Cruising the Croatian islands has turn out to be an iconic vacation exercise. Imagine crusing by the clear blue waters of the Adriatic Sea as you seek for a secluded cove. Croatia has greater than 1,000 islands spanning from north to south, so regardless of the place you end up, you’ll have the opportunity to e-book a day journey out to see one. Even should you aren’t aboard a luxurious yacht, lots of the finest islands in Croatia could be reached by public ferry and even on a sea kayak. We can attest, kayaking across the islands of Croatia is a visit of a lifetime.
The Best Islands to Visit in Croatia
Croatia could have loads of islands however solely 47 truly are inhabited. And of these 47 inhabited islands, solely 15 islands have a inhabitants of greater than 1000 individuals. So whenever you go to the islands of Croatia, likelihood is you’ll have all of them to yourselves.
Dubrovnik could also be calling your identify, however when you’ve explored the favored Game of Thrones Locations, it’s time to get out on the crystal clear waters to take pleasure in these finest islands in Croatia.
1. Kornati Islands
The Kornati Islands are an archipelago of 140 islands and islets sitting off the Dalmatian Coast. Within the biggest Archipelago in the Adriatic Sea is Kornati National Park which attracts guests to discover its pristine Croatian islands and underwater playground. The abundance of reefs and shallow, heat waters make it good for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Things to do
Go snorkeling or scuba diving – Most boat excursions to the Kornati Islands supply a snorkeling choice. The islands are mentioned to be house to almost 200 species of fish. You may even spot dolphins if you’re fortunate.
This full-day tour takes you alongside the Sibenik channel previous historic navy websites and well-known landmarks till you attain Kornati National Park. You’ll have the chance to go snorkeling, swimming, and even cliff diving from its steep rock faces. See extra particulars right here.
Visit the Fortress of Tureta – The Fortress of Tureta dates again to the Byzantine interval and sits – remoted and decrepit – on the island of Kornat. History lovers will take pleasure in touring the historic web site, and its dramatic, distant cliff-top location provides to the attraction’s attract.
How to get there
The finest manner to attain the Kornati Islands is by day journey, particularly as most are uninhabited islands. You can discover boat excursions from Zadar, Sibenik, or Murter – any of the main vacationer spots alongside the Dalmatian Coast.
2. Elaphiti Islands
The Elaphiti Islands are the preferred Croatian islands to go to as they sit simply off Dubrovnik on the Croatian mainland. Dubrovnik attracts in thousands and thousands of vacationers thanks to its wealth of issues to do and Game of Thrones stardom, and many individuals are tempted into ‘special island hopping itinerary’ boat journeys from Dubrovnik Old Town harbor.
The Elaphiti Islands embody three predominant islands: Sipan, Kolocep, and Lopud. The complete inhabitants of all three islands is round 1,000 individuals, and most residential areas are sleepy fishing villages. Visiting the Elaphitis is a wonderful alternative for these staying in Dubrovnik and wanting a laidback, handy island getaway.
Things to do
Swim in the Blue Cave and Green Cave – The Elaphiti Islands have particular caves the place the sunshine displays completely to create brightly coloured water. The Blue Cave is likely one of the most well-known stops on the island of Biševo. Sun displays off the white backside of the blue cave bouncing off the limestone partitions creating a shocking scene. The equally lovely inexperienced cave presents snorkeling or swimming on Sipan island.
Kayak across the islands -Rent a sea kayak and discover the islands from the ocean. By sea kayaking, you’ll have the opportunity to entry sheltered coves and hidden sandy seashores and admire the distinctive pure landscapes from a singular perspective.
This boat tour from Dubrovnik takes you to Kolocep, Lopud, and Šipan the place you’ll cease and swim and revel in lunch and limitless drinks. Now that seems like a superb time.
How to get there
You can attain The Elaphitis simply by public ferry, which is ideal if you would like to keep a couple of days. Otherwise, you possibly can manage a day journey from Dubrovnik Old Town.
3. Brac
Chances are that you simply’ve already heard of Brac when looking for the perfect islands in Croatia. Brac is situated in the Adriatic Sea, simply off the coast of Split, and it is likely one of the hottest islands for a day journey. Brac is understood for its larger-than-life character and has a little bit of every little thing – from music occasions to a historic outdated city and Golden Cape seaside, which is famed for windsurfing. Brac is action-packed but genuine (an admirable trait) and a very good contender for island hopping.
Things to do
Golden Cape Beach – Golden Cape Beach (or Golden Horn Beach) is a great spot for watersports and one of the vital lovely seashores in Croatia. The iconic seaside is formed like a horn, jutting out in a triangle form.
