Best Beaches in Croatia

Although you may recognise Dubrovnik’s city walls from Game of Thrones, Croatia’s standout feature is its coastline. Fringed by the Adriatic Sea, it’s lined with beautiful beaches both on and off the mainland. They’re perfect for relaxing on during long summer days, so if you’re tempted, we’ve put together a list to help navigate which pebble – or sand – beach is for you, including spots in Split, Brač, and Kvarner Bay. Once you’ve picked your favourite, take a look at our Croatia deals to secure your summer break now...

ZLATNI RAT BEACH, BRAC

Brac Island is home to one of the most photographed beaches in Croatia, Zlatni Rat Beach. Also known as the Golden Horn or Golden Cape, this pebble and shingle beach stretches like an arm out into the Adriatic. It’s a popular spot for watersports fans, with sailboats and kitesurfers making the most of the wind, while families make for the beach playgrounds. Head inland towards the pine trees to explore the remains of a Roman villa buried in the forest, plus several restaurants and food stalls for refuelling. This Blue Flag-certified stretch is Croatia’s most famous beach, so it's well worth a visit.

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SPIAZA BEACH SUSAK

Susak is one of the furthest islands from the mainland, but it’s also home to some of the best sandy beaches in Croatia. There are no roads or cars on Susak, and the only way to access it is by ferry from nearby Lošinj and Rijeka – it’s the perfect spot for a tranquil escape. Spiaza Beach itself can get crowded, but it’s ideal for little ones, thanks to its shallow waters and easy access. The island’s small size means it only takes a few hours to hike from one side to the other, so you can easily explore other beaches if you’d rather find somewhere quieter. Try nearby Bok Bay for another sandy beach, or Punta Valica Bay for great sunset views.

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BACVICE BEACH, SPLIT

If you’re looking for a sandy beach further south, Bacvice Beach in Split has earned Blue Flag status. Only a kilometre from the old town, it’s the home of picigin, an activity that involves keeping a small ball in the air for as long as possible. The sport originated in Split, so you’ll see games taking place throughout the day. Up on the promenade, you’ll find beach bars and restaurants, as well as facilities like outside showers, changing rooms and public toilets. And, it’s also one of the best spots for nightlife in town, hosting summer events like Split Beach Festival.

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PUNTA RATA BEACH, MAKARSKA RIVIERA

If you’re a fan of impressive coastlines, you might recognise this spot from lists of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Located in Brela, Punta Rata Beach is surrounded by pine trees and clear waters. On the western end you’ll find the Brela Stone, a large rock formation surrounded by the sea. It’s often spotted on postcards of Croatia, its shady shores are great for diving. Away from the sea, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants on offer, plus volleyball and banana boating. Keen to visit? Stay at the nearby TUI BLUE Adriatic, which is just a 40-minute drive from Punta Rata.

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RAJSKA PLAZA, RAB

Located on the island of Rab, referred to by locals as ‘happy island’, Rajska Plaza is known as Paradise Beach. Rab is a geopark, and it’s not hard to see why. The island flaunts mountains, pine trees, and olive groves, and has the most sand-covered beaches in the Adriatic region. Another stretch with Blue Flag status is Rajska Plaza, a great option for families thanks to its clean, shallow waters. Across the bright-blue sea, pine-covered hills provide the views, and there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained, with minigolf and table tennis, plus a waterslide. Rab is also the perfect location for island hopping – Kvarner Bay’s biggest island, Krk, is just an hour away by boat.

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GIRANDELLA BEACH, RABAC

Rabac perches on the Istrian Riviera’s eastern edge, and boasts a beach that’s often billed as one of Croatia’s finest. Expect cotton-white pebbles dotted with loungers and parasols, alongside a restaurant-lined promenade. This beach waves a Blue Flag, so you can be sure that it’s a high-quality spot. Plus, if you want to try out some watersports, you can choose from a selection that includes banana boating, jet-skiing, and water-skiing. And, there’s an inflatable playground floating just off shore. Every year in July Girandella Beach plays host to a music festival – fans flock here to attend.

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