Guide

The Ultimate Guide to Croatia 25 Best Beaches

The well-deserved pride of this small country is its beaches, located both on the mainland and on the islands. Croatia’s beaches can satisfy any taste. Among them are sandy and pebbly (in most cases, the pebbles here are very beautiful — milky-pearl colored), noisy and secluded. Some are especially suitable for families with children, others for young people, and still others for those who prefer romance. Some have developed infrastructure, while others make you feel like you are in a pristine corner of nature. They all share one thing in common — impeccable cleanliness. This applies to both the water and the sand (pebbles). It is no coincidence that many of Croatia’s beaches have received the “Blue Flag”. A vacation here will leave you with only positive impressions.

Vela Plaza

Surrounded by picturesque mountains and forests, this beach offers not only sunbathing and swimming but also enjoying the surrounding views, organizing family celebrations, and walking along specially equipped tourist trails. There are several historical attractions nearby. Vela is located near the resort of Baska on the island of Krk. The water here has an especially light hue — sky-blue, and the stones are so polished by the waves that it is pleasant to walk barefoot on them.

In the surroundings, you will see cliffs. Yachts are also here, and you can always organize a sea trip. The beach itself is quite long — over 1.8 km. It has been awarded the “Blue Flag”. The forest approaches the shore so closely that you can shelter in the shade not only of an umbrella but also of trees, taking air baths. This place is also loved by divers. There is not only a rich underwater world but also sunken caves to explore.

Zlatni Rat

This is the name of the sandy spit located on the edge of the island of Brac. The entire coastline is very beautiful, with Mediterranean scenery all around, the sea water has a rich pleasant shade — it can be turquoise or dark blue, and the air is filled with the aroma of pine. This beach, with an area of about 20,000 m2, is most often featured on postcards. It should be noted that the landscape view may change somewhat depending on currents and wind.

A feature of this place is the noticeable underwater currents, which pose a danger to careless swimmers. However, surfers love to vacation here — the winds blow constantly, and the waves are quite significant. There are also many yachtsmen here — you can always take a yacht ride. But there are areas where the water is calm, shallow, and the shoreline is covered with sand and white pebbles — this is where parents with children settle down to rest.

Paradise Beach

Located in the northeast of the popular tourist island of Rab. The sea here has various shades — from gentle blue to emerald and dark blue. The island’s shoreline has sections consisting of sand, and others of pebbles, the beautiful color of which reminds one of pearls. Paradise Beach is crescent-shaped, the sand here is very light and soft, walking on it is a pleasure. The length is large — about 1.5 km, even at the height of the season, there will be a place to settle down comfortably.

Umbrellas and sunbeds are at your service, but many tourists prefer to lie right on the sand, on a spread towel. In summer, there are many parents with children here, and if you want your child to find peers to play with, this is the place for you. Adults will also find something to do besides leisurely beach rest. There are tennis courts, fields for football and handball, and plenty of cafes and bars in the vicinity. And if you stay until the evening, you can visit the disco and enjoy the view of the night sea while dancing.

Punta Rata

Located in the southwest, next to the resort of Brela, and is considered one of the best beaches in the country. The length is about 6 km. The fine pebbles are pleasant for the feet, pine and juniper forests approach the shore, there are also myrtle thickets, imagine how wonderful the air is here. Moreover, you can always shelter in the shade. The sea is shallow near the shore, and the entrance is gentle. However, there are areas that diving enthusiasts will appreciate — large stones lurk underwater there.

The sea water here is very clean, its color is blue with an emerald tint. The majestic Brela rock also looks beautiful. Everything necessary for vacationers is here — from sunbeds and umbrellas to cafes, a children’s playground, and water attractions. You can rent the necessary sports equipment. It is always crowded here in the season, the most comfortable time to visit is the first month of autumn. It is recommended to rent a car and come here to sunbathe and swim to your heart’s content. A paid parking lot is provided.

