Croatia’s seashore is a beach lover’s dream, with different shorelines to suit all tastes, from pebbly beaches and smaller sandy stretches to dramatic rocky outcrops. The best beaches in Croatia come with pure, clear water—often transparent enough to see straight down to the seafloor.
Many of Croatia’s coastal strands are hidden along the Adriatic Sea in picturesque coves flanked by scented pines, bone-white limestone cliff faces, or walls made of ancient stone. You’ll discover stunning locales like the Zlatni Rat on Brač Island, with a striking outline shaped by the wind and tides, or Punta Rata in Brela, a pebble beach flanked by fragrant pines with fantastic views of the sparkling Adriatic.
As you explore the Croatian seaboard, you will come across a beach or beach town for every mood and activity, from the family-friendly sands of Šunj Beach on Lopud Island to adventure seekers’ cliff dives at Stiniva Beach on the more remote Vis.
Sveti Jakov Beach, Dubrovnik
Sveti Jakov Beach, Dubrovnik
If you’re looking for a quiet and pretty beach in Dubrovnik located a short distance from the Old Town, Sveti Jakov Beach, to the southeast of the city, is perfect.
This little slice of the seashore, often filled with shade-giving purple parasols, boasts some of the best views from a distance of Dubrovnik’s famous city walls, as well as Lokrum Island, just offshore.
The pebble beach can be reached via a set of steep and narrow concrete steps, which descend into a quiet cove, where you’ll find crystal-clear water for swimming and snorkeling.
For some cool refreshments, you’ll stumble upon a little beach bar here, where you can sip on your drinks while enjoying a light Adriatic breeze.
Zlatni Rat, Brač Island
Zlatni Rat, Brač Island
Zlatni Rat, or the “Golden Horn,” is one of Croatia’s most popular and fascinating beaches. This natural wonder, on Brač Island, can be reached by ferry and car from Split or by chartered speed boat, which is the quickest way to get there.
Once you arrive, you’ll note that this eye-catching stretch of beach extends out into the water, forming a distinctive horn-shaped point that changes shapes with the tides and winds. The beautiful turquoise waters here are a utopia for sunbathing, swimming, and water activities like windsurfing and paddling.
Zlatni Rat, Brač Island
The town of Bol, just around the corner from the beach to the east, is also a fun stop, where you’ll find narrow streets with seafood restaurants and shops where you can purchase local handicrafts.
For some hiking action, trek up to the top of the nearby Vidova Gora—the highest peak in Croatia’s Adriatic islands—for fantastic panoramas of Zlatni Rat, Bol, and the surrounding land and seascapes.
Žnjan Beach, Split
Žnjan Beach, Split
If you’re looking for a big, family-friendly beach with modern facilities, Žnjan Beach in Split is an excellent option, although it can get crowded.
This long pebble beach has something for everyone; kids can enjoy the playgrounds, while adults can play beach volleyball or explore the promenade area’s lively beach bars.
The water here is calm and safe for swimming, and you can take part in various water activities like jet skiing and parasailing.
There are some chic cafés and restaurants close by, too, where you can enjoy local specialties like evapi, seasoned minced meat patties grilled with flatbread, served with ajvar relish, made from eggplant and roasted red peppers. And, of course, you’ll never run out of fresh fish to feast on, either.
Punta Rata, Brela
Punta Rata, Brela
About an hour down the coast from Split to the southeast, you’ll run into Punta Rata, located in the lovely seaside Dalmatian town of Brela. Punta Rata, while relatively small, is one of the best beaches in Croatia, and you can easily see why.
This small pebble beach is flanked by aromatic pine trees, which shade and enclose the amazing aquamarine water here. The “jewel” of this district is the Brela Stone, an attractive offshore rock with small pine trees jutting out from its surface, which has come to define this stretch of the Croatian coast.
Punta Rata, Brela
Punta Rata is an excellent vacation spot, great for some relaxation by the Adriatic Sea. If you need some exercise, go for a walk down the long promenade that fronts Brela’s shoreline.
Later on, visit the small marina, as well as some of the local sights, including the parish church of St. Stephen and the Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Or simply wander around the scenic hillside.
Kolovare Beach, Zadar
Kolovare Beach, Zadar
Kolovare Beach, in the city of Zadar, is a very convenient place to enjoy some beach time during your Zadar city break. This beach has both shaded and sunny spots where you can curl up with a book, work on your tan, or go for a dip in the warm Adriatic.
