15 Tranquil Croatia Travel Beaches for Summer Fun
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There are very few countries in the world that have as many spectacular beaches as Croatia. No wonder Croatia is one of Europe’s top beach destinations!
So which are the best Croatia travel beaches? What’s special about each of these beaches? Which ones should you visit?
As a passionate traveler and beach lover who has explored the Croatian coastline from top to bottom, I have put together a highly curated list of the top beaches in Croatia that deserve a place in your itinerary.
From the famous Zlatni Rat’s iconic golden shores to the untouched beauty of Šunj Beach in Lopud, I’ve curated a list that’s perfect for anyone eager to plan their next sun-soaked escape.
Whether you’re dreaming of island hopping, crystal-clear swimming spots, or beachfront restaurants with unforgettable sunset views, I’ve got you covered!
In this guide, you’ll discover Croatia’s most stunning beaches, tailored to suit your travel style—be it family-friendly beaches, secluded bays for couples, or vibrant party spots for friends.
You’ll also find practical tips like the best times to visit, how to reach hidden gems, and budget-friendly options so you can make the most of your trip.
Discover Hidden Gems: Croatia Travel Beaches for Sun and Serenity
1. Punta Križa beach
📍 51554, Punta Križa, Croatia
🏖️ Secluded, kid-friendly and surrounded by lush forests
Punta Križa is the perfect embodiment of that untouched paradise, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Croatia travel beaches.
Hidden among lush forests and rocky shores, this secluded stretch of coastline feels like stepping into another world.
The waters here are dazzlingly clear and inviting, surrounded by a chorus of cicadas and the scent of pine.
This is a beach for those who crave solitude, a place to lose track of time as you dive into the Adriatic’s calm embrace.
The lack of commercial development ensures peace and serenity, making it feel like a secret shared only with the sea.
How to Reach :
Fly to Rijeka Airport and take a ferry from Krk Island to Cres.
Alternatively, you can reach Cres by ferry from Brestova on the mainland to Porozina, followed by a scenic drive to Punta Križa.
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2. Rajska Plaža (Paradise Beach)
📍 San Marino, Rab, Croatia
🏖️ Family-friendly beach, a natural pool and various activities for kids
True to its name, Paradise Beach is one of the best beaches to click Croatia inspired aesthetic photos for Instagram!
A slice of the Adriatic that’s perfect for families and a popular beach honeymoon getaways for honeymooners.
Its 1.5-kilometer stretch of golden sand is a rarity in Croatia travel beaches, where pebble shores are the norm.
The shallow and calm waters create a massive natural pool where you can wade and splash for hours.
Small cafes line the coast. Most serve refreshing drinks and ice creams – perfect for those traveling with kids.
It’s the perfect place to settle in for a lazy, sun-drenched day by the water.
How to Reach:
Fly to Rijeka Airport or drive to Jablanac Ferry Terminal to catch a ferry to Rab Island.
From the main town, it’s a 20-minute drive to Lopar.
3. Sakarun Beach
📍 Sakarun Beach Dugi Otok, 23287, Soline, Croatia
🏖️ Camping spots, white sand beach and kid-friendly
Sakarun’s sparkling turquoise waters and soft white sand have earned it the nickname “Croatia’s Caribbean”.
It’s one of the most picturesque Croatia travel beaches.
The bay stretches out in a perfect crescent, framed by low dunes and fragrant pine trees that provide shade on sunny days.
The waters are shallow for quite a distance, making it ideal for families or anyone looking to float in gentle waves.
Whether you spend your time lounging under a parasol or taking a peaceful paddle, Sakarun feels like a blissful retreat from the rest of the world.
How to Reach:
Fly to Zadar Airport and take a ferry to Dugi Otok.
Once you arrive at the port in Brbinj, it’s a 25-minute drive to Sakarun Beach.
4. Punta Rata
📍 Brela (Makarska Riviera)
🏖️ Pebble beach, white sand, and beautiful scenery
Punta Rata is a beach straight out of a postcard.