Blaca Hermitage – Blaca Hermitage is a Sixteenth-century monastery constructed dramatically right into a cliff face. You can hike up to the monastery and go to the museum for extra info on its historical past.
How to get there
Getting to Brac is a breeze, and you’ll hop on a ferry straight from Split. The trip takes simply 50 minutes, and even in off-season, it runs over sixty occasions every week.
4. Hvar Island
Hvar is likely one of the finest islands in Croatia if you would like a summer time resort ambiance. Sure, the island has its historic sights. Hvar Town has Thirteenth-century partitions and loads of historic buildings. However, it’s most well-known for its golf equipment, pubs, bars, and seaside events. If you need someplace to let your hair down, Hvar is a implausible alternative.
Things to do
Fortica Fortress – This Sixteenth-century fortress is likely one of the most scenic spots in Hvar. You can hike to the highest of its hill to discover the ruins and revel in attractive views over the city, island, and ocean under.
Party at Carpe Diem – Carpe Diem is likely one of the island’s longest-established get together venues and was opened in 1999. The venue has DJs from 5 pm every evening and a trend present twice every week. Carpe Diem is the place to rub shoulders with the wealthy and well-known.
How to get there
The finest manner to attain Hvar is by getting a ferry from the mainland. You can catch a ferry to Hvar from important cities like Split and Dubrovnik, and there’s even the choice to catch a global ferry from Italy.
5. Vis Island
Vis Island is likely one of the finest islands in Croatia if you would like a spot with a wealthy historical past. Vis Island served as a Yugoslav navy base from 1950 till 1989, and you’ll nonetheless go to navy websites immediately. This is an enormous draw for these intrigued by Croatia’s political historical past. Vis Town additionally has historic metropolis partitions, a public bathtub, and an archaeological museum.
Things to do
Scuba dive underwater wrecks – Vis has many desirable wrecks, together with a aircraft and a Greek cargo ship. You can go to the island’s dive middle to manage a diving tour.
Visit Tito’s Cave – Tito was a World War II chief and had headquarters in a cave on Vis Island. Because of its location close to Italy, Vis was thought of a extremely strategic location, and now guests can tour the particular cave.
How to get there
You can take an organized tour from the mainland or take the ferry from Split. The ferry trip takes round an hour and a half.
6. Rab Island
Rab Island is likely one of the most historic Croatian islands. It has a shocking outdated city encircled by historic metropolis partitions. If you need a photogenic, historic island, Rab is the one for you. It has the Cathedral Svete Marije and Sveti Ivan Church, plus Roman ruins dotted across the island. Just whenever you thought it couldn’t get higher, Rab Island additionally has a few of the finest seashores out of all Croatia’s islands.
Things to do
Paradise Beach – Paradise Beach is a implausible seaside day spot, with waterslides and pedal-boat leases to maintain you entertained between sunbathing classes.
Sightsee the Old Town – Sightseeing the completely different buildings and outdated metropolis partitions is an ideal manner to spend a morning on Rab Island. You can simply discover leisurely on foot, stopping for a espresso or brunch break whenever you want to.
How to get there
You can catch a ferry to Rab Island from the mainland or different close by islands. Book tickets on-line (particularly throughout peak seasons) to assure a spot.
7. Pakleni Islands
The Pakleni Islands are a few of the finest islands in Croatia for lovely sandy seashores, unimaginable snorkeling, and partying. The Paklenis are a gaggle of islets situated simply off of Hvar, and their gorgeous surroundings and enjoyable ambiance make them a well-liked day journey. Small however with large personalities, the Pakleni Islands are implausible islands to go to in Croatia.
Things to do
Enjoy the strolling trails – Since the islands are so small, you possibly can simply discover them on foot. Sveti Klement is the perfect island for shaded strolling trails and is scattered with pine timber and Mediterranean shrubs.
Party on the Marinkovac seaside membership – Get your groove on at Marinkovac’s implausible seaside membership. The membership offers the Pakleni Islands their get together popularity and is a superb spot to let your hair down.
How to get there
You can go to the Pakleni Islands on a day journey from Hvar or the Mainland. From Hvar, it takes simply half-hour to attain the Paklenis.
8. Mljet Island
Mljet is an extended Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea. This is likely one of the finest islands in Croatia for nature lovers and is house to Mljet National Park. Mljet is roofed in a dense pine forest, vineyards, and olive groves. It is the right island to go to to admire nature and contemporary, regionally sourced produce.
