Top 15 Best Beaches in Croatia for 2026 | Sandy, Secluded, and Stunning Shores

Top 15 Best Beaches to Visit in Croatia That Will Amaze You.

Looking for the best beaches of Croatia? Our expert-curated list of the top 15 beaches in Croatia will help you plan the perfect Adriatic getaway.

Croatia's Adriatic coast is a breathtakingly beautiful stretch of islands, beaches, and crystal-clear waters that draws visitors worldwide. Croatia has over 1,000 islands, islets, and some of Europe's most beautiful beaches. Croatia's coastline has it all, whether you're looking for sandy beaches, pebbled coves, or secluded bays. We counted over 40 amazing beaches worth mentioning in this blog post, but we had to cut the article to make it shorter.

Following that, we'll take you through the best of the Adriatic by sharing our top picks for Croatia's best beaches. So pack your sunscreen, grab a towel, and prepare to be blown away by the beauty of Croatia's stunning coastline. Whether you're seeking family-friendly options, remote hideaways, or thrilling water sports, our guide will show you the best beach destinations Croatia has to offer.

📍 Also read: Sailing in Croatia: 11 Important Things to Know Before You Go

📍 Plan your trip: Island Hopping in Croatia – Routes & Tips

Why Croatia?

Croatia's Adriatic coast is a captivating blend of over 1,000 islands, white pebbled beaches, and azure waters. With UNESCO-listed towns and untouched natural parks, it's no surprise Croatia is ranked among Europe's top beach destinations. We've explored more than 40 incredible beaches and narrowed it down to this essential list.

Before diving in, here's a quick comparison table to help you choose your ideal beach:

Quick TOP 15 Beaches Comparison Table:

1. Saharun Beach, Dugi Otok

Highlights: Shallow turquoise water, soft white sand, family-friendly

Saharun (or Sakarun) is an 800-meter-long beach located on the northwestern tip of Dugi Otok. Unlike many of Croatia's pebbly beaches, Saharun offers soft, powder-like white sand that contrasts beautifully with the deep blue sea. Surrounded by lush pine forests, it feels like a Mediterranean oasis. The shallow, calm waters are ideal for swimming, especially for families with children.

The sand itself is one of Saharun Beach's distinguishing features.

Saharun Beach, unlike most other beaches in Croatia, has soft, fine sand that feels almost like powder underfoot. The sand is also a bright white colour, which contrasts beautifully with the deep blue of the Adriatic Sea. Saharun Beach is an excellent choice for those looking to unwind and soak up the rays.

Travel Tips: Reachable by ferry from Zadar. Visit in early summer for fewer crowds. Cafes and sunbed rentals are available nearby.
Check out other things to do in Zadar while you're in the area.

2. Nin Queen Beach

Highlights: Long sandy stretch, therapeutic mud, mountain views

Nin Queen Beach stretches for over 3 km and is one of Croatia's longest sandy beaches. With calm, shallow waters and fine sand, it's ideal for young children. What makes it special is its famous black healing mud, believed to treat skin conditions and arthritis. The views of the Velebit Mountains in the distance add an incredible scenic backdrop. Water sports available to visitors include paddling, kitesurfing, and windsurfing. 

Pro Tip: Perfect for small children due to shallow waters. Try the mud treatments, said to relieve joint pain.
Visit the Biograd Yacht Charter Base if you're exploring more northern Dalmatia.

3. Zlatni Rat - Brac (Golden Horn)

Highlights: Iconic aerial shape, water sports hub, photogenic

Zlatni Rat is Croatia's most iconic and most photographed beach. Its horn-shaped formation shifts slightly depending on wind and tides. Located in Bol on Brač Island, this beach is made of fine golden pebbles and extends like a tongue into the Adriatic Sea. It's a hotspot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to the stable Mistral winds.

How to Visit: Take a catamaran from Split to Bol. Amenities include water sports centres, changing rooms, and bars.
Learn more about ferries from Split.

4. Stiniva Beach, Vis

Highlights: Secluded cove, dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear snorkelling

Located on the southern side of Vis Island, Stiniva is a narrow cove hidden between tall cliffs. It's accessible by boat or a steep downhill trail, which keeps it relatively quiet. The beach opens to a turquoise bay perfect for snorkelling. Its unique setting earned it the title of Europe's Best Beach in 2016.

Caution: The hike is steep; wear proper shoes. Arrive early to beat tour boats. It's also one of the top anchorages in Croatia for charter boats.

5. Skrivena Luka (Hidden Harbour), Lastovo

Highlights: Wild nature, kayaking, wildlife

Skrivena Luka truly lives up to its name. Accessible mainly by boat, this natural harbour on Lastovo is surrounded by cliffs and forest. The waters are ideal for kayaking, snorkelling, and observing marine life. Nearby, you'll find one of Croatia's oldest lighthouses.