Vela Przina

Located on the island of Korcula. The only drawback of this beach is that it is very popular. So, in the season, there will be many people here. Young people like it here — you can always see youth companies. The place also attracts parents with children. The cleanest light sand — there are not many such beaches suitable for children in Croatia. You can walk here without special shoes.

And the sea is warm and shallow — it seems specially designed for small tourists and those adults who are not good swimmers. Sunbeds and umbrellas are offered for rent, but many prefer to sunbathe without them, on the silky sand. There are sports grounds, young girls, and boys willingly play volleyball. You won’t have to go far if you get hungry — you can easily buy drinks, snacks, and ice cream here. Another popular entertainment is sea trips on yachts.

Nugal

If you love secluded pebble beaches, you will definitely like this place. Nugal is located in a rocky bay, it is a very green area, and the sea here is clean and clear. Rest here will appeal to those who love to sunbathe and swim, as well as diving enthusiasts — they will meet a rich underwater world here. The depth increases gradually, which is convenient for both children and adults. Pine forests are typical for the Croatian coast, and this place is no exception. Therefore, it is very easy to breathe here. The bay protects vacationers from the wind. The waves on the sea are usually small, and excitement is very rare.

The territory is regularly cleaned, you will not find litter here. Nugal will also please with its silence. There are no discos and nightclubs here, but there is free parking. You can come with the whole family and have a good rest. If you get tired of basking in the sun, you should go for a walk. The places around are picturesque, trails for travel are laid. If desired, you can easily agree to be taken for a ride on a yacht. Most of the vacationers here are adults who value both their peace and the peace of others. Many will like it.

Stiniva

Located on the island of Vis, in a bay of the same name. It seems that this place came off the very advertising poster where the boat seems to float in the air — the water is so clear. Maybe it was filmed at Stiniva? In any case, this beach is recognized as one of the best in Europe. But to appreciate all its beauty, it is better to come here when there are few vacationers — not in the height of the season, but in September or early summer. Then you can enjoy the beauty of nature.

The bay is small, surrounded by a ring of rocks. The water is always calm, warm, and clean. Therefore, lovers of underwater swimming flock here. Just remember about sea urchins — you can prick your feet, so it is better to take care of special shoes. The infrastructure here is modest, but there is a shop where you can buy drinks and ice cream. The old fishing houses in the neighborhood are also of interest.

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Bieca

Belongs to the Medulin resort — this is the south of Istria, you can always meet fellow countrymen here. The length of the sandy beach is about a kilometer, the water here is crystal clear, and the depths in the coastal zone are small. Different categories of tourists rest here — these are parents with children, young couples, and lovers of active entertainment. There are more sunny days here than anywhere else in Croatia. You can always rent sunbeds and umbrellas, toilets, and showers are also available. A medical center is working, and lifeguards are on duty.

At your service is a diving center, you can engage in beach sports, and ride a water scooter. There is also a bike rental point — not all the time to sunbathe and swim — you can go to explore the beautiful surroundings. Children will be delighted with the small water park and various entertainments — an inflatable island, trampoline, etc. And, of course, they will always have someone to play with. Many will enjoy massage sessions. You can also have a snack on the beach. Pastries, drinks, fruits, and ice cream are sold here.

Veli Zal

A wonderful beach, over 300 meters long, located in the northern part of the picturesque island of Pag. Most often, those tourists who rest in the village of Zubrovici sunbathe and swim here. The coastline is clean and well-maintained. You can bask on the sand next to other vacationers, or you can go to the rocks and enjoy seclusion. The youth usually hang out at the pier. There is no natural shade here, the place is very sunny, so if you want to protect your skin — rent an umbrella.

The blue water of the bay, the beautiful outlines of the island — look especially impressive at sunset. The infrastructure is developed — there are toilets, showers, a playground, and cars can be left in the parking lot. Tourists love to kayak and water ski, windsurf, and scuba dive. After active rest, a great appetite appears. You can have a snack in a cafe or pizzeria.

