As soon as the thermometer rises above 25 degrees, everyone begins to dream of a relaxing summer vacation. Whether it’s a train trip through Europe or a vacation in Austria – after more than a year in lockdown, we could all use a little break from stressful everyday life. Finally relax on the sandy beach again, drink refreshing cocktails and enjoy the beautiful nature – all of this is possible with a holiday by the sea in Croatia! From countless beaches to more than 1200 islands to 1800 meter high mountains and historical sights – the country has a lot to offer and is very popular with many tourists due to its huge diversity. Is a vacation in Croatia possible in 2025 and what rules should you follow? Which beaches and islands are worth visiting? We will explain all this and much more to you below!
The best time to travel to Croatia
Croatia lies east of the Adriatic Sea and is predominantly part of the Balkan Peninsula. While the Balkan country has a lot to offer at any time of the year, the months of May to September are ideal for a seaside holiday in Croatia. With up to 11 daily hours of sunshine at an average of 30 degrees, you can expect the perfect conditions for the ultimate bathing fun! If you would rather go on a city trip or discovery tour, spring and autumn would be the best travel time for you! The mild and pleasant temperatures ensure that you can explore all the highlights and sights in a relaxed manner.
The most beautiful islands for your holiday in Croatia by the sea
Although Croatia is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe, the Balkan country is far from mass tourism and is therefore ideal for an unforgettable slow travel experience. Croatia is home to more than 1,200 islands spread across the Adriatic Sea. The total length of the coast is more than 6,000 kilometers and promises fantastic beaches, varied landscapes and lots of culture. Whether for a quiet family holiday, a romantic trip or for diving and surfing – every tourist is guaranteed to get their money’s worth in Croatia. So that you don’t lose track, we have put together the most beautiful islands in Croatia for you!
The island of Krk in Croatia
With almost 400 square kilometers, the island with the tongue-twisting name “Krk” is the largest island in Croatia and is located in the very north in the Bay of Kvarner. You can easily reach the island via the bridge, which was opened in 1980. Medieval towns, unique bathing bays with pebbles or fine sand and a varied landscape make Krk one of the most beautiful places for an unforgettable holiday in Croatia by the sea. And if you need a little break from the beach, then you should definitely visit the town of the same name, Krk. The cathedral, which dates back to the 5th century and has an onion-shaped bell tower, is the symbol of the island and an absolute must for all culture lovers. The waterfront promenade and the numerous bars, restaurants and small shops invite you to linger. Or how about a relaxing afternoon with a wine tasting? All wine lovers should definitely visit the vineyards in Vrbnik, which is known for excellent quality wines.
Brac island
If you spend your vacation in Croatia by the sea on Brac, you will definitely want to come back next year! It is the third largest island on the Adriatic and its picturesque beaches, enchanting flora and fauna and impressive sights make for an unforgettable trip. The island is best known for the special beach in the south: The Zlatni Rat, or in German “Golden Horn”. What makes the beach so unique is its shape and location, which constantly changes depending on the wind and waves. The pebble beach stretches in a triangular shape along a headland on the south coast and is one of Croatia’s most popular postcard motifs. An absolute highlight for hikers and nature lovers is Vidova Gora, the highest mountain on the Croatian islands. From there you have an indescribable view of the southern Adriatic. In the charming fishing villages along the coast you can explore local traditions and Croatian culture.
The island of Hvar
According to “Forbes Magazine”, Hvar is one of the most beautiful islands in the world and therefore clearly one of the most popular places for a seaside holiday in Croatia. The island is located in the south of Croatia, directly off the Dalmatian coast and, with an area of approximately 297 square kilometers, is the fourth largest island in the Balkan country. Depending on the region, it is even possible to enter Germany by car. Although you will be on the road for a few hours, you can take great trips into the surrounding area and explore the country at your leisure. With more than 2,726 hours of sunshine per year, Hvar is also one of the sunniest islands in Europe – what more could you want for a summer holiday? There are some beautiful sandy and pebble beaches and bays to discover around the island. Palmizana beach in particular is a true paradise for sailors, swimmers and divers. For a very special bathing experience, visit the so-called “Hell Islands”, also known as Pakleni Otoci. It is a fairytale-like small chain of islands with secluded bays and small hidden beaches.