Tip: Stay overnight in Lastovo for a complete nature escape. Great for stargazing. One of the top anchorages in Croatia.

Read more about: Lastovo island in Croatia - a sailors paradise.

6. Pasjača Beach, Konavle

Highlights: Hidden under cliffs, dramatic descent, Instagram-worthy

Pasjača is carved into cliffs near Dubrovnik and offers a mix of adventure and serenity. Formed initially when locals cleared a tunnel through the cliff to access the sea, the beach now attracts thrill-seekers for its secluded vibe and stunning contrast between blue sea and red cliffs.

Note: No amenities. Bring water and hiking shoes. Before visiting, check out provisioning tips for remote spots.

7. Mlini Beach - on the Paklinski Islands

Highlights: Island escape, white sand, relaxed vibes

Mlini Beach is one of the quieter beaches in the Pakleni archipelago near Hvar. Surrounded by pine trees and rocky cliffs, it provides a peaceful escape with clear, calm water for swimming and paddling. The secluded setting makes it ideal for couples.

How to Get There: Water taxi from Hvar Port. Great stop on your sailing route through the Adriatic.

Paklinski islands - popular sailing destination in Croatia

8. Sahara Beach, Island Rab

Highlights: Naturist-friendly, dunes, remote

Rab Island's Sahara Beach is known for its fine sand and naturist-friendly atmosphere. Reached only by a walking path from Lopar, it has no commercial development, allowing visitors to enjoy a pristine, back-to-nature experience.

Directions: 30-minute hike from Lopar Beach. No shops nearby. Learn about chartering boats to remote beaches.

Read more about Rab here: Things to do on Rab island in Croatia

9. Pupnatska Luka Beach, Korčula

Highlights: Calm bay, scenic road access, great for snorkelling

Tucked in a horseshoe-shaped bay, Pupnatska Luka is a protected cove with clear water and vibrant marine life. The drive down is steep but scenic, winding through pine forests and vineyards. It's one of Korčula's best-kept secrets.

Tip: Rent a car or scooter from Korčula Town to reach this spot. It's also among the best anchorages in Croatia for sailors.
Read more about TOP Things to Do in Korcula Island, Croatia

10. Sandy Beach Prapatno: A Hidden Gem on Peljesac

Highlights: Soft white sand, kid-friendly, peaceful

Prapatno is a rare sandy beach in the southern region of Pelješac. Sheltered by surrounding hills, the beach has shallow, calm waters and fine sand ideal for families. It's also close to a ferry terminal, making it a convenient day trip from nearby destinations.

Access: Drive from Ston on the Pelješac Peninsula. Basic amenities are available. 

7 top things to do when sailing to Peljesac

11. Blue Lagoon Beach

Blue Lagoon Beach is a beautiful cove on the island of Drvenik, just a short boat ride from Trogir, a popular tourist destination. This undiscovered treasure is known as one of Croatia's best beaches because of its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine sandy beaches, and breath-taking natural beauty. Because the beach is in a sheltered bay, the water is calm and ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

Blue Lagoon Beach's sandy beach is ideal for sunbathing and relaxing. The beach is well-kept and offers a variety of amenities, such as sun loungers, umbrellas, and showers. There are also several beach bars and restaurants where visitors can relax with a cold drink or a meal while admiring the breath-taking scenery. The boat ride to Blue Lagoon Beach is one of the trip's highlights. The boat ride takes visitors through the beautiful Drvenik archipelago, providing breath-taking views of the rugged coastline and the azure Adriatic Sea.

Highlights: Snorkelling, calm waters, scenic boat trip

Situated between Drvenik and Krknjaši Islands, the Blue Lagoon is a postcard-perfect spot with vibrant turquoise waters. It's a popular stop on island-hopping tours and is excellent for swimming, snorkelling, and spotting marine life like sea turtles and colourful fish.

Access: Join a group boat tour from Trogir or Split. Snorkel gear rentals are available on site, making it a perfect reason to charter a boat in Croatia.

12. Spiaza Beach: A Hidden Gem on the Island of Susak

Spiaza Beach, on the island of Susak in the Adriatic Sea, is a hidden gem that provides visitors with a truly unique beach experience. Spiaza Beach, unlike many of Croatia's popular beaches, is relatively unknown to tourists, making it the ideal place to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day at the beach. Spiaza Beach is distinguished by its distinctive sandy terrain. The beach has fine, white sand uncommon in other parts of Croatia. The sand on Spiaza Beach is so unique that geologists from all over the world have studied it. The beach is located on the island's southern coast and stretches for over a kilometre, making it one of the largest in the area.

