Some have been at the top of the world’s popularity charts for years, others are wild and romantic and are best reached by sea. Sandy, pebbly and covered in rocks, lapped by the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea, let’s explore some of the best beaches in Croatia.
Zlatni Rat, Brač island
The most famous and oldest coastal town on the island of Brač is Bol, known worldwide for its Zlatni rat beach. This beach regularly appears on various world lists of the most beautiful beaches and is a frequent motif of postcards from Croatia.
And for good reason! It is equally attractive from afar, due to its elongated shape and tip that “moves" left or right, depending on the wind, and when you go down to it to swim.
The beach has fine pebbles, in the middle of the cape there are plenty of trees so it is easy to escape to the shade.
Stiniva Beach, Vis island
Vis Island is a popular summer destination, known for its stunning Stiniva Beach. Although it’s a bit remote, the journey is worth it. Stiniva was named the most beautiful beach in Europe in 2016, with its crystal-clear waters, white sand, and impressive cliffs becoming a symbol of both Vis and Croatian tourism.
There are many tourist agencies on the Komiža and Vis waterfronts that offer boat transport to Stiniva Bay. You can also include a visit to the Blue Cave, which attracts a large number of curious tourists, in your excursion. The white pebbles, the beautiful clear sea and the rocks that surround the beach like guardians are truly magnificent sights that you will surely enjoy!
The peaceful atmosphere, ideal for nature lovers and a unique sense of adventure due to its remote location make Stiniva Beach worth a visit.
Oprna Beach, Krk island
Oprna Beach is located in a beautiful bay near Stara Baška on the island of Krk. It is a relatively inaccessible beach, 120 meters wide, which cannot be reached by car, but rather by macadam paths, which take about fifteen minutes to walk on relatively steep terrain, or by sea.
Keep in mind that Oprna has no natural shade, so arm yourself with all the tools that can help you protect yourself from the sun.
Many often count it among the most beautiful beaches on the Croatian coast, and it is known for its pleasant pebbles for walking, which, combined with the clear sea, takes your breath away. The good news is that there is also a beach bar on the beach where you can find refreshments from the summer heat with your favourite sweet cocktail.
Punta Rata Beach, Brela
Punta Rata in Brela is often named one of Croatia’s most beautiful beaches and has earned international acclaim from outlets like Forbes and The Huffington Post.
In addition to the beautiful pebbles and turquoise sea, it is also unique for one “decoration” that gives it a truly charming appearance. Namely, it is adorned with a fascinating stone in the middle of the sea, on which 11 species of plants and a hundred-year-old pine tree grow. Embraced by the sea on all sides, the Brela stone, also known as “šakan”, is probably the most famous in Croatia.
Passers-by do not miss taking pictures of it, admiring its unusual shape and lush vegetation, and its image has traveled the entire planet in the last few decades, becoming a symbol of the Makarska Riviera, and even the entire Croatian coast.
A clean, well-maintained beach with Blue Flag certification and great restaurants and cafes nearby make Punta Rata ideal for families and couples. This is not the only blue flag beach in Croatia; a large number of them uphold high environmental and service standards.
Dubovica, Hvar island
The picturesque Dubovica Beach is only 8 kilometres from the town of Hvar, hidden from view, and can be reached by car or boat from the Hvar harbour. It has a beautiful crescent-shaped pebble beach that will provide you with a completely different swimming experience. It is ideal for snorkelling and exploring underwater life.
On one side it is surrounded by green vegetation and pine forests, and on the other by an old stone beauty from which classical music always sounds during the summer months, which encourages relaxation. This old country house of the Kasandrić family from the 17th century simply attracts the attention of visitors and awakens the spirit of the Mediterranean as it once was. There is also the church of St. Stephen from the 17th century, which is why Dubovica Bay is under special cultural protection.
Beritnica, Pag island
Gentle, round pebbles underfoot, endless turquoise blue in front of you, unreal shapes of rocks and stones in the background. A long, pebble beach with light grey, almost white pebbles looks like it’s from another planet, or at least part of some tropical paradise.
But this place does exist and is located in Croatia, on the Adriatic. Beritnica Beach is located near the town of Metajna on the island of Pag and many consider it one of the most beautiful in the country. Its special charm is given by the fact that it is not accessible by car, but you have to walk or sail to it by boat.
A special attraction of this beach is three huge stones that protrude from the sea. In addition to looking like some kind of art installation in the middle of nature, these stones at their base provide the only natural shade on Beritnica.
Although beautiful, the beach is not for those who have a hard time with the strong sun. That’s why it’s ideal to visit it in the pre-season and post-season or come in the morning and late afternoon. Of course, you can always bring a small umbrella, if you don’t mind carrying it. Bring food and water for the whole day to the beach, as there are no catering facilities. Just peace, quiet and the beautiful sea.
Nugal Beach, Makarska
Nugal Beach, once a hidden paradise for nudists, has now become world-famous, thanks to its popularity gained through the internet. However, despite this change, it has retained its exceptional beauty and uniqueness that makes it special.
Surrounded by rocks and dense Mediterranean vegetation, Nugal beach in Makarska offers a sense of privacy and peace, while the crystal clear sea in the summer months provides you with refreshment and complete relaxation.
Lovrečina Beach, Brač island
Situated in a deep bay and surrounded by lush greenery and fragrant Mediterranean herbs, Lovrečina is one of the most beautiful sandy beaches in Croatia.
This incredible oasis with soft, fine sand, a rarity on an island adorned with pebble beaches, is the perfect summer destination for a family vacation thanks to the exceptionally warm and shallow sea, ideal for the youngest swimmers.
“The Queen’s Beach”, Nin
If you are among those who love sand, you are sure to know about one of the pearls of the Croatian coast. It is the Queen’s Beach in Nin, often declared one of the most beautiful in the world.
The Queen’s Beach was named in honor of the wife of the first Croatian king Tomislav, who discovered its beauty long ago and enjoyed it. Bathing in the warm sea with a view of the picturesque Nin Lagoon and Velebit in the distance, many people still feel royal there. It is especially popular among families with children, who can carefreely wander along it, splash in the shallows and build sandcastles on the beach.
The sea temperature is always pleasant, and a light wind often blows, refreshing even on the hottest days.
The bottom line
Croatia’s beaches are as diverse as they are beautiful. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly sands, secluded coves, or vibrant party spots, Croatia has something to offer every traveller.