21 Best Croatian Beaches

20th January, 2023

Do you want to know which are the best Croatian beaches? Then you have come to the right place!

Croatia is a beautiful country that is the perfect place if you’re looking for a beach get-away, as all the beaches are spectacular and will make you feel like you’re in paradise! Whether you are in Croatia for 14 days, a week or only a few days, you should definitely pay a visit to some of these spectacular beaches… Read on to find out about the 21 best Croatian beaches that you should visit.

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Tourism in Croatia

Tourism in Croatia is very popular as Croatia is such an amazing country with plenty to offer. In 2019, Croatia received 17.3 million inbound tourists, which is a staggering amount! The most visited overnight destination in Croatia is Zagreb, which is also the capital. The top 3 nationalities that visit Croatia on average are Germany, Slovenia and Austria – these countries are also located quite close to Croatia, so it makes sense. Tourism in Croatia is constantly developing as currently, only 15% of the coastline, which is the main tourist attraction, is urbanised. Therefore, Croatia is certainly a destination to watch out for in the future and will only get more popular and developed in time.

If you want to travel around Croatia, then check out this amazing sailing tour from Dubrovnik to Split if you want to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Croatia, unlike any other.

Why visit the best Croatian beaches?

Why visit the Croatian beaches? Simply because they’re stunning! Almost every beach in Croatia has deep blue water that is clear enough to see fish swim in. Alongside the beaches, there are often traditional Croatian towns and villages, which help add to the atmosphere of the place – and the food that many of the restaurants serve is delicious!

The Croatian beaches offer something for everyone to enjoy. If you’re in the mood for a quiet, peaceful beach experience, then there are lots of secluded beaches in Croatia that offer this. However, if you want a more action-packed beach day, perfect for the whole family, then there are lots of beaches where you can go on boat rides, rent paddle boards, snorkel and much more!

What to pack when visiting the best Croatian beaches

If you’re thinking of visiting the best Croatian beaches, then don’t forget to pack these essential items:

Folding Wood Deck Chairs – Lots of the beaches in Croatia are rocky, which makes sitting down a bit painful. Luckily, these folding wood deck chairs help avoid this, and they’re very lightweight to carry along to the beach with you. They are made of high-quality material and are perfect if you want to relax and soak up the sun.
SEEKWAY Water Shoes – These water shoes are perfect for protecting your feet against any sharp rocks in the water. They are very sturdy and also help with grip, so it’ll be harder for you to accidentally slip if you can’t see what’s below. It’s an essential item to have when visiting the best Croatian beaches!
Vova Cooler Bag – If you’re visiting a secluded Croatian beach, then it’s likely that there won’t be any shops or restaurants nearby, but the weather gets very hot! Fortunately, this Vova cooler bag will keep all your drinks and snacks cool for a long time, so you won’t have to worry about finding something to drink when the heat rises.
The Mini Rough Guide to Croatia – This mini rough guide to Croatia is the perfect thing to read on the beaches of Croatia if you’d like to learn more. In this guide, you will learn about all the best-hidden gems, Croatian customs, and must-visit places if you want a day trip away from the beach.
2 Pack Inflatable Pool Hammocks – These pool hammocks are the perfect thing to lounge on if you want to relax and cool off in the Adriatic Sea at the same time. They’re easy to inflate and are also very lightweight to carry around when they’re not inflated as they’re compact. It’s an essential item to take to Croatia if you want to spend time in the water.

What is the nicest beach in Croatia?

What is the nicest beach in Croatia? This answer depends on who you ask as different people like different things. However, lots of people believe that the nicest beaches in Croatia are spread along the Dalmation Coast, which is one of the four historical regions in Croatia. Some of the most popular beaches in Croatia along the Dalmation Coast are: Zlatni rat, Sakarun, Stiniva, Divna and many more.

Where are the best Croatian beaches that are sandy?

Where are the best Croatian beaches that are sandy? If you want some gorgeous sandy Croatian beaches, then check out these:

1. Prapatno – Peljesac

Prapatno is one of the bestCroatian beaches as it is surrounded by greenery and tall pine forests. It is located in the south of Croatia, along the Peljesac peninsula, and there are lots of historic Croatian villages located near Prapatno, which makes it a great beach to explore and relax on.

Where to stay: Apartment Josip – This apartment is a great place to stay, no matter what type of tourist you are. It is located just a short walk from Prapatno beach, and there is a fully-equipped kitchen, terrace, bedroom, dining room and free WiFi. Additionally, there is also free parking nearby.

