Located in central Europe, Croatia is currently one of the hottest tourist destinations due to an array of reasons. Not only does it offer some of the most stunning natural beauty with its rocky mountains and gorgeous blue waters, but it is also a hub of food, culture, adventure, and history.
A Croatian city named Dubrovnik is a filming location for the hit TV series, “Game of Thrones” making it even more popular across the globe. Made up of 78 islands, Croatia offers some of the most diverse beaches with some having a more sandy terrain, while others having a more pebble-like terrain. To help you pick the best ones, we have curated a list of the eight best beaches in Croatia!
Zlatni Rat, Brac
Also known as the Golden Horn, Zlatni Rat is one of the most popular beaches across the country of Croatia. Often confused as a sandy beach, Zlatni Rat is actually a pebble bay with several precious pebbles lining the place. Located on the beach is a Roman villa that provides natural shade, water surfing for adrenaline junkies, and a remarkable view that will leave you awestruck.
One of the reasons why this place is so famous is due to its unique V-shape which is known to shift and change with the tide. You can take a 30-minute walk from Bol or pay for parking though the fees are a bit expensive. In front of Zlatni is a ginormous mountain named Vidova Gora at an elevation of 2552ft being the highest peak in the Adriatic.
Vela Plaza Beach, Krk Island
One of the best beaches on Krk Island, Vela Plaza is 1800m long with mostly gravel but some patches of sand across it. Due to its pristine condition and clean turquoise blue waters, it has been awarded the Blue Flag since 1999. You can reach the beach via car, bike, or even on foot since there is a proper pathway.
Filled with exciting activities like parasailing, aqua parks, and water tubes, the beach is an ideal place for families to explore together. The best part about it is its inclusivity as it is disability-friendly so no one misses out on all the fun.
Punta Rata, Brela
One of the ten most beautiful beaches according to Forbes Magazine, Punta Rata is a site for sore ideas. An idyllic wonderland offering a divine view of mother nature, this beach also offers activities like kayaking, jet skis, paddle boating, and many more. Moreover, there are bars and restaurants offering delightful food and the freshest seafood you’ll ever have.
Since Punta Rata is covered with trees across its boundary, it provides a natural shade from the scorching heat of the sun. Even if you’re not into water sports, you can rent a bike and explore the location or even take a stroll across the soft sandy terrain.
Rajska Plaža, Rab Island
A shallow watered beach located on the famous island of Rab, Rajska Plaza is an ideal place for people with young kids due to their surveying lifeguards. Known as “Paradise Beach”, Rajska lives up to the name with its orange-hued sunsets and several amenities.
Not only does it have WiFi, but you can also enjoy thrilling activities like the boat cruise that will take you on an expedition in itself. The place is disability friendly so everyone has a fair shot at enjoying the warm sandy bay. However, plan a visit to Rajska in the morning to avoid the hustle and bustle of the tourists.
Zrće Beach, Pag Island
Infamous for being the Croatian Ibiza, Zcre is a perfect place for party animals to go unleash their inner party diva. Being the hot topic on the Island of Pag, it offers several thrilling festivals that attract people from all over, DJ nights, costume parties, and several raves to get those hips moving.
Don’t worry if you’re not into partying because there are several other things to do there. Enjoy a riveting volleyball match, take a water slide, and if you’re brave enough, go explore bungee jumping.
Sunj Beach, Lopud
Surrounded by luscious green mountains on all sides, Sunj Beach is like heaven for photography geeks due to the sheer beauty of the location. Deep blue waters, cotton candy clouds, and soft sandy terrain enchant you into a spell forever. To fully enjoy the beach, enjoy their seaside massage, sunbathe under the UV, or even sprint across the water on a jet ski.
The east wing of Sunj is reserved for the free-spirited naturalists while you can also walk for about 20-25 minutes to go to the nearby restaurants for some scrumptious and succulent food. To reach the beach, you can just take a ferry from Dubrovnik.
Nugal Beach, Makarska
If you’re not one for crowds, Nugal is the Beach for you due to its serene atmosphere in comparison to some of the other Makarska beaches. The place can only be accessed by a short hike from the Forest Park Osejava so the seclusion makes it a romantic destination for couples to have some privacy.
Nugal is known to be a go-to for Nude baths so you can rip off those clothes and take a dunk in the pristine Adriatic waters in front. Moreover, if you’re up for the challenge, climb up one of the nearby cliffs and jump straight into the depths below. You can even go and enjoy snorkeling with the marine life!
Bay Dubovica, Hvar
Another beach for those who prefer seclusion, Dubovica is as peaceful as it gets as it can only be reached through the coastal areas which means that few are willing to travel here. But that doesn’t mean that it isn’t worth the hike because the bay is dotted with pure white pebbles and leads to gorgeous blue waters.
Find a hidden cove towards the east, rent a private villa right on the bay, or you can enjoy a cold drink and take in the sun. However, make sure to bring your own snack bag as there aren’t any bars or restaurants onsite.
Final Thoughts
Croatia is a must-visit for those who love who travel because of the huge amount of little islands, making it a hub for all things nature. The place accommodates everyone, be it old, young, couples, families, friends, or even pets. Once you come here you never want to leave this paradise.
Since this country has way too many jaw-dropping places to visit, and not enough time or budget to visit them all, we decided to help you pick out the best of the best beaches in Croatia so that you can spend your time packing instead.
