The 15 Best Beaches on Hvar Island That Will Blow Your Mind (2023 Guide)
If there's one thing Croatia knows how to do well, it's beaches - and the island of Hvar is no exception!
From secluded hideaways to the most popular swimming spots; our guide to the best beaches on Hvar island has you covered.
After eight months of living through the coldest, dreariest, and longest winter of our lives in London, all we could dream of was feeling the sun on our grey skin.
So, we spontaneously decided to pack up our London life and head to the idyllic Adriatic Island of Hvar (you can check out our best photos of Hvar - but be warned, you'll want to buy a ticket immediately!). An island, we'd heard, that's drenched in 7.7 hours of summer sun per day (!) and surrounded by the clearest turquoise blue waters.
We hoped it would be the perfect antidote for our fragile minds and Vitamin D deprived bodies.
It turns out that our spontaneous decision was a pretty bloody awesome one.
Hvar. Was. The. Dream.
For six weeks, we lived by the ocean, spending our weekends exploring the island in search of the best beaches on Hvar - from popular coves where all the tourists come to play to the hidden gems we somehow stumbled upon, but never wanted to leave.
We called it research, but it was just a good excuse to be living our best life!
After getting to know the beaches on this corner of the Adriatic pretty damn well, we thought we’d put together a guide to the best beaches in Hvar for you guys.
So if you’re planning to visit this Adriatic paradise, here is our guide to the best beaches on Hvar, Croatia.
HVAR AT A GLANCE | TOP HOTELS & TOURS
Short on time? Below are our recommended hotels & hostels, tours, and insurance to help you plan an incredible Hvar Island trip!TOP HOTELS & HOSTELS IN HVAR
LUXURY | Palace Elisabeth Hvar Heritage Hotel
BOUTIQUE | Valamar Amicor Green Resort
BEST VALUE | Hotel Antica, Stari Grad
BEST HOSTEL | White Rabbit Hostel
RECOMMENDED TOURS OF HVAR
1 | Blue & Green Cave Day Tour
2 | Hvar wine tasting tour
3 | Hvar Hidden Gems Day Tour
4 | Cycle Hvar day tour
5 | Split full day 3-Island tour
6 | Hvar Romantic Sunset Sailing Tour
7 | Hvar Town guided walking tour
8 | Pakleni Islands half day yacht trip
TRAVEL INSURANCE
You simply mustn't travel without insurance. Get comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out-of-pocket fees with HeyMondo*Get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here.
BEYOND THE BEACHES | EXPLORING MORE OF HVAR ISLAND
After spending six weeks living on the island of Hvar, and got to know it pretty darn well.
Not only is it one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever visited, but there’s also an incredible amount of things to do on Hvar Island and in Hvar town, as well as a huge selection of amazing beaches to choose from.
Below is a selection of our top posts from the island, which should have all the information you need to have an incredible holiday, including where to stay, what to eat and places to visit.
HVAR ESSENTIALS | Everything you need to know before travelling to Hvar, 18 incredible things to see and do in Hvar Island during your stay, and the best Hvar day tours too
PAKLENI ISLANDS | Our guide to the beautiful Pakleni Islands
TOWN GUIDES | The best things to see and do in Hvar Town, 11 amazing things to do in Stari Grad
Oh, and if you’re heading to Dubrovnik, read this!
DUBROVNIK | 10 Essential things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia
15 STUNNING BEACHES ON HVAR ISLAND
BEST BEACHES NEAR HVAR TOWN
POKONJI DOL BEACH
As if lifted from a 70’s Bond film, Pokonji Dol is located a short 25-minute walk from town and is probably the best and most accessible beach to Hvar town. Despite this, we never saw it too busy, which gave it a comfortable, relaxing vibe.
The water was the deepest shade of turquoise, inviting you to jump in straight away.
The beach itself is pebbly, however, it’s far more comfortable to lay on than others we found, and definitely one of the best beaches in Hvar.
Pokonji Dol is flanked by two delightfully authentic restaurants serving the days best catch, and ice-cold beers perfect for a sundowner.
Sunbeds are available for hire, ranging from 70 - 100 kuna for the day.
THE DETAILS
What | Pokonji Dol, Hvar
Pack | Towel, sunscreen, water, cash for sunbeds or food at the restaurants
MEKICEVICA BEACH
A 20-minute walk through the pine forest from Pokonji Dol will take you to Mekićevica beach, a secluded pebble cove fringed by pine forests with not a tourist in sight.
If you’re looking to go au natural on Hvar, Mekićevica beach is your best bet - it’s a known FKK beach and is sheltered, stunning, and has many places to shade yourself should the searing sun prove too much.
