Croatia is an enchanting country in the Balkans known for its stunning coastline and a collection of over a thousand islands that dot the Adriatic Sea. These islands offer an array of breathtaking beaches, historic architecture, and delicious local cuisine. It can be overwhelming to decide which Croatian islands to visit, but this guide has got you covered. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best Croatian islands that you should add to your island-hopping itinerary.
The Best Croatian Islands on the Map
To make your trip planning easier, I created a map with the best Croatian islands mentioned in the article.
Hvar Island
Hvar Island is undoubtedly one of the most popular and glamorous islands in Croatia. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. The island is home to the ancient Hvar Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful towns in Croatia. Visitors can explore the narrow streets of the Old Town, visit the imposing Hvar Cathedral, and enjoy the stunning views of the sea and the Pakleni Islands from the top of the Fortica Fortress.
Apart from its historic landmarks and cultural attractions, Hvar Island is also famous for its vibrant nightlife. The island has a wide range of bars, nightclubs, and beach clubs that offer excellent music, drinks, and entertainment. The most popular nightlife spots on the island include Carpe Diem, Hula Hula Beach Club, and Veneranda. Visitors can dance the night away under the stars, sip delicious cocktails, and mingle with locals and tourists from all over the world.
Hvar Island is also a popular destination for sailing and boating enthusiasts, with numerous marinas and anchorages that offer excellent services and facilities. Visitors can rent a yacht or a motorboat and explore the stunning coastline, secluded coves, and hidden beaches of the island and its surroundings. The most popular boating destinations on the island include the Pakleni Islands, the nearby island of Vis, and the beautiful island of Brac.
See the best things to do in Hvar.
Brac Island
Brac Island is the third-largest island in the Adriatic Sea and is known for its gorgeous beaches, stunning landscapes, and rich history. The island is home to the famous Zlatni Rat beach, which is a narrow white pebble beach that extends into the sea and is one of the most photographed beaches in Croatia. Visitors can also explore the island’s charming villages, such as Bol and Supetar, and enjoy the island’s rich cultural heritage, which dates back to the Roman times.
Apart from its natural beauty and historic landmarks, Brac Island is also known for its excellent food and wine. The island is home to numerous vineyards and wineries that produce high-quality wines, such as the famous white wine Posip and the red wine Plavac Mali. Visitors can also enjoy the island’s traditional cuisine, which features fresh seafood, grilled meats, and delicious olive oil.
Brac Island is also a popular destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and water sports. The island has numerous trails and routes that offer stunning views of the sea and the landscape, such as the Vidova Gora mountain, which is the highest point on the Adriatic islands. Visitors can also enjoy a range of water sports, such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and scuba diving, and explore the island’s underwater world.
Vis Island
Vis Island is one of the most remote and unspoiled islands in Croatia and is known for its natural beauty, historic landmarks, and tranquil atmosphere. The island was a strategic naval base during World War II and was closed to the public until 1989, which has helped to preserve its unique character and authentic charm. Visitors can explore the island’s historic sites, such as the ancient Greek ruins of Issa, and enjoy the island’s many pristine beaches, such as Stiniva Beach and Srebrena Beach.
Visitors can visit the island’s numerous wineries, such as Lipanovic Winery and Roki’s Winery, and taste some of the best wines in Croatia.
Vis Island is also a popular destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and water sports. The island has numerous hiking and cycling trails that offer stunning views of the sea and the landscape, such as the trail to the top of the Mount Hum, which is the highest peak on the island. Visitors can also enjoy a range of water sports, such as kayaking, snorkeling, and fishing, and explore the island’s crystal-clear waters.
Korcula Island
Korcula Island is one of the most picturesque islands in Croatia and is known for its stunning Old Town, which is surrounded by ancient walls and watchtowers. The island is also known for its excellent food and wine, with numerous restaurants and taverns that offer delicious local cuisine and wines. Visitors can explore the narrow streets of the Old Town, visit the birthplace of Marco Polo, the famous explorer, and enjoy the stunning views of the sea and the nearby islands from the top of the St. Mark’s Cathedral.
Apart from its historic landmarks and cultural attractions, Korcula Island is also a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. The island has numerous beaches and bays that offer excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, such as the Przina Beach and the Badija Island. Visitors can also enjoy a range of water sports, such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding, and explore the island’s underwater world.
Korcula Island is also home to some of the best wine in Croatia, with numerous vineyards and wineries that offer tastings and tours. The island is famous for its white wine, especially the local variety Grk, which is produced on the island. Visitors can visit the island’s numerous wineries, such as Bire Winery and Lovric Winery, and taste some of the best wines in Croatia.
Korcula Island is also a popular destination for sailing and boating enthusiasts, with numerous marinas and anchorages that offer excellent services and facilities. Visitors can rent a yacht or a motorboat and explore the stunning coastline, secluded coves, and hidden beaches of the island and its surroundings, such as the nearby island of Mljet and the Peljesac Peninsula.
