The Best Beaches in Croatia to Visit While Sailing the Adriatic

Witness some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world – read our selection of the best beaches to visit sailing the Croatian coast.

28 April 2021

Witness some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world – read our selection of the best beaches to visit sailing the Croatian coast.

Whether we’re talking fine pebble or golden sand, Croatia is known for having some of the most stunning beaches on the entire Adriatic. With so many famous ones and so little time, it’s hard to visit every Croatian beach you have heard or read about.

To shorten your research, we have picked for you the best Croatian beaches to visit while on a sailing holiday in Croatia:

Sakarun, Dugi Otok

Sakarun beach on Dugi Otok. Image source: Shutterstock

With white sand and turquoise clear waters stretching to 800 meters, the dreamy Sakarun beach offers complete zen for the body and soul. Found in the Dalmatian region not far from Zadar, this romantic island beach is unique in terms of color – apart from the clean turquoise sea, you will find it is surrounded by dark green pines and white pebbles that glitter in the sun.

Lubenice, Cres

Lubenice beach on Cres. Image source: Shutterstock

This pebble beach in the small town of Lubenice on the island of Cres is (paradoxically enough) quite known for its secrecy. It is only accessible by foot or by boat, and it’s ideal for a quiet escape away from the swimmer crowds. The German magazine Bild once rated this beach as the 15^th most beautiful on the world.

Punta Rata, Brela (Makarska)

Brela beach near Makarska. Image source: Shutterstock

This magnificent pebbly beach found in the Makarska Riviera is often ranked among the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world, and one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. It has become an attraction because of the monumental rock found there – called “the stone of life”, which is now used as the official symbol of the town of Brela. The views, the natural beauty, the sea water color and tranquility is hard to describe in words, and definitely a must-see while on a Mediterranean yacht cruise.

Zlatni Rat – Brač

Zlatni Rat on Brač. Image source: Shutterstock

Zlatni Rat is probably Croatia's most photographed beach, often used as a symbol of the Croatian seaside in general. It is fascinating as it extends off south like a "golden horn”, which is a rough translation of its Croatian name. Owing to the shifts in wind, one side usually attracts the surfers while the other side remains calm, and therefore more filled with towels, tents, and tourists.

Another highlight is the curly sea snail shell, dubbed "lucky stone" by locals, which is located among the pebbles on the beach. This one is a very popular beach among tourists and is always filled to the brim during the summer.

Stiniva – Vis

Stiniva on Vis. Image source: Shutterstock

The gorgeously concealed beach Stiniva lies on the south side of Vis, a beautiful small island in southern Dalmatia with a very rich history. The beach itself was named the best beach in Europe by European Best Destinations. It that can only be reached by boat, or by walking down a very steep and rough slope – but its isolation is what makes it so charming. Every second you spend reaching it to witness its incredible sea views is well worth it.

Cape Kamenjak – Pula

Cape Kamenjak near Pula. Image source: Shutterstock

Need a beach with more adrenaline? As one of the most exciting sites of the Croatian seaside, Cape Kamenjak in Istria is the place you are looking for. The Kamenjak Peninsula itself is a nature park, where tourists who enjoy deep diving and snorkeling have the best of fun. Its protected status keeps both land and water clean for the passing dolphins and Mediterranean monk seals.

Bačvice – Split

Bačvice in Split. Image source: Shutterstock

Bačvice beach is a symbol of Split and a rare phenomenon - a sandy beach in the heart of the city. It’s famous as the birthplace of ‘picigin’ - a traditional ball game from Split. It’s a favorite bathing spot of the locals and the braver ones can be found there even during the winter. This beach was many times awarded a Blue flag, a highly esteemed tourist symbol of excellent water quality and cleanliness.

Dubovica – Hvar

Dubovica on Hvar. Image source: Shutterstock

Dubovica is a pebble beach located on the south shore of island Hvar, sheltered in a turquoise-colored lagoon. It's renowned for its view of the picturesque 19th century Mediterranean stone house with wooden shutters. As it's difficult to access it by land, it's perfect for those in need of a secluded paradise, far from the city bustle.

Ručica – Pag

Ručica on Pag. Image source: Shutterstock

Made out of sand and pebbles, with no vegetation surrounding it, Ručica beach on the island Pag is perfect for basking in the hot Mediterranean sun. What makes it so special is the breathtaking view of crystal-clear water and the feeling of being in the magical oasis in the middle of the desert.

Experience these amazing Croatian beaches on a luxury yacht charter

If you are looking to visit these beaches while having a luxury sailing holiday in Croatia, learn more about our Croatian luxury yacht charter routes here.

You can see our list of luxury yachts for charter here.