Must-visit small towns on the Croatian coast you need to explore this summer
August 23, 2024
Makarska Riviera – Croatia’s “Cote d’Azur”
December 19, 2024Croatia is an exceptionally diverse country in terms of climate and geographical features. Within a relatively small area, you can find everything from majestic mountain peaks and mystical wetlands to thrilling waves and wild rivers. That’s why it would be a real shame not to take advantage of these beautiful contrasts and the various opportunities offered by Croatia’s geographic position, and spend your holiday in an active way. We bring you a list of adrenaline-pumping activities available on the Adriatic related to the sea, along with information on the best time and place to try them, and approximate prices, which are subject to change.
1. Diving
Diving is always tempting, especially when you consider that beneath the sea lies an entire world we often forget about. In recent years, diving in Croatia has been growing in popularity among both locals and many visitors. Explore the Adriatic seabed with professional guides or simply immerse yourself in the blue from an extraordinary perspective. The best time for spearfishing is mid-summer and early autumn, but for leisure dives, there are no restrictions at all.
Diving in Croatia – Top Spots
Rovinj – Baron Gautsch
Perhaps the greatest maritime tragedy in the Adriatic was the sinking of the ship Baron GAUTSCH back in 1914. The wreck is explored by heading out into open sea where visibility can vary and currents may be strong. It’s best to start the dive from the stern across the upper deck toward the bow. Entering the ship through the upper deck gives a sense of its former interior. The hull of the wreck is well preserved, and a hole caused by the explosion can be seen on the port side. Due to its preservation, the dive is especially interesting. Visibility and sea currents can vary greatly. The wreck is protected by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Croatia, and diving is only allowed with a licensed dive center.
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Mali Lošinj – The Cathedral
The island of Premuda is the westernmost island of the Zadar archipelago, located between the islands of Silba and Škarda. Its seabed hides a cave system known as The Cathedral. Numerous openings let light in, making the interior of the caves brightly lit and turquoise blue.
The location is accessed by boat, which is moored to a pre-set buoy. The dive begins by descending to a plateau, followed by entry into the Cathedral. In addition to the main cave, you can dive into a tunnel beside the entrance and exit at a depth of 16 meters.
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Sali – Kampanel
The Adriatic Sea hides unimaginable beauty beneath its surface. One prime example is Kampanel – one of the most beautiful diving sites in the Adriatic. The impressive sight of its peak rising from the deep blue hints at the beauty of the rest of Kampanel. The location is accessed by boat and is not easy to find, so diving is only possible with experienced divers. Strong currents pass through the site, so extra caution is required, especially near the top of Kampanel.
2. Sailing
Even in the very heart of Europe, it’s possible to enjoy sun-soaked, untouched nature and complete silence beneath a starry sky. This is well known to anyone who has ever sailed the Adriatic, on any type of boat. The Adriatic coastline, with over 1,000 islands, rocks, and reefs, and typically mild winds, offers an unforgettable experience of the best that the Mediterranean has to offer.
Sailing in Croatia is extremely popular among young travelers, for whom it's a must-do activity during their visit to the Adriatic. Some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and stunning islands are only a few hours away by sailboat and, in that way, literally within reach. All you need to do is choose one of the already suggested seven-day cruise itineraries or, even better, charter a sailboat with or without a skipper and enjoy creating your own route. The ideal time for sailing depends on your preferences — while some prefer early spring and late autumn, others love winter cruising, but summer still remains the favorite option for most.
Cruising in Croatia – Top Spots
Zaklopatica
Lastovo is a forested Adriatic island that still preserves its unspoiled nature and original charm, with many hidden coves. One such secluded and safe cove is Zaklopatica, located on the island’s northern side. It is 2.5 km from the town center and is a favorite among sailors thanks to its position, amenities, and surroundings. Other coves on Lastovo worth visiting include Portorosso, Jurjeva Luka, Korita, and Davjenica.
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Maslinica
Maslinica is located on the western side of the island of Šolta. The area is characterized by dense forests and beautiful coves. Here you'll also find the Marchi hotel and restaurant in a castle built in 1703 by the Venetian family of the same name, and in front of it a new marina with space for around 30 boats. Nearby is the sheltered Šešula Cove, surrounded by seven small islets.
