Discover the Best Beaches in Croatia

First-time visitors to Croatia are often startled by the striking turquoise hue of its sea and see-straight-to-the-bottom waters. This Mediterranean sun destination certainly has no shortage of beaches – thanks to its 1,777-km-long (1,104 miles) Adriatic coastline and close to 1,200 islands, there’s a beach for everyone. The question is, do you prefer sandy or pebbly?

The pros and cons of each are a topic of debate. Some swear by the crystal-clear waters of a pebble beach not clouded by sand, while others need to feel the soft powder between their toes. In Croatia, you’ll mostly find pebble beaches nestled in the coves of rocky shorelines, but there are also many sandy exceptions. Moreover, did you know that all beaches in Croatia are public? It’s the law! You can lay down your towel where you please – there’s no such thing as a private beach here.

Whether you’re looking for pebbly or sandy, family-friendly or sporty, there’s a beach for you with this handy guide to the best beaches in Croatia.

1. Zlatni Rat, Brač Island

Croatia’s most photographed beach, Zlatni Rat, does not disappoint. Follow the pine-scented promenade from seaside Bol to this gorgeous expanse of fine, soft pebbles lapped by inky blue waters. Its astonishing V-shape changes and shifts with the tide and currents of the Adriatic Sea. The beach’s windy eastern side is a top spot for windsurfers, while the cool kids hang out at the beachside Auro.

Planning tip: It’s a 30-minute stroll from Bol. Alternatively, you can park at Parking Zlatni Rat, which is a 10-minute walk away.

2. Dubovica, Hvar Island

Hvar Town revelers recover from their boozy nights at Dubovica, a tiny cove swathed with a beach of dazzling white pebbles, located 10km (6 miles) east of town. At its eastern end, look out for the small cave hidden in the rocky shoreline. When you’ve had enough sun, lounge under the pines at Duba Beach Bar, where cold drinks come with a chilled soundtrack.

Planning tip: After a 15-minute drive east from Hvar Town, it’s a 10-minute trek downhill along a stony zig-zagging path from the main road. Or simply catch a taxi boat.

3. Sveti Jakov, Dubrovnik

It’s a 30-minute walk from the Old Town and a hike down – and back up – 160 stone steps, but Sveti Jakov offers a breather from the busyness of Dubrovnik’s main beach. You’ll also enjoy sublime views of the walled Old Town, which are even more spectacular as the sun goes down. Though secluded, you can still rent sunbeds and umbrellas and grab a bite at the beachside bar.

Planning tip: From Pile Gate, take bus no. 8 to Sveti Jakov church. Behind the church, you’ll see steps down to the beach. Alternatively, take a taxi boat from the Old Town port.

4. Stiniva, Vis Island

Off the southern coast of Vis Island lies striking Stiniva Bay, surrounded by a near-circle of rocky cliffs with only a narrow opening to the sea. Its inaccessibility is part of its appeal; you can attempt the steep downhill footpath from Žužeca, but most visitors arrive by boat and swim through the passage to the white pebble beach.

Planning tip: Set out early to avoid the worst of the boat traffic.

5. Zrće Beach, Pag Island

Zrće Beach is large, easy to access, and offers little shade. If you’re ready to party, this is absolutely the place to be. In recent years, Zrće’s open-air beachfront Papaya Club has earned a spot on DJ Mag’s prestigious annual Top 100 Clubs list. From June to September, the “Ibiza of Croatia” ignites with festivals, themed party weekends, and guest slots from superstar DJs.

Planning tip: Zrće Beach is 3.5km (2 miles) from the port town of Novalja on Pag Island, which is linked to the mainland via a bridge.

6. Šunj, Lopud Island

One of Croatia’s loveliest sandy beaches is a dreamy day trip from Dubrovnik by boat to relaxed Lopud Island in the Elaphiti archipelago. Walk from the main port through the pine woods to the wide sandy beach at Šunj, where you can set yourself up for the day on soft sands or shaded sunbeds. The shallow waters make this a favorite among families, while the eastern end of the beach is reserved for naturists. There’s also a simple restaurant, and if you don’t want to walk 25 minutes from the harbor, hire one of the golf cart taxis to take you there.

