20 best beaches in Croatia – photo, description, map
The well-deserved pride of this small country are the beaches. They are located both on the mainland and on the islands. Croatian beaches are able to satisfy every taste. Among them there are sandy and pebbly ones (and in most cases the pebbles here are very beautiful – milky-pearl color), noisy and secluded. Some are especially suitable for families with children, others for young people, and others for those who prefer romance. There are those with a developed infrastructure, and there are those where it seems to you that you are in a virgin corner of nature. They have one thing in common – impeccable cleanliness. This applies to both water and sand (pebbles). It is no coincidence that many Croatian beaches have received the Blue Flag. Rest here will leave you only positive impressions.
Vela Plaza
Surrounded by picturesque mountains and forests. Here you can not only sunbathe and swim, but also enjoy the surrounding views, arrange family holidays, walk along specially equipped hiking trails. There are several historical sights nearby. Vela is located near the resort of Baska, on the island of Krk. There is a particularly light shade of water – sky blue, and the stones are so polished by the waves that it is pleasant to walk on them barefoot.
In the vicinity you will see rocks. There are also yachts here, you can always organize a boat trip. The beach itself is quite long – over 1.8 km. He has been awarded the Blue Flag. The forest approaches the shore so close that you can hide in the shade of not only an umbrella, but also trees, take air baths. Divers also love this place. There is not only a rich underwater world – you can also explore the flooded caves.
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Golden-War
This is the name of the sandy spit, which is located on the outskirts of the island of Brac. The whole coast is very beautiful, around – the Mediterranean landscape, sea water has a rich pleasant shade – it can be turquoise or dark blue, the air is filled with the scent of pine needles. It is this beach, with an area of approximately 20 thousand m2, that is most often represented on postcards. It should be noted that the appearance of landscapes may vary somewhat depending on the currents and wind.
The peculiarities of this place include precisely tangible undercurrents that pose a danger to careless swimmers. But surfers are very fond of relaxing here – after all, the winds here blow constantly and the waves are quite tangible. There are also quite a lot of yachtsmen here – you can always ride a yacht. But there are areas where the water is calm, shallow, the coastline is covered with sand and white pebbles – here parents with children settle down to rest.
paradise beach
It is located in the north-east of the island of Rab, popular with tourists. The sea here has different shades – from pale blue to emerald and dark blue. On the coast of the island there are areas consisting of sand, there are pebbles, the beautiful color of which makes you think of pearls. Paradise beach has the shape of a crescent, the sand here is very light and soft, walking on it is a pleasure. The length is large – about 1.5 km, even at the height of the season there is a place to sit comfortably.
Umbrellas and sun loungers are at your service, but many tourists prefer to lie right on the sand, on a towel. In the summer there are many parents with children, and if you want your kid to find peers for games, then you are here. Adults will also find something to do, in addition to a leisurely beach holiday. There are tennis courts, fields where you can play football and handball, there are also enough cafes and bars in the vicinity. And if you stay until the evening, then you can visit the disco, and while dancing, you will enjoy the view of the night sea.
Punta Rata
It is located in the southwest, next to the resort of Brela, and is considered one of the best beaches in the country. The length is about 6 km. Small pebbles are pleasant to the feet, pine and juniper forests approach the shore, there are also myrtle thickets here, you can imagine how wonderful the air is here. In addition, you can always hide in the shade. The sea near the coast is shallow, the entrance is gentle. However, there are areas that diving enthusiasts will appreciate – large stones lurk under the water.
The sea water here is very clean, its color is blue with an emerald tint. The majestic rock of Brela also looks beautiful. For vacationers there is everything you need – from sun loungers and umbrellas, to a cafe, a playground and water rides. You can rent the necessary sports equipment. In the season it is always crowded here, the most comfortable time to visit is the first month of autumn. It is recommended to rent a car and come here to sunbathe and swim to your heart's content. Equipped with paid parking.
Vela Przhina
Located on the island of Korcula. The disadvantage of this beach is only one – the place is very popular. So there will be a lot of people here during the season. Young people like it here too – you can always see youth companies. Attracts the place and parents with children. The purest light sand – there are so many such beaches suitable for kids in Croatia. Here you can walk without special shoes.
And the sea – warm and shallow – as specially designed for small tourists and those adults who are not good swimmers. Sun loungers and umbrellas are offered for rent, but many prefer to sunbathe without them, on the silky sand. There are sports grounds, young girls and boys willingly play volleyball. You won't have to go far even if you get hungry – you can easily buy drinks, snacks, ice cream here. Another popular entertainment is boat trips on yachts.