Its bright white pebbles contrast with the turquoise sea, while lush pine trees lean toward the water as if they, too, can’t resist its pull.
The iconic Brela Rock, a jagged islet rising from the sea, adds to the fairytale scenery that defines Croatia travel beaches.
This beach is part of the Makarska Riviera, a hotspot for beach lovers, but it stands out for its sheer beauty and tranquility.
Whether you want to snorkel in the crystal-clear shallows or nap in the shade with the scent of pine in the air, Punta Rata offers the perfect blend of relaxation and natural wonder.
How to Reach:
Fly to Split Airport and drive 70 km south along the coastal highway to Brela.
5. Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn)
📍 Brač Island
🏖️ Popular for activities like windsurfing and paddleboarding
Zlatni Rat is Croatia’s crown jewel, a beach that’s instantly recognizable for its V-shaped tip that changes with the tides.
Set against the backdrop of the Vidova Gora mountains, this pebbled promontory extends into the sea like an arrow pointing toward adventure, making it one of the top Croatia travel beaches for unforgettable memories.
The waters surrounding Zlatni Rat are clear and perfect for swimming, windsurfing, and paddleboarding.
Whether you’re here to play in the waves or sip cocktails at the nearby beach bars, Zlatni Rat promises an unforgettable experience.
How to Reach:
Fly to Split Airport and take a ferry to Brač Island (Supetar).
From there, drive or take a taxi 40 minutes to Bol.
6. Murvica Beach
📍 21420, Murvica, Croatia
🏖️ Known for beach bars, vineyards and crystal-clear water
Just around the corner from Zlatni Rat lies a quieter treasure Murvica Beach.
This serene spot offers the same stunning sea views but with far fewer visitors.
Sheltered by steep cliffs and dotted with vineyards, Murvica feels like a hidden sanctuary where time slows down, making it a perfect stop for those seeking lesser-known Croatia travel beaches.
The pebbles here are soft, and the water is perfectly clear, ideal for snorkeling or simply floating in the calm bay.
If you’re looking for a quieter alternative to Zlatni Rat but still want to enjoy the island’s beauty, Murvica is the perfect place to unwind.
How to Reach:
Follow the same route as Zlatni Rat, then drive or bike 10 minutes west of Bol.
7. Dubovica Beach, Hvar Island
📍 21450, Lesina, Croatia.
🏖️ Clear waters, beachfront dinning and lush greenery.
Dubovica Beach feels like a painter’s dream.
The bay is encircled by stone terraces and olive groves, with a rustic stone house standing proudly at the water’s edge.
The sea here glistens in shades of emerald and sapphire, making it a highlight of Croatia travel beaches.
Unlike the bustling beaches near Hvar Town, Dubovica remains relatively peaceful.
It’s the kind of beach where you’ll want to linger long after the sun dips below the horizon.
How to Reach:
Fly to Split Airport, take a ferry to Hvar Island, and drive 8 km southeast of Hvar Town.
From the road, a short, steep path leads you down to the bay.
8. Pokonji Dol, Hvar Island
📍 Hvar Island.
🏖️ A rugged outcrop in the Adriatic Sea. Features an 1872 lighthouse.
Just a short walk from Hvar Town, Pokonji Dol feels like a hidden paradise.
This pebble beach opens up to views of a small lighthouse-topped islet in the distance, making it a gem among Croatia travel beaches.
The bay is dotted with sun loungers and has a few laid-back beach bars where you can sip a cold cocktail or indulge in fresh seafood.
The water is crystal clear, and the atmosphere is lively but never overwhelming.
Whether you’re here to socialize or relax in style, Pokonji Dol offers the best of both worlds.
How to Reach:
Fly to Split Airport, take a ferry to Hvar Town, and walk or drive 2 km east.
9. Sveta Nedjelja Beach, Hvar Island
📍 Sveta Nedilja, Croatia.