Things to do
Odysseus Cave – Make positive to go to the legendary Odysseus Cave. It is likely one of the most lovely plces on Mljet. It could be reached by boat or you possibly can hike to it.
Mljet National Park – Mljet National Park presents 5,400 hectares of land and ocean reserves, defending unimaginable wildlife. You can cycle or hike across the park and pack snorkeling gear to admire its reefs and underwater sights.
Roman Palace – The Roman Palace is Mljet’s most historic attraction. The Fifth-century historic palace sits on the Polace waterfront, now break up in half by a busy highway.
How to get there
The simplest way to attain Mljet Island is to take the ferry from Dubrovnik. The journey takes round two and a half hours.
9. Pag Island
Pag Island is likely one of the finest islands in Croatia if you’re on the lookout for a placing (barely weird) pure panorama. Apart from the built-up space of Pag Town, arriving at Pag shouldn’t be not like touchdown on the moon. It has a desolate moonlike panorama and sharply contrasts Croatia’s extra lush islands. You’ll discover enjoyable nightlife in Pag Town, loads of strolling trails, and native produce like paski sir, which known as Pag cheese and made out of sheep milk.
Things to do
Party on the Zrce strip – Zrce is the hub of nightlife on Pag. The beachfront is lined with bars and golf equipment, with frequent seaside events to be a part of.
Sample the island’s delicacies – So, it’s essential to strive Pag cheese. However, Pag lamb can be an area specialty and is often grilled and served with potatoes. These dishes are extraordinarily widespread, so cease by a restaurant and verify what they serve.
How to get there
Pag Island is the simplest to attain in this information. The island is related to the mainland by a bridge and has a automotive ferry service. You can drive throughout the bridge or sail to Pag; the selection is yours.
10. Korcula Island
Korcula Island is understood for its dense vegetation and forest and the fantastic thing about Korcula Town. Some individuals even go so far as to name Korcula Town ‘Little Dubrovnik’, as its smaller-scale metropolis partitions, medieval squares, and historic buildings are an image of Croatia’s well-known metropolis. The island has a number of Greek historical past, and we advocate it to any historical past lovers or individuals on the lookout for a well-rounded, lovely island vacation spot.
Things to do
Visit Pupnatska Luka Beach – Pupnatska Luka Beach is a shocking place to go to and nice for a day journey. It is famed for its turquoise waters and shiny white sand.
Visit Korcula Town Museum – Ready for a little bit of historical past? This museum displays Korcula’s historical past and tradition and has a singular location in a Sixteenth-century Renaissance palace.
How to get there
The finest manner to attain Korcula Island is to catch the ferry from Split, which takes just below 4 hours. You can even catch smaller, much less common ferries from close by islands.
11. Cres Island
Cres Island is the second largest island in the Adriatic Sea and is related to the neighboring island of Losinj by a bridge. Cres Island is barely off of most vacationer radars, however if you would like an thrilling, much less crowded Croatian island, this makes it an awesome candidate. Cres Town has many Italian qualities because the island was beforehand beneath Venetian rule and has lovely surroundings and loads of historical past.
Things to do
See the griffon vulture colony – Nature lovers or hen lovers, will love recognizing Cres’ griffon vulture colony. I bear in mind going to see them whereas kayaking round Cres. Cres Island is massively concerned with conservation efforts, providing a refuge for particular birds to thrive away from mass crowds.
Visit the Venetian Tower – The Venetian Tower is an ideal place to admire the island’s historical past. The tower was as soon as a part of the island’s Venetian fortification, constructed whereas Cres was beneath Italian rule.
How to get there
You can catch a ferry service from the Croatian mainland or fly to Krk Island and catch a ferry from there.
12. Obonjan
Want a personal island expertise? Obonjan is likely one of the finest islands in Croatia. Forget a resort city; Obonjan is a resort island specializing in luxurious glamping experiences for adults. The island treads the road between party-focused, wellness-focused, and pure luxurious. It presents a holistic vacation bundle, good if you would like to deal with your self to an evening off the mainland. Obonjan has an unique ambiance and is a match made in heaven for luxury-chasing crowds.
Things to do
Attend one of many festivals or membership nights – Obanjan is at all times internet hosting the newest DJs and artists. Obanjan has a few of the most fun line-ups and common occasions if you’re in the temper for a celebration.
Get concerned with resort actions – This may sound like a cop-out itinerary thought, however the resort actually does have every little thing. You could possibly be attending complimentary yoga courses or attending a movie screening.
How to get there
Obanjan is finest reached by ferry or taxi boat from Sibenik. Obanjan Island Resort additionally presents boat transfers.
