Best Places to Swim in Croatia

Just over a mile from the town of Bol on Brac Island, Zlatni Rat, also known as the Golden Horn, is one of Croatia’s most photographed beaches. Often named among Europe’s most beautiful stretches of sand, it’s a spectacular strip that changes shape with the waves and the wind, made up of glistening white pebbles that juts out a third of a mile into dreamy, brilliant blue waters that surround it on three sides. After an unforgettable swim, if you need a break from the sun, it’s bordered by pine trees that provide the perfect shady spot.

Stiniva Beach lies in Stiniva Cove on the south side of Vis Island, the most remote of the Croatian islands. It’s framed by sheer rock walls which nearly encircle the smooth white pebbly beach with the only break 16 feet wide, opening up the beach to the dazzling turquoise sea. The surreal scene is believed to be the result of an ancient cave that’s collapsed. It’s one of the most jaw-dropping places to swim and as the land route down is somewhat treacherous, the easiest way to reach it is on a boat tour or as a stop on a small-ship cruise.

By basing yourself in sunny Hvar, you’ll not only find idyllic beaches for swimming and sunbathing right on the island, but you’ll have easy access to the Pakleni Islands. A string of forested jewels, the archipelago offers many tranquil, hidden coves and secluded bays with crystal-clear turquoise water for swimming. They stretch for more than six miles off the southwestern side of Hvar, with boat trips that will allow you to take advantage of the top spots. Sveti Klement is one of the best choices for those seeking variety, with peaceful bays, sandy and rocky beaches, beach bars, and restaurants.

An adventure to the Blue Lagoon is like taking a trip to an exotic paradise that looks as if it were somehow stolen from the Caribbean, with remarkably clear aquamarine waters, a sandy seabed, and an unspoiled white sandy beach. It’s just six miles from Trogir and 14 from Split in the heart of the Dalmatian archipelago. Lying between two small islands and Drvenik Veliki Island, it’s protected from the elements, keeping the water wonderfully calm. Snorkeling is outstanding too, with all sorts of fish and other marine life. When you want to simply relax and soak up the sun, the atmosphere is serene.