Rab island
The island of Rab is only 640 kilometers from Munich and is therefore one of the favorite islands of German holidaymakers. The locals also call Rab “the happy island”. Maybe because there are over 30 sandy beaches there, which is rather unusual for Croatia. And for all hikers, Rab offers more than 100 cycling and hiking tours where you can discover the densely forested hills and the unique landscape. The pine forests and the many hidden bays also make the island ideal for a varied holiday in Croatia by the sea. The one and a half kilometer long “paradise beach” of San Marino is particularly popular with tourists. And if you ever get bored of relaxing, then you should definitely visit the historic old town of the city of the same name. The ancient city wall and the four bell towers of the imposing church make the hearts of all culture enthusiasts beat faster. Then we recommend you take a look at the Prince’s Palace, which you can also go into.
The island of Korcula
Quite unknown, but incredibly beautiful – the island of Korcula, also called “black Corfu”, is located in the southern region of Dalmatia. In addition to fairytale beaches and bays, it is the cultural heritage and unique natural landscape that make the island one of the most popular travel destinations for a seaside holiday in Croatia. Enjoy tangerines, figs and pomegranates fresh from the tree? This is actually possible on Korcula. Olive groves and vineyards provide a Mediterranean flair and of course promise wine and olive oil of the highest quality. Korcula is even considered the wine island of Croatia – an absolute must for all wine lovers! According to rumors, the island is the birthplace of the famous explorer and trader Marco Polo. Let yourself be enchanted by the unique charm of the town of Korcula while you enjoy local cuisine in one of the idyllic restaurants. On fascinating cycling and hiking tours you have the opportunity to explore the impressive wealth of Korcula.
Holidays in Croatia by the sea: These are the most beautiful beaches
Anyone who has ever vacationed by the sea in Croatia knows the problem: there is no shortage of beautiful beaches in the Balkan country and you can quickly lose track. However, most of them are not typical sandy beaches and consist of a rocky seabed and pebbles. To avoid injury, we would recommend wearing water shoes.
Zlatni Brat beach for the perfect holiday in Croatia by the sea
Zlatni Brat beach is located on the island of Brac and is probably one of the most famous beaches in Croatia. It is not a pure sandy beach, but rather a mixture of sand and pebbles, but still worth a visit. The special thing is the unique shape, which is constantly changing and Zlatni Brat is already one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world. A surfing and diving school is available for anyone who wants to experience something exciting.
Strand Bijeca
Bijeca Beach is located in Istria and is characterized by super fine sand and crystal clear water. Since the water is very shallow and only small waves reach the beach, Bijeca is ideal for anyone planning a seaside holiday in Croatia with the children. And not only that – dogs are also allowed on the beach! Nearby you will find an aqua park that will delight the whole family with a water area of 4,500 square kilometers and over 1 kilometer of water slides.
Crikvencia, Kvarner Bay
Crni Molo in Crikvencia, Kvarner Bay, with its beautiful sandy and pebble beaches, is one of the most popular and beautiful seaside resorts in Croatia. However, you have to pay entry there and the cost is 2 euros for adults and 1.20 euros for children. But the beach is definitely worth the money and with the many restaurants and bars as well as the wide range of water sports on offer, every holidaymaker gets their money’s worth. In addition, Crni Molo beach received a “blue flag” in 2007, which is an international seal of quality for high-quality and safe beaches.
Paradise Plaza
Rajska Plaza is located in Lopar on the island of Rab and is by far the most popular beach for a seaside holiday in Croatia. It is one of the few real sandy beaches in the Balkan country and is also known as “Paradise Beach”. Since the water there is always shallow, this beach is ideal for children and non-swimmers. And if you get bored, there is a large sports center and numerous water sports awaiting you.
Strand Punta Rata
The brilliant white pebble beach of Punta Rata awaits you on the beautiful Makarska Riviera, which was named the most beautiful beach in Europe by the US magazine “Forbes”. The crystal blue water and the dense pine forests provide a Mediterranean touch. Vortices created by the underwater springs make the place a natural saltwater whirlpool and are a unique phenomenon.
