⛱️ Beaches in Croatia: where to go swimming, where the sand is and how to get there

Beaches in Croatia are almost all free: you only pay for a lounger and an umbrella. The shore here varies, from fine pebbles to sand and polished stones. Some bays are sheltered from the wind, others are open to the mistral, and that determines how good swimming is on any given day.

We put together 25 beaches from Istria to Dalmatia, including the islands of Krk, Korcula, Vis, Pag, Rab, Brac and Dugi Otok. For each one we noted where it is, who it's for and what its weak point is.

The short answer for those traveling with kids: look at Lopar on Rab and Bijeca in Medulin. For crystal-clear water, head to Stiniva and Nugal, and for a city beach with infrastructure, look in Split and Dubrovnik.

How to choose a beach in Croatia

💡 In short:

Shore: fine pebbles along most of the coast, sand on Brac, Rab and Pag, smooth stones on Vis.
Kids need a gentle entry and shallow water, divers need open bays where the depth increases quickly.
September is calmer and cheaper; in July and August the well-known beaches get crowded.
Beach access and infrastructure: 09/2026, according to the Croatian National Tourist Board

1. Vela plaza (Baska, Krk)

People relaxing on the pebble beach Baška by the sea

The beach sits surrounded by mountains and pine forest, so there is almost no wind here. The water near the shore is light blue, and the stones are polished by the waves to the point that you can walk on them barefoot. The stretch runs for more than 1.8 km (as of 09/2026, Baska tourist office), and you can find a spot even in August.

The forest comes right up to the water, so you won't have to pay for shade. Yachts anchor near the shore, and boat trips can be booked right on the promenade. Divers come here for the underwater caves, not just for the fish, and the beach recently received the Blue Flag again (as of 09/2026, Foundation for Environmental Education).

Where it is: near the resort of Baska on the island of Krk, within walking distance from the town center.
Shore: pebbles and stones, easy entry, depth increases gradually.
Who it's for: families with kids (accessible paths, even shore) and divers (submerged caves).
Not for: those looking for sand underfoot and complete quiet.

2. Zlatni rat (Bol, Brac)

A spit of fine pebbles extends into the sea for almost 500 m and changes shape after strong winds (as of 09/2026, official Zlatni rat website). The tip covers about 20,000 m², and this is the view that most often appears on postcards of Croatia.

Underwater currents near the very tip are strong, so inexperienced swimmers are better off staying in the shallows. Surfers and kitesurfers, on the other hand, come here specifically for the wind. With kids, you can set up on the calm section by the pine park.

Where it is: 2 km from the center of Bol, on the southern shore of the island of Brac (as of 09/2026, official Brac tourism portal).
Shore: fine pebbles, sand at the tip, long gentle entry.
Who it's for: surfers, couples and families with kids on the calm side.
Not for: weak swimmers near the tip, where there are currents.
The catch: loungers and umbrellas are paid, beach entry is free.

3. Rajska plaza (Lopar, Rab)

The beach lies on the northeast side of the island of Rab and is shaped like a crescent. The sand here is light and soft, and the water shifts from pale blue to emerald. The stretch is about 1.5 km long (as of 09/2026, Rab island tourism portal), so you will find a spot even at the height of the season.

Umbrellas and loungers are available to rent, but many guests simply spread a towel on the sand. Tennis courts, a soccer field, and a playground are nearby. In the evening you can stay for the disco and look out at the night sea.

Where it is: near the village of Lopar, on the island of Rab.
Shore: sand and fine pebbles, gentle entry, shallow water.
Who it's for: families with children and anyone who wants sand rather than pebbles.

4. Punta Rata (Brela)

Punta Rata beach with beachgoers and mountains

The beach stretches for almost 6 km along the resort of Brela (as of 09/2026, Brela tourist office). Pine and juniper forests come right down to the water, so you can find shade even without an umbrella. The fine pebbles are pleasant underfoot, and the entry into the sea is gentle.

Just offshore stands Kamen Brela, the symbol of the resort. The water here is blue with an emerald tint and stays clean even in August. Divers head out to the larger rocks farther from shore, and you can rent equipment on site.

