The ice cubes clinking in your rakija cocktail, the crunch of pebbles underfoot, and the sight of distant sailboats rocking gently under the Mediterranean sun is enough to lull you into a peaceful snooze. Welcome to Croatia’s dreamy coastline.
Time has carved out almost 6,000 kilometres of beautiful shores from Croatia’s mainland and over a thousand islands. The country boasts a stunning collection of beaches, each more photogenic than the last, and all worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. Take a gander at our favourite beaches in Croatia to enjoy on your vacation.
Top 11 Beaches in Croatia
1. Zlatni Rat Beach
Nicknamed Golden Horn and Golden Cape, Zlatni Rat Beach in Brač is one of Croatia’s most photogenic beaches. Walk around a garden of pine trees to find the famous mini peninsula stretching well into the sea. The water conditions are ideal for snorkelling or simply enjoying a float and admiring the rugged mountains on the coast.
Like most of Croatia’s beaches, Zlatni Rat is lined with small pebbles, not sand, so be prepared with a pair of swim shoes or sandals.
2. Girandella Beach
Get one of the best perspectives of Cres island from Girandella beach. Take off from the scalloped shoreline in a banana boat or a pair of water skis. Or if leisure is what you seek, rent a comfy sun lounger for the day and bounce back and forth between the nearby resto-bars and the sparkling Adriatic.
3. Šunj Beach
One of the very few sandy beaches in Croatia, Šunj Beach is an unexpected delight on the edge of the southern inlet on Lopud island. Enjoy a more private escape on this car-free island, and pair your seaside relaxation with a little exploring by foot, bicycle, or golf cart. You might just feel brave enough to join in on a friendly game of picigin in the water.
4. Maslinica Beach
Relatively small, but incontestably gorgeous, Maslinica beach near Rabac is a popular choice for its views and amenities. With lifeguards on duty, well-maintained facilities on site, and wheelchair accessible ramps that allow travellers of all abilities to enjoy the water, this is a beautiful way to spend a day.
5. Pokonji Dol Beach
This Hvar beach destination is simultaneously the classic Croatian beach of your imagination and yet a lesser known hidden gem. Why not enjoy the 25-minute walk from town to the shoreline and make a picnic day of it? Or cheat and enjoy a savoury meal at the restaurant nearby. We won’t tell.
7. Sveti Jakov Beach
You could visit the popular Bellevue Beach. Or you could hop in an 8-minute car ride and descend a long staircase to Sveti Jakov beach. Boasting far fewer crowds and the same vivid Dubrovnik views, the short journey is well worth the effort. Rent a giant beach umbrella and enjoy a quiet snooze while bathers and boaters enjoy the turquoise waters lapping against sun-bleached boulders.
8. Punta Rata Beach
Embrace the fjaka philosophy of laidback living on Punta Rata beach. Kayak your way along the coast, play card games under the generous tree shade, or enjoy a slow walk on the paved trail. Whatever you do, bring a camera. It’s easy to see why this little corner of paradise near Brela has earned global recognition for its natural beauty.
9. Bačvice Beach
Join in on the fun at Split’s most popular choice for beachgoers. Bačvice beach overflows with excitement for families, adventurers, and foodies alike. While the sun is up, children flock to the beach’s playground while adrenaline junkies try to catch some air above the waves. Then a beautiful sundown sets the scene for a fabulous patio dinner followed by a good old-fashioned bar hop.
10. Delfin Beach
One of Croatia’s longer Blue Flag beaches, Delfin beach is home to neat rows of sun loungers, parasols, and raised stone platforms, perfect for cannonballing into the refreshing waves. Enjoy the peace of mind of lifeguard service, the convenience of trendy seaside restaurants, and the gorgeous view of sky and sea melting together imperceptibly.
11. Queen’s Beach
Whether you call it Ninska Laguna Beach, Queen’s Beach, or Kraljičina Plaža, this expansive destination in Nin will be a treat. Unlike many of Croatia’s shorter, rocky beaches, Queen’s beach features golden sand that stretches for a few kilometres. Families with young children enjoy the shallow water, while wellness enthusiasts can appreciate the natural mud baths nearby.
From landing the perfect view from your hotel balcony to seamlessly orchestrating an unforgettable day-trip, design the ultimate Croatia beach getaway with the guidance of our Travel Experts.