Mljet Island
Mljet Island is one of the most beautiful and unspoiled islands in Croatia and is known for its pristine nature, crystal-clear lakes, and ancient monasteries. The island is home to the stunning Mljet National Park, which covers over one-third of the island and features two saltwater lakes, Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero, and a range of wildlife, such as deer, wild boars, and birds. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking and cycling trails, rent a kayak or a paddleboat, and swim in the crystal-clear lakes.
Apart from its natural beauty and historic landmarks, Mljet Island is also known for its delicious local cuisine. The island’s traditional cuisine features fresh seafood, locally grown vegetables, and aromatic herbs, and is influenced by Italian and Greek culinary traditions. Visitors can enjoy a range of local dishes, such as black risotto, grilled octopus, and salted anchovies, and taste some of the island’s excellent wines.
Mljet Island is also a popular destination for sailing and boating enthusiasts, with numerous anchorages and marinas that offer excellent services and facilities. Visitors can rent a yacht or a motorboat and explore the stunning coastline, secluded coves, and hidden beaches of the island and its surroundings, such as the nearby island of Korcula and the Peljesac Peninsula.
Cres Island
Cres Island is one of the largest and most diverse islands in Croatia and is known for its unspoiled nature, rugged landscapes, and stunning beaches. The island is home to several charming towns, such as Cres Town and Lubenice, which are known for their historic architecture, traditional cuisine, and excellent wine. Visitors can also explore the island’s stunning landscapes, such as the Tramuntana Forest Park, and enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and water sports.
Cres Island is also known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, which offer excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The most popular beaches on the island include Valun Beach, which is a long pebble beach with turquoise waters, and Lubenice Beach, which is a secluded cove with breathtaking views of the sea and the landscape.
Cres Island is also a popular destination for birdwatchers, as the island is home to a range of bird species, such as the griffon vulture and the golden eagle. Visitors can explore the island’s birdwatching spots, such as the Beli Visitor Center, and learn more about the island’s rich wildlife.
Krk Island
Krk Island is one of the largest and most diverse islands in Croatia and is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural scene. The island is home to several charming towns, such as Krk Town and Vrbnik, which are known for their historic architecture, traditional cuisine, and excellent wine. Visitors can also explore the island’s stunning landscapes, such as the Kvarner Bay Nature Park, and enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and water sports.
Krk Island is also known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, which offer excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The most popular beaches on the island include Baska Beach, which is a long pebble beach with turquoise waters, and Soline Bay, which is a shallow bay with healing mud and warm waters.
Krk Island is also a popular destination for cultural events and festivals, such as the Krk Music Nights, the Krk Wine Festival, and the Krk Fair. Visitors can enjoy a range of concerts, exhibitions, and performances, and experience the island’s rich cultural heritage. The island is also home to several museums and galleries, such as the Krk City Museum and the Juraj Sporer Art Pavilion, which offer a glimpse into the island’s history and culture.
Rab Island
Rab Island is a picturesque island in the Kvarner Gulf and is known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and natural beauty. The island is home to the charming town of Rab, which has a rich history dating back to the Roman times. Visitors can explore the town’s narrow streets and historic sites, such as the Rab Cathedral and the ancient Roman Forum. The island is also home to several stunning beaches, such as Lopar Beach, which is known for its long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters.
Susak Island
Susak Island is a small and secluded island in the Kvarner Gulf and is known for its unspoiled nature, pristine beaches, and traditional lifestyle. The island has a unique character, with its distinctive architecture, colorful traditional costumes, and local dialect. Visitors can explore the island’s charming villages, such as the village of Susak, and enjoy the island’s peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty.
Lastovo Island
Lastovo Island is one of the most remote and unspoiled islands in Croatia and is known for its pristine nature, crystal-clear waters, and unique architecture. The island is home to the stunning Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park, which covers over 44 square kilometers and features a range of wildlife, such as dolphins, sea turtles, and birds. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking and cycling trails, rent a kayak or a paddleboat, and swim in the crystal-clear waters.
Apart from its natural beauty, Lastovo Island is also known for its unique architecture, which features stone houses with red roofs and chimneys that create a stunning contrast against the green landscape. Visitors can explore the island’s charming villages, such as Lastovo Town and Ubli, and enjoy the island’s peaceful atmosphere and authentic charm.
Lastovo Island is also a popular destination for sailing and boating enthusiasts, with numerous anchorages and marinas that offer excellent services and facilities. Visitors can rent a yacht or a motorboat and explore the stunning coastline, secluded coves, and hidden beaches of the island and its surroundings, such as the nearby island of Korcula and the Peljesac Peninsula.
Pag Island
Pag Island is one of the most unique and rugged islands in Croatia and is known for its stunning landscapes, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife. The island is home to several charming towns, such as Pag Town and Novalja, which are known for their historic architecture, traditional cuisine, and excellent wine. Visitors can also explore the island’s stunning landscapes, such as the Pag Triangle, which is a geological phenomenon that creates a barren lunar-like landscape.
