Zadar: beaches, coves and paradise islands on the Croatian coast!
A jewel of the Dalmatian coast, Zadar boasts a rich historical heritage, as well as paradise beaches! Between wild coves, seaside resorts and untamed islands off the coast,
A jewel of the Dalmatian coast, Zadar boasts a rich historical heritage, as well as paradise beaches! Between wild coves, seaside resorts and untamed islands off the coast: discover the most beautiful beaches of Zadar (sandy and pebbly) where you can swim - and enjoy the Adriatic Sea...
The most beautiful beaches of Zadar
Diklo Beach
About 4 km north of the centre of Zadar stretches the superb plaža Diklo. Equipped with good facilities (showers, toilets, changing rooms, etc.), it is lined with a pine forest that offers refreshing shade in summer. If spots are taken? No need to worry! You can rent an umbrella or sun lounger for about fifteen euros a day.
It is a pebbly beach, easily accessible from the nearby parking lot. Renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, it is ideal for recharging between cultural visits in the heart of the city. Its clear, calm waters also make it an ideal place for a family beach day.
Borik Beach
Very popular with the local population, plaža Borik stretches for nearly two kilometers along the Zadar coastline. Also surrounded by a belt of pines, this beach guarantees shaded areas during the summer season. On the equipment side, you will find snack stands (nearby), paid toilets, showers and changing cabins.
Its other asset? Borik beach also allows you to engage in several water activities, including pedal boats, jet skis, sailing and parasailing (parachute towing) – a variant of skydiving without an airplane, where departure is from the sea, pulled by a motorboat.
Made up of pebbles, plaža Borik also has a fairly rocky seabed, ideal for snorkeling. Be careful, depending on the season, an entrance fee may be required to access the beach…
Kolovare Beach
Located 5 minutes' drive from Zadar's historic centre, Kolovare beach allows you to swim without straying far from the city. Designated a "Blue Flag" (a label that recognizes municipalities and marinas taking action in favour of sustainable tourism), plaža Kolovare is made up of small white pebbles and a belt of pines.
Despite its small size, the beach is very popular and always very crowded (it's best to arrive early in the morning). The reasons for its success? A clean beach, volleyball facilities, play areas for children - and the opportunity to engage in water activities, such as water skiing or pedal boats.
Not far from this small beach (350 meters long), you will find restaurants and small cafés, as well as kiosks and ice cream parlors. Note that the beach is located next to a parking lot and is supervised during the summer season.
Podbrig Beach
Podbrig beach is a charming pebbly cove, accessible by stairs. Protected from the wind by small cliffs, and not very touristy, it is ideal for sunbathing sheltered from the wind and crowds!
With crystal-clear waters, plaža podbrig is also an interesting spot for snorkeling. A tip? Due to a strong presence of sea urchins in rocky areas, remember to bring a pair of jelly shoes to protect your feet.
Devoid of restaurants, this beach is conducive to picnicking (you will find a small shopping center nearby). Note also that a parking lot is located near the cove - but it is advisable to park there early in the morning.
Punta Bajlo Beach
Considered one of the most beautiful beaches of Zadar, plaža Bajlo offers a postcard-perfect landscape, just 10 minutes' drive from the city centre. Renowned for its friendly atmosphere, it is very popular with the local population.
On one side, you will find a 100% beach area, with fine sand on which to lay your towel and relax (ideal for families). On the other, a more rocky area, where it is recommended to be careful of currents.
Its other assets? A large parking lot and aisles of pines acting as umbrellas. Overlooking the beach stands a restaurant and a café with a view of the open sea…
Riva Zadar Waterfront
Although it is not a beach, Zadar's waterfront (which stretches for about 1 km) is dotted with small ladders that allow you to reach the sea - to cool your feet or swim. Also appreciated for its laid-back atmosphere (and small restaurants), the promenade provides access to three must-see sites in the city:
The Sea Organ ("Morske Orgulje"). Located at the end of the promenade, this work by artist-architect Nikola Bašić emits sounds as the waves move - thanks to the 35 pipes of the instrument, hidden under the marble staircase). At sunset, the site offers a mesmerizing spectacle!
The "Greeting to the Sun" installation. Also created by Nikola Bašić, this modern monument (a disc 22 meters in diameter) is made up of several photovoltaic panels that accumulate heat during the day. This solar energy is then released in the form of a light show as night falls.
Zadar viewpoint. Located near the photovoltaic installation, Zadar Sunset Point is known as THE must-see spot to watch the sun fade into the Adriatic Sea…
Focus on Zadar's historic centre The historic centre of Zadar is home to a defence system dating from the 16th and 17th centuries, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. At that time, the city was the military and administrative centre of Dalmatia - as well as the most important fortress on the Adriatic. The historic centre bears witness to the ingenuity of the alla moderna fortifications (the style that succeeded medieval-style fortifications). A stroll through the old town offers an immersion in the past, but also an opportunity to become aware of Zadar's strategic role in the midst of the region's landmark events. |
The Kornati Archipelago (and Lojena Beach)
Located in Northern Dalmatia (a region shared between Croatia, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina), the Kornati archipelago is easily accessible from Zadar's port. The Kornati Islands are the subject of day-long cruises during which a boat takes you from one island to another - with stops for swimming or snorkeling.
