Top 10 Destinations for a Weekend Nature Getaway: Croatia & Bosnia and Herzegovina
February 1, 2025
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March 17, 2025Imagine serene beaches nestled in rocky coves with crystal-clear waters, framed by mountains and trees on the horizon of the Adriatic Sea.
Crystal-clear waters, a sun-kissed sandy beach, and you—relaxing on a lounge chair while the shade of a wild palm gently caresses your face. In one hand, your new favorite novel, and in the other, a refreshing cocktail preparing you for unforgettable moments. Ah, the island life…
If just imagining this scene excites you, then Croatia is the perfect destination for your next trip. With its 1,244 islands, islets, and reefs, it’s no wonder Croatia is often called the “land of a thousand islands.”
Rather than listing all the best islands you must visit (because I’d have to name them all), I’ve highlighted a selection of the most popular ones that promise an unforgettable adventure.
Island location
Stretching along a 400 km-long coastline, the islands form a unique coastal shape that has even earned its own name—the Dalmatian-type coastline. Generally, Croatian islands can be divided into four groups:
- Southern Dalmatia
- Central Dalmatia
- Northern Dalmatia
- Kvarner
Out of around 50 islands that are inhabited year-round, the vast majority are located in Dalmatia.
Some of them have been must-visit destinations for tourists from all over the world for years, while others offer a glimpse into the slow Mediterranean way of life. Additionally, since most of these islands are accessible only by boat, visiting them gives your journey a Robinson-like feel, adding a unique sense of adventure.
How to Get to the Islands? |
| The main transport providers are Jadrolinija and Krilo, offering ferries and catamarans that connect the mainland with the larger islands. For more flexibility, you can always rent a boat or arrange a private transfer. |
When Is the Best Time to Visit? |
| The best time to explore the Dalmatian islands is from May to September. July and August are the liveliest, while May and September are perfect for a more peaceful enjoyment of the Adriatic’s beauty. |
Islands of South Dalmatia
Korčula
The layout of the buildings resembles a herringbone pattern (Source: Boris Kačan)
Step back in time by visiting the island of Korčula and experience the thousand-year-old history of its medieval city walls. Wander through streets arranged in a fishbone pattern, marvel at the towering walls reminiscent of Dubrovnik, explore hidden coves and beaches, and soak in the island's relaxing atmosphere.
The central town of Korčula is the birthplace of the world-famous traveler Marco Polo, where it is believed he grew up before embarking on his journeys through the Orient. The medieval spirit of Korčula can be felt not only through its architecture but also through its traditional sword dance, known as Moreška.
Although referred to as a dance, Moreška is more of a performance that combines dance, singing, and swordplay. The performance tells the story of a love triangle involving a princess and two rival kings locked in battle.
After exploring the island, I recommend stopping by one of the local restaurants to indulge in the traditional dessert rožata and savor the local wines—Grk and Pošip.
DON’T MISS: If you find yourself on Korčula in August, visit the village of Lumbarda and witness the unique tradition of the donkey race.
Mljet
The islet of St. Mary is located on the Great Lake within the island of Mljet (Source: Adriatic.hr)
The most forested and greenest island of the Adriatic is protected as a national park. Pristine nature, endemic plant and animal species, saltwater lakes, and historical significance make Mljet truly special.
Saltwater lakes, appropriately named Veliko and Malo (Big and Small), are the national park’s symbols and a fascinating geomorphological phenomenon. The lakes are connected by enchanting stone bridges and surrounded by numerous trails for hiking, cycling, and leisurely walks.
A rare sight anywhere in the world is the islet of Sveta Marija. This tiny 0.5-hectare island is located within Veliko Lake and is home to a 12th-century Benedictine monastery. Explore the trails around the monastery and even take a swim in the crystal-clear waters surrounding it.
Mljet has long been tied to myths and legends, with one standing out in particular—the legend of Odysseus. According to the tale, after a terrible shipwreck, Odysseus found refuge on Mljet, where the nymph Calypso held him captive for seven long years. The “proof” of this story is Odysseus’ Cave, whose striking blue hue, created by the sunlight reflecting off the white rocks, fascinates even the most seasoned adventurers.
There is no shortage of activities on Mljet. The island’s highest peak rises to 514 meters, offering breathtaking views of Veliko and Malo Lake as well as the surrounding islands. The island also features nine cycling trails, kayak rentals, and for those interested in underwater exploration, opportunities for scuba diving.
DON’T MISS: Swimming at Velika and Mala Saplunara beaches, surrounded by stunning pine forests.
Islands of Central Dalmatia
Hvar
Hvar's Riva (Source: TZG Hvar)
Probably the most popular island destination in Croatia, Hvar is known as the "sunny island."
You might wonder—why sunny? Aren’t all islands sunny?