2. Queens Beach – Nin

Another one of the best Croatan beaches is Queens Beach. Queens Beach is a big beach full of beautiful white sand, which is perfect for relaxing on. It is located near Nin, which is in mainland Croatia, and in total, Queens Beach is around 3km long, making it one of the longest sandy beaches in Croatia. The water quality on Queens Beach is amazing, so it’s perfect for swimming in, and there are also plenty of beach bars nearby if you’d prefer to unwind that way instead.

Where to stay: Villa Dalibor – This villa is the perfect accommodation to stay in if you want to relax and feel pampered. There are two jacuzzis for guests to enjoy, as well as a sauna, grill, parking and outdoor pool. There is also free WiFi and free parking, and it is located close to shops.

3. Sakarun Beach – Dugi Otok Island

Many people travel miles from Zadar just to visit Sakarun Beach as it is known as being one of the most beautiful sandy beaches in Croatia. This beach looks like it belongs in the Maldives as the sand is so white and the sea is so blue and crystal clear. It’s a very clean beach, and the water is safe to go in without any sea shoes as it’s sandy. If you want something else to do in Dugi Otok, then this Dugi Otok Boat Tour is the perfect way to spend a day exploring what else Dugi Otok Island has to offer.

Where to stay: Apartmani Zdenka Savar – Located just a few miles away from Sakarun Beach, this apartment is a great place to stay. There is a fully-equipped kitchen, garden, and terrace to be enjoyed, as well as a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, free WiFi and more. Apart from Sakarun Beach, there are also places to go hiking and diving nearby.

4. Paradise Beach Rajska Plaza – Lopar

As the name suggests, this beach will make you feel like you’re in paradise! It is one of the largest sandy beaches in Croatia, as it’s around 2km long. This beach is perfect for lounging on, taking a dip in the water and building sandcastles. There are lots of bars and restaurants dotted along the beach and lots of watersport activities you can partake in too!

Where to stay: Kastell Apartments – Featuring two bedrooms, free parking, free WiFi and a fully equipped kitchen, this apartment is particularly great for families to stay at. There is a continental breakfast available each morning, as well as a bar, garden and play area for kids to enjoy.

5. Sandy Beach Vela Przina – Korcula Island

This is definitely one of the best Croatian beaches! This charming beach has lots to offer and there is plenty of other things to do in Korcula too. . Sandy Beach Vela Przina is in a great location, surrounded by lots of nature and has lots of little shops to buy ice cream and other traditional Croatian food. There are also lots of other things available at Sandy Beach Vela Przna, such as beach bars, sunbeds to hire and massages.

Where to stay: Sunny House – This stunning accommodation is a great place to stay on Korcula Island. There is an outdoor pool, garden, patio and BBQ for guests to enjoy. Additionally, each room is air-conditioned, has a private bathroom with free amenities, and there is a flat-screen TV and seating area to relax in.

6. Sunj Beach – Lopud Island

This impressive little beach is definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. The island is car-free and is accessible by boat trip from Dubrovnik, so it’s perfect if you want to visit somewhere more quiet and less known. The beach is quite open, so there are not really many places to get some shade; however, there are places to rent umbrellas to help with this.

Where to stay: Villa Birimisa – A stay in this villa will be sure to enhance your holiday. There are sea views and a garden to be enjoyed, as well as an a la carte breakfast available each morning to help start the day right. The accommodation is also air-conditioned and comes with free WiFi and free parking.

7. Sandy Beach Bilotinjak – Zadar

Sandy Beach Bilotinjak is an amazing beach to visit. The sand is all-natural, and there are lots of red rocks that make the beach look extra stunning to look at. It’s great if you want a more hidden beach that not many people know about as it is also quite small. The water is great quality to swim in and is very calm, making it perfect for beginner swimmers.

Where to stay: Apartmani Ema – This apartment is fully furnished and modernly decorated. There is a fully equipped kitchen, seating area with a flat-screen TV, private bathroom and free parking for guests to make use of. It’s located in the centre of Zadar’s old town, making it easy to get around and explore.

Which are the best Croatian beaches for families?

Which are the best Croatian beaches for families? There are so many Croatian beaches that are great for families, but these are some of the best:

8. Punta Rata – Brela

Punta Rata is one of the best Croatian beaches for families to enjoy. The water is crystal clear and calm, so it’s great for the whole family to swim in, especially as there is often a lifeguard on duty. The scenery surrounding Punta Rata is also breathtaking as there are tall trees that offer lots of shade and white gravel sand that reflects the sunlight.

