The 9 Best Beaches in Croatia
Tuul and Bruno Morandi
There's a reason why Game of Thrones — which, for those of you who aren't familiar, is just as well-known for its epic backdrops as it is for its complicated plot lines — has chosen Croatia as a filming location (for more places, see our ultimate GOT travel guide). While this diverse country has all the medieval charm that other temperate, European hotspots like Spain have to offer, the real appeal is its remarkable beaches: long coastlines, hidden coves, and islands surrounded by the Adriatic Sea. With a country so full of strikingly beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters, how does one choose which ones to visit? We've done the work for you and rounded up the best beaches Croatia has to offer. Read on for our top picks, below — if you're interested in learning more about traveling to the country, don't miss this first-hand account of a Croatian road trip.
Zlatni Rat, Bra?
Getty Images
This spit of land is often referred to as the Golden Cape and essentially forms one large beach, with a lush pine grove in the middle. Inside this grove, you'll find the remains of a Roman rustic villa, which makes for a nice, shady excursion. Regularly referred to as one of the top beaches in the world, Zlatni Rat forms a unique V shape and extends into the Adriatic Sea's Hvar Channel. Nude sunbathing is allowed, so it's a great option for those looking to get a taste of the real European style of beaching — or those who want to avoid tan lines. How to get there? Opt for a scenic ferry ride, which departs from many oft-frequented cities, like Split. While the island may sound remote, you can actually rent beach beds and umbrellas while there are low-key eateries and showers nearby. In case you needed another reason to go, there are a variety of water sports offered, including jet skiing, windsurfing, and kayaking.
Kamenjak National Park, Premantura
Getty Images
South of the popular beachfront city of Pula lies the stunning Kamenjak National Park, which features a multitude of gorgeous beaches that make up this coastal playground. The idyllic park is home to an 18-mile shoreline full of hidden caves, coves, islands, and inlets, all of which possess their own distinct charm. Most of the beaches are a short walk from one another and are unnamed, making it feel like it's all one giant beach. The real appeal here, however, is the rocky cliffs that overlook the crystal clear waters, which are perfect for cliff jumping — a favored pastime for visitors to Kamenjak. Here, you can engage in other water activities such as kayaking and windsurfing, or just sit back, bathe in the sun, and even spot some otters. And yes, there are great places to eat nearby; check out the bohemian Safari Bar, where you'll find other visitors enjoying fresh seafood and cold drinks.
Banje Beach, Dubrovnik
Getty Images
Dubrovnik's most popular beach, which draws in so many tourists due to its proximity to the Old Town, made it onto our list thanks to its scenic views of the city's walls, variety of water sports and beach activities, as well as the abundance of dining and drinking options. At some point, most visitors are likely to wind up at Banje Beach Restaurant, Lounge, and Club, which can get quite touristy — it even turns into a nightclub after dark — but remains a consistent option for good food, tasty cocktails, and killer views. If you're looking for something a little more formal or a little less crowded, head to nearby Restaurant Horizont, which turns out fresh, first-rate Croatian fare in a quaint, medieval setting.
Lubenice Beach, Lubenice
(c) Bosca78
On the island of Cres — one of the largest isles that makes up the Kvarner Gulf — lies an ancient, fortified city called Lubenice. Home to some of the oldest standing structures in Croatia, Lubenice was founded approximately 3,000 years ago and was nominated to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. While the medieval towers, churches, and stone houses perched upon the city's famous hilltop are the primary factors that draw in tourists, Lubenice beach, known among the locals as Sveti Ivan, is just as picturesque. Like most of Croatia's beaches, it boasts pristine white shores and aqua waters, but the real highlight here is the nearby Blue Cave, reachable by swimming along the beach's half-moon bay. As the beach is only accessible by a long walk from the hilltop, you'll get a taste of both the history and the island vibes that Croatia has to offer.
Betina Cave, Dubrovnik
Getty Images
This seaside access-only beach, which is set under a natural cave, offers privacy, serenity, and shelter from the sun. You can rent kayaks or take water taxis to reach this secluded oasis, which has no dining options but makes the perfect setting for a sandy picnic. Stop by the famous Gru? Market on Obala Stjepana Radi?a to stock up on fruit, meat, and fresh goat cheese before enjoying the crystal clear waters and (hopefully) unoccupied surroundings.
Dubovica Beach, Hvar
Getty Images
Located in a tranquil, secluded cove that's only accessible by an unmarked trail, Dubovica beach, also known as Dubovica bay, is the perfect escape for solo travelers and couples looking for some peace and isolation. While you won't find any noisy bars or eateries here, you will find a stunning view of Villa Benedeta, a private 19th-century home that belongs to the Kolumbi? family. The Villa is available for group rentals of up to 10 people and is within walking distance of Dubovica bay — so go ahead, bring the whole family and make this your basecamp for all that the stunning island of Hvar has to offer.
Saharun Beach, Dugi Island (Dugi Otok)
? Nino Marcutti / Alamy Stock Photo
You may have never seen clearer waters than those that lie along the shores of Saharun (or Sakarun) beach on Croatia's Dugi Island. This family-friendly beach is enshrouded by pine trees, which provide a welcome relief from the glaring sun, and features calm, shallow waters so the little ones can wade in as far as they want. The beach does offer eating and drinking options, but most are seasonal, so be sure to check the hours out online before you go. As for where to stay? We recommend renting one of many beachside Airbnbs, which are plentiful on the island of Dugi Otok.
Divna Beach, Dalmatia
(c) Simeone Huber
If you're looking to get a taste of the true, laid-back Croatian spirit and witness some of the most exquisite natural scenery of your life — think royal blue waters, rolling green valleys, and secluded coves — head to the peninsula of Pelje?ac, located in Southern Dalmatia. Here, you'll want to go straight to Divna beach, located in the town of Trpanj. Divna, which literally translates to "beautiful," is just that. While the shore is mostly made up of small, white pebbles, past visitors have noted that they're extremely soft and feel more like sand — but be careful. Due to the reflection of the white pebbles, the sun at this beach is extremely strong, so be sure to bring your best sunscreen. There are no eating, drinking, or shopping spots at this remote beach (hence, the tranquility), so pack a picnic. While many visitors opt to camp out at the nearby auto camp facility, Pelje?ac is home to a variety of gorgeous lodging options, like Hotel Indijan, a charming property perched right on the beach with sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea.
Beach Mali Bok, Cres Island
MeetCroatia.net
This hidden beach, like some of the others on this list, is only accessible by walking down a very rocky hilltop — you can, however, park your car at the top. The incredible view from above makes the walk worth it and once you've made it down to the shore, you'll find yourself in paradise: think jade-like waters, a cove surrounded by rugged cliffs, and quite often, a completely deserted spot. A few must-pack items? An umbrella, beach towels, a picnic, and a durable pair of shoes for the rocky walk.
