Crikvenica Riviera: TOP 5 Beaches
March 17, 2025
4 places you must visit on the island of Brač
March 25, 2025With the arrival of July and extremely high temperatures, the only thing we think about most of the time is how to escape the crowds and stress and find our own little "place in the sun." Choosing a destination becomes a priority—what we want to do, how much money we’re willing to spend, what kind of accommodation we’re looking for, and what exactly we expect from the location. But if you’re planning a trip with your pet, whom you have no intention of leaving behind this summer, then properly “scouting” and analyzing the potential vacation spot is key.
Nowadays, there’s a growing number of pet-friendly accommodations, hospitality venues, destinations, and beaches. Even at the most popular tourist spots today, you’ll see dogs happily splashing in the shallows, soaking in the natural beauty and enjoying all the joys of summer. Many beaches across Croatia now offer completely separated pebble or sandy areas for pets, so rest assured—you’ll be able to take your furry friend with you on all your trips and adventures this summer without worry!
The days of leaving your pet with family, friends, or in a specialized pet-friendly hotel are long gone. Now, you can confidently start planning your holiday on the Croatian coast. All coastal regions like Istria, Kvarner, and Dalmatia have upheld this tradition for decades, adapting to modern trends and offering a wide range of diverse content. So, no matter where you go, a beach for pets will never be far away!
Before you even decide on a summer vacation with your pet and start choosing the perfect accommodation and beach for both of you, take some time to think through what your vacation with a pet will actually look like.
Which pet is suitable for a holiday?
When talking about pet-friendly holidays, most travelers usually think of dogs. However, there are just as many guests who plan to go on vacation with a cat or a parrot. Therefore, it’s important to consider how your pet will behave, whether the change of environment and high temperatures will affect them, and how you plan to get to the destination.
It’s worth mentioning that adult dogs are usually the ideal travel companions who won't cause much trouble. Cats are territorial, while parrots require companionship. So, if you have a pet that is timid and not easily adaptable, this trip might not be the best idea. Also, keep in mind that your pet will need bathroom and exercise breaks, both during the journey and upon arrival. Choose accommodation with a yard or enclosed area so your pet can play peacefully, and make sure to keep them hydrated, protected from the sun and insects. Also consider whether they are afraid of the sea and how they react to long trips with little movement and walking.
Testing pets in similar conditions that simulate a holiday is a good way to prepare and see what to expect. If they are fearful, leave them at home with a trusted person, make sure they are well cared for, and gradually get them used to being apart from you for an extended period!
The wide range of accommodations available today is adapted to meet most of your needs, and it is clearly indicated whether a unit is pet-friendly and what exactly that entails. A pet-friendly hotel is common nowadays, and staff are prepared for the arrival of pets, although there are specific rules of conduct. As mentioned, don’t forget to bring protective gear, cream, food, toys and all other necessities to help your pet adapt to the new environment as quickly as possible. Take them out regularly, avoid intense sunlight and areas with lots of insects, and if possible, steer clear of overcrowded beaches!
Pet transportation
The simplest and most common method of transport is by personal car. A personal car is familiar to your pet, making it easier for them to adapt. Before the trip, try to recreate conditions similar to a long drive and observe how they react. When crossing the border, you’ll need to present a valid international veterinary health and vaccination certificate. Check the list of vaccinations, whether the animal is microchipped, and if it’s listed among prohibited breeds. For more details, consult the official Ministry of the Interior website, as well as the process for obtaining an International Veterinary Certificate. Learn how to get a pet passport and what conditions apply before your journey to be well prepared!
If your pet handles car travel well, the last factors you need to consider are: preparing medication, food and water in case your pet gets anxious, making them comfortable while also ensuring they are safe, and planning for frequent breaks.
If you're travelling by airplane, your pet will either travel with you or in a separate area of the aircraft, depending on its size and the regulations of the country you’re travelling from. So, be mindful of how your pet will handle such a situation and consider doing a trial run before your departure.
In trains, you can transport small pets for free if they are under 30 centimeters and can sit on your lap, as they are not allowed on seats. For larger pets, you’ll need to pay half the second-class fare, and they must be restrained. Owners are financially responsible for any damage caused.
When it comes to buses, the situation is more complex. Aside from small pets and guide dogs for the blind or visually impaired, larger pets are rarely allowed. Most Croatian bus companies accept small animals, but always check at the ticket counter before purchasing a ticket.
On ferries, all pets are allowed onboard if they are restrained or in a carrier. Transport is free of charge, but entry into certain areas of the ship is prohibited.
Final preparations before going to the beach
Once you've tackled the hardest part—choosing your accommodation and destination for the summer holiday—it's time to head to the beach. But before setting off carefree, don’t forget that your pet has the same needs as you do.