You’ll find a few restaurants and cafés close to the beach and along the road just behind the beach where locals park their cars.
Less than a 10-minute walk from the beach to the northwest, you’ll see a pool separated from the sea with a high diving platform alongside it for jumping or diving straight into the blue Adriatic. It’s a good place for some thrills, and watching the locals show off.
Lovrečina Beach, Brač Island
Lovrečina Beach, Brač Island
Lovrečina Bay, on the northern side of Brač Island, and Lovrečina Beach stand out due to the sandy sea bottom here, which is somewhat unusual for Croatia. This beach and small bay are fringed by greenery, creating a beautiful environment ideal for relaxing and enjoying nature.
The water is warm and shallow, perfect for kids and less confident swimmers. If you feel a little peckish, you’ll find a small outdoor restaurant and beach bar next to the bay that serves simple but tasty local fare, ideal for a lazy lunch.
Walk around the beach area, visiting the ruins of sixth-century St. Lawrence Basilica and, if time permits, some of the nearby olive orchards.
You can also head into the town of Postira, where you can buy quality local olive oil. Nature, culture, and tranquility make Lovrečina Bay an attractive Croatian seaside escape away from the tourist crowds.
Uvala Lapad Beach, Dubrovnik
Uvala Lapad Beach, Dubrovnik
Uvala Lapad is a beachfront area with a concrete ledge facing Dubrovnik’s Lapad Bay, not too far away from the city’s Old Town. It’s a kid-friendly shallow beach consisting of pebbles, with a bustling promenade full of restaurants and cafés.
Rent a lounger and parasol here or throw down a towel and enjoy the sun. For avid water enthusiasts, kayaking and paddle boarding are on offer, too, as are nearby tennis courts for a full workout.
Take a leisurely lunch at one of the beachside restaurants and savor some fresh seafood and local wines that Croatia is known for. Later on, if you have a hankering for a bit of time away from the beach-going multitudes, head south from Uvala Lapad to the Velika and Mala Petka Forest Park for some scenic walking and cycling paths, along with some sublime views of Dubrovnik and the sea.
Stiniva Beach, Vis Island
Stiniva Beach, Vis Island
A little further afield but within boating distance from Split, especially if you opt for a small group speedboat tour or, better yet, a private speedboat, you’ll discover Stiniva Beach, on the southern reaches of Vis Island.
This tiny but gorgeous cove is a secluded haven waiting for adventure seekers. Formed over the eons along sheer white cliffs, this small but exceedingly dazzling beach can only be reached by boat or a challenging hike, hence the remote feeling.
Stiniva Beach, Vis Island
Stiniva Cove’s narrow entrance opens up to a sparkling lagoon where you can swim and snorkel. And if you’re truly feeling brave, you can do a bit of cliff-jumping into the water from the white-faced rocks.
This off-the-beaten-track spot is heaven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, and it’s well worth the effort to reach these craggy shores.
Sakarun Beach, Dugi Otok Island
Sakarun Beach, Dugi Otok Island
Sakarun Beach is located on Dugi Otok Island. It’s accessible from Zadar by ferry and car, speedboat, or on a four to five-hour half-day small group boat tour.
This exquisite beach, with its shallow waters and stark white sand, is the perfect destination for some well-deserved vacation time by the sea.
Dugi Otok, in Croatian, means “Long Island”. Locals often refer to Sakarun Beach as the “Caribbean of the Adriatic” due to its exceedingly clear, teal-colored water and white sand.
The beach is sheltered by the bay, backed by pine trees, and has warm and shallow water that’s made for swimming. Sakarun also has a few spots for drinks and snacks close to the shore. A visit to this peaceful seaside sanctuary will offer you a perfect morning or afternoon in the sun by the Adriatic.
Pasjača Beach, Konavle
Pasjača Beach, Konavle
Pasjača Beach is a pretty little beach resting beneath tall cliffs in the Konavle region, less than an hour from Dubrovnik. This narrow slice of shoreline can be accessed via a steep path that clings to the cliffside, with beautiful cerulean water waiting at the base of the precipice.
This beach is a superb spot for anyone who wants a serene retreat that feels cozy and somewhat secluded. The stony beach butts up against the imposing cliffs backing it, exposing you to the sea while simultaneously limiting access to the shoreline.
