Beaches in Croatia
Travel journalist
Croatia has miles of beautiful beaches, each one prettier than the other. The choice has been narrowed down to determine which ones will make your trip memorable. There are plenty of dream beaches all over the country, from the Dalmation coast to the tip of Istria and even hidden in the heart of the islands.
To help you find the perfect beach for your trip to Croatia, we've picked out the best spots to swim and sunbathe this summer. Whether you're on the coast or on the islands you can practise all sorts of water activities or watch the sunset on pebble and sand beaches. Croatia is the top destination when it comes to beaches so get ready to enjoy.
| Jan | Feb | March | April | May | June | Jul | August | sept. | Oct | nov. | dec. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sea temperature | 14° | 14° | 14° | 15° | 18° | 22° | 24° | 25° | 23° | 20° | 17° | 15° |
The most beautiful beaches
Paradise Beach, Rab Island
If you were to describe heaven, then this is probably what it would look like. In the heart of the small town of Lopar on Rab Island, Paradise Beach -Rajska Plaža, in Croatian- is a long stretch of fine golden sand. Close to shops and restaurants, it has a number of attractions and activities to offer. The dazzling shades of turquoise and transparent water are what make this beach so appealing. The shallow water is ideal for families with younger kids. Paradise beach will blow you away, although you might be better off visiting during low season as its whereabouts is no longer a secret.
Centres nautiques | Beach equipment
Zlatni Rat Beach, Brac Island
There is no need to introduce this beach. If you're planning a trip to Croatia the chances are you've heard of it already. Often listed as one of the top best beaches in the world, Zlatni Rat deserves its reputation. The unique triangular shape of the sandy beach changes throughout the year with the movement of the winds and the waves.
Zlatni beach is great for swimmers of all ages as the water is calm on one side. The other side however is choppier and attracts lots of water sports addicts. You can sip a cocktail at one of the bars and watch the beautiful sunset. Zlatni Rat beach is located on Brac Island, only a few minutes away from Bol village. Unfortunately, there is no fine sand on this white pebble beach.
Sailing | Beach equipment
Šunj Beach, Lopud Island
If you're in Dubrovnik then you must go on a daytime excursion to the Elaphite Islands. Lopud is part of these small, well-preserved islands along with Koločep and Šipan. Šunj beach is located to the South-east of Lopud Island and is one of the nicest sandy beaches in Croatia. With knee deep, clear blue water, it is perfect for children to bathe in. This beach offers deckchairs, umbrellas and plenty of beach bars. There is also a nudist area down at the end of the beach.
Naturist beach | Beach equipment
Banje Beach, Dubrovnik
Banje Beach is located East of the Dubrovnik Walls, past the port and Ploče gate. As often in Croatia, this dream beach of crystal clear water is a mix of sand and pebbles. It has been named among the most beautiful beaches in the world and is very popular with travellers and locals. A lively beach both day and night, where there is plenty to do including bars, restaurants, clubs and private beaches. Early in the morning you can experience a quieter, calmer beach with a wonderful panorama overlooking Lokrum Island and Dubrovnik's old city.
Beach equipment
Rt Kamenjak beach and coves
The Kamenjak region is located south of Pula, at the end of the Istrian peninsula. Miles of unexplored creeks and coves in a natural environment preserved from tourism. The water is a compelling turquoise blue. Lay your towel down between two cliffs or down on the gravel beach, which is easier to access.
Wild beach
Porat Beach, Biševo Island
Off the coast of Split, the small island of Vis is a great place to spend a couple of days. Make your way over to the island of Biševo and the “blue cave”. This island is also home to one of the prettiest beaches in Croatia: Porat beach. This peaceful stretch of sand is sheltered from mass tourism thanks to its remote location. If you choose to rent a boat, then this is definitely the place to come and appreciate the tranquility of one of the most secret and wildest beaches in the country.
Wild beach
Ninska Beach Laguna, Nin
The Ninska Laguna beach is located in the city of Nin, a few miles from Zadar. This sandy beach features a lagoon with shallow waters, making it a great option for kids. This is where the famous “Nin mud” comes from, used for medicinal purposes since Roman times. Almost 2 miles of beach and clear, shallow water with deck chairs and beach bars for you to relax and enjoy the mountain views.
Beach equipment
Bačvice Beach, Split
Bačvice Beach is a ten minute walk from the centre of Split. Next to the long stretch of beach is a strip of concrete for you to put your towel down. The water is shallow making it a great choice for everybody. The beach is well-adapted to tourists with many bars and restaurants to choose from if you fancy a drink. Showers and deckchairs are also available.
Beach equipment
Travel journalist
Lucie's review
Growing up near the seaside and travelling the world have made me quite a demanding judge when it comes to beautiful beaches. All I can say is how pleasantly surprised I was by the beaches in Croatia. The Adriatic Sea offers intense shades of blue and turquoise, giving the water such a mesmerizing colour. The clear waters and idyllic setting make Croatia such a magical country and keep you wanting to come back again and again...Even during peak season there are still some unspoiled beaches, to be enjoyed far from the crowds of tourists. However, most beaches in Croatia are adapted to visitors, often too close to major cities and of course very popular in high season.
Compared to other countries, Croatia's natural environment is quite remarkable. With cliffs overhanging the scattered islands and lush green surroundings, Croatian beaches offer exotic panoramas for the carefree traveller. Along with the Greek Islands, Croatian beaches are, in my opinion, some of the most beautiful beaches I've come across in Europe.