A short walk through the forest will take you to Robinson’s - a secluded restaurant serving fresh, homemade fare.
THE DETAILS
Where | Mekićevica beach, Pakleni Islands
Pack | Towel, sunscreen, water, packed lunch, a good book, cash for food/snacks at Robinsons
Read more | Our favourite things to do on Hvar Island
BONJ BEACH, HVAR TOWN
We've got to admit, our favourite beaches on Hvar were out of town, however, our favourite beach near Hvar Town was Bonj beach.
Located near Hotel Amfora, about a 10 min walk west of Hvar town, Bonj Beach is perfect for those wanting to stay close to their accommodation, or indeed the clubs and bars that make Hvar so famous. Bonj beach has a little bit of celeb about it, with the exclusive Bonj Les Bains beach club on the left attracting the global elite, with their private pontoons and enticing sunbeds. Admittedly, our budget didn't stretch far enough to enjoy an afternoon here.
Fortunately, those on a budget can still lay about on the small pebble beach, or swim in the turquoise waters.
There are a number of restaurants and bars that surround the beach, so you'll not be short of food or drink options.
THE DETAILS
Where | Bonj beach, Hvar
Pack | Towel, sunscreen, water, spare cash
DUBOVICA BEACH | HVAR’S BEST BEACHES
Dubovica is one of the most picturesque and popular beaches on Hvar Island. Located about 8km east of Hvar Town, the beach is located in a magical, secluded bay with a large pebble beach, surrounded by pine trees and olive groves. It's basically a Mediterranean dream.
Under the blue skies, the stunning Adriatic sea shimmers, inviting you in for a swim almost immediately. Which is exactly what we did. And it was perfect.
If you're hungry, there's a Konoba serving up some fresh seafood, or if you're after a drink to cool you down during the hot afternoon, check out Dubovica beach bar. There's also shade under the pine trees, which makes for a welcome relief to the hot Croatian summer sun.
Be warned, Dubovica does get extremely busy during the peak summer periods, so get there early to secure your spot on the pebbles.
THE DETAILS
Where | Dubovica beach, Hvar
Pack | Towel, sunscreen, water (use this reusable canteen!)
MILNA BEACH | HVAR’S BEST BEACHES
Just outside Hvar Town is the small village of Milna, situated on a beautiful, protected cove surrounded by endless pine forests. This sleepy village brought to life all of the retro-Mediterranean feels, and we absolutely loved the laid-back vibe of the area.
Although the water is not as turquoise as other beaches on the Islands, it's super clear and a perfect spot for a little snorkelling.
Due to the pebbles, we recommend hiring a sunbed.
In town, there's a small market, and a number of restaurants to get your fresh fish fix. There's also a little bakery if you're after something smaller/cheaper.
THE DETAILS
Where | Milna beach, Hvar
Pack | Towel, sunscreen, water, packed lunch, a good book, cash for a fresh seafood lunch
Read more | Our favourite things to do on Hvar Island
BEST BEACHES NEAR STARI GRAD, JELSA AND VRBOSKA
OSLIC BEACH IN STARI GRAD
A visit to Stari Grad wouldn’t be complete without a dip in the clear blue waters of Croatia’s Med.
Just outside of Stari Grad town is Oslic Beach, a typically Mediterranean ‘beach’ made up of a small stretch of sand, concrete and rocks. It’s certainly not the best beach on Hvar, but the closest to town to cool off in.
It does get super busy in the early afternoon, and in the later afternoon the sea breeze picks up, making it a little choppy, so we recommend arriving earlier rather than later.
There are no shops or restaurants the further you walk out of town, so pack yourself some food, and a few cheeky beers and bring some water (not single-use bottled, of course!).
THE DETAILS
Where | Oslic beach, Stari Grad
Pack | Towel, sunscreen, water, packed lunch, a good book
Read more | Our guide to Stari Grad
MASLINICA BEACH
A beautifully secluded cove just north of pretty Vrboska, Maslinica has some of the clearest water on all of Hvar.
The 'beach' isn't sandy, rather there are flat, natural stone slabs that make the perfect spot to set up your beach towel and soak up some rays.
If you have snorkelling gear, the clear water allows for great underwater explorations, however, if you'd prefer to explore more of the spectacular surroundings, there are walking paths between the surrounding coves.
There are no bars or konobas close by, so head to nearby Vrboska for lunch if you get hungry or thirsty, before returning to Maslinica for the afternoon.