Where it is: next to the resort of Brela, on the Makarska Riviera.
Shore: fine pebbles, gentle entry, pines on the shore.
Who it's for: families with children, divers, and lovers of pine-scented air.
The catch: from June through August it is crowded and parking is paid; it is calmer to come in September.

5. Vela Pržina (Vela Luka, Korčula)

Old Trogir waterfront with bell towers, view from the sea

This is one of the rare sandy beaches in Croatia, so the spot is very popular (as of 09/2026, Vela Luka tourist office). Light sand runs along the whole bay, and you can walk on it without special footwear. The water near the shore is warm and shallow, which is convenient for toddlers and for weak swimmers.

Loungers and umbrellas are available to rent, but many people relax on the sand without them. There are sports courts and a volleyball net nearby, and younger crowds come here for company and music. You can buy drinks, snacks, and ice cream right on the beach.

Where it is: near the town of Vela Luka, on the island of Korčula.
Shore: sand, shallow water, even bottom.
Who it's for: parents with children, younger visitors, and weak swimmers.
The catch: in July and August the sand gets crowded.

6. Nugal (Makarska)

Nugal lies in a rocky bay southeast of Makarska, surrounded by pine forest (as of 09/2026, Makarska tourist office). The bay is sheltered from the wind, so waves rarely build up here. The sea is clean and transparent, and the depth increases gradually.

Medieval stone house on a street in old Trogir

The area is cleaned regularly, and you will not see litter. There are no discos or nightclubs here, but there is free parking. The pines provide shade in the heat, and divers head away from the shore for fish and rocks.

Where it is: in a rocky bay between Makarska and Tučepi.
Shore: pebbles, even entry, light waves.
Who it's for: those who value quiet, and divers.
Not for: those who want cafes and bars right on the shore.

7. Stiniva (Vis)

Stiniva Bay is narrow, ringed by cliffs, and the water is so transparent that people compare it to an advertising poster (as of 09/2026, Vis tourist board). The beach has repeatedly appeared in European best-of lists.

The water in the bay is always calm and warm, which is why snorkeling enthusiasts come here. Watch out for sea urchins: you will need special water shoes. The infrastructure is modest, with only a shop selling drinks and ice cream, and old fishermen's houses nearby.

The best time for Stiniva is early morning or September, when excursion boats come less often. In the middle of the day, groups gather on the small shore, and you will have nowhere to take cover.

Where it is: on the island of Vis, in the bay of the same name.
Shore: pebbles and rocks, the depth increases quickly.
Who it's for: photographers, divers, and couples.
The catch: sea urchins near the shore and almost no infrastructure.

8. Bijeca (Medulin, Istria)

Bijeca belongs to the Medulin resort in southern Istria. A sandy strip about a kilometer long (as of 09/2026, Medulin tourist board) runs along a shallow lagoon, and the water here is crystal clear. The depth near the shore is shallow, so swimming is comfortable for both children and adults.

The beach has lifeguards and a first-aid station, as well as toilets and showers. You can rent loungers and umbrellas. Children will enjoy the small water park, inflatable island, and trampoline, while adults will appreciate the diving center, jet ski, and bicycle rental.

Where it is: in Medulin, in southern Istria.
Shore: sand, shallow water, long gentle entry.
Who it's for: families with children and active couples.
The catch: there are more sunny days here than in other parts of Croatia, so sunscreen and an umbrella are essential.

9. Veli žal (Zubovići, Pag)

The beach stretches for more than 300 m in the northern part of the island of Pag (as of 09/2026, Pag island tourist board). Most often, guests of the village of Zubovići sunbathe here, and the shore is clean and well maintained. You can lie on the sand next to other vacationers or walk over to the rocks for some privacy.

There is no natural shade on the beach, and the spot is very sunny, so you will need to rent an umbrella. The blue water of the bay and the outline of the island look especially good at sunset. Activities here include kayaking, water skiing, windsurfing, and scuba diving.

Where it is: the village of Zubovići, northern part of the island of Pag.
Shore: pebbles and sand, with some rocky sections.
Who it's for: young people near the pier, families with children, surfing enthusiasts.
The catch: no shade from trees, an umbrella is a must.
Facilities: toilets, shower, playground, parking lot, cafe and pizzeria.