Nougat
If you like secluded pebble beaches, you will definitely like this place. Nugal is located in a rocky bay, it is a very green area, and the sea here is clean and transparent. Rest here will appeal to those who like to sunbathe and swim, as well as diving fans – because they will meet with the rich underwater world. The depth increases gradually, which is convenient for both children and adults. The coast of Croatia is characterized by the presence of coniferous forests, and this place is no exception. Therefore, it is very easy to breathe here. The bay protects vacationers from the wind. Waves on the sea are usually small, excitement happens very rarely.
The territory is regularly cleaned, you will not find garbage here. Nugal will please with its silence. There are no discos and nightclubs, but there is free parking. You can come with the whole family and have a good rest. If you get tired of basking in the sun, you should go for a walk. The places around are picturesque, trails for travel are laid. If you wish, it is easy to arrange for a ride on a yacht. Most vacationers here are adults who value both their peace and the peace of those around them. There are many who will like it.
Stiniva
Located on the island of Vis, in the bay of the same name. It seems that this place has come down from that very advertising poster, where the boat seems to be hovering in the air – the water is so clear. Maybe it was filmed on Stiniv? In any case, this beach is recognized as one of the best in Europe. But in order to appreciate all its beauty, it is better to come here at a time when there are few vacationers – not at the height of the season, but in September or summer, but in the early morning. Then you can enjoy the beauty of nature.
The bay is small, surrounded by a ring of rocks. The water is always calm, warm and clean. Therefore, lovers of scuba diving flock here. One has only to remember about sea urchins – you can prick your feet, so it's better to take care of special shoes. The infrastructure here is modest, but there is a shop where you can buy drinks and ice cream. Also of interest are the nearby old fishermen's houses.
The fighter
It belongs to the Medulin resort – this is the south of Istria, where you can always meet compatriots. The length of the sandy beach is about a kilometer, the water here is crystal clear, the depths in the coastal zone are small. Various categories of tourists rest here – these are parents with children, and young couples, and lovers of active entertainment. There are more sunny days here than anywhere else in Croatia. You can always rent sun loungers and umbrellas, toilets and showers are also available. There is a first-aid post, lifeguards are on duty.
At your service – a diving center, you can do beach sports, ride a jet ski. There is also a bike rental point – not all the time to sunbathe and swim – you can go to explore the beautiful surroundings. Children will enjoy a small water park and various entertainments – an inflatable island, a trampoline, etc. And, of course, they will always have someone to play with. Massage sessions will be a pleasure for many. You can also eat on the beach. It sells pastries, as well as drinks, fruits, ice cream.
Veli-Žal
A beautiful beach, more than 300 m long, located in the northern part of the picturesque island of Pag. Most often, those tourists who relax in the village of Zubrovichi sunbathe and swim here. The coastline is clean and well maintained. You can bask on the sand next to the rest of the vacationers, or you can go to the rocks and enjoy solitude. Young people usually hang out at the pier. There is no natural shade here, the place is very sunny, so if you want to protect your skin, rent an umbrella.
The blue water of the bay, the beautiful outlines of the island look especially impressive at sunset. The infrastructure is developed – there are toilets, showers, a playground, cars can be left in the parking lot. Tourists love kayaking and water skiing, windsurfing, and scuba diving. After an active rest, an excellent appetite appears. You can have a snack in a cafe or a pizzeria.
Barrels
One of the most beautiful places in the popular resort of Split. It is located about a kilometer from the center. It's always crowded because the place is great. A wide strip of light sand, developed infrastructure, a beautiful embankment – they look very attractive. It has very clear water of a rich turquoise color, all amenities for vacationers are provided, it is not surprising that Bacvice was awarded the Blue Flag, which indicates its recognition at the international level.
Couples willingly come here, there are enough parents with small children here – since the shallow water here is vast, and even kids can splash in the warm sea. Young people are attracted by active beach holidays; in the evenings, there are discos and nightclubs. But it is worth noting the disadvantages. There are concrete blocks in the sea that protrude from the water. After the storm, you will have to wait until the algae thrown onto the sand are removed.
Mills
It belongs to the village of the same name, located 10 km from Dubrovnik. You need to come here for a quiet unhurried rest, which is what the Croats themselves do. Agree, this is an indicator – the local population knows where it is best to spend time. The optimal period for soaking up the sun is September: the flow of tourists has already subsided, and the sun is gentle and gentle. Here you will see small pebbles. Many parents with children prefer this one – no need to worry about washing off the sand from the body, shaking it out of the shoes and out of the swimsuit. The infrastructure is developed.
