The Balkan country of Croatia offers visitors some of the finest beaches in Europe, with balmy stretches of sand along the fabled Dalmatian Coast. Coupled with the region’s fantastic wine, decadent dumplings and fine cheeses, Croatia’s beaches and sublime food make for a relaxing foodie destination. Located less than a 2.5 hour flight from the UK, Croatia is affordable and magical, perfect for families, couples and solo travellers.
While the capital of Zagreb is worth a day or two of exploration, we recommend that you head to the coast. Here is a brief round up of our five favourite beaches in Croatia.
1. Zlatni Rat Beach, Brac
Are you looking for an island retreat that is amongst the best in the world? The island of Brac is a jewel nested in the Dalmatian sea that is guaranteed to dazzle you. The outstanding Zlatni Rat beach is located in Bol, a short distance from the village of Murvica. A pebble beach surrounded by the Vidova Gora mountain range, this beach region boasts snorkelling, diving, hiking, wine tasting opportunities and many other activities. Ideal for an active couple or a family holiday, Brac is stunning.
Hvar is Dalmatia's most glamorous island destination
2. Sveti Klement, Hvar
A glamourous, chic island destination, Hvar is a quiet and relaxed place to escape the tourist hordes who descend on Croatia in the summer months. While Hvar Town is a rich cultural destination in its own right, it pays to take a 20 minute boat ride to Sveti Klement, a car-free islet that will fulfil all your holiday dreams. Check into the luxurious and exclusive Palmizana resort, a small boutique hotel located in a verdant botanical garden. Delicious food, excellent service and sheer relaxation, all located on a beautiful stretch of beach.
3. Mulini Beach, Rovinj
A long stretch of pale sands and smooth pebbles, Mulini Beach will knock your socks off. Located near the fishing port of Rovinj, this area offers visitors cultural cobblestone lanes, fresh seafood meals, decadent pastries and fantastic wine. If you are looking for something new and different, check into Croatia’s first design hotel, the five star Hotel Lone. The beach itself is manmade, created in 2014 by a team of Zagreb architects, and includes an expansive waterside promenade, a yachting marina and a bathing area surrounded by Mediterranean foliage.
4. The beaches of Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is undoubtedly a cultural hotspot and a highlight on any tourist’s Croatian itinerary, and it also happens to be surrounded by fantastic beaches. Consider booking into the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Dubrovnik Sun Gardens to take advantage of the best pebble beach near the old medieval city. Surrounded by crystal clear turquoise waters, you and your family can take advantage of water sports (sea kayaking, snorkelling, paddle boarding and swimming) during the day, relax by the pool in the afternoon and then head into the old town for dinner and drinks.
5. Get back to basics in Prapratno, Peljesac
If you want to get into the true nature of Croatia, you should consider a camping holiday. There are more than 300 camping sites in the country, many of which are near the stunning Adriatic coastline. Our top pick is Prapratno, located in a tranquil blue bay. It is surrounded by olive groves, a pebble beach and calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. This campsite is well equipped with hot showers, a large shared kitchen, a good restaurant, shop, and sports facilities including tennis, volleyball and basketball courts. If you desire a cultural experience, the nearby medieval fort of Ston is perfect for a day trip.
Do you have a personal fave that we have neglected to mention? Or have you been to one of the beaches we have mentioned above? Leave us a comment below.