10. Bačvice (Split)

Bačvice beach in Split from above, umbrellas and swimmers

Bačvice is about a kilometer from the center of Split, so it is always crowded (as of 09/2026, Split tourist board). The wide strip of light sand and the promenade look neat, and the beach has earned a Blue Flag for its clean water.

The shallows here are extensive, so even toddlers splash around in the warm sea. Young people come for an active beach holiday: discos and nightclubs operate here in the evening. Keep two things in mind: concrete blocks jut out into the sea, and after a storm seaweed remains on the sand until it is cleaned up.

Where it is: about a kilometer from the center of Split, on foot from Diocletian's Palace.
Shore: sand, extensive shallows.
Who it's for: families with small children and young people.
The catch: concrete blocks in the water and seaweed on the sand after a storm.

11. Mlini (Župa Dubrovačka)

Mlini belongs to the village of the same name 10 km from Dubrovnik (as of 09/2026, Župa Dubrovačka tourism portal). People come here for a quiet holiday, and locals also choose this beach. The best time for you is September: the tourist flow has already dropped off, while the sun remains gentle.

Mlini pebble beach with turquoise water and pine trees

The shore is covered with fine pebbles, so you will not be shaking sand out of your shoes and swimsuit. The facilities are well developed, and cafes operate nearby. Besides swimming, you can go scuba diving, take a yacht trip, or go out on a fishing boat.

Where it is: the village of Mlini, 10 km from Dubrovnik.
Shore: fine pebbles, clean water.
Who it's for: couples and families with children who do not want sand.
Plus: local cuisine based on seafood, olive oil, and herbs.

12. Gornja Vala (Gradac)

Aerial view of a pebble beach with umbrellas, sea and parking by the pines

This beach on the Adriatic coast belongs to the resort of Gradac and stretches for about 5 km (as of 09/2026, Gradac tourist board). The area is divided into the Upper Bay and Bosac Bay. The pebbles here are white, and the entry into the sea is gentle, so the beach suits even those who cannot swim.

Pine forests provide shade in the heat, while the mountains and forest shelter the shore from strong winds. Storms are rare here, and the sea is calm most of the time. Come in the velvet season: there are fewer people, prices are lower, and the weather stays warm.

While relaxing, it is pleasant to admire Mount Biokovo, which rises above the bay. When you get tired of sunbathing, you can stroll along the promenade and stop by cafes and shops.

Where it is: near the resort of Gradac, on the Makarska Riviera.
Shore: white pebbles, gentle entry, clear water.
Who it's for: romantic couples, athletes, families with older children.
The catch: the beach is less often chosen by those with small children.

13. Srebreno (Župa Dubrovačka)

Srebreno is a small resort 11 km from Dubrovnik, with a permanent population of more than 400 people (as of 09/2026, Župa Dubrovačka municipality). The shore is covered with fine pebbles, and breakwaters protect swimmers from rough water. Sea urchins stay on the rocks, so water shoes will come in handy.

The seabed is sandy, the depth near the shore is minimal, and even the smallest children can swim. Everything you need is close by: cafes, a post office, shops. If you come here just for the day, you can get here by bus, as the connections are good.

Where it is: between Mlini and Kupari, 11 km from Dubrovnik.
Shore: fine pebbles, sandy bottom, shallows.
Who it's for: families with toddlers and those who do not like waves.
Plus: you can walk to the beaches of Mlini and Kupari.

14. Trstenica (Orebić, Pelješac)

The beach is on the Pelješac peninsula near the town of Orebić (as of 09/2026, Orebić tourist board). A narrow strip of fine pebbles and sand stretches for about 400 m. Conifers come right up to the shore, and their shade will shelter you from the heat.

A large shallow area lets both toddlers and adults who can't swim splash around safely. For your convenience there are changing cabins, showers, toilets, and Wi-Fi. Kids will enjoy the small floating water park.

Where: Orebić, Pelješac peninsula.
Shore: fine pebbles and sand, large shallow area.
Who it's for: families with children and weak swimmers.
Activities: catamarans, boats, jet skis, banana boats, water skiing, cafes and a bar.

