12 sandy beaches in Croatia: where to find them and where to anchor?

Anyone familiar with Croatia knows that its coastline, a favourite holiday spot, is more known for pebbly or rocky shores than sandy ones. However, we’ve selected a few sandy beaches that are well worth a visit. Where can you find a touch of the Caribbean in Croatia?

While Zlatni Rat often tops the list of Croatia’s most stunning beaches, Brač also offers Lovrečina Beach, located in the island’s northern region. The beach has a gentle, sloping entry into the water, making it suitable for young children. When you’ve had enough sun, the nearby pine grove offers a cool place to relax, and you’ll find a bar and restaurant on site.

Google maps:  Which way to Lovrečina beach?

Dock your boat at the Konoba Levrnaka pier, where you can arrange for a mouthwatering octopus cake to be ready by evening. From there, it’s just a 10-minute stroll to the beautiful beach, which remains tranquil and almost empty during early mornings or late afternoons. Keep an eye out for flounder on the seabed, so be sure to bring your snorkel. Alternatively, you can anchor directly in the bay.

Google maps: Which way to Lojena beach?

From above, you might not believe this beach is in Croatia — it bears a striking resemblance to the Caribbean with its brilliantly azure waters. Stretching for about a kilometre, the beach features a mix of pebbles and sand, with a gentle slope into the sea. When you’ve had enough sun, retreat to the nearby pine grove or relax at the beach bar. Boats often anchor directly in the bay, allowing you to either swim to the shore or use a dinghy.

Google maps:  Which way to Sakarun Beach?

With fine sand and calm waters, Bačvice Beach is conveniently located just 1.5 kilometres from the centre of Split. However, being so close to the city, it’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals, making it quite crowded. If you prefer a quieter setting, this may not be the best place to relax. Large boats cannot anchor directly in the bay, so it’s best to visit this beach if you’re spending time around Split or have a day off before or after your charter.

Google maps:  Which way to Bačvice beach?

Situated on the western side of the popular Murter Island, Slanica Beach offers crystal-clear waters and fine sand. You can anchor directly in front of the beach, where the shore is lively with activities, including a water slide for children, showers, restaurants, and bars. It’s also a great spot to relax while enjoying views of Kornati National Park.

Google maps:  Which way to Slanica beach?

On the charming, uninhabited island of Ščedro, you’ll find several sandy beaches. Among our favourites are the secluded and charming Tufera and Porteruša bays. Being a small island, it’s rarely crowded, offering a peaceful escape. You can anchor directly in the bays; at Porteruša, boats often tie to the shore using a land line, or you can use the buoys in Porat Bay and walk to the beach. 

Google maps:  Which way to Tufera beach and which way to Porteruša beach?

As the name suggests (velika = big), this beach is really large. Being a city beach, it offers a wide range of amenities, including attractions and water sports, restaurants, bars, sunbeds with umbrellas, a children’s playground, showers, and changing cabins.

Google maps: Where to go to Velika Plaž?

If you're sailing near Korčula, make a stop at Vela Pržina Beach for a refreshing swim. The water here appears a stunning azure, even at depth, thanks to the light-coloured substrate, making it a delightful spot for swimming. You can anchor your boat comfortably, as the depth is just right and the anchor holds well. However, if waves and wind pick up in the bay, it can become quite rocky, so it’s advisable to enjoy the beach during the day and then head to a quieter anchorage in the evening, such as ACI Marina Korčula, to soak up the enchanting atmosphere of the town.

Google maps: Which way to Vela Pržina beach?  

Located on the mainland north of Zadar, the town of Nin features the lovely Ždrijac Beach. While it’s great for a swim, we particularly recommend it for wind sports enthusiasts, as it’s a popular spot for windsurfers and kitesurfers. Equipment rentals are available on-site. Adjacent to Ždrijac is Queen's Beach (Kraljičina Plaža), reputedly a favourite of the wife of Croatia's first king. This beach is known for its heated lagoons and a source of healing mud.

Google maps: Where to go to Nin and Ždrijac beach?

Dock your boat in Jelsa, either at the pier or in the ACI Marina Vrboska, and then either walk or take a taxi to Grebišće Beach. As it's located next to a campsite, the area offers plenty of fun and attractions. The beach is shallow and tranquil, making it an ideal spot for paddleboarding.

Google maps: Which way to Grebišće beach?

Considered one of Croatia’s most beautiful beaches, Vela Plaža Baška regularly receives blue flag awards for its pristine condition. Its most striking feature is its length, extending 1.8 kilometres, making it one of the Adriatic’s longest beaches. The water slide is sure to be a hit with children.

Google maps: Which way to the Vela Plaža Baška? 

While it’s uncertain whether Odysseus truly rested here as legend suggests, Saplunara Beach is the perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and tranquillity. Located within a nature park, the beach is surrounded by pine forests that are home to endangered plant and animal species. The waters here are calm, with gentle, gradual access, making it a great spot for children to play freely. You can anchor your boat right in the bay.

Google Maps: Where to go to Saplunara Beach?