13. Krk Island
Krk is famed for its old-world structure and the charming ambiance that medieval cities promise. Its walled city is filled with photogenic again alleys and delightful buildings, some relationship again to the Fifth century. Notably, Krk can be the one island the place you possibly can spot bears, because the island is so shut to the mainland that bears swim throughout the strait. Krk is a handy, thrilling vacation spot, excellent for these researching day journeys from the mainland.
Things to do
Visit the Fifth century basilica in Omisalj – The basilica is the oldest remaining constructing on the island of Krk, and it’s a fascinating place should you love historical past or archeology. The construction is remarkably intact, and you’ll simply distinguish the completely different rooms and options.
Visit the Frankopan Castle – Frankopan Castle overlooks the city of Krk and was commissioned by the Frankopan household – an outdated noble household in Croatia. The fortress was repeatedly labored on over the centuries to preserve it, with appreciable work performed in the Thirteenth and 14th centuries.
How to get there
Getting to Krk is so simple that each one you have got to do is drive over the connecting bridge. As we mentioned, Krk may be very shut to the mainland shore, which means it may be conveniently related with a everlasting bridge moderately than resorting to ferry crossings.
14. Murter
Murter has that tropical island really feel that you’re very possible craving. Think sandy seashores, lush forests, and delightful viewpoints. Murter is just a tiny island, however that makes it blissful to discover on foot. You can stroll to gorgeous seashores and spend your day seaside hopping between all of the completely different choices. We advocate bringing snorkeling gear so you too can take pleasure in recognizing the marine life at every seaside.
Things to do
Go scuba diving – Murter’s waters are good for fishing, so you possibly can guess that you simply’ll discover a number of marine life scuba diving. The island’s dive middle presents guided dives and scuba programs, so you possibly can go for a dive or brush up in your expertise.
Betina Museum of Wooden Shipbuilding – The Betina Museum is an interesting spot to go to and covers the city’s ship-making historical past – from marine instruments to conventional apparel. Whether you have an interest in maritime historical past, the museum is a helpful perception into island residing.
How to get there
Murter is a dream to get to, as it’s related to the mainland by a small drawbridge. You can catch a bus or drive onto the island – keep away from crossing between 5 pm and 5:30 pm when the bridge is lifted.
15. Zlarin
Zlarin is likely one of the most lovely Croatian islands and is situated simply off the shores of Sibenik. Expect countless sandy seashores and forests of pine timber. However, Zlarin additionally has a implausible procuring scene and is famed for its coral merchandise. A standard profession in Zlarin is to harvest coral and switch it into merchandise like jewellery. And the island has historic sights relationship again to the Thirteenth century. Zlarin is a little bit of a golden little one – with wonderful qualities and plenty to supply.
Things to do
Go mountaineering – We gained’t choose you for wanting to spend a couple of hours on the seaside, however when you find yourself completed, undoubtedly take advantage of Zlarin’s cliffs. The east of the island is famend for mountaineering, and you’ll e-book an organized climbing exercise to get your adrenaline pumping.
Visit the Coral Museum – Find out extra concerning the island’s relationship with coral and browse a few of the finest coral souvenirs.
How to get there
Getting to Zlarin is simple. You catch the ferry from Sibenik, which runs commonly in excessive and low seasons.
16. Veliki Brijun
Veliki Brijun is a part of the Brijun Islands archipelago and among the finest islands in Croatia for appreciating untouched nature. Veliki Brijun is a part of the Brijun National Park and covers 1,700 acres, most of which is protected inexperienced area. Veliki Brijun is Croatia’s greenest island. It can be recognized for its distinctive, swirled form, usually captured in aerial pictures of the island.
Things to do
Visit the dinosaur footprints – Interested in paleontogology? Veliki Brijun isn’t simply house to Twenty first-century wildlife; you too can spot traces of prehistoric animals on the island. The major dinosaur footprint is only a quick stroll from Veliki Brijun port.
Hop on the ‘Tourist Train’ – If you’d desire to save your legs and vitality, the vacationer practice is a superb alternative and whisks you across the island on a fast sightseeing tour. You’ll move all Veliki Brijun’s main sights, together with the safari park.
How to get there
You can take a taxi boat to Veliki Brijun, however probably the most dependable manner is to take the ferry from Fazana. Fazana has a daily 20-minute ferry trip that connects Veliki Brijun to the mainland.