15. Kupari (Župa Dubrovačka)

Kupari beach with loungers and turquoise water

Kupari is a few kilometers from Dubrovnik, and you can get there by car or bus (as of 09/2026, Župa Dubrovačka municipality). The beach is sandy and pebbly, the depth increases gradually, and the bottom is even. Strong wind and large waves are rare in the bay.

It's usually uncrowded here, with enough space for everyone. The exception is the peak season in July and August. You shouldn't come here for loud entertainment and nightclubs, but the spot is ideal for a quiet swim.

Where: a few kilometers from Dubrovnik, the bus stops nearby.
Shore: sand and fine pebbles, even bottom.
Who it's for: couples and families looking for peace and quiet.
Plus: a shopping center, cafes, and a wide choice of hotels nearby.

16. Mulini (Rovinj)

Mulini beach in Rovinj with swimmers and kayaks

Rovinj is known for its indented coastline, and Mulini beach ranks among the most comfortable in the country (as of 09/2026, Rovinj tourist board). It lies near the center, by the Monte Mulini hotel, which is surrounded by an old nature park. It offers a view of the bay.

There are changing rooms, modern showers, sun lounger rentals, and a towel stand. You'll be offered food and drinks, and the stylish bar serves signature cocktails. There's even a concierge and an information desk, which is rare for a beach.

Where: near the center of Rovinj, by an old park.
Shore: pebbles, easy entry into the water.
Who it's for: couples and guests who want hotel-level service.
The catch: prices for loungers and drinks are above the Istrian average.

17. Kuvi (Rovinj)

Kuvi lies in the bay of the same name, 3 km from Rovinj (as of 09/2026, Rovinj tourist office). The beach is popular and is periodically refreshed with new pebbles. The Villas Rubin tourist complex stands nearby, and its entertainment centers, sports courts, and restaurants are available to you as a guest.

The entry into the water is gentle, so swimming is comfortable for children of any age. Diving lessons and tennis courts are right there, and you can rent boats, jet skis, and bicycles. You can hide from the sun not only under an umbrella but also in the shade of trees.

Where: 3 km from Rovinj, in Kuvi bay.
Shore: pebbles, gentle entry, shade from trees.
Who it's for: families with children and active vacationers.
The catch: food is mostly burgers, so bring familiar food for children; leave the car in the parking lot.

18. Banje (Dubrovnik)

Banje beach with a view of old Dubrovnik

Banje lies right at the walls of the Old Town, so you get a view of the fortress and Lokrum Island along with your swim (as of 09/2026, official Dubrovnik tourism portal). This was once a quarantine station for sailors arriving from other countries, and today it is Dubrovnik's most famous city beach.

The beach is divided into paid and free zones. The paid section has loungers, umbrellas, changing rooms, and showers, and drinks are brought to your spot. The free zone also has umbrellas and loungers, but you get your own orders.

The most comfortable time to relax here is September, during the velvet season. The paid section is home to Dubrovnik's best bars, and famous people, from athletes to performers, are often spotted there. There are play areas for children, and you can rent gear for water activities.

Where: just outside the Old Town walls.
Shore: fine pebbles, a large shallow area, gentle entry.
Who it's for: couples, families, and anyone who wants to swim with a fortress view.
The catch: it is always crowded, and in the paid zone you pay for comfort.

19. Medena (Trogir)

The beach belongs to the Trogir resort, whose historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site (as of 09/2026, Trogir tourist office). The shore is fine pebbles with no rocks on the bottom, so even small children can swim here. A forest grows nearby, providing shelter from the wind and shade.

Changing rooms, showers, and toilets are on site, and you can rent loungers and umbrellas. You can eat at restaurants and kiosks, and fresh fruit and ice cream are sold right on the beach. Activities include sailing, volleyball, basketball, water skiing, and trampolines for children.

Where: near Trogir, between Split and Šibenik.
Shore: fine pebbles, clean bottom, forest on the shore.
Who it's for: families with children and active vacationers.
Plus: an amusement park for toddlers nearby.

20. Rab island: Lopar and Barbat beaches

Rab is small, about 22 km long, with a population of around 10,000 (as of 09/2026, Rab Island tourist board). Conifers cover the island, so the air feels light and easy to breathe. On the island you will find families with children, young people, and older visitors looking for peace and quiet.

