for a quick dip in the ocean while exploring the Old Town of Dubrovnik, you’re probably going to end up at Banje, which lies just outside Ploče Gate near the 17th-century Lazareti. This ever-popular beach boasts fantastic views of the city walls and a plethora of dining and drinking options. You can rent lounge chairs and parasols from the famous Banje Beach Club or just throw a towel onto the pebbles wherever you can find a space.
Sveti Ivan Beach, Lubenice
Nestled beneath the UNESCO World Heritage-listed ancient town of Lubenice, this picture-perfect strip of white sand offers an ideal break from exploring the medieval towers, churches and stone houses. Inviting aquamarine waters lap at its crescent-shaped bay, with the nearby Blue Cave just a short swim away. Sveti Ivan Beach can be accessed along a 40-minute walking trail that winds down from Lubenice or you can rent a boat to get you there.
Dubovica Beach, Hvar Island
Nestled in a secluded cove overlooking the 19th-century Villa Benedeta, Dubovica Beach is ideal for those who want an escape from the lively bars and restaurants of Hvar Island. The tranquility is the main allure here, with a small strip of pebbly beach that’s perfect for soaking up the sun. If you’re traveling with the family or a large group, you can also hire out the entire villa and have Dubovica Beach right outside your door, or visit by Yacht on our Croatia Yachting Tour.
Saharun Beach, Dugi Island
With crystal clear waters backed by a strip of shady pine trees, Saharun Beach on Dugi Island is undeniably picturesque. The waters transform color as the position of the sun changes throughout the day, juxtaposing against the glistening, soft white pebbles. It’s a favorite amongst families for its calm, shallow waters but still remains well off-the-beaten-track, accessed between the villages of Božava and Veli Rat in the north of Dugi. There’s a good choice of eateries and bars hiring beach loungers during the summer months, together with a miniature train that makes the four-kilometer-long journey from Božava.
Spiaza Beach, Susak Island
Situated on the small island of Susak on the northern Adriatic coast, getting to Spiaza Beach is an adventure in itself. But it’ll be more than worth the effort when you arrive at its stunning crescent of sand and warm, shallow waters that radiate from Susak village. You have to wade out quite a distance before it gets deep enough to swim or you can wander around the rocky headland that leads to nearby Bok Bay.
Kraljičina plaža (Queen’s Beach), Nin
Stretching for three kilometers around the Nin Lagoon, Queen’s Beach is an idyllic strip of sand with magnificent views of Mount Velebit. Nin is particularly renowned for its therapeutic mud while its lagoon provides a refuge for numerous endemic plants and migratory bird species. Expect to see bathers at Queen’s Beach smearing themselves in mud, then whiling away the afternoon at one of the beach bars.
Bačvice Beach, Split
The most popular beach in Split, Bačvice is not so much about the serenity as it is a cultural experience. It’s a buzzing social hub amongst local families and teenagers, as well as being a favorite location to play picigin, a Dalmatian sport that involves leaping into the air to prevent a small ball from landing in the water! A pavilion lies at the eastern end of the sand and shingle beach where you can grab a bite to eat or just get an elevated view of the beachside comings and goings.
Šunj Bay, Lopud Island
It’s the journey, not just the destination that matters and this couldn’t be truer for accessing the sands of Šunj Bay. It’s located on the blissfully car-free island of Lopud, which lies a scenic 50-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik, followed by a short hike through the untouched Mediterranean countryside. There’s a beach bar where you can refresh and refuel after the adventure before plunging into the crystal clear waters. Join our Three Country Kayak Tour for an upclose look at Lopud Island and Šunj Bay.
Lumarda, Korčula Island
Located on the eastern tip of Korčula Island, Lumbarda is a tiny village set on a peaceful bay that’s flanked by the island’s best beaches. Head to the shallow waters of Przina which lie to the southeast of town or the nearby sands of Bilin Zal, both of which are ideal for families. Lumbarda is the epicenter of wine production on the island, with swathes of vineyards blanketing the interior landscape making it a particularly enticing destination for wine-lovers. Pair your love for wine, cuisine and beaches on our Epicurean Voyage aboard the Romanca!
