Dugi Otok is an island in the Zadar archipelago, off the coast of Dalmatia, in Croazia. Stretching 45 km in length, it reveals breathtaking landscapes composed of towering cliffs, pristine sandy beaches like Sakarun, and the magnificent Telašćica natural park. Far from the beaten tourist path, it's a haven of peace perfect for travelers seeking nature and tranquility. Discover its highlights in this guide.

A brief history of Dugi Otok

The name Dugi Otok means "long island" and refers to its elongated shape. Occupied since Roman times due to its strategic position in the Adriatic Sea, the island has experienced numerous influences over the centuries.

It fell under Venetian rule during the Middle Ages, a period when fortifications were built to strengthen its defenses. Subsequently, the island became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, before joining the Kingdom of Yugoslavia in the twentieth century.

During World War II, Dugi Otok became the scene of confrontations with Axis forces. After the conflict, it gained military importance, notably by hosting the military port at Brbinj.

What to do on Dugi Otok?

Explore Telašćica Natural Park

Telašćica natural park covers the southeastern part of Dugi Otok. It is the largest natural shelter in the Adriatic Sea, attracting numerous boats and kayakers. Designated a protected area in 1980 and a natural park in 1988, this place is renowned for its majestic karst cliffs, clear waters rich in marine fauna and its 13 stunning islands.

Telašćica natural park promises a wonderful excursion for visitors. During your exploration, don't miss its most notable attractions, including Lake Mir, one of Europe's rare saltwater lakes and known for its warm waters and therapeutic properties, and the Grpašćak viewpoint, an ancient fortress offering spectacular panoramas.

Discover the village of Sali

Dugi Otok's main port, Sali particularly deserves your attention during your stay on the island. It will captivate you with its authentic fishing village atmosphere, with cobbled streets lined with traditional stone houses leading down to a lively marina, where fishing boats rub shoulders with pleasure sailboats.

Maritime tradition remains very much alive here. Every morning, local fishermen sell their fresh catch at the small port market. On the first weekend of August, the Saljska uzanca fešta transforms the village into a festive scene with its famous "music of donkeys," traditional regattas and tastings of local specialties.

The village is also home to a hidden treasure: a centuries-old olive grove where some trees reach 700 years of age. They testify to the island's rich agricultural history.

Climb Veli Rat Lighthouse

Reaching 42 meters in height, Veli Rat lighthouse offers magnificent views over the archipelago. According to local legend, its characteristic yellow facade owes its color to the 100,000 egg yolks used in its construction in 1849.

Access to this tower is via a paved road 3 km from the village of Veli Rat. The site, surrounded by lush pine forest and coves with crystal-clear waters, is ideal for a contemplative stroll.

Relax on Sakarun Beach

Nicknamed the Adriatic Caribbean, Sakarun is the most popular beach on Dugi Otok. Offering a paradise setting, it stretches for 800 meters and features immaculate white sand and shallow turquoise waters perfect for swimming.

This stretch of coastline has two bars serving delicious refreshing drinks. Families appreciate its gentle slope, which allows children to splash about safely. Snorkeling enthusiasts, meanwhile, delight in observing the wonderful underwater creatures nestled near the rocks.

Enjoy the tranquility of Brbišćica Bay

Located on the southwestern coast of Dugi Otok, Brbišćica Bay reveals a striking natural spectacle. This wild cove, preserved from mass tourism, delights snorkeling enthusiasts thanks to its seafloor teeming with multicolored fish. A small steep path leads to a rocky plateau overlooking the bay, where visitors often spot dolphins coming to play.

Local fishermen sometimes moor their traditional boats in this natural inlet, perpetuating centuries of maritime traditions. The bay also reveals geological treasures: its sedimentary rocks preserve fossils of plants and fish dating from the Jurassic period.

Visit Golubinka Cave

The Golubinka sea cave reveals its wonders only to determined adventurers. Indeed, access is exclusively by sea, swimming or kayaking, through a narrow passage 50 meters long.

Once inside, a magical spectacle awaits you: natural light penetrates the two openings in the ceiling, creating blue reflections on the limestone walls. At the bottom of the cavity, a small pebble beach offers a welcome break.

Scuba diving

The crystal-clear waters of Dugi Otok are home to exceptional diving sites. The Michele wreck, an Italian cargo ship wrecked near Veli Rat lighthouse, will impress you with its cavities colonized by multicolored gorgonians and schools of fish.

The Telašćica natural park will delight you with its unique marine biodiversity, with over 250 aquatic species. Experienced divers will particularly appreciate the vertical drop-offs that plunge to depths of 90 meters.

Hiking

Several marked trails crisscross Dugi Otok from north to south. The coastal path between Veli Rat and Sakarun extends for 12 kilometers, passes through preserved Mediterranean landscapes and features a moderate elevation gain of 30 meters.

Experienced hikers will head to Mount Orljak, the island's highest point (338 meters altitude), to admire a 360-degree panorama of the archipelago. The Lake Mir trail, meanwhile, offers a 6-kilometer loop through centuries-old olive groves.

Camping

Camping enthusiasts will also find their happiness on Dugi Otok. Camp Kargita, nestled in a peaceful bay near Veli Rat, benefits from a beachfront location with direct access to a pebble beach. Children enjoy a play area and trampoline.

Further south, Camp Mandarino seduces with its terraces overlooking the Adriatic. Its restaurant highlights local specialties, while a small shop allows you to stock up on essential supplies.

Access to Dugi Otok is mainly from the city of Zadar. Regular maritime connections link the port of Gaženica to the villages of Brbinj and Sali. The car ferry accepts vehicles and takes 2h30 to reach Brbinj. The catamaran, reserved for pedestrians, reaches Sali in 45 minutes.

Maritime tickets can be booked on the Jadrolinija company website. The frequency of crossings increases in high season, with up to 5 daily departures.