Rab has every kind of beach: rocky, pebbly, and mixed. Families with children choose the sandy ones and stay in Lopar, where there are plenty of hotels. Those who prefer fine pebbles head to Barbat: it has a beautiful pine forest, very shallow sea, and lovely views. A popular naturist beach is located near Palit.

Where: an island in the Kvarner Gulf, connected to the mainland by ferries.
Shore: sand in Lopar, fine pebbles in Barbat, rocks in the west. The island has a long history: people lived on Rab as far back as four thousand years BC (as of 09/2026, Rab Island website). According to legend, a native of the island founded San Marino. The island changed hands many times: it was ruled by Ancient Rome, Byzantium, the Kingdom of Hungary-Croatia, and Austria, so in its towns you will see a mix of architectural styles. Today it is a quiet resort destination where people value peace rather than nightlife.
Who it's for: families with children (Lopar) and those who enjoy calm swimming (Barbat).

21. Brač island: Bol and Supetar

View of Brač island across the sea with a pine branch

Brač is considered one of the most beautiful islands in Croatia (as of 09/2026, Brač tourist board). The island's two well-known resorts are Bol and Supetar. The climate is mild, and a light sea breeze makes the heat easier to bear.

The beaches on Brač consist of sand and small pebbles, and their total length stretches for dozens of kilometers. The entry into the water is gentle and convenient, so there are many families with children here. The island's white stone was used to clad famous buildings, and you can buy souvenirs made from it in local shops.

The sea around Brač is very clean, with a turquoise hue, and the coastal waters are rich in fish. The island produces olive oil and rosé wine, so dinner comes with local cuisine. There are many courts along the coast, and you will always find a tennis partner.

Where: an island opposite Split, ferries from Split.
Shore: sand and fine pebbles, gentle entry.
Who it's for: families with children, windsurfers, and tennis players.
Plus: changing cabins, showers, toilets, equipment rental, and lifeguards.

22. Crni Mol (Crikvenica)

Crni Mol is a free beach in Crikvenica, a resort in the Kvarner Gulf (as of 09/2026, Crikvenica tourist board). The resort's name comes from the word "church," and it became a climatic health destination back in the 19th century. Pebbles mix with sand here, which parents with children will appreciate.

The sea is shallow: in July and August the water warms up to +26 °C, and swimming is comfortable in June and the first half of September as well. Loungers and umbrellas are available for rent, as is gear for diving and water sports. Shops and a bar are nearby.

Where: Crikvenica, Kvarner Gulf.
Shore: pebbles and sand, shallow sea.
Who it's for: families with children and dog owners: there is a special beach for pets nearby.
Activities: water skiing, motorboat excursions, aqua aerobics classes.

23. Saharun (Dugi Otok)

Saharun beach with turquoise water and boats

Saharun lies on the island of Dugi Otok, which you reach by ferry (as of 09/2026, Dugi Otok tourist board). The ferry ride itself becomes part of the trip. From the pier to the beach, it's best to go by car or taxi; the bus is not always convenient.

White sand and pine trees surround the bay, and the shoreline stretches for about a kilometer. The sea is shallow, and the swimming area is roped off, so boats and dinghies won't get in your way. The bottom is even, with no rocks, and the water is warm even for toddlers.

We recommend planning several days for Saharun: the island has hotels in different price ranges, and the trip from the mainland takes time. Restaurants operate right by the beach, which is convenient after a long journey.

Location: Dugi Otok island, ferry and then by car.
Shore: white sand, shallow water, even bottom.
Who it's for: families with children and guests staying for several days.
The upside: restaurants, sports courts, changing rooms, showers, lounger and catamaran rentals.

24. Lovrečina (Brač)

Ruins of St. Lawrence Church near Lovrečina cove

Lovrečina is on the island of Brač, and no public transport goes here: you get there by car or by sea (as of 09/2026, Brač island tourist board). Even at the height of the season, there are few people here.

The shore is surrounded by deciduous and pine forests, so you can find a secluded spot at any time. The sand, both on the beach and on the bottom, is fine and light, and the water is a rich blue. The shallow area is extensive, and farther out the depth increases, which is where divers head.

