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January 14, 2025The beaches of the enchanting island of Cres are perfect for those seeking a peaceful yet active vacation, surrounded by crystal-clear waters.
The Island of Cres is filled with small, secluded coves that hide tranquil pebble beaches. However, as most of these are located in less accessible areas, you’ll need good physical fitness, patience, and in some cases, a car or bicycle. Awaken your inner explorer and join us in discovering the best beaches on the island of Cres!
Krušćica Beach
Krušćica Beach
This small pebble beach is located in a cove of the same name, near the village of Merag. The cove is protected as an area of special biodiversity. It is somewhat difficult to reach, requiring a 15-minute walk down a dirt road and through a forest. However, once you arrive, you will be greeted by a stunning secluded pebble beach surrounded by green slopes. Due to its remote and less accessible location, there are no amenities, so be sure to bring food and drinks with you.
Stara Porozina Beach
Stara Porozina Beach
Visit this wild, pebble beach located in the village of Porozina, nestled in a cove sheltered from the wind. Due to its more challenging access (requiring a descent through a forest), the beach remains uncrowded even during peak season. This makes it perfect for adventurers, romantic couples, and anyone seeking a peaceful beach, ample shade, and crystal-clear waters. However, there are no facilities on the beach, so make sure to bring food and drinks with you.
This is an ideal spot for your first swim on Cres if you're arriving on the island from Brestova in Istria, as the ferry docks at the ferry port in Porozina.
Mali Bok Beach
Mali Bok Beach
To reach the pebble beach of Mali Bok, start from the village of Orlec and follow the signs leading to Mali Bok. At the top near the cemetery, there is free parking. From there, it's a 10-minute (500-meter) descent to the beach. The return climb takes about 20 minutes.
Mali Bok beach has no facilities, so be sure to bring all necessary items (food, water, umbrellas) with you. Additionally, there is no shade on the beach, so visiting during the middle of the day is not recommended.
If you want to have the beach all to yourself, head there early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Kovačine Beach
Kovačine Beach
Returning to civilization, we head to the northwest of Cape Kovačine, where the popular pebble beach Kovačine is located, surrounded by steep cliffs. The beach features a long shallow area, making it ideal for children and non-swimmers. It is equipped with basic amenities such as changing cabins and toilets. There is also a bar on the beach where you can refresh yourself and take a break from the sun and swimming.
The beach is a proud holder of the Blue Flag, awarded to beaches of exceptional cleanliness. Kovačine Beach is perfect for families with children. You can rent pedal boats, play beach volleyball, try flyboarding, or enjoy a game of tennis.
Slatina Beach
Slatina Beach
If you're wondering which beach on the island of Cres is suitable for your pets, visit the pebble beach Slatina. This beach is part of the Slatina campsite, near the village of Martinšćica, and has designated areas where dogs can swim and bins for dog waste.
Not only is the beach perfect for dogs, but it is also full of activities for children. Pedal boats can be rented, children can enjoy fun activities with animators, and nearby there are playgrounds designed for kids.
The beach features a bar, restaurant, WC, showers, and changing cabins.
Beach at the Blue Grotto
Beach at the Blue Grotto
Near the legendary St. Ivan Beach, below the picturesque village of Lubenice, lies the Žanja Bay. This bay features a small pebble beach as well as the renowned Blue Cave (Plava Grota).
You can enter the cave by swimming through its wide entrance. Inside the cave, there is a small beach, which can get crowded during peak season. Through a second, much narrower entrance, you can dive in and explore underwater. The cave earned its name due to the light play in the afternoon hours, which paints the cave in stunning shades of blue.
How to get to the Blue Cave?
You can reach the Blue Cave by taxi boat from the villages of Martinšćica or Cres. If you’re in good shape, you can hike down from the village of Lubenice. Keep in mind that the descent takes about 45 minutes, while the climb back up takes over an hour. Be sure to bring plenty of water but avoid carrying too much gear, as it can slow you down during the descent and ascent.
*We recommend planning this trip for the morning or afternoon hours.