🏖️ Couple-friendly, know for it’s Plavac Mali wine and a great beach to snorkel.
On the rugged southern coast of Hvar, the village of Sveta Nedjelja hides a small cove where the turquoise waters sparkle like jewels in the sun.
Towering cliffs surround the beach, giving it a dramatic yet serene vibe that’s a must-see for anyone exploring Croatia travel beaches.
Nearby, you’ll spot vineyards producing the island’s famous Plavac Mali wine.
Sveta Nedjelja is ideal for adventure seekers and beach lovers alike.
You can sunbathe on the rocks, explore sea caves, or snorkel through the impossibly clear waters.
And if you’re in the mood for a wine-tasting break, you’re in the perfect spot!
How to Reach:
Fly to Split Airport, ferry to Hvar Island, and drive 35 minutes south from Hvar Town.
10. Saplunara Beach, Mljet Island
📍 Mljet Island, Saplunara, Croatia.
🏖️ Sandy beach with blue waters and is family friendly.
Saplunara Beach is a pristine haven on Mljet Island, Croatia’s greenest island and a national park treasure.
Unlike many of Croatia’s pebble beaches, Saplunara boasts soft golden sand, making it a standout among Croatia travel beaches.
This quiet bay has an almost mystical quality, with the pine-scented breeze carrying whispers of the island’s legends.
It’s not uncommon to find yourself alone on the beach, soaking up the beauty and calm.
Saplunara is perfect for those who want to disconnect, unwind, and experience Croatia’s unspoiled nature at its best.
How to Reach:
Fly to Dubrovnik Airport, take a ferry from Dubrovnik to Sobra (Mljet), and drive 15 minutes to Saplunara.
11. Pasjača Beach, Konavle (near Dubrovnik)
📍 20215, Popovići, Croatia
🏖️ Secluded beach with clear waters set below cliffs
Pasjača Beach feels like a secret etched into the rocky cliffs of Konavle.
From above, the turquoise sea stretches endlessly, and the descent down the stone-carved path feels like a journey into a hidden world perfect for travelers seeking unique Croatia travel beaches.
Once you reach the bottom, you’re rewarded with a secluded pebble beach where the waves gently lap at the shore.
Pasjača is all about dramatic beauty and serenity, it’s not your typical sun-and-sand experience but rather an awe-inspiring place to feel one with nature.
How to Reach:
Fly to Dubrovnik Airport, then drive 40 minutes southeast toward the village of Popovići.
You’ll need to descend a steep path carved into the cliffs to reach the beach.
12. Banje Beach, Dubrovnik
📍 20000, Ploče iza grada, Dubrovnik, Croatia
🏖️ Known for it’s beach clubs. Kayak’s and Jet Ski available on rent
With its enviable location overlooking Dubrovnik’s city walls and Lokrum Island, Banje Beach is the place to combine sightseeing with seaside luxury.
The azure waters here seem almost unreal, making it a staple of Croatia travel beaches.
If you’re in the mood for something more active, you can rent kayaks or jet skis, or simply enjoy the view with a refreshing drink from a beachfront café.
As the sun sets behind Dubrovnik’s red rooftops, Banje Beach becomes even more magical.
How to Reach:
Fly to Dubrovnik Airport and take a short taxi or bus ride to Dubrovnik Old Town.
13. Uvala Lapad Beach, Dubrovnik
📍 Masarykov put 5, 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia
🏖️ Waterfront swimming spot with beach chairs and umbrellas
Uvala Lapad Beach is the beating heart of Dubrovnik’s Lapad Peninsula a long stretch of pebble beach with calm waters and a family-friendly vibe.
It’s a top choice for families and couples exploring Croatia travel beaches.
This is the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon, whether you’re swimming in the gentle waves, enjoying a seafood lunch, or strolling along the scenic seafront.
With its laid-back atmosphere and gorgeous sea views, Uvala Lapad is ideal for unwinding close to the city.
How to Reach:
Fly to Dubrovnik Airport and take a bus or taxi 3 km west to Lapad Peninsula.