That’s why you should always bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and paw balm to the beach. Since your pet will be playing in a new and unfamiliar environment, keep them in the shade, prepare plenty of water and food, let them run around and play with their toys, and allow them to decide on their own whether they want to go into the sea or not.
WARNING
Also, don’t forget that swimming with dogs on Blue Flag beaches is prohibited! 
Before arriving, try to anticipate how your dog will behave at the beach. If they bark excessively or react poorly to their surroundings, it’s best to go elsewhere. Also, if you notice disapproving looks because behavior rules aren’t clearly displayed, don’t stress—just look for beaches marked as pet-friendly, with showers, waste bins, and other essential amenities.
It’s important to note that all beaches in Croatia are public, and there’s no entrance fee. Also, dogs are allowed to swim wherever the beach isn’t formally developed or there is no regulation explicitly forbidding it. Still, it’s wise to check before laying your towel on the pebbles or sand.
As a top tourist destination, Croatia has long recognized the importance of holidaying with pets, and each year the number of pet-friendly beaches continues to grow, making it the perfect choice this summer. Most are located in the Northern Adriatic, but their number is also steadily increasing in Dalmatia. So, you can start planning with peace of mind, because all guests—two-legged or four—are equally welcome in our beautiful country!
You can swim with your pet on beaches that are not developed or where it is not specifically prohibited by signage (Source: Unsplash)
List of pet-friendly Croatian beaches
The region with the most dog beaches is Kvarner, which has become the top dog-friendly destination in Croatia! Just on the island of Lošinj, there are eight beaches, making it a national record holder and a true paradise for man's four-legged “best friends.” On Krk and Cres there are three beaches each, in Opatija two, and in Crikvenica also two. We’ll now highlight a few of the best beaches to make your search easier, as these locations already offer available amenities, making them ideal for enjoying all the delights of summer!
Podvorska Beach Crikvenica
The most famous and best-equipped dog beach in both Croatia and the world is the Podvorska beach in Crikvenica, a true paradise for pets and their owners. This beach was even named the most well-maintained dog beach in the world by the New York Post as well as other renowned global and European publications!
Once you arrive, it becomes clear why. In addition to being equipped with all the basic amenities like showers, waste bins, natural shade, nearby parking, and areas to lay down your towel, Podvorska also features the first all-inclusive dog restaurant. Yes, you heard that right: let your best friend enjoy beer, chips, or biscuits just like you and fully relax in a new environment. They might even meet new friends — the perfect way to round out the ideal vacation! In addition to Crikvenica, the same establishment is also open in the town of Rab on the island of the same name!
Duilovo and Kašjuni Beach - Split
The second largest city in Croatia and one of the top tourist destinations, the city of Split, has fully embraced new trends in recent years and has opened several dedicated dog beaches that can be found along the coastline in all parts of the city. On Marjan, your furry friend can take a dip in the beautiful sea at any of the unmarked beaches, while a special enclosed area is located at the Kašjuni beach on the western side of Marjan.
A well-maintained and equipped beach is the Duilovo beach in Pazdigrad near Žnjan. This is a newly developed, modern beach on the eastern coast with all the necessary amenities. From showers and changing rooms to waste bins and even tents for protection from scorching heat — this beach is an absolute must-visit stop on your trip to the “Adriatic gem.” Unfortunately, there are no restaurants or bars yet, so be sure to bring food and drinks just in case.
Punta Šilo Beach and Vela Plaza in Baška – Island of Krk
The largest and most populated island in the Adriatic, the island of Krk, can truly boast about the number of dog beaches it offers, making it — alongside Lošinj and the rest of the northern Adriatic — a true dog-friendly destination. It features as many as 6 beaches, including Readgara, Vela plaža in Baška, Kljak in Njivice, Mala Javna, Punta Šilo, and the Soline bay. These beaches are mostly easily accessible, offer shade, and are covered in pebbles with shallow waters.
The Punta Šilo beach is located in the coastal town of Šilo, not far from the Neptun diving center. It’s a pebble beach that is easy to access, and both the hosts and locals are extremely pet-friendly. Additionally, there is a designated parking area, so you can comfortably reach it by car.
Vela plaža in Baška is one of the most beautiful and well-known beaches in Croatia. Due to its clean sea and environment, it proudly holds the Blue Flag designation. With its facilities, calm and shallow waters, it’s one of the best beaches for a family holiday. During the season, up to several thousand swimmers can enjoy its 1,800 meters of length, and with a specially fenced area, your pet can also enjoy the full benefits of this stunning beach and sea.