Bring your snorkeling gear to admire the underwater world or relax on the beach for a seaside nap.
If you have some extra time on your hands, stop by the nearby village of Cavtat, with its picturesque harbor, museums, galleries, and waterfront cafés.
Šunj Beach, Lopud Island
Šunj Beach, Lopud Island
Šunj Beach, on Lopud Island, is a sandy beach near Dubrovnik, where families splash in the water and dedicated sunbathers bronze their skin. Given that sandy beaches are in short supply in Croatia, Šunj is all the more special.
The island is accessible by ferry from Dubrovnik, which takes about an hour, after which there’s a picturesque stroll through wooded landscapes. There are no cars on the island, so you’ll either have to make use of footpaths or book a golf cart taxi to get around. Even better, you can arrange a private boat ride from Dubrovnik to take you directly to the beach.
Šunj Beach, Lopud Island
Once you arrive, you will be greeted by a crescent-shaped bay lined with pine trees and a gold-colored sandy shoreline that fronts the calm and shallow water, which is great for swimming and snorkeling, making Šunj one of the best beaches in Croatia.
A few beach bars and eateries nearby sell drinks, meals, and snacks. You can also rent umbrellas and beach loungers. Time permitting, you can also drop by the village of Lopud and visit the Franciscan Monastery there, built in the late 1400s, or stroll around the town’s charming Djordjic Mayneri Park botanical gardens.
Veli Žal, Dugi Otok Island
Veli Žal, Dugi Otok Island
Veli Žal Beach is a pebble-laden slice of pristine coastline along the west coast of Dugi Otok Island, which can be reached from Zadar. The beach and blue and jade-green sea here are worth visiting due to the truly secluded atmosphere and wonderful swimming conditions.
The beach, surrounded by rocks and lush vegetation, will provide you with an enjoyable getaway to the great outdoors. Snorkel in the pristine water to see underwater marine life, white pebbles, and the impressive rock structures beneath the waves.
Uvala Mir Shoreline, Dugi Otok Island
Uvala Mir Shoreline, Dugi Otok Island
Dugi Otok Island is also home to Uvala Mir, or Lake Mir, carved out of the earth in the southern part of Telašćica Nature Park. This saltwater lake is separated from the Adriatic by a small patch of land and high cliffs, creating a unique swimming experience.
The lake is connected to the sea by small underground channels and cracks, making it saltier than the surrounding Adriatic. It’s a wonderful place for a dip in the water, surrounded by Mediterranean greenery and stark-looking karst landscapes.
Come here for the therapeutic mud and warm water. You’ll find picnic areas and shaded areas beneath the pines close to the rock-strewn beach and lake shore.
Be sure to check out the nearby village of Sali on the eastern side of the island for some fresh seafood, a cool drink, or a few pastries at a local bakery after you’ve explored the lake and the nature park.
Koločep Island Beaches, Dubrovnik
Koločep Island, Dubrovnik
Koločep Island, in the Elaphiti archipelago, is home to several small stone and pebble beaches that will offer you peaceful surroundings.
The island is easily reached by ferry from Dubrovnik, with the voyage taking approximately half an hour. Koločep, while not large by any stretch of the imagination, is chock-full of pine forests, as well as pretty little beaches and rocky coves.
Another perk of Koločep is that it has no cars. When you’re done swimming, dipping in and out of the small inlets, or sea kayaking, head over to one of the island’s two small villages, Donje Čelo or Gornje Čelo, for a bite to eat, and to take in the easy-going local style of life.
Kašjuni Beach, Split
Kašjuni Beach, Split
Kašjuni Beach is a tranquil seaside spot, situated along the southwestern border of Marjan Forest Park, away from Split’s buzzing center. The pebbled beach and glassy water here are brilliant for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.
Compared to Spit’s much livelier and more crowded Bačvice Beach, located in the city proper, Kašjuni, with its sheer cliffs and surrounding greenery, exudes a decidedly more relaxed, natural beachside vibe.
You can rent beach loungers and umbrellas here and pick up drinks and snacks at the beach bar for a delightful day by the Adriatic.
Marjan Forest Park, Split
After your sojourn to the sea, wander around Marjan Forest Park, one of the best things to do in Split. Inside the park, you’ll find walking and cycling trails, scenic lookouts, and old structures like the 13th-century stone Church of St. Nicholas.