Location: Brač island, car or boat only.
Shore: fine sand, extensive shallow water.
Who it's for: couples, families with children, and divers.
The catch: limited infrastructure; book accommodation on the island in advance.

25. Lapad (Dubrovnik)

Aerial view of Lapad peninsula and Gruž port in Dubrovnik

Lapad is in Dubrovnik, where you'll find a long, wide stretch of beach and clean sea (as of 09/2026, Dubrovnik tourist board). Locals call it the city's longest sandy beach, although the sand is only right at the water's edge, and beyond that it turns into fine pebbles.

You won't need special footwear: the pebbles are small and the bottom slopes gently. Children splash in the shallows, build sand towers, or collect pretty stones. For adults, there are showers, loungers, umbrellas, changing rooms, toilets, and lifeguards, and you can leave your car in a shaded parking lot.

If you can't swim, lifeguards are on duty nearby, and you'll feel at ease in the shallow water. You can also sign up for a diving course here and immediately put your skills to use in the water. When you get tired of sunbathing, you can stroll through the shops, explore the surroundings, and return to the beach by evening.

Location: the Lapad area in Dubrovnik.
Shore: sand at the water's edge, then fine pebbles, gentle entry.
Who it's for: families with children, beginner divers, guests of the area.
Activities: diving course, kayaks, yacht, bars and a restaurant, shops nearby.

Beaches of Croatia on the map

The map below shows where all 25 beaches from this selection are located. Open it and mark the points for your route: you can drive along the coast from Istria to Dubrovnik, and you'll reach the islands of Krk, Rab, Brač, Vis, Korčula, and Dugi Otok by ferry.

Check ferry schedules in advance: in summer, departures fill up, and a spot for your car on board is booked separately (as of 09/2026, Croatian National Tourist Board).

⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Croatia's beaches?

You can swim from May through October, but in July and August the well-known beaches get crowded. September is the most comfortable: the sea stays warm, there are fewer people, and accommodation prices drop. Early morning in July also works, especially at Stiniva and Nugal.

Do you need special footwear on Croatia's beaches?

On fine pebbles you can walk barefoot, no footwear needed. Water shoes come in handy on Vis, where sea urchins are found near the shore, and on the rocky sections of Stiniva. On the sandy beaches of Lopar and Medulin, you won't need footwear either.

Where are the sandy beaches in Croatia?

Sand is rare here. Look for it in Lopar on Rab, in Medulin on Istria (Bijeca), at Saharun on Dugi Otok, at Vela Pržina near Vela Luka, and at Lapad in Dubrovnik. At Lapad, sand is only near the water; further out it turns into fine pebbles.

Can you go to Stiniva with children?

With little ones it will be inconvenient: the cove is small, there is almost no shade, the depth increases quickly, and sea urchins are found near the shore. With children, choose Lopar, Bijeca, Srebreno, or Vela Pržina: they have a gentle entry and a large shallow area.

How much does a lounger and umbrella cost?

There is no single rate; the cost depends on the resort and season, and on most beaches you can relax on your own towel for free. At Banje in Dubrovnik and at Mulini in Rovinj, the service is more expensive than on the Kvarner beaches.

What should you bring to the beach in Croatia?

Bring water, high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. Water shoes come in handy on rocky shores and where sea urchins are found. You don't need to buy an umbrella; you can rent one on site. Bring food and drinks for children with you: at Mlini and Kuvi beaches, the selection is limited.

In short: what's worth booking

If you're traveling with small children, Lopar on Rab, Bijeca in Medulin, and Srebreno near Dubrovnik will suit you. If you want sand under your feet, add Saharun, Vela Pržina, and Lapad to your list. For views and clear water, plan for Stiniva, Nugal, and Zlatni rat. If you need a city beach with infrastructure, stay in Split, Dubrovnik, or Rovinj, where you can walk to the shore from your hotel.

Shift your trip to September: you'll get uncrowded beaches, calm ferries, and lower accommodation prices. Open the map above, mark two or three beaches, and check the wind forecast the day before you head out.

25 Best beaches in Croatia: where to swim and when to go