Dog beaches in Zadar
In Dalmatia, the number of dog beaches increases every summer, along with social awareness and care for pets, so you won't have any issues even if you end up on a public beach with your dog. One of the destinations that has put Northern Dalmatia on the dog-friendly map is Zadar, with a series of top-quality and well-equipped beaches such as those in Privlaka and Zaton Mali.
In Zaton Mali, just 20 minutes from Zadar, you'll find one of the most well-developed beach complexes — the beach within the tourist resort Zaton Holiday, which truly elevates the quality of the offer to a higher level. Within the complex, there is a special dog beach with absolutely all the necessary facilities and a rich array of services. You'll find everything you need there, so you too can relax and enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and the breathtaking beauty of the Zadar Riviera!
In another popular tourist destination, Privlaka, there is also a dedicated dog beach with all available amenities in this well-known location of Northern Dalmatia.
With more than 1200 islands, islets, reefs and cliffs, you will find something for yourself and your furry pet this summer (Source: Adriatic.hr)
Premantura and Portić – Istria
As a destination with a centuries-old tourism tradition that constantly creates new trends and is a truly tourist-friendly location suited to every type of guest, Istria is, of course, also tailored to animal lovers, with a large number of dog beaches in perfect spots and excellent locations. Medulin, Pula, Poreč, Rovinj, Umag, Vrsar, and Labin are just a few of the towns where you can literally swim with your dog almost anywhere.
One of the most beautiful beaches we recommend visiting is Premantura, located at the very southern tip of Croatia’s largest peninsula. It lies within the protected area of the Kamenjak cape and features a special entrance for you and your pet. Here you can enjoy a stunning view of the open sea, the extraordinary beauty and scents of Mediterranean pine forests, and a rich culinary offer for you and your four-legged friend.
Another excellent and well-equipped beach is Portić in the town of Peroj. This is a clean and beautiful beach fitted with showers (which can also be used for drinking water), parasols, and fenced-off areas for shade and shelter from the scorching heat. From the beach, you can enjoy a pleasant 2.5-kilometer walk to Fažana, which every summer offers a variety of events, daily activities, and a rich offer. In addition to the mentioned dog-friendly destinations, the beautiful town of Rovinj also has several beaches specially designed for pets, ensuring a completely carefree vacation.
Croatia - pet-friendly destination for 2025!
When you look at the entire list as a whole, it’s easy to conclude that Croatia is truly a pet-friendly destination, allowing you to enjoy a carefree summer with your favorite furry companion no matter which part of the Adriatic coast you choose for your vacation — each one represents a stunning corner of untouched and natural beauty. There’s no need to fear judgmental looks, being chased off the beach, or awkward moments, because both you and your pets are more than welcome this summer season. In addition to the beaches themselves, you’ll find all the necessary amenities on most of them, such as showers, bins, and other essentials.
It’s important to note that all public, non-developed beaches are accessible and free, while swimming is not allowed on those with the Blue Flag. You’ll find a list of all beaches below, and how to get to them is shown on the map. All other necessary information and details can be found on various informational websites so you can prepare for your dream summer in Croatia 2025!
You’ll recognize dog beaches by a round sign with a dog icon or the official dog beach flag featuring a dog bone logo on a blue-green-yellow background. We hope this information has made things a bit easier for you and that you’re now ready for a pet-friendly vacation in Croatia.
Istria, Kvarner, and Dalmatia increase the number of dog beaches every year, and they can now be found even in remote areas and on islands (Source: Unsplash)
List of Pet-Friendly Beaches in Croatia | |
Kvarner | |
| Crikvenica | Podvorska Beach, Mala Draga Bay |
| Krk | Redagara Beach, Vela Beach (Baška), Kljak (Njivice), Mala Javna, Punta Šilo, Soline Bay (Čižići) |
| Opatija | Punta Kolova, Beach below Villa Frapart |
| Rijeka | Kantrida Beach, Brajdica Beach, Mikulova kava (Kostrena) |
| Rab | Mel (Kampor), Dumići (Supetarska Draga), Škver, Artić (Banjol) |
Istria | |
| Poreč | Stari Červar, Blue Moon, Camp Bijela, Camp Istra, Tourist Resort Lanterna |
| Novigrad | Camp Sirena, Aminess Laguna, Aminess Maravea |
| Pula | Veruda, Seagull Rocks, Štinjan Bay, Hidrobaza, Verudela |
Dalmatia | |
| Split | Duilovo Beach, NW part of Kašjuni, Concrete Block at Žnjan, Trstenik, Pazdigrad (after 8 PM) |
| Dubrovnik | Beach in Slano |
| Pag | Camp Straško |
| Trogir | Kaštela, Seget Vranjica |
| Brač | Dog Beach in Bol, Zastup |