Planning tip: The ferry trip from Dubrovnik’s Gruž port takes just under an hour, stopping at Sipan Island on the way.

7. Stračinska, Šolta Island

Šolta is so close to Split yet often overlooked in the rush to reach Hvar and Brač. However, this wonderfully laid-back island boasts a deeply indented coastline, sheltering tiny beaches, including the pebbly cove at Stračinska Bay. This secluded spot lined with fragrant pine trees provides a tranquil atmosphere – no bar, just sparkling blue-green waters perfect for lazy swims and snorkeling.

8. Cape Kamenjak, Istria

The shoreline of this rugged and rocky peninsula on Istria’s southernmost tip is traced by quiet bays and coves. Its western coast is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, while its breezy eastern side is where windsurfers congregate. When it’s time to seek out some shade and refreshments, head to the quirky Safari Beach Bar, a local favorite.

9. Plaža Ušće (Delta Beach), Neretva Delta

Kitesurfers and windsurfers have discovered one of Croatia’s best beaches to fly across the sands and waves at Plaža Ušće. Delta Beach, as it’s known in English, is the wide sandy expanse that hugs the delta of the Neretva River as it empties into the Adriatic. Gaze at the beautiful mountains of the Pelješac peninsula in front of you as you relax on the sands and enjoy a cold drink from the simple beach bar.

10. Lopar Peninsula, Rab Island

The Lopar peninsula features some of Croatia’s best sandy beaches. Just over a mile long, half-moon-shaped Paradise Beach is the largest and most family-friendly beach, thanks to its shallow waters. For something more secluded, head to the beaches on the northern edge of the peninsula, where rocky outcrops stretch into the sea, revealing sheltered coves and golden sand.

Planning tip: Ciganka and Sahara beaches are “clothing optional” – ideal for those who prefer to take it all off. Stolac beach is exclusively nudist.

11. Punta Rata, Brela

The rocky coastline around the town of Brela, on the stretch of the Dalmatian mainland known as the Makarska Riviera, consists of a series of beautiful pebbly beaches. This 300m (1,000ft) pebble beach, with its see-right-to-the-bottom waters, is popular with local families. Its Aleppo pines provide ideal shade from the scorching summer sun. Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world around the tree-covered Brela Stone at the beach’s western end.

Planning tip: This location is suitable for water sports, with stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, pedal boats and jet skis available for rent. Additionally, several companies offer parasailing experiences.

12. Lubenice, Cres Island

From Lubenice, a scenic hamlet perched on the edge of a 378m-high (1,240ft) cliff, Cres Island’s most idyllic beach seems tantalizingly close but can only be reached via a steep and demanding one-hour descent along a rocky path. The intrepid are rewarded with pristine white pebbles and turquoise waters, but a boat also provides access, which may be a better idea for many. Nearby Žanje Bay features the magical Blue Cave with a small pebble beach tucked inside.

Planning tip: There are no beach bars or food stalls available – bring provisions and enough water.

13. Sunčana Uvala, Lošinj Island

On Lošinj Island’s western coast lies Sunčana Uvala (Sunny Cove), surrounded by white pebble beaches and impossibly turquoise waters. Shadowed by a large hotel, the lovely Veli Žal beach can get busy with families. In this case, follow the promenade southward along the rocky coastline to the smaller yet equally pristine Borik beach, which locals adore. Afterward, kick back with a cocktail as you watch the sunset from Borik Mediterranean Bar.

14. Veruda Island Beach, Istria

Hop on a boat from Pula for a short ride to tiny Veruda Island – known by locals as Fratarski Otok (Friar’s Island). This location is home to Croatia’s only “eco-beach” due to its undeveloped and unblemished landscape, along with local efforts to protect its plant, sea and animal life. Delightfully, the island is also car-free.

Planning tip: You can stay overnight at the tourist camp and wake up to the soothing sound of water lapping at the shore.

This article was originally published on August 15, 2017, and updated on December 10, 2023.