You can not only sunbathe in comfort, but also find entertainment for yourself – go scuba diving, ride a yacht or a fishing boat, go in for beach sports. If you are relaxing elsewhere, do not miss the opportunity to have a bite to eat in Mlini – there is very tasty cuisine, the dishes are not only healthy, but also beautifully presented. They are based on fruits, vegetables, seafood, olive oil and herbs – the best combination.
Gornja Vala
Gornja Vala is located on the Adriatic coast, belongs to the resort of Gradac. This is a magnificent pebble beach with a length of about 5 km. Maybe families with small children will not prefer this beach, but romantic couples love it very much. Athletes also come here willingly. The site can be divided into Upper Bay and Bosac Bay. While relaxing, it is nice to admire Mount Biokovo. Also nearby are pine forests where you can hide during the heat. There are practically no strong winds here – forests and mountains reliably protect them from them.
Storms are rare and the sea is mostly calm. You can always not only swim, but also ride a yacht. The pebbles here are beautiful, white in color, the entrance to the sea is gentle, so the place is suitable even for those who cannot swim. The waters are clean and transparent, rich underwater world. One of the secrets is that it is best to come here during the velvet season: there are few people, prices are low. The weather just pleases. Those who are tired of sunbathing can walk along the promenade, go to cafes and shops.
Silver
Srebreno is a small, compact resort 11 km from Dubrovnik, a little over 400 people live here permanently. Tourists are treated like honored guests. The beach is wonderful. Here you will see small pebbles, breakwaters will protect swimmers from waves at sea. There are sea urchins, but they sit on rocks, so you can enter the water without special shoes. The seabed is sandy, the depth near the coast is minimal. Even the smallest children can swim.
Nearby are Kupari and Mlini, if desired, you can walk to the beaches of these resorts. In Srebreno, everything is located very close to each other. After a short break from the beach, you can go to a cafe, look at the post office or shops. If you are not going to live in this resort, but want to come here only to swim and sunbathe, it will be very convenient to get there, there is a bus service.
Trstenica
It is located on the Pelješac peninsula. A relatively narrow strip of small pebbles and sand stretches for about 400 m. Coniferous trees come right up to the shore, in their shade you can hide from the heat. Extensive shallow water allows you to fearlessly splash in warm water, both for small tourists and those adults who cannot swim. Everything you need for your convenience is here. There are changing cabins, showers, toilets. For those who cannot live without the Internet, Wi-Fi works.
Those who do not like passive rest may prefer active rest to it. Catamarans, boats and scooters are rented, locals entertain tourists with banana and water skiing. There is even a small floating water park for children. You can also have a snack on the beach – there is a cafe and a bar at your service. Anyone who came here by car will leave it in the parking lot.
Cups
Kupari is located a few kilometers from Dubrovnik. This is a sand and pebble beach, the depth increases gradually, the bottom is flat, the water is clear. Kupari has good transport links. You can get here not only by car, but also by bus. The weather won't get in the way. There are rarely significant waves and strong winds in the bay. Usually not crowded, there is enough space for everyone. The exception is the peak season – July and August. But in any case, you should not go here for noisy entertainment, discos, nightclubs. It's always calm here.
You can rent a sun lounger and an umbrella and lie down enjoying the view – the blue of the sea, the islands, the green mountains. There is a cafe where it will be convenient to have a bite, buy sandwiches, ice cream, drinks. The territory is constantly cleaned, you will not see garbage here. If you get tired of a beach holiday, there is a shopping center, a variety of cafes and bars near Kupari. If you really like the place, then you can settle here – close to Kupari – a wide selection of hotels.
Moulins
Rovinj is a popular resort, every year more and more tourists discover it. The peculiarity of this place is the indented coastline. The beaches here are both sandy and pebbly. But all of them – with a developed infrastructure. Not far from the center of the town is the Hotel Monte Mulini, surrounded by an old natural park. From here you can admire the bay. Nearby is the pebble beach Mouline, which also offers a wonderful panorama.
This is one of the most comfortable beaches in the country. There are locker rooms, modern showers, sun lounger rentals and a towel rack. You will be offered a variety of food and drinks, there is a trendy bar serving signature cocktails. There is even a concierge and information desk. In a word, if you want to feel like in a five-star hotel on the beach, Mulini is waiting for you.
Kuvi
Kuvi is located in the bay of the same name, located 3 km from Rovinj. It is very popular, periodically updated, pebbles are added. There are also bars and small cafes at your service. There are plenty of drinks here, there is also a coffee machine, but from the “snacks”, mostly burgers. So if you have children with you who are used to a certain food, take it with you. Near Cuvi is the tourist complex Villas Rubin. You can use its entertainment centers, sports grounds, restaurants. The shore is gently sloping, it will be convenient for children of any age to enter the water.