Bacvice

One of the most beautiful places in the popular resort of Split. Located about a kilometer from the center. It is always crowded here because the place is excellent. A wide strip of light sand, developed infrastructure, and a beautiful promenade look very attractive. The water here is very clean, a rich turquoise color, all the amenities for vacationers are provided, it is not surprising that Bacvice is awarded the “Blue Flag”, which speaks of its international recognition.

Family couples like to come here, and there are also many parents with small children because the shallow water here is extensive, and even babies can splash in the warm sea. Young people are attracted by active beach rest, and in the evenings, discos are held here, and nightclubs are open. But it is worth noting the shortcomings. There are concrete blocks in the sea that protrude from the water. After a storm, you will have to wait until the seaweed thrown onto the sand is cleaned up.

Mlini

Belongs to the village of the same name, located 10 km from Dubrovnik. You need to come here for a quiet unhurried rest, which the Croats themselves do. Agree, this is an indicator — the local population knows where it is best to spend time. The optimal period for sunbathing is September: the tourist flow has already subsided, and the sun is gentle and affectionate. Here you will see fine pebbles. Many parents with children prefer this — you do not need to worry about washing off the sand from the body, shaking it out of shoes, and swimwear. The infrastructure is developed.

You can not only sunbathe comfortably but also find entertainment — scuba diving, riding a yacht or fishing boat, and engaging in beach sports. If you are resting elsewhere, do not miss the opportunity to have a meal in Mlini — the cuisine here is very tasty, the dishes are not only healthy but also beautifully decorated. They are based on fruits, vegetables, seafood, olive oil, and greens — the best combination.

Gornja Vala

Gornja Vala is located on the Adriatic coast, belongs to the Gradac resort. This is a magnificent pebble beach about 5 km long. Maybe families with small children will not prefer this beach, but romantic couples love it very much. Athletes also willingly come here. The site can be divided into the Upper Bay and the Bosac Bay. During the rest, it is pleasant to admire Mount Biokovo. Pine forests are also nearby, where you can shelter during the heat. Strong winds are practically non-existent here — they are reliably protected by forests and mountains.

Storms are rare, the sea is mainly calm. You can always not only swim but also ride a yacht. The pebbles here are beautiful, white in color, the entrance to the sea is gentle, so the place is suitable even for those who cannot swim. The water is clean and clear, with a rich underwater world. One of the secrets is that it is best to come here in the velvet season: there are few people, and prices are low. The weather is only pleasing. Those who get tired of sunbathing can stroll along the promenade, visit cafes and shops.

Srebreno

Srebreno is a small, compact resort 11 km from Dubrovnik, with a permanent population of just over 400 people. Tourists are treated as dear guests. The beach is wonderful. Here you will see fine pebbles, breakwaters protect bathers from sea excitement. There are sea urchins, but they settle on the rocks, so you can enter the water without special shoes. The seabed is sandy, and the depth near the shore is minimal. Even the smallest children can swim.

Nearby are Kupari and Mlini, and if desired, you can walk to the beaches of these resorts. In Srebreno, everything is close to each other. Having left the beach for a short time, you can visit a cafe, drop by the post office, or go shopping. If you do not intend to live at this resort but want to come here just to swim and sunbathe — getting there will be very convenient, bus service is established.

Trstenica

Located on the Peljesac Peninsula. A relatively narrow strip of fine pebbles and sand stretches for about 400 m. Pine trees approach the shore, sheltering from the heat. The extensive shallow water allows both small tourists and those adults who cannot swim to splash in the warm water without fear. Everything necessary for your convenience is here. There are changing cabins, showers, and toilets. For those who cannot live without the internet — Wi-Fi is available.