Pag Island is also known for its delicious local cuisine, which features sheep cheese, lamb, and olive oil, and is influenced by Italian and Croatian culinary traditions. Visitors can enjoy a range of local dishes, such as Pag cheese, grilled lamb, and Skuta, which is a traditional dessert made with cheese and honey.
Pag Island is also a popular destination for nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and beach parties that offer excellent music, drinks, and entertainment. The most popular nightlife spots on the island include Aquarius Club, Noa Beach Club, and Papaya Club. Visitors can dance the night away under the stars, sip delicious cocktails, and mingle with locals and tourists from all over the world.
Kornati Islands
The Kornati Islands are a group of 140 islands and islets in the Adriatic Sea and are known for their rugged landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and stunning natural beauty. The islands are a popular destination for sailing and yachting enthusiasts, with numerous secluded coves and bays that offer excellent anchorage. Visitors can also explore the islands’ rich marine life, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Brijuni Islands
The Brijuni Islands are a group of 14 islands and islets in the northern Adriatic Sea and are known for their stunning natural landscapes, historic landmarks, and rich cultural heritage. The islands are home to several archaeological sites, such as the Roman villa and the Byzantine castrum, as well as a safari park, a botanical garden, and several museums. Visitors can also enjoy the islands’ beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent cuisine.
Elaphiti Islands
The Elaphiti Islands are a group of 13 islands and islets near Dubrovnik and are known for their stunning scenery, charming villages, and excellent cuisine. The islands are a popular destination for day trips from Dubrovnik, with regular ferry services that connect the islands to the mainland. Visitors can explore the islands’ picturesque villages, such as Sipan and Lopud, and enjoy the islands’ stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and delicious local cuisine.
Pakleni Islands
The Pakleni Islands are a group of 21 islands and islets near Hvar Island and are known for their secluded beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent seafood. The islands are a popular destination for boating and sailing enthusiasts, with numerous hidden coves and bays that offer excellent anchorage. Visitors can also explore the islands’ charming villages, such as Palmizana, and enjoy the islands’ peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty.
Conclusion
Croatia is a true paradise for island-hopping enthusiasts, with a wide range of islands that offer something for everyone. From the vibrant nightlife of Hvar Island to the unspoiled natural beauty of Lastovo Island, Croatia’s islands are sure to leave you enchanted. So, grab your sunscreen, pack your bags, and get ready for the ultimate island-hopping adventure!
FAQs
What is the best time to visit the Croatian islands?
The best time to visit the Croatian islands is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is calm and inviting.
How can I get to the Croatian islands?
The Croatian islands are accessible by ferry, catamaran, or private boat. There are regular ferry and catamaran services that connect the islands to the mainland and other islands.
What is the local cuisine like on the Croatian islands?
The local cuisine on the Croatian islands is a delicious blend of Mediterranean and Slavic influences, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, grilled meats, and local wines.
Are there any cultural events or festivals on the Croatian islands?
Yes, there are several cultural events and festivals on the Croatian islands, such as the Hvar Summer Festival, the Rab Medieval Festival, and the Brac Summer Music Festival.
Can I go hiking or cycling on the Croatian islands?
Yes, the Croatian islands offer excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling, with numerous trails and routes that offer stunning views of the sea and the landscape.
Which is the best Croatian island to visit?
There is no single best Croatian island to visit, as each island has its own unique charm and attractions. Some popular options include Hvar, Brac, Korcula, and Vis.
How many islands are there in Croatia?
There are over 1,000 islands in Croatia, although only around 50 are inhabited.
What is the little island in Croatia?
The little island in Croatia is called Lokrum Island. It is located near Dubrovnik and is known for its stunning natural beauty and historic landmarks, such as the Lokrum Monastery and the Fort Royal.
Are there islands around Croatia?
Yes, there are numerous islands around Croatia, including the Dalmatian Islands, the Kvarner Islands, and the Istrian Islands.
Which is better Hvar or Brac?
Both Hvar and Brac have their own unique attractions and appeal. Hvar is known for its vibrant nightlife, historic landmarks, and stunning beaches, while Brac is known for its rugged landscapes, authentic charm, and delicious food.
What is the easiest Croatian island to get to?
The easiest Croatian island to get to depends on your starting point and mode of transportation. Generally, the islands that are closest to the mainland, such as Brac and Solta, are the easiest to get to.
What is the most fun island in Croatia?
The most fun island in Croatia depends on your personal preferences and interests. Hvar is known for its vibrant nightlife, while Korcula is known for its cultural events and festivals. Vis and Mljet are popular destinations for outdoor activities, while Pag is known for its beach parties.
Are the Croatian islands expensive?
The cost of visiting the Croatian islands varies depending on the island and the season. Generally, the more popular and touristy islands, such as Hvar and Korcula, are more expensive than the quieter and less developed islands.
What is the most isolated Croatian island?
The most isolated Croatian island is probably the island of Lastovo, which is located in the southern part of the country and is known for its unspoiled nature and unique architecture. The island is only accessible by ferry or private boat and has a small population of around 800 people.
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