Lojena Beach (located on the south-west of Levrnaka Island) is one of the highlights. Nestled in the crook of the bay, this white pebble beach contrasts with crystal-clear waters with shades of turquoise blue.
The archipelago is home to the Kornati National Park (with some islands closed to the public to protect wildlife and flora). Nevertheless, the accessible islands allow you to discover the beauty of the seabed. A cruise typically lasts 09:00-18:00 (approximately €60/person). For enthusiasts, it is also possible to scuba dive with tanks.
The Zadar Archipelago (and Sakarun Beach)
It should be noted that Zadar is also the name of an archipelago located off the coast of the eponymous city. It has about 300 islets and reefs, of which only a few are inhabited. The archipelago offers an exceptional natural setting, with preserved areas and secret beaches accessible only by boat. The most visited islands are:
Silba,
Premuda,
Škarda,
Rava,
To the north-west of the latter stretches Sakarun Beach (or Saharun). Accessible in 1.5 hours by ferry from Zadar (particularly with the Jadrolinija company), this pebbly beach is a little treasure of nature... Unfortunately a victim of its own success. In high season, it is not uncommon to see litter present. Nevertheless, the island is worth a visit, with its lush landscapes and superb cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea.
The most beautiful beaches in the surroundings of Zadar
Just a twenty kilometres from Zadar, you will also find superb beaches around the towns of Bibinje, Zaton and Nin. Here are some additional spots to swim on the Adriatic coast!
Lipauska Beach
About 8 kilometers south of Zadar stretches the shaded Lipauska beach. Located in the village of Bibinje (which itself belongs to the administrative division of Zadar), this charming plaža of pebbles is mainly frequented by families.
It is equipped with showers, changing rooms and small stands to buy food, drinks or ice cream. For added convenience, it is possible to park along the railway line, located not far from the beach. Its only downside? This lovely beach is often crowded.
Zaton Beaches
Plaža Pliša: known for its very shallow water (less than 20 cm) and pleasant temperatures, this charming little sandbank is ideal for families and young children. Equipped with free showers and toilets, Plisa beach is nevertheless full of charm with its crystal-clear waters…
Plaža Bilotinjak: nestled at the foot of small cliffs, Bilotinjak beach is appreciated for its fine sand. Rather wild, it is preserved from the great summer crowds and is ideal for snorkeling.
The town of Zaton is also known for Zaton Holiday Resort, a hotel complex with a certified Blue Flag private beach (well equipped with tourist infrastructure, but less authentic).
Nin Beaches
Plaža Kraljičina (or "the Queen's Beach"): renowned for its beauty and turquoise blue waters, this beach owes its name to its legend - which would have an ancient queen literally fall in love with this place! Well equipped (toilets, showers, umbrellas, etc.) it is recommended for families and ideal for a day of relaxation by the sea.
Plaža Ninska Laguna: endowed with fine sand, this beach is ideal for families thanks to its shallow waters and peaceful atmosphere. Perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun, it also has good facilities.
When to swim in Croatia? The Croatian coast is subject to a Mediterranean climate, with temperatures oscillating around 30°C in summer. While the best time to swim is between June and September, note (for the less cold-averse) that it is also sometimes possible to swim outside the summer season, with water around 20°C in the months of June and October. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there sandy beaches in Croatia?
Born from the natural erosion of limestone rocks, Croatia's beaches are mostly made up of pebbles (approximately 75%). Among the most well-known in the country: Paradise Beach – Rajska plaža (Island of Rab), Šunj beach (Island of Lopud), Uvala Blace beach (Island of Mijet), Bilotinjak beach (Zaton coasts) and Prapratno beach (Pelješac peninsula).
What to do in Zadar?
While Zadar is home to beautiful beaches and charming little coves, the city also houses, in its historic centre, UNESCO-listed sites (including the Saint-Nicholas fortress of Šibenik and Zadar's defence system). The city also features two works by Croatian architect Nikola Bašić: the creation Morske Orgulje (a sea organ) and the installation Ozdrav Suncu (a monument dedicated to the sun)
nt that each country is different and makes you want, after each reading, to go out and explore the world.
Frequently asked questions
The beaches around Zadar are mainly made up of pebbles, such as Diklo beach, Borik or Kolovare. However, some nearby beaches such as Plaža Pliša in Zaton offer a sandy bottom, ideal for families with young children.
Kolovare beach is the closest to Zadar's historic centre, just 5 minutes' drive away. It is labelled with the Blue Flag and has good facilities, but it's best to arrive early in high season as it gets very crowded.
Sakarun beach is located on the north-west of Dugi Otok Island. From Zadar, you should allow approximately 1.5 hours by ferry with Jadrolinija company. In high season, remember to book your crossing in advance.
Zadar's beaches offer many water activities: pedal boats, jet skis, sailing, parasailing and water skiing on Borik and Kolovare beaches. Snorkeling is particularly recommended at Podbrig and Bilotinjak thanks to their crystal-clear waters and rocky seabeds.
Yes, the Kornati archipelago is accessible by day cruise from Zadar's port. Excursions typically last from 09:00 to 18:00 for a fee of approximately €60 per person. They include stops for swimming and snorkeling, with the possibility of scuba diving.