If you’re a hiker, trek up to the Telegrin Peak viewpoint for outstanding vistas of Split, the adjacent islands, and the glittering sea.
Queen’s Beach, Nin, near Zadar
Queen’s Beach in Nin, near Zadar
Queen’s Beach, or Kraljičina in Croatian, in Nin, north of Zadar on Pećin Bay, is a large swath of golden sand. The beach’s shallow waters reach well out into the bay and are safe for kids and inexperienced swimmers. This area is also a great spot for windsurfing, kite surfing, and other water sports.
If you like to get muddy, you’re in luck here. Kraljičina’s peloid mud, close to the beach, is celebrated for its healing properties. Join other folks massaging the dark mud into their skin for a truly organic, do-it-yourself beachside spa treatment.
There’s also the historical town of Nin nearby to explore. Walk its cobbled streets, and then visit the Church of the Holy Cross, dubbed the “world’s smallest cathedral”. Or visit the Nin Saltworks to see how sea salt production is carried out using saltpans and old-fashioned salt collecting techniques.
Copacabana Beach, Dubrovnik
Copacabana Beach, Dubrovnik
Copacabana Beach is a fashionable stretch of beach in Dubrovnik’s Lapad peninsula. This pebble beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and water activities like jet skiing, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
The beach’s shallow waters, with a rocky bottom, will entice you for a refreshing swim. Kick back at the beach bars and restaurants nearby for some flavorful cocktails or some Croatian cuisine.
Copacabana will also offer you breathtaking views of the nearby cable-braced Franjo Tuđman Bridge and the Elaphiti Islands. You can hire a kayak and paddle along the shore for some more time out on the water.
Later on, if you have time to spare, make your way to Lapad Promenade, where you’ll find cafés, ice cream shops, boutiques, and souvenir stores along the promenade.
Banje Beach, Dubrovnik
Banje Beach, Dubrovnik
Banje Beach is located on the eastern side of Dubrovnik, close to the Old Town. Visiting this pebble beach is one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik, offering unsurpassed views of the ancient city walls and nearby Lokrum Island.
There’s a beach club with sun loungers and umbrellas and a restaurant by the water. Banje has everything that you might need for a pleasurable time by the sea. Also, take note that the public section is always free and open, letting you go for a swim or enjoy different water sports.
After you leave the shore, make your way to the neighboring Ploče Gate and explore Dubrovnik’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, visiting historical sites like Rector’s Palace, the Dominican Monastery, and Sponza Palace, just to name a few.
Zrce Beach, Pag Island, near Zadar
Zrce Beach in Pag Island, near Zadar
For a beach party, head to Croatia’s biggest party beach, Zrce Beach, on Pag Island. Known as the “Ibiza of Croatia,” this summery strip is full of beach clubs like Papaya, Aquarius, Noa, and more, featuring international DJs and various music festivals.
In addition to the beach party life, Zrce has plenty of water activities, including wakeboarding, jet skiing, parasailing, and more. You’ll also notice a tall bungee jumping tower with a view over the Adriatic, tempting for thrill-seekers.
For all its party status, this pebble beach is still incredibly picturesque, with serene waters for snorkeling and swimming, thanks to its protective location on Pag Bay.
Pag Island, near Zadar
Pag island is one of the best places to visit in Croatia and easy to reach from Zadar, connected to the mainland via a bridge. The town of Novalja, not far from Zrce, is also an enjoyable stop. Go for a stroll through the village, and then stop by a café along the waterfront promenade.
While you’re on the island, try some hard Pag sheep cheese or stop by a local bistro for some delicious Dalmatian gastronomy. If you’d prefer something a little quieter, head for Kolan, a small cheese-producing village full of rustic charm, less than 15 minutes by car from Novalja.
Betina Cave Beach, Dubrovnik
Betina Cave Beach, Dubrovnik
Situated beneath a limestone cavern, Betina Cave Beach lies just to the east of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. This isolated beach is only accessible by boat or kayak—or, if you’re up to it, by swimming.
Betina is a small pebble beach with plenty of protective shade thanks to the cave’s massive arch, which covers part of the beach. The aquamarine sea here is a magnificent spot for snorkeling, with the possibility to observe marine life darting around the underwater rocks.