Where to stay: Bluesun Hotel Soline – This hotel is great for families to stay at. It is located just a one-minute walk from Punta Rata beach and has lots to offer. There are wellness facilities such as a sauna, Turkish bath and gym. Additionally, there is an indoor and outdoor pool, complete with a pool bar. There is also an amazing restaurant that serves fresh, fine food.

9. Zaton – Zadar

This beach is great for the whole family as there’s so much to do. Next to the beach, you will find an amusement park, water sports, and plenty of bars and restaurants. It’s a great beach to visit with kids especially, as they will be able to let out their energy on all the rides and things to do here if you want to relax. This is another example of one of the very best Croatian beaches.

Where to stay: Apartman Zaton – Located just a 2-minutes walk from the beach, this apartment is a fabulous place to stay. There is a terrace, coffee machine, air-conditioning and a full-equipped kitchen if you’d like to prepare your own meals. Additionally, there is free WiFi and free parking, and two bathrooms in total.

10. Vela Beach – Krk Island

This beach is around 1.8km long, and there is both sand and gravel to choose from. Along this beach, you will find various beach bars serving refreshing drinks and tasty snacks whilst you relax. Many of the beach bars also play some great music, and often at night, the music is live. It’s one of the best Croatian beaches to visit with family due to the calm water and wide range of things to do here.

Where to stay: Bartol Luxury Apartments – If you’re on holiday in Croatia, then you deserve to treat yourself when it comes to your accommodation, and this luxury apartment is the perfect way to do so. There is a hot tub, BBQ, and terrace for guests to enjoy, as well as fully furnished modern rooms and an en-suite bathroom with free amenities.

11. Slatina Beach – Cres Island

Slatina Beach is one of the best Croatian beaches to visit for families. What makes Slatina Beach so great is the fact that there are plenty of things there that will enhance your experience. For instance, the beach is lifeguarded, which helps take away some of the worries if you have young children; there are showers and changing rooms, which makes things easier, and finally, there are lots of restaurants serving great food.

Where to stay: Villa Lavanda – Set in the ancient town of Cres, this Villa is a very unique place to stay. Each room has a mini fridge, private bathroom, free WiFi, and a balcony with sea views. There is also a tavern at the villa, where guests can enjoy traditional, homemade Croatian food.

12. Drazica Beach – Biograd na Moru

Drazica Beach is an ideal beach to visit with children. There is lots of shade available at this beach, which is perfect for when you want to stay cool from the warm Croatian heat, and there are also lots of fun watersports activities to do, such as water slides and pedalo boats which are great for keeping children entertained.

Where to stay: Hotel Ilirija – This hotel is a fantastic place to stay in Biograd na Moru. It is only 50 yards away from Drazica Beach, and the hotel offers stunning sea views. There are also adventure programmes on offer at the hotel, which makes it a great place for families to stay as there’s so much to do.

13. Rucica Beach – Pag Island

Rucica Beach is great for families to enjoy if they’re looking for a quiet beach. The water is a beautiful turquoise, and the beach is very clean. It’s a pebble beach; however, they are very small pebbles, so they almost qualify as sand. There isn’t much shade on this beach, so be sure to keep the sun off you with a big beach hat – this big straw hat is perfect for helping avoid the sun. That said, this is still one of the best Croatian beaches!

Where to stay: Pag Marina Rooms & Apartments – Located just a 2-minutes walk from the beach, this accommodation is a great choice to stay on Pag Island. Each room comes with free WiFi, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom and is pet friendly. It’s also got free parking if you’re driving around Croatia, and there is an airport shuttle available too.

14. Crvenka Beach – Vir Island

Crvenka Beach is the perfect beach to spend a few hours relaxing and playing on. Here, the water is quite shallow, which makes it great for children who are learning to swim in seawater, and the beach itself is a beautiful golden colour due to the red sandstone. This beach isn’t accessible by car; however, it’s a relatively easy 20-minute walk from the car park.

Where to stay: B&B Spavalica – This modern B&B is one of the nicest places to stay on Vir Island. It has a terrace with mountain and sea views, as well as an open-air restaurant that serves a buffet breakfast to guests each morning. There is free WiFi, free parking and an airport shuttle available for guests, and is also pet friendly.

Which are the best Croatian beaches that are secluded?

Which are the best Croatian beaches that are secluded? If you want to visit a Croatian beach that is a little more secluded, then these are what I’d recommend:

15. Nugal Beach – Makarska

Nugal Beach is located on the outskirts of Makarska town and is very secluded. It is a great hidden gem, and there is plenty of nature surrounding Nugal Beach to help keep out the outside world. This beach is a particular favourite for naturists due to how secluded it is, so it’s just something to be aware of in case this might be a bit of a shock at first. That said, this is still one of the very best Croatian beaches!

