The Most Beautiful Beaches to Visit in Croatia
From rustic to sandy to urban, Croatia has it all
Croatia, it seems, is on everyone's bucket list—with its Roman ruins, legendary beaches, picturesque towns, and dozens of islands. And now with American Airlines launching the first non-stop flight to Croatia in over thirty years (it will run three times a week from Philadelphia to Zagreb from June through the end of September), the Dalmatian Coast just got that much more accessible.
Once you're there, make sure to spend some time on one of the country's iconic beaches. Here are seven not to be missed.
Banje Beach, Dubrovnik
Croatia’s most popular city amongst tourists also has one of the best and most conveniently located beaches. From Banje Beach you can see Dubrovnik's impressive city walls providing an incomparable view for those relaxing on the beach.
Gornja Vala, Gradac
This is one of the most well-known shingle beaches on the Adriatic, and one of the largest as it measures over three miles long. Olive trees and pine forests create a protective prove, so wind is minimal. This beach is well situated in the Dalmatian city of Gradac.
Lovrecina Bay, Brac Island
Nestled in a beautiful forested bay, Lovrecina Bay peers out from Brac Island across the water where the neighboring mountains of the mainland span across Lovrecina’s panorama. Picturesque trails meander down to the bay with Roman ruins.
Pakleni Islands beaches, Hvar
The zig zagging islets just off from the coast of Hvar Island are a naturist’s dream. Sailing in and around these little islands and finding the perfect beach free of large crowds makes for an idyllic day. Not to be missed.
Podrace Beach, Brela
Podrace Beach lies just south of Split in a picturesque alcove sheltered by pine trees. Located off the beaten path, Podrace Beach is secluded and feels secretive and more intimate than other areas of the Dalmatian Coast.
Rajska Plaza, Lopar
Translated as ‘Paradise Beach,’ this long sun-kissed beach stretches alongside a bay that boasts unusually shallow waters. About a mile from the beach lies an islet which can be reached by swimming or paddle boat.
Zlatni Rat, Brac Island
Zlatni Rat is one of Croatia’s most famous beaches, know for its striking and unique shape. Located on the island of Brac, Zlatni Rat beach protrudes like a shark's tooth from the forested edge and extends into the Adriatic, but with plenty of space for beach goers. Nicknamed the Golden Horn, it's easy to see why this beach is so popular.
Hannah Seligson is New York City-based writer who covers gender, culture, and social media trends whose work has appeared in The New York Times, The Daily Beast, and Rolling Stone, among other publications.
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