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Everything You Need to Know: FAQs About Croatia’s Beaches
With Croatia increasing in popularity as a prime vacation destination, especially during the summer months, we are receiving more questions about Croatia’s beaches. From what the beaches are like in Croatia to where to go on a beach holiday in Croatia, this guide has the answers to the most frequently asked questions.
1. Are there beaches in Croatia?
Yes, there are beaches in Croatia. Croatia’s mainland has 1,104 miles of coastline while its 1,246 islands and islets have a further 2,522 miles. This magical coastline is filled with all sorts of inviting beaches waiting to be explored. Wild pine forests meet azure blue waters, and sandy shores slope gently into the sparkling Adriatic Sea.
2. What are the beaches like in Croatia?
Those wondering what the beaches are like in Croatia are in for a real treat. Croatia has been said to have the most pristine beaches in Europe, beating both Cyprus and Greece to the top spot. The beaches are typically more pebbly in Croatia and slope gently into the glittering Adriatic Sea.
Croatia has a diverse array of beaches, ranging from long stretches of popular sandy shores to secluded coves and hidden bays. Many of the beaches have various amenities available, which include sun loungers available for hire, restrooms, as well as bars and restaurants. Some beaches even provide visitors with access to the likes of jet skis, kayaks, and kitesurfing on offer if you are feeling adventurous.
3. Are there any sand beaches in Croatia?
For those who love the feeling of the sand in between their toes, you’ll be happy to know there are a selection of sandy beaches in Croatia. Although they are considerably less common, there are a few gorgeous sandy beaches scattered throughout the country.
Bačvice Beach, situated in the heart of Split, is a popular meeting place for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Just a short walk from the Old Town, the sheltered bay offers calm waters and velvety sands.
One of the best sandy beaches in Croatia is Sakarun Beach, located on the island of Dugi Otok. It can be reached in around an hour and a half from Zadar by boat. The beach stretches half a mile along the coast, surrounded by wild nature and scented pines. The fine, white sandy shores with crystal-clear waters have a distinctly Caribbean feel.
Many of the other sandy beaches in Croatia can be found in more off-the-beaten track destinations such as Murter Island’s Plaza Slanica Beach and Queens Beach near Nin.
4. What are the must-see beaches in Croatia?
The best Croatian beaches all have a few things in common: pristine turquoise waters, inviting white shores, and picturesque surroundings.
It’s impossible to talk about beaches in Croatia without mentioning Zlatni Rat beach on Brač. Also known as Golden Horn Beach, its unique V-shape extends into the Adriatic Sea and changes shape with the wind and the tide. This beach gets busy during the peak summer months but is a must-visit spot for watersports, including windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Banje Beach, situated just outside of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, is another must-see beach in Croatia. With the backdrop of the city’s walls and harbor, Banje has a wide array of amenities for the whole family.
Punta Rata Beach along the Makarska Riviera is home to the iconic Brela Stone. The clear blue-green hues of the water here are striking, especially when contrasted with the surrounding greenery and the bright sun on a summer’s day.
5. Which island in Croatia has the best beaches?
With many different islands and islets to choose from, it’s hard to say exactly which island in Croatia has the best beaches. Each island has its own charm, highlights, and feel, with something for every type of vacationer.
Hvar Island has a luxurious feel, combining vibrant nightlife with breathtaking scenery. Hvar’s best beaches include Pokonji Dol Beach, Dubovica Beach, and the secluded bay Jagodna near Sveta Nedjelja. The easy access to the nearby Pakleni Archipelago is another highlight.
The island of Vis is known for its untouched natural beauty. Head here if you are wanting a tranquil and authentic summer experience. This hidden gem in Croatia has a treasure trove of secluded bays and secret beaches such as Stiniva, Srebrna, and Zaglav.
If you are wondering which island in Croatia has the best beaches and you’re looking for silky soft sand, then Rab is the place for you. This northern island in Croatia is family-friendly and has a laid-back atmosphere. Paradise Beach (Rajska Plaža) in Lopar stretches for 1.2 miles and with a blue-flag status and sandy shores, it’s perfect for the whole family.
6. Where should you go in Croatia for a beach holiday?
We frequently get asked where to go in Croatia for a beach holiday, so we’ve included some of our favorites below.
The Dalmatian Coast, along the southern stretches of Croatia, is always a good option. Highlight destinations such as Dubrovnik and Split offer the best of both worlds, combining beach holidays and a chilled city break. Spend the morning exploring the cities’ historic sites and then unwind on one of the area’s many beaches in the afternoon.
The Istrian Peninsula is also another fantastic destination for a beach holiday. Rovinj, a charming beach town in Croatia, has an undeniably romantic feel, with winding cobblestoned streets and fascinating architecture. An abundance of beaches, surrounded by an old coniferous forest, can be found in the Golden Cape (Punta Corrente) Forest Park.
Island hopping via private charter is perhaps the most wonderful way to spend a beach holiday in Croatia. Step aboard your own privately crewed yacht or sailing vessel where you can relax onboard and watch the dramatic coastal landscapes of rugged cliffs, serene coves, and charming bays pass by. Every night you’ll experience the sun dip below the horizon, transforming the sky into a palette of oranges, pinks, and purples.
If you are struggling to decide where to go in Croatia for a beach holiday, we are here to help advise you based on your preferences and needs. From pre-planned Croatia tours to customized vacations to Croatia, we have over 12 years of experience planning vacations to Croatia and the surrounding areas. Get in touch with our travel experts today to start planning the experience of a lifetime.