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Marina Kremik
Primošten is one of the most popular destinations in central Dalmatia. The closest marina, Marina Kremik, is just two kilometers from the town. Sheltered and tucked away, it is considered the safest and most naturally beautiful marina on the Adriatic due to its location.
3. Kiteboarding – Parachute Surfing
Kiteboarding is a water sport that actually combines wakeboarding, snowboarding, windsurfing, surfing, paragliding, skateboarding, and sailing into one extreme sport. It’s among the fastest-growing sports and attracts people of all ages. Mastering the key skills in this sport doesn’t require strength as much as it requires understanding how to control the kite and a willingness to learn and adopt new techniques. Depending on the location, the best time for kiteboarding for advanced riders is during summer afternoons, while beginners are better off hitting the water in the early morning hours.
Kiteboarding in Croatia – Top Spots
Viganj
Viganj is one of the favorite kiteboarding spots for enthusiasts from around the world. The sea channel between Pelješac and Korčula and the wind that blows through it create the perfect conditions for this activity. The ideal conditions are the result of the channel’s narrowest point, where the wind accelerates significantly. The Maestral wind, with its steady, small waves that allow for high speeds and thrilling rides, makes summer perfect for this sport. The wind usually starts blowing around noon and strengthens throughout the afternoon, making it ideal for kiteboarding — and great for competitions as well. During summer, there are many schools here that offer equipment rental. Since there’s usually no wind in the morning, the channel appears as calm as a lake, which creates a sense of safety for beginners and children.
Delta of the Neretva River
A sandy beach with a spacious shallow area at the mouth of the Neretva River into the Adriatic Sea, where a constant Maestral wind blows, makes it a perfect location for beginner kitesurfers. You can reach the beach from two directions — from Split, passing through Ploče and Rogotin to the bridge over the Neretva River, where after 1 km you turn left and follow the road straight; or from Dubrovnik, heading to Opuzen, turning toward Blace, and after 8 km you arrive at the coast.
Sabunike
Sabunike Beach is located just about 20 km from Zadar, a popular tourist destination. Kitesurfers especially love it because of the Bura wind that blows down from Mount Velebit, creating perfect conditions for the sport. Others love it for its sandy, spacious, and well-maintained beach. Alongside Bol on the island of Brač, Sabunike is one of the most popular destinations for surfers in Croatia.
4. Windsurfing – Sailing on a Board
Windsurfing — sailing on a board — is still one of the most popular summer water sports, both worldwide and in Croatia. The Adriatic offers excellent conditions for windsurfing thanks to the various winds that blow in the region — Bura, Jugo, Maestral, Tramontana, and Levant. The best time for windsurfing depends on the location and the surfer’s skill level.
Windsurfing in Croatia – Top Spots
Zlatni Rat
Bol on the island of Brač is the most famous and attractive windsurfing destination in Croatia. That’s largely due to the world-famous Zlatni Rat beach, ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world. In the morning, a gentle Levant wind blows, making the first part of the day perfect for beginners, while in the afternoon it's replaced by a Maestral, which is preferred by experienced and professional surfers.
Preluka
In the waters of Preluka, between Volosko and Opatija, surfers have found their own slice of paradise thanks to the winds blowing through this naturally sheltered bay. Here, surfers begin their sessions at night, waiting for dawn and the waves generated by the north wind — Tramontana. Early autumn is the optimal time for windsurfing in the Preluka area.
Jadrija
Jadrija, a seaside resort near Šibenik, is one of the Adriatic’s favorite windsurfing destinations. Thanks to a steady Maestral and Tramontana, beginners and intermediate surfers enjoy this spot in summer, while strong Bura and moderate Jugo in spring and autumn provide thrills for professional surfers.
5. Wakeboarding – Cable Waterboarding
Wakeboarding, a water sport less familiar to the general public, involves riding a wakeboard across the surface of the water. A wakeboard is a surfboard — typically rectangular, thin, and small — with foot bindings. The sport developed as a combination of water skiing, windsurfing, and snowboarding. Wakeboarding is usually powered by a motor reaching speeds of 30 to 40 km/h. It can also be powered by other mechanisms, including a closed cable system. Cable parks typically open in April and close in October. We highly recommend checking the opening hours of the cable park at your chosen destination.