What makes Hvar unique is the number of sunshine hours it gets each year (over 2,700 hours!)
The island’s main attractions are Stari Grad and Hvar Town, offering different but equally unique experiences.
Hvar Town is the place to take a stroll along the waterfront and admire luxury yachts bobbing in the harbor. At the end of the promenade, you'll find the spacious main square in front of the old baroque cathedral. If you wander into the narrow stone streets, you’ll discover countless restaurants and bars serving authentic local cuisine.
While Hvar Town is livelier and more prestigious, Stari Grad offers a more relaxed atmosphere. The oldest town in Croatia, founded in 384 BC, boasts one of its most famous attractions—Tvrdalj, a 16th-century Renaissance castle featuring a fish pond built by the poet Petar Hektorović.
Explore medieval walls, taste local wines and olive oil, and stroll through the narrow stone streets steeped in history.
With such a rich history and diverse cultures that have ruled the island, it’s no surprise that Hvar is home to some of Croatia’s greatest artists and is packed with historical monuments. Hvar also boasts the oldest public theater in Europe. Additionally, the island is famous for its lavender fields, celebrated each year with the Lavender Festival in July and August.
A noteworthy spot on Hvar is Vrboska, often called “Croatia’s Venice” due to its many bridges and water channels. If you're looking for peace and quiet, the perfect places for relaxation are the fishing villages of Jelsa and Sućuraj.
DON’T MISS: A boat trip to the Pakleni Islands and swimming in hidden coves!
Brač
Aerial view of Sumartin (Source: Adriatic.hr)
The symbol of Brač and one of the most famous posters of Croatian tourism is Zlatni Rat in Bol—a beach that has been awarded the title of the most beautiful beach in the world. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and one of the rare sandy beaches on the island, it is unique due to its constantly shifting shape and position depending on the wind.
An interesting fact is that Brač is home to the highest peak in the Adriatic, Vidova Gora (778m). You can reach the summit via an easy or challenging trail, offering a view that extends all the way to Italy on clear days. Another nearby natural gem worth visiting is the Dragon’s Cave (Zmajeva Špilja).
Brač’s architecture is characterized by the use of its famous white limestone, which has been used in the construction of world-famous buildings such as Diocletian’s Palace in Split, the Parliament building in Vienna, and even the White House in the United States.
On the island’s southern side, you will find numerous hidden coves, caves, and even a desert. Yes, you heard that right. Brač is home to a desert called Blaca, an intriguing place to visit that also features an ancient monastery built into a cliffside.
The best place to experience the authentic flavors of Brač is undoubtedly the Museum of Olive Oil (Muzej Uja). Learn about the traditional process of making olive oil using an old stone mill, indulge in delicious olive spreads, or try homemade fig jam.
DON’T MISS: Cycling tours through olive groves and vineyards.
Vis
Visiting the Blue Cave (Source: Unsplash)
Once closed to tourists and used as a military base, today an isolated island filled with untouched beaches and hidden shores, Vis is the perfect place to relax both body and mind while experiencing the authentic Dalmatian way of life.
The most remote inhabited Croatian island is also known to some as the filming location for the second installment of the popular movie “Mamma Mia”.
Although Vis has managed to avoid mass tourism unlike other islands, two locations are absolute tourist magnets, especially for those looking for that perfect Instagram photo. These are Stiniva Beach and the Blue Cave on the nearby island of Biševo.
Stiniva, a beach formed by the collapse of a cave, is hidden behind towering cliffs and connected to the open sea by a narrow passage. Its unique and breathtaking appearance has made it incredibly popular, earning the title of Europe’s most beautiful beach in 2016.
If you find yourself in Komiža, be sure to visit the Blue Cave, which can be reached by boarding one of the many boat tours. What makes the Blue Cave so special is its mesmerizing color, created by sunlight passing through an underwater opening, resulting in a spectacular glowing effect. Just keep in mind that both locations are incredibly crowded during the summer, so I highly recommend visiting early in the day.
A must-try on Vis are the traditional Viška and Komiška pogača. These savory pastries were originally created as a convenient meal for fishermen during long working days. While both variations are nearly identical, the key difference lies in their fillings—Viška pogača consists of dough filled with onions and anchovies, while Komiška pogača includes onions, salted fish, and tomatoes.
DON’T MISS: Viško Cultural Summer, the Vis Regatta, and the Vis Swimming Marathon (held throughout the summer).
Šolta
Marchi Castle in Maslinica (Source: Adriatic.hr)
Located just off the coast of Split, Šolta is a hidden gem of the Adriatic. Despite being a neighbor to the lively island of Brač, Šolta is known for its peaceful atmosphere and remains one of the lesser-known islands in Croatia.