Where to stay: Apartments Villa Luce – This villa is a great place to stay, located in a quiet area of Makarska. Here, guests will be able to enjoy an air-conditioned apartment, free WiFi, a fully equipped kitchen, a private bathroom and a balcony. Each room has beautiful views of the sea, and there is also free parking for guests.

16. Stinva Bay – Vis

Stinva Bay is one of the best Croatian beaches to visit if you want to stay somewhere more secluded. To reach Stinva Bay, you can take a boat or drive, and you will then have to walk about 20 minutes to find it – and it’s definitely worth the walk. The beach is only small, but this shouldn’t be a problem as not many people know about it, so it’s likely you will have Stinva Bay to yourself.

Where to stay: Apartmani Pisac – This charming little apartment is a great place to stay if you want to visit Stinva Bay. There is free WiFi, air-conditioning, a garden, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private bathroom with toiletries for guests to use. Additionally, there is also a BBQ if guests wish.

17. Betina Spijla – Dubrovnik

Betina Spijla is one of the most secluded beaches in Dubrovnik, as the only way it’s able to be reached is by boat. It’s also got a cave which is amazing to explore. If you want to reach Betina Spijla, then you could rent a kayak, canoe, boat or water taxi to get you there for a fairly reasonable price.

Where to stay: Royal Neptun Hotel – Located right next to another quiet beach in Dubrovnik, this hotel is a great choice of accommodation. There is an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, a fitness centre and a restaurant serving tasty Croatian food to guests. Each room comes with air-conditioning, free WiFi, and sea views to enjoy.

18. Babe Beach – Novalja

Babe Beach is a more secluded beach located in Novalja. The clear sea water is very warm, making it great to swim in, and the water is shallow, which makes it perfect if you’re visiting with children. There is a beach bar that serves filling food and refreshing drinks to cool you down, and there is a seating area under the shade. This beach is pure bliss, making it one of the best Croatian beaches!

Where to stay: Hotel Kaneo – Set just a few minutes away from the beach, this hotel has lots to offer. There is free WiFi, free parking, a hot tub and a sauna for guests to make use of. Additionally, there is a continental, or a la carte breakfast served to guests every morning to help fuel your busy day.

19. Seline – Starigrad Paklenica

Seline looks very similar to the popular beach, Zlatni Rat; however, Seline is much quieter and more peaceful. It is perfectly surrounded by nature and gorgeous mountains that tower above you. It’s one of the best Croatian beaches to visit if you want to visit a more secluded beach and relax in peace.

Where to stay: Apartments Zdenka – This apartment comes with a fully equipped kitchen, dining area and seating area, as well as a balcony to sit and enjoy the beautiful Croatian sunsets on. There is free WiFi and free parking for guests to make use of, and there are free amenities in the en-suite. It’s also located right next to the shops, making it a perfect location to stay in!

20. Ciganka – Rab

Ciganka beach is a sandy beach that is accessible by foot or by car. It is surrounded by shrubs and pinewood forest, so there’s lots of shade on offer, and it’s secluded from the main road. It is a popular spot for windsurfers due to the direction that the wind blows, but don’t worry too much as the beach isn’t very windy itself.

Where to stay: Apartments Bajcic – Offering a luxury outdoor swimming pool for guests, as well as a garden with BBQ facilities, a stay here will have you never wanting to leave. There is air-conditioning in each room, as well as free WiFi, free parking, a balcony, and a flat-screen TV to be used. It’s one of the nicest places to stay when visiting Rab.

21. Nijive Bay – Cape Kamejak

Last of my list of the best Croatian beaches is Nijive Bay. Nijive Bay is a fantastic pebble beach with magnificent sparkling bubble water against the sunshine. It’s a great place to watch the sunset, and not many people know about it, making it one of the best Croatian beaches to visit if you want to visit a secluded, quiet beach. Along the beach is lots of greenery, so you will be sure to spot some wildlife living in there too!

Where to stay: Prematura Resort – This resort is a fantastic place to stay if you want to be close to Nijive Bay. Here, guests will be able to make use of the outdoor pool, sauna, a restaurant serving a buffet breakfast every morning and activities such as snorkelling. Each room is air-conditioned and comes with a flat-screen TV.

21 Best Croatian Beaches – further reading

After reading this list all about the 21 best Croatian beaches, hopefully, you’ve been inspired to visit at least one! Have you ever been to a Croatian beach? Which do you think are the best Croatian beaches? Let me know! If you liked this post on the best Croatian beaches, then I highly recommend that you also check out these:

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