Those who do not like passive rest can prefer active rest. Catamarans, boats, and scooters are rented out, and locals entertain tourists by riding on “bananas” and water skis. For children, there is even a small floating water park. You can also have a snack on the beach — cafes and bars are at your service. Those who came here by car can leave it in the parking lot.

Kupari

Kupari is located a few kilometers from Dubrovnik. This sandy-pebble beach gradually increases in depth, the bottom is even, and the water is clean. Kupari has good transport connections. You can get here not only by car but also by bus. The weather will not interfere with the rest. Significant waves and strong winds are rare in the bay. Usually, it is not crowded here, there is enough space for everyone. The exception is the peak season — July and August. But in any case, you should not come here for noisy entertainment, discos, or nightclubs. It is always calm here.

You can rent a sunbed and an umbrella and lie down, enjoying the view — the blue sea, islands, and green mountains. There are cafes where it will be convenient to have a snack, buy sandwiches, ice cream, and drinks. The territory is constantly cleaned, and you will not see litter here. If you get tired of the beach rest, there is a shopping center, various cafes, and bars near Kupari. If you like the place very much, you can stay here — there is a wide choice of hotels near Kupari.

Mulini

Rovinj is a popular resort, and more and more tourists discover it every year. The peculiarity of this place is the rugged coastline. There are both sandy and pebble beaches here. But they all have a developed infrastructure. Not far from the town center is the Monte Mulini hotel, surrounded by an old natural park. From here, you can admire the bay. Nearby is the pebble beach Mulini, from where a wonderful panorama also opens.

This is one of the most comfortable beaches in the country. There are changing rooms, modern showers, sunbed rentals, and a towel stand. Various dishes and drinks are offered to you, and a trendy bar operates, serving signature cocktails. There is even a concierge and an information desk. In short, if you want to feel like you are in a five-star hotel even on the beach — Mulini is waiting for you.

Kuvi

Kuvi is located in the bay of the same name, located 3 km from Rovinj. It is very popular and is periodically updated, with pebbles added. Bars and small cafes are also at your service here. There are plenty of drinks, there is a coffee machine, but among the “snacks” there are mainly burgers. So if you have children who are used to a certain food — take it with you. Near Kuvi is the tourist complex Villas Rubin. You can use its entertainment centers, sports grounds, and restaurants. The shore is gentle, and it will be convenient for children of any age to enter the water.

Conditions are created for practicing various sports, and there is a playground for small vacationers. Diving training is organized, and tennis courts are open. You can rent boats and scooters, as well as bicycles. It is pleasant to lie on a sunbed by the water, and if you prefer to sunbathe in motion — you should play badminton. It will be convenient to hide from the sun not only under an umbrella but also in the shade of trees. If you came here in your car — you can leave it in the parking lot.

Banje

Belongs to Dubrovnik, there are always enough people here. Once there was a quarantine for sailors arriving from other countries. Today you can not only rest and swim but also admire historical sights. Banje is fine pebbles and two zones: paid and free. By choosing the first, you will rest with comfort. It is located near the old lazaretto.

Of course, there are all amenities — sunbeds, umbrellas, changing rooms, showers. There are even special beds for the beach. Drinks are brought by waiters. There are fewer people here than in the free part. However, the best bars are located here, and you can often meet famous personalities — from athletes to artists. By choosing the free part, you can also settle down comfortably — there are umbrellas and sunbeds.

There are cafes and bars, only drinks and ice cream will not be brought to your sunbed by a waiter — you will have to go for the order yourself. Sports and children’s playgrounds are equipped. There are water entertainments and rental of the necessary equipment. The entrance to the water is gentle, and there is a large shallow zone near the shore. The sea water is clean. It is most comfortable to rest here in September, in the velvet season.

Medena

Belongs to the Trogir resort, rich in attractions. A picturesque place. You can come here both with family and friends who love active rest. Here you will see fine pebbles. You can rest on a rented sunbed or on your own towel. Everything necessary for a comfortable stay is here — changing rooms and showers, toilets and rental of sunbeds and umbrellas, bars, cafes, restaurants, and just kiosks where you can buy fresh fruits and very tasty ice cream.