Betina Cave Beach, Dubrovnik
Due to its remote location, Betina Cave Beach, on most days, will offer a private sanctuary that’s close to Dubrovnik, yet far away from the thrum of the city’s tourist crowds.
After visiting Betina Cave, ride your boat back to Dubrovnik and visit the Old Harbor area, where you can enjoy a seafood lunch at restaurants like Lokanda Peskarija, with intimate harbor views, or other dining spots like Gradska Kavana Arsenal.
Vrgada Beaches, Vrgada Island, near Zadar
Vrgada Island, near Zadar
You will find attractive coves, sand, and sun on Vrgada Island, which is removed from the bustling mainland.
Your best option is to hire a private speedboat to visit the island, as this will reduce the travel time from Zadar considerably, although there are also public ferries and other travel routes available.
Vrgada’s beaches are a delight. Pobrizi Beach, backed by pine forests, differs from other beaches in Croatia in that there is actual sand on the beach, not small pebbles, making it one of the best beaches in Croatia to visit.
Vrgada Island, near Zadar
This small island will give you an uncrowded place to sunbathe, swim, or simply admire the shimmering Adriatic. The island has no cars, making it perfect for anyone looking for a slower pace of life.
After taking a dip in the water and soaking in the sun, you can stay active along Vrgada’s many walking paths, which slice through the island’s thick pine groves, offering splendid vistas over the nearby islets and the sea.
Read: Most Beautiful Places in Croatia
Cetina River Beach, near Split
Cetina River, near Split
Heading slightly inland from Split, you’ll encounter the Cetina River, which will provide a refreshing alternative to Croatia’s bustling seaside. The shoreline here slopes down to emerald-colored water, surrounded by imposing gorge walls.
The river, cutting through the Dinara Mountains, is a great place to swim, especially in summer, offering a cooling freshwater break from the heat along slivers of riverside beach.
Simply find a small river beach where the currents aren’t too strong. Then jump in and out of the cold water as you take in the lush, canyon-laden landscapes.
Cetina River, near Split
There’s also canoeing, kayaking, and rafting along the river if you’re interested in water-based thrills. Book a guided trip to paddle along the calmer sections of the Cetina and, of course, the more turbulent rapids.
Once you’ve finished swimming, don’t forget that Dinara Nature Park is also a fantastic place for nature hikes, birdwatching, and mountain biking.
Bačvice Beach, Split
Bačvice Beach, Split
Bačvice Beach is more than just a sandy beach in Split; it is a cultural center where everyone wants to go for a good time.
Known for its shallow, warm water and fine golden sand (a rarity in Croatia), Bačvice, close to the city center, is a place to swim and have fun. You’ll find throngs of locals here regularly filling the beach with their infectious energy.
Everything you could ever need is right here in Bačvice. Rent loungers and umbrellas, and if the beach is too crowded, find some space in the sun on the raised concrete areas nearby. You’ll also find some sociable beach bars, cafes, and Dalmatian-style restaurants in the vicinity.
After hanging out at the beach, walk about 20 minutes north to Split’s lively Riva waterfront promenade for a cocktail or a meal at one of the local cafes or brasseries before calling upon the Roman-built, UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace complex, which is a must-visit in Old Town Split.
Veliki Žal, near Dubrovnik
Veliki Žal, near Dubrovnik
Veliki Žal is an idyllic, isolated seaside sanctuary 30 minutes or so from Dubrovnik by car. This pebble beach is famous for its translucent water, steep hills, and greenery. The beach is great for sunbathing, while the clear sea will welcome you in for a swim or a spot of snorkeling.
Because Veliki Žal lies outside the hustle of Dubrovnik, you can simply chill out on the beach and enjoy the sounds of the waves lapping against the stones along the shore.
There’s also a decent beach café here where you can enjoy a cold drink or snack with views of the Elaphiti Islands.
If you drive a few minutes south, you’ll come across the quaint village of Brsečine, where you’ll find a few small churches. Slightly further south still is the seaside Gothic-Renaissance Trsteno Arboretum, full of exotic and colorful plants from around the globe.
Whether you come for the vistas or a casual swim, Veliki Žal, and the surrounding region, should not be missed.
Read: Best Things to Do in Croatia
Sveti Jakov Beach, Dubrovnik
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