14. Divna Beach, Pelješac Peninsula
📍 Uvala divna, 20240, Donja Vrućica, Croatia
🏖️ A rocky beach, perfect to unwind and relax
Tucked away on the northern Pelješac Peninsula, Divna Beach truly lives up to its name (“divna” means “beautiful” in Croatian).
This peaceful bay is framed by olive groves and rocky cliffs, making it one of the dreamiest Croatia travel beaches.
There are no big resorts or noisy beach bars just the sound of waves, the scent of salt in the air, and the stunning Adriatic unfolding before you.
Whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking in the serene views, Divna is the perfect escape into nature’s splendor.
How to Reach:
Fly to Dubrovnik Airport and drive 2.5 hours along the Pelješac coastal road.
15. Stiniva Beach
📍 21480, Vis Island, Croatia
🏖️ Secluded beach with a natural amphitheater
Stiniva Beach is a spectacular cove with towering cliffs that create a narrow entrance to a hidden bay of turquoise water.
From the sea, it looks like a secret doorway into a natural amphitheater where time stands still a true icon of Croatia travel beaches.
Reaching Stiniva requires some effort, but the reward is a beach that feels like a private oasis.
Whether you hike down or arrive by boat, you’ll be captivated by the raw beauty of this secluded paradise.
How to Reach:
Fly to Split Airport and take a ferry from Split to Vis Town.
From there, drive or take a taxi to the small village of Žužec and hike 20 minutes to the beach, or take a boat excursion from Vis.
FAQs
1. What is the best time of year to visit Croatia’s beaches?
The best time to visit Croatia’s beaches is between late May and early October.
During this period, the weather is warm, the sea is pleasant for swimming, and most beach facilities are open.
July and August are the peak months, with the busiest crowds and highest prices, while May, June, and September offer fewer crowds and lower costs, making them ideal for a more relaxed trip.
2. Which are the best sandy beaches in Croatia?
Croatia is known for its pebbly beaches, but there are a few beautiful sandy ones.
- Rajska Plaža (Paradise Beach) on Rab Island is the most famous, with a 1.5 km stretch of golden sand and shallow waters ideal for families.
- Saplunara Beach on Mljet Island is another top choice, surrounded by pine forests and offering a peaceful escape.
- Sakarun Beach on Dugi Otok is also a popular sandy spot, often compared to Caribbean beaches.
3. How can I get to Croatia’s islands for beach visits?
The most common way to reach Croatia’s islands is by ferries and catamarans, operated by companies like Jadrolinija or Krilo.
Ferries can accommodate cars, while catamarans are passenger-only.
Ferries run regularly from major mainland ports like Split, Zadar, Dubrovnik, and Rijeka.
If you’re short on time, private speedboat transfers are also an option, but they are more expensive.
4. Are Croatia’s beaches family-friendly?
Many of Croatia’s beaches are family-friendly, offering calm waters, safe swimming areas, and nearby facilities.
Beaches like Rajska Plaža and Uvala Lapad are ideal for families due to their shallow waters and kid-friendly amenities.
However, some beaches, like Stiniva Beach or Pasjača Beach, require hiking or steep descents, which may not be suitable for young children or strollers.
5. Do I need special footwear for Croatia’s beaches?
It is highly recommended to bring water shoes when visiting Croatia’s beaches.
Most of the beaches are pebbly, and water shoes will help protect your feet from sharp rocks and provide better grip when walking on slippery surfaces.
They are also useful for avoiding sea urchins, which are common in some areas.
6. Are there public facilities available at Croatia’s beaches?
Facilities vary depending on the beach.
Popular beaches like Zlatni Rat, Banje Beach, and Punta Rata offer sun loungers, umbrellas, cafes, showers, and restrooms.
Secluded beaches, like Divna Beach or Stiniva Beach, typically lack facilities, so it’s best to bring your own food, water, and essentials when visiting remote locations.