There are no stones on the seabed, so even small children can swim here. A forest grows nearby, creating natural protection from heat and winds, giving the air a unique aroma. There are also plenty of entertainments. You can sail, play volleyball or basketball, and ride water skis. Children will gladly jump on trampolines and slide down the slides into the warm water. There is also an amusement park for the little ones.

Rab

This is the name of the island, which tourists love very much. Its dimensions are small — only about 22 km, and no more than 10 thousand people live here. But many guests of Croatia choose this place for their holidays time and again. Even the sky here has an especially clean turquoise hue, the Adriatic Sea around the island is as clear as a tear, and many pine trees grow on Rab, so the air here is both fragrant and healthy. Among the holidaymakers are families with children, young people, and elderly people.

Everyone will have a good time here. No wonder people lived on this island as early as 4 thousand years BC. And did you know that the state of San Marino was founded by a native of this island? For many years, the island changed hands, belonging to Ancient Rome, Byzantium, the Hungarian-Croatian kingdom, Austria, etc. Therefore, you can see various architectural styles here. Today, it is a resort place, clean, peaceful, and quiet.

There are all kinds of beaches here — rocky, pebble, and mixed. Families with children usually choose sandy ones and go to the village of Lopar, where there are enough hotels. Those who love fine pebbles will prefer the Barbat resort. Here is a beautiful pine forest, the sea is very shallow, and the views are beautiful. What else can Rab boast of — these are nudist beaches. The most popular of them is located next to Palit. So, if you like to sunbathe naked or topless — this is the place for you.

Brac

Another island — one of the most beautiful in this country, by the way, the homeland of wonderful pink wine. Seafood dishes are also prepared here very deliciously. There are two well-known resorts — Supetar and Bol. The island has an amazingly pleasant climate. Here you almost do not feel the heat, a light breeze from the sea makes it easy to endure the heat.

The sea is very clean, with a turquoise tint. And here they mine a beautiful white stone, which has faced many famous buildings, for example, the White House in the USA. By the way, you can buy souvenirs made from this stone here. Olive oil is also produced on the island, and a lot of fish are caught in the coastal waters.

The beaches here are sandy and fine pebbles, their length is measured in tens of kilometers, you can not only sunbathe and swim but also engage in windsurfing. The descent to the water is gentle and convenient. No wonder so many families with children come to the island. There are also many courts on the coast, and you will always find partners for playing tennis.

Significant investments are made in the tourism industry, so all the beaches are in perfect condition. You will see a sufficient number of changing cabins, showers, toilets, and rental points for equipment. Lifeguards are on duty. There are also snack bars on the coast.

Crni Molo

This is probably one of the most popular beaches in Crikvenica. For those who are not familiar with this resort, it is worth explaining. Its name comes from the word “church,” and already in the 19th century, Crikvenica became a sought-after climatic resort. It is located in the Kvarner Bay, and just over 10 thousand people live here. There are several beaches, Crni Molo belongs to the free ones.

Although there are pebbles here, there is also a lot of sand, which will please parents with children. The sea is shallow, in July and August it warms up to +26C, but it will also be comfortable to swim in June and the first half of September. Everything necessary for rest is here. Renting sunbeds and umbrellas will be cheap, you can rent everything you need for diving and various beach and water sports. Do not be surprised if you see people doing aerobics in the sea here — the benefits of such a load on the body are highly valued here.

You will be offered to ride water skis, and take a sea trip on a motorboat. There are many shops nearby — you will always find where to have a snack, and it will be pleasant to have a cool cocktail in a bar. If you came to this resort with a pet, know that there is a special beach for dogs. You can come there to sunbathe and then swim with your pet.