Conditions have been created for practicing various sports, there is a playground for small vacationers. Diving training is organized, tennis courts are open. You can rent boats and scooters, as well as bicycles. It's nice to lie on a sun lounger near the water, and if you prefer to sunbathe on the move, you should play badminton. It will be convenient to hide from the sun not only under an umbrella, but also in the shade of trees. If you come here in your car, you can leave it in the parking lot.
banier
It belongs to Dubrovnik, there are always enough people here. Once there was a quarantine for sailors who arrived from other countries. Today you can not only relax and swim, but also admire historical sights. Banje is small pebbles and two zones: paid and free. By choosing the first one, you will rest in comfort. It is located near the old infirmary.
There are, of course, all the amenities – sun loungers, umbrellas, changing rooms, showers. There are even special beds for the beach. Drinks are brought by waiters. There are fewer people here than in the free part. But it is here that the best bars are located, you can often meet famous personalities – from athletes to artists. By choosing the free part, you can also sit comfortably – there are umbrellas and sun loungers.
There are cafes and bars, only the waiter will not deliver drinks and ice cream to your sunbed – you will have to go for the order yourself. Equipped with sports and playgrounds. There are water activities, rental of the necessary equipment. The entrance to the water is gentle, near the shore there is a vast shallow zone. Sea water is clean. The most comfortable time to relax here is in September, during the velvet season.
Honey
It belongs to the resort of Trogir, rich in sights. Beautiful place. You can come here with your family and with friends who love outdoor activities. Here you will see small pebbles. You can relax on a rented sun lounger, but it is not forbidden to use your own towel. There is everything you need for a comfortable pastime – locker rooms and showers, toilets and rental of sun loungers and umbrellas, bars, cafes, restaurants and just kiosks where you can buy fresh fruit and delicious ice cream.
There are no stones on the seabed, so even small children can swim here. A forest grows nearby, creating a natural protection from heat and winds, giving the air a unique aroma. Entertainment is also enough. You can go sailing, play volleyball or basketball, go water skiing. Children will enjoy jumping on trampolines, sliding down slides into warm water. There is also an amusement park for kids.
Slave
This is the name of the island, which is very fond of tourists. Its dimensions are small – only about 22 km, and no more than 10 thousand people live here. But many guests of Croatia over and over again choose this place for their vacation. Even the sky here has a particularly pure turquoise hue, the Adriatic Sea around the island is clear as a tear, many coniferous trees grow on Rab, so the air here is both fragrant and healthy. Among the vacationers are families with children, young people, and the elderly.
Everyone will be fine here. No wonder people lived on this island already 4 thousand years BC. Do you know that the state of San Marino was founded by a native of this island? Over the years, the island passed from hand to hand, belonged to ancient Rome, and Byzantium, and the Hungarian-Croatian kingdom, Austria, etc. Therefore, here you can see different architectural styles. Today it is a resort place, clean, peaceful, quiet.
There are any beaches here – rocky, pebbly, and mixed. Families with children usually choose sandy ones and go to the village of Lopar, where there are enough hotels. Those who love small jackdaws will prefer the resort of Barbat. There is a beautiful pine forest here, the sea is very shallow, and the views are beautiful. What else Rab can boast of is nudist beaches. The most popular of them is located next to Palit. So, if you like to sunbathe naked or topless – you are here.
Brac
Another island is one of the most beautiful in this country, by the way, the birthplace of fine rosé wine. Seafood dishes are also delicious here. There are two famous resorts – Supetar and Bol. The island has a surprisingly pleasant climate. The heat is practically not felt here, a light breeze from the sea makes it easy to endure the heat.
The sea is very clean, turquoise hue. And here, a beautiful white stone is mined, with which many famous buildings are lined, for example, the White House in the USA. By the way, you can buy souvenirs made from this stone here. Olive oil is also produced on the island, and a lot of fish are caught in coastal waters.
The beaches here are made of sand and medium-sized pebbles, their length is measured in tens of kilometers, here you can not only sunbathe and swim, but also windsurf. The descent to the water is gentle and comfortable. It is no coincidence that so many families with children come to the island. There are many courts on the coast, and you will always find partners for playing tennis.
A lot of money is invested in the tourism industry, so all the beaches are in perfect condition. You will see a sufficient number of changing cabins, showers, toilets, equipment rentals. Rescuers are working. Eateries on the coast are also available.