Wakeboarding in Croatia – Top Spots
Krk
The cable park on Krk has eight towers and runs on electric power. It stretches 650 meters in length, with speeds ranging between 30 and 32 km/h. These conditions are suitable for both beginners and professionals. Equipment rental and instructor guidance are included in the ticket price.
Pag
The cable park in Novalja on Pag is one of the most modern systems of its kind in the European Union. It is 600 meters long with an average height of 10 meters, adding to the excitement of the sport. The complex also includes a restaurant and a shop where equipment can be purchased.
Kaštela
The cable park in Kaštela was built in 2016. It is 500 meters long and located on Divulje Beach, just below Split Airport. The park includes a café where visitors can grab a snack as well.
6. Rafting
Rafting is an exciting recreational activity suitable for groups, centered around rafting down mountain rivers—those with higher water levels, numerous waterfalls, and rapids. It usually starts in groups of 6 to 10 people with at least one experienced navigator who knows the river well, and appropriate equipment is required. In some parts of the rivers, rafting is considered an extreme sport and can have serious consequences, but it doesn't have to be that dangerous or demanding. It’s most thrilling in spring and autumn. Due to the specific landscape and geographic location, Croatia offers beautiful rafting locations. Here are three we highly recommend experiencing.
Rafting in Croatia – Top Spots
Zrmanja River Canyon
Zrmanja, one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe, is a stunning piece of untouched nature in Croatia. It originates near the southern part of the Plješevica mountain, with the nearest large city being Zadar. In the summer, the Zrmanja River is calm and flows gently through beautiful landscapes, while during high water levels in spring and autumn, it becomes one of the most thrilling rivers in this part of Europe. Suitable rafting section length: 12 km.
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Cetina River Canyon
The Cetina River, just a few kilometers from the sea, guarantees an incredible experience in the town of Omiš in Central Dalmatia, and the exciting and relaxing rafting in the protected part of the Cetina canyon attracts many tourists every summer. Omiš is the perfect destination for adventurers and adrenaline lovers thanks to the combination of majestic river and mountain beauty and their contrast and relationship with the sea. Suitable rafting section length: 11 km.
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Mrežnica River
Enjoy your peaceful vacation in Novi Vinodolski with a trip to the nearby Mrežnica River, about two hours’ drive away. Rafting on Mrežnica is a great way for families with children to spend quality time together because the river is clear and warm, but also ideal for tackling waterfalls. The best time for rafting on the Mrežnica is during the river’s high water levels in spring and autumn. In summer, it’s more suitable for kayaking and canoeing. Suitable rafting section length: 15 km.
7. Kayaking
In recent times, kayaking has become one of the most popular ways to explore the Adriatic coast, including its islands. In this low canoe-like boat, the paddler faces forward and rows with a double-bladed paddle at a rhythm that suits them. Of course, since kayaking is more enjoyable in groups, the paddling rhythm is often set by the group. The best time for kayaking spans from late spring to early autumn. It is available at various locations throughout Croatia, but here we highlight three of the most interesting.
Kayaking in Croatia – Top Spots
Trogir
Kayaking will add a whole new dimension to your holiday in Trogir. Active vacation is an ideal way to fully relax and recharge. The journey begins at the old mill in Pantan and includes sightseeing of Trogir literally from the sea. A break is taken for swimming and lunch, depending on preferences and needs. Route length: 6 km.
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Prvić
Prvić is an Adriatic islet located in the Šibenik archipelago near Vodice. As it is considered a cultural heritage site, the entire island is protected by the Ministry of Culture. A kayak trip to Prvić starts at the beach in Vodice, then paddles past the islands of Logrun and Tijat. Several stops are made along the way so kayakers can swim in the clear sea. Route length: 5–10 km.
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Green and Blue Caves
The untouched nature at the very south of Croatia will reward everyone who sets out from Komiža by kayak towards the Green Cave on Vis and Stiniva Cove, as well as Fratar and the Blue Cave on Biševo. These are sights that leave hardly anyone indifferent. The isolated lagoons and beaches near the Vis town of Komiža are truly worth seeing from the sea. Route length: 10–15 km.