Saharun

Located on the large island of Dugi Otok. You can get to it by ferry, which will already be a real journey. Upon arrival on the island, it is better to rent a car or call a taxi — otherwise, you will have to get to the beach by bus, which is not always comfortable. Saharun is located in a beautiful bay. Here you will find white sand, and pines grow further, saturating the air with their aroma.

There is a lot of space — the coastline stretches for about a kilometer. It will feel crowded only in the height of the season. The sea is shallow, the zone where vacationers can swim is fenced off, so there is no need to fear the movement of boats and boats. Even small children will enjoy swimming in very clean and warm water. The bottom is even, without stones.

The infrastructure is developed. Restaurants are open, which is very convenient — tourists spend a lot of time on the road here. Sports and game grounds are equipped, there are not only changing rooms and toilets but also showers. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, a catamaran, and kayaks. You will be invited to a sea trip on a yacht or motorboat. It is recommended to come here for a few days, there are hotels of different price categories on the island.

Lovrecina

A picturesque sandy beach on the island of Brac. Public transport does not go here, you can get either by sea or by renting a car. Therefore, even in the height of the season, there are not many people here. The place is very pleasant. The shore is surrounded by forests consisting of deciduous and pine trees. You can always find a secluded place here, which is especially appreciated by romantic couples. You can also always shelter from the heat, even if you do not want to rent an umbrella.

The sand, both on the beach and on the seabed, is fine and light, and the water has a rich blue color. The extensive shallow water is undoubtedly convenient for those who do not swim very well, as well as for small children. Further, the depth begins to increase, which is used by divers, examining the thickets of underwater plants and admiring the variety of fish.

As for the infrastructure — it is not very developed here. There are shops where you can buy ice cream and soft drinks. A bar and restaurant are operating, and there is parking for cars. If you plan to come to the island for a few days — take care of renting accommodation here in advance — there is not much of it, and in the season there may be problems.

Lapad

Located near Dubrovnik. Here you will find the cleanest sea and a long and wide coastline. The Croats themselves call Lapad the “longest sandy beach,” but it’s not that simple — indeed, the entrance to the sea and the gentle seabed will meet you with fine sand, but the rest is pebbles. However, they are fine here, and you will not need special shoes. Children will be able to either splash in the extensive shallow water, build sandcastles, or find beautiful pebbles.

Civilization benefits are also present here to the fullest extent. There are showers, sunbeds, umbrellas, toilets, and changing cabins. Thanks to the presence of lifeguards, even those who cannot swim will feel safe. There is a parking lot for personal transport. Moreover, there is shade, so your car will not overheat in the sun while you sunbathe and swim.

If you have long wanted to learn diving, you can take a course here and immediately apply your new skills. Moreover, you will be invited to ride a kayak or yacht. You will not have to look long for a place to have a snack. There are bars and a restaurant. You can also take a break, go shopping, get acquainted with the nearby attractions, and then return to the beach again.

So, in blessed Croatia, there are many places where you can sunbathe, swim, and engage in beach sports. And at the same time, you will admire delightful landscapes. Just a reminder that even on the most secluded beaches in July and August, there are plenty of people, and the prices for almost all resort goods are higher in the peak season. Try coming here once in early autumn — you will like it.

The coast of this country is preferred by many tourists over all others. The attraction is the cleanest sea, shallow and unusually warm — the temperature of +25-26C allows you to splash as much as you want, even for small children. Delicious local cuisine, high level of service, and beaches that have received “Blue Flags” — all this makes Croatia an excellent place for recreation.

Best Croatia All-Inclusive Resorts for Holidays

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Konstantin
Konstantin is a travel writer passionate about uncovering unique destinations and sharing practical tips for unforgettable adventures. A regular contributor to waypoinwonder.com, he specializes in bringing iconic landmarks and hidden gems to life through authentic storytelling. From exploring Maldives' best resorts to diving into Croatia’s natural wonders, his writing inspires readers to travel deeper and smarter.

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