Black Pier
This is probably one of the most popular beaches in Crikvenica. For those who are unfamiliar with this resort, it is worth explaining. Its name comes from the word “church”, and already in the 19th century Crikvenica became a popular climatic resort. It is located in the Kvarner Bay, and a little more than 10 thousand people live here. There are several beaches, Crni Molo is free.
Although there are pebbles, there is also a lot of sand, which will please parents with children. The sea is shallow, in July and August it warms up to + 26C, but in June and in the first half of September it will also be comfortable to swim. Everything you need for a holiday is there. Renting sunbeds and umbrellas is cheap, you can rent everything you need for diving and various beach and water sports. Do not be surprised if you see people here doing aerobics at sea – here they really appreciate the benefits of such a load on the body.
You will be offered to go water skiing, take a boat trip on a motor boat. There are many shops nearby – you will always find where to eat, and it will be nice to have a cool cocktail in the bar. If you come to this resort with a pet, be aware that there is a special beach for dogs. You can come there to sunbathe, and then swim with your pet.
Saharan
It is located on the large island of Dugi Otok. You can get to it by ferry, which in itself will already be a real journey. Upon arrival on the island, it is better to rent a car or call a taxi – otherwise you will have to get to the beach by bus, which is not always comfortable. Saharun is located in a beautiful bay. White sand awaits you here, and then pine trees grow, saturating the air with their aroma.
There are many places – the length of the coastline is about a kilometer. It will seem crowded here only at the height of the season. The sea is shallow, the area where vacationers can swim is fenced off, so the movement of boats and boats should not be feared. Even small children will enjoy swimming in very clean and warm water. The bottom is flat, no rocks.
The infrastructure is developed. Restaurants are open, which is very convenient – after all, tourists spend a long time on the road here. Equipped with playgrounds for sports and games, there are not only locker rooms and toilets, but also showers. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, a catamaran, kayaks. You will be invited to a boat trip on a yacht or motor boat. It is recommended to come here for a few days, there are hotels of different price categories on the island.
Lovrecina
Picturesque sandy beach on the island of Brac. Public transport does not go here, you can get there either by sea or by renting a car. Therefore, even at the peak of the season, there are not so many people here. The place is very pleasant. The coast is surrounded by forests consisting of deciduous and pine trees. It is always easy to find a secluded place here, which is especially appreciated by romantic couples. You can always take shelter from the heat, even if you don't want to rent an umbrella.
The sand, both on the beach itself and on the seabed, is fine and light, the water has a rich blue color. The vast shallow waters are undoubtedly convenient for those who are not very good swimmers, as well as for small children. Further, the depth begins to increase, which is what divers use, examining the thickets of underwater plants and admiring a variety of fish.
As for the infrastructure, it is not very developed here. There are shops where you can buy ice cream and soft drinks. There is a bar and a restaurant, there is parking for cars. If you are going to come to the island for a few days, make sure to rent accommodation here in advance – there are not so many of them here, and there may be problems during the season.
Dock
Located near Dubrovnik. Here you will find the cleanest sea, a long and wide coastal strip. The Croats themselves call Lapad “the longest sandy beach“, but not everything is so simple – indeed, the entrance to the sea and the gently sloping seabed will meet you with fine sand, but the rest is pebbles. However, it is small here, and you will not need special shoes. Children can either splash in the vast shallow water, or build sand towers, or look for beautiful pebbles.
The benefits of civilization here are also present in full. There are showers, sun loungers, umbrellas, toilets and changing cabins. Thanks to the presence of lifeguards, even those who cannot swim will feel safe. There is parking for personal vehicles. And there is a shade here, so your car will not overheat in the sun while you sunbathe and swim.
If you have long wanted to learn diving, here you can sign up for a course and immediately put your new skills into practice. In addition, you will be invited to ride a kayak or a yacht. It won't take long to find a place to eat. There are bars and a restaurant here. You can also take a break, go shopping, explore the surrounding attractions, and then return to the beach again.
So, in blessed Croatia there are a lot of places where you can sunbathe, swim, and do beach sports. And at the same time you will admire the amazing landscapes. One has only to remind once again that even on the most secluded beaches in July and August there are enough people, and the prices for literally all resort goods are higher during the peak season. Try to come here once in early autumn – you will like it.
The coast of this country is preferred by many tourists to all others. It attracts the purest sea, shallow and unusually warm – the temperature of + 25-26C allows even small children to splash as much as they like. Delicious local cuisine, a high level of service, Blue Flag beaches – all this makes Croatia a great place to relax.