Spiaza Beach, despite its size, is mainly unspoiled and surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.

Highlights: Rare sandy terrain, family-friendly, peaceful

Spiaza is a geological wonder located on the remote island of Susak. Unlike most Croatian islands, Susak is composed of fine sand instead of rock, giving Spiaza a truly unique texture. The beach is shallow for a long stretch, making it one of the most family-friendly spots on the Adriatic.

Travel Info: Accessible only via ferry from Mali Lošinj. Bring supplies, as amenities are limited.
📍 See our sailing tips for remote islands.

13. Veli Žal Beach: A Hidden Paradise on the Island of Mali Lošinj

Veli Žal Beach on Mali Lošinj is ideal for a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and stunning natural surroundings. This hidden catch is located on the island's southern coast and provides visitors a peaceful escape from the crowds.

Highlights: Forest backdrop, crystal waters, relaxing ambience

Veli žal is a long pebble beach near Sunčana Uvala, surrounded by dense pine forests. The beach is family-friendly and has excellent facilities for spending a whole day by the sea, including shaded picnic areas and walking paths through the forest.

Facilities: Showers, snack bars, and sunbed rentals. 

14. Nugal Beach

Nugal beach is a must-see if you're looking for a secluded beach off the beaten path. Nugal Beach, located on the Makarska Riviera, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a peaceful and unspoiled setting to relax and soak up the sun. The natural beauty of Nugal Beach is what distinguishes it. The beach has a rugged and wild feel because rocky cliffs and dense pine forests surround it. The crystal-clear water is ideal for swimming, and the pebble beach is perfect for sunbathing or cooling off in the sea.

The sense of seclusion provided by Nugal Beach is one of its highlights. Unlike some of the best beaches in Croatia on the Makarska Riviera, Nugal Beach is not easily accessible by car. Instead, visitors must park their vehicles in the nearby village and walk for approximately 20-30 minutes along a scenic path winding through the pine forest and rocky cliffs. This makes the beach ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy peace and quiet. Despite its remote location, Nugal Beach provides all the amenities visitors require. There are sun loungers, umbrellas for rent, and a beach bar where visitors can relax with a refreshing drink or snack while admiring the breath-taking views. Nugal Beach is also a popular destination for those seeking adventure. Hiking trails surround the beach, providing stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can also swim in the clear waters and explore the nearby caves.

Highlights: Remote, nude-friendly, wild beauty

Tucked beneath high cliffs and reached by a forest trail, Nugal Beach feels worlds away from the bustling Makarska Riviera. Its wild setting, crystal-clear waters, and clothing-optional policy attract both adventurers and solitude seekers.

Access: 20-minute walk from Tučepi. No shops or restrooms.

15. Discovering Mekicevica Beach on Island Hvar

Mekicevica Beach is a hidden gem on Hvar Island worth visiting if you're looking for a secluded beach. This stunning beach on the island's southern coast offers crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and plenty of peace and quiet. Ancient ruins are one of Mekicevica Beach's most distinguishing features. Visitors can explore the nearby 15th-century Franciscan monastery and discover prehistoric settlement remains.

These fascinating historical artefacts add a sense of mystery and wonder to the surroundings, which are already breath-taking. Mekicevica Beach is also known for its clear waters, which make it a popular swimming and snorkelling destination. Because the beach is small and secluded, visitors can enjoy the water without being bothered by crowds or noise.

Plenty of shady spots to relax under the trees make it an ideal place to cool off during the day. Cliff jumping is one of the most popular activities at Mekicevica Beach. The dramatic cliffs surrounding the beach are ideal for adrenaline junkies to test their bravery and take the plunge. Of course, this is not an activity for the faint of heart, so take precautions and stay safe. In addition, the area has numerous restaurants and cafes where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and refreshments.

Highlights: Ruins nearby, snorkelling, cliff jumping

A hidden gem near Hvar Town, Mekicevica, offers a mix of adventure and history. It's home to 15th-century ruins and is popular for cliff diving into its deep, clear waters. The short walk through the pine forest to reach it adds to the experience.

Warning: No lifeguards; cliff jumping is at your own risk. Choose the right boat for access with this sailing vs catamaran guide.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're looking for a quiet escape, a family-friendly resort, or an adrenaline-pumping coastal adventure, Croatia has a beach for every type of traveller. These top 15 picks are just the beginning. The Adriatic awaits!

Plan smart, pack your sunscreen, and embrace the best beaches of Croatia. Need help getting started? Contact our yacht experts.

FAQs About Beaches in Croatia