An interesting tradition shared between Šolta and Brač is the small islet of Mrduja. This islet is at the heart of the traditional event "Potezanje Mrduje" (Tugging of Mrduja), where the winner claims “ownership” of the islet. The competition is simple yet entertaining—teams from each island pull on a rope attached to Mrduja, attempting to "drag" it closer to their side. Over the years, this humorous event has grown into a tourist attraction, followed by a festive celebration filled with delicious food and local wine.
The main town on the island is Maslinica, which serves as both a tourist and nautical center. Experience the charm of this small fishing village by strolling through its picturesque harbor, admiring historical landmarks like the Marchi Castle, or joining one of the many summer festivities.
For those who love an active holiday, Šolta is the perfect destination. With numerous hiking and biking trails that lead through the authentic Dalmatian landscape, shipwreck diving sites, and opportunities for sea kayaking around the island, there’s plenty to explore.
DON’T MISS: Visit Nečujam and try the therapeutic mud bath in Piškera Bay.
Islands of North Dalmatia
Dugi otok
The Veli Rat Lighthouse, built in 1849, is also the tallest lighthouse on the Adriatic (42m) (Source: Adriatic.hr)
Just a 2-hour ferry ride from Zadar will take you to Dugi Otok. As its name suggests (meaning "Long Island"), it stretches over 45 kilometers, so I highly recommend exploring it by car.
Your first stop on the island will likely be Sali, a charming little fishing village whose simplicity creates the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll through its stone-paved streets. While visiting the waterfront in Sali, you’ll come across a small area designed purely for relaxation. Known as the “Linčarnica,” this spot was originally used by fishermen to rest but has now become a fantastic place for tourists to lounge and escape the summer heat.
One of the island’s most remarkable spots is Nature Park Telašćica—a place that stands out for its contrasting beauty. On one side, you’ll find dramatic, towering cliffs, while on the other, serene, hidden beaches await. A must-see location on the island is the saltwater Lake Mir, where you can enjoy a peaceful swim. Also within the park’s waters, you’ll spot the uniquely flat islet called Taljurić, which is actually a limestone rock plate formed through vertical sedimentation. To fully explore Telašćica and immerse yourself in its natural beauty, plan to spend at least one full day there.
Another fascinating fact about Dugi Otok is that archaeologists discovered remains of the “oldest Dalmatian” named Šime, who lived over 11,000 years ago. Given the island's rich marine biodiversity, it’s no surprise that it has been inhabited for thousands of years.
As mentioned earlier, the island is home to many pristine beaches, but the most famous one is Sakarun. With its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. Stretching around 300 meters in length and with shallow waters, it's ideal for families with children. The beach also offers restaurants and bars, so you won’t need to worry about food and drinks.
DON’T MISS: The three-day festival “Saljske užance,” held on the first weekend of August.
Pag
You can buy Pag lace directly from the manufacturer (Source: Adriatic.hr)
Novalja—an unmissable destination for every party enthusiast, home to both international and local music festivals. The heart of the party scene is the famous Zrće Beach, which, in addition to a rich selection of nightclubs, offers a variety of activities such as bungee jumping and jet skiing.
However, that's not the only reason why Pag is one of the most visited islands in Croatia.
Pag is primarily known for its salt production, a fact reinforced by the well-developed salt industry on the island. Moreover, Pag's saltworks were the first in Croatia to receive the designation of authenticity.
Exquisite craftsmanship is no stranger to Pag, as evidenced by the traditional Pag lace, which even reached the Viennese court, where Empress Maria Theresa had her personal Pag lace-maker. Mentioned as early as the 15th century, this intricate needlework has long been recognized for its high-quality craftsmanship and elaborate motifs.
But, in my opinion, the best traditional product of Pag is undoubtedly its cheese. Its distinctive taste and strong aroma are the results of traditional recipes and natural ingredients.
If you're interested in the island’s history, note that up until the 19th century, the town of Pag was surrounded by defensive walls. The largest town gate, Porta Marina, still stands today. One of the most remarkable historic landmarks is Skrivanat Tower, which during the summer often hosts cultural entertainment events.
When the summer heat calls for a refreshing swim, explore some of the island’s many hidden beaches. Just keep in mind that you may come across nudist spots.
I’d say that Ručica and Beritnica beaches are a must-visit due to their fascinating landscape that resembles the surface of Mars. The rugged, vegetation-free terrain, white sand, and clear waters make these beaches truly unique. If you're looking for more family-friendly beaches, head to Planjka (Trinćel), Čista, or Caska, which offer easier access and a relaxed atmosphere.
DON’T MISS: In the town of Lun, visit the Olive Gardens, home to olive trees that are over 1,600 years old.
Dalmatian islands are not just a destination – they are a way of life. Each one has its own story, atmosphere, and unique charm that will leave no one indifferent.
Whether you're looking to party, relax, explore, or indulge in local cuisine – one thing is certain: Dalmatia is always a good idea!