THE DETAILS
Where | Maslinica beach, Hvar
Pack | Towel, sunscreen, water, packed lunch, a good book, cash for a fresh seafood lunch
Read more | A mini-guide to Vrboska town
MINA BEACH, JELSA
A slice of paradise a short walk outside of Jelsa, Mina beach is typical Hvar beach; a stunningly turquoise cove surrounded by pines and the ubiquitous drone of crickets.
Mina is a perfect beach for families, with the sandy, shallow cove making it easy for children to swim safely, while the rocky terrace is perfect for sunbathing. As you can imagine, the beach does get quite busy during the peak summer months, so arrive early, or later in the day.
Close by is the fantastic Mina restaurant, which serves delicious Dalmatian cuisine with epic views overlooking the bay.
We wouldn't go out of our way to visit Mina beach, but if you're staying in Jelsa, it's a great beach close to town.
THE DETAILS
Where | Mina beach, Hvar
Pack | Towel, sunscreen, water, packed lunch, a good book, cash for a fresh seafood lunch
Read more | Our favourite things to do on Hvar Island
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HVAR TOWN | Our Favourite Things to do in Hvar Town
BEST SECLUDED BEACHES ON HVAR ISLAND
MALO ZARACE BEACH
Probably our favourite beach, Malo Zaraće, which we’re reluctantly telling you about because we can’t bear the thought of others finding our little slice of heaven.
The day we visited, we had the beach all to ourselves, and spent hours in the outrageously clear waters enjoying ourselves.
Alas, we're letting you in on our little secret.
Zaraće is located around 30 minutes drive from Hvar Town, off the main road to Stari Grad. Take the turnoff and follow a steep road down, before parking and walking down a set of stairs to Malo beach.
If you’ve hired a boat, you can also reach Malo Zarace by following the coast east, passing Pokonji Dol and Milna. Be prepared to be blown away by the colour of the water, and the sheer beauty of the landscapes around you.
There are no shops or restaurants, so pack yourself lunch and a few cheeky beers and settle in for the most perfect day in Hvar.
THE DETAILS
Where | Zaraće beach, Hvar
Pack | Towel, sunscreen, water, packed lunch, a good book
Read more | Our favourite things to do in Hvar Town
JAGODNA BEACH, SVETA NEDALJA
After doing our own research about the best beaches on Hvar, we stumbled across Jagodna, a tiny, secluded cove located in between Sveta Nedalja and Ivan Dolac, and we knew we had to visit.
It may be hard to get to, but it’s definitely worth the time and effort for one reason - sand! Yes, Jagodna has a mostly sandy beach which is a delightful feeling after trying to navigate large pebbles every time you want to swim.
Jagodna beach is also absolutely stunning; set at the foot of bright orange cliffs and forested slopes, with bright blue waters glistening in the sun.
We definitely recommend visiting in Jagodna before mid-afternoon, when the sun starts to drop behind the surrounding cliffs.
THE DETAILS
Where | Jagodna beach, Hvar
Pack | Towel, sunscreen, water, packed lunch, a good book
Read more | Our favourite things to do on Hvar Island
READ MORE | 18 Incredible Things to do on Hvar Island
IVAN DOLAC BEACH
The small village of Ivan Dolac is located around an hour drive from Hvar Town, surrounded by steep slopes filled with pine trees and vineyards. While the surroundings are impossibly beautiful, it’s the beach that makes this little town worth visiting.
This small pebble beach could almost pass as sand, meaning a relatively comfortable sunbathing experience. But the real joy is how quiet it is - apart from locals, very few people visit here.
So, do as we did; hire a car, pack a picnic, and head to Ivan Dolac beach for a relaxing day by the sea, away from it all.
THE DETAILS
Where | Ivan Dolac beach, Hvar
Pack | Towel, sunscreen, water, packed lunch, a good book
Read more | Our favourite things to do on Hvar Island
LUĆIŠIĆA BEACH, NEAR SVETA NEDALJA
Think of Lučišća beach as an insiders tip, as, while we never made it there, our hosts on Hvar raved about it.
Lučišća beach is situated on the new road from Hvar Town to Sveta Nedalja which, unfortunately for us, is unpaved and our car hire company would not allow it. We thought about pushing it but in the end, thought better of the idea.
If you've managed to hire a 4WD, or are prepared to walk to Lučišća beach from Dubovica or Sveta Nedalja, you'll be in for a turquoise water treat.
THE DETAILS
Where | Lučišća beach, Hvar
Pack | Towel, sunscreen, water, packed lunch, 400 Kuna
Read more | Our favourite things to do on Hvar Island
stoke that wanderlust: 42 photos from croatia that