17. Dugi Otok
Dugi Otok is likely one of the outer islands off of Zadar in Central Croatia. While not on the well-trodden vacationer path, Dugi Otok is definitely among the finest islands in Croatia. Dugi Otok is nothing in need of paradisical, with lovely seashores and idyllic spots like Sali, a tiny fishing village. The island is likely one of the largest islands off of Zadar and has a lot of journey potential and room to discover.
Things to do
Telascica Nature Park – Dugi Otok is understood for its saltwater lakes, and Telascica Nature Park is the place you’ll discover Lake Mir. Lake Mir is filled with saltwater marine animals and is a superb pure vacationer attraction.
Visit the Donkey Sanctuary – The Donkey Sanctuary is massively essential on Dugi Otok since donkeys had been closely relied upon for early survival on the island. Nowadays, visiting is a healthful factor to do on the island. While the sanctuary is small, it’s a particular addition to your Dugi Otok itinerary.
How to get there
Getting to Dugi Otok is simple, and you’ll catch a ferry from Zadar in lower than an hour and a half. It is best to go to for a couple of days moderately than rush to handle a day journey.
18. Mrcara
If you need a day journey to an uninhabited island, Mrcara is likely one of the finest islands in Croatia. Mrcara is so off-the-beaten-track that some individuals name it the ‘last stand’, and also you’ll solely discover fundamental facilities on the island like a small jetty and seasonal restaurant. It may not be the preferred day journey, however when you’ve got a way of journey, you’ll love Mrcara.
Things to do
Explore the island’s strolling trails – Part of Mrcara’s draw is its uncooked magnificence and stillness. By climbing its strolling trails, you’ll have the prospect to immerse your self in nature, and solely nature – listening to hen songs, admiring flora, and wildlife watching.
Snorkel on the seashores – Going snorkeling is likely one of the finest issues to do on Mrcara. The pebbled seashores and quiet waters are good for marine life to thrive, and Mrcara is likely one of the finest Croatian islands to spot marine animals.
How to get there
The finest manner to attain Mrcara is to catch a ferry from Split to Lastovo, the large island subsequent to Mrcara. From Lastovo, you possibly can then manage a shuttle service to Mrcara.
19. Drvenik Veli
Drvenik Veli is likely one of the smallest Croatian Islands close to Split. It has a humble historical past and has been house to shepherds and nomads because the fifteenth century. While it lacks the infrastructure to present historic sights, Drvenik Vali has a way of distant group heritage. Drvenik Veil is a implausible alternative if you would like a glimpse into small Croatian island life.
Things to do
Sample native seafood – Freshly caught seafood is at all times a tasty thought, and whenever you go to Drvenik Veil, we advise giving in to that temptation. The island depends on its fishing for financial survival, and the handful of native eating places on Drvenik Veil use the freshest catch.
Swim in the Blue Lagoon – Drvenik Veil’s Blue Lagoon is a fantastic place for a dip, and it’s famend for its shiny blue waters. Its formal identify is Krknjasi Bay, which is situated on the island’s east aspect – good and simple for guests to entry.
How to get there
Drvenik Veil is rapidly reached by taxi boat, or ferry. It takes round half-hour from the mainland to get to the island’s predominant city of Drvenik.
20. Silba
Silba is likely one of the finest islands in Croatia for that car-free, fresh-air expertise. You’ll discover a handful of tractors for important transportation duties and the postman on his scooter, and that’s that; the remainder of the island is serene and traffic-free. Silba is likely one of the sunniest locations in Croatia, and with all its hidden coves and seashores, what higher place to take in the rays.
Things to do
Beach hop – Make use of that sunshine and hit the seaside. Silba has a fantastic collection of seashores ready for you to throw down a seaside towel, and we advocate Dobre Vode and Nozdre probably the most.
Climb the Toreta – The Toreta is Silba’s solely tower, and you’ll climb up its slender, spiral stairway for beautiful views over the island and ocean. Legend has it {that a} sailor constructed Toreta for his girlfriend, however she forged his love apart and betrayed him by marrying another person – getting uninterested in watching and ready from the tower.
How to get there
Just catch the ferry to Silba from Zadar. The trip takes round an hour and runs twice each day however it’s best to affirm the schedule on-line as it’s liable to change.
And these are a few of the finest islands in Croatia. Whether you decide one of many predominant islands or head off the overwhelmed observe, you’ll have a implausible expertise having fun with the wonderful views of the Adriatic Sea. Island hopping is likely one of the finest issues to do in Croatia to actually see the fantastic thing about the Dalmatian Coast.
Croatian islands are a few of the prettiest in the world, and their secluded coves and idyllic seashores make them a few of the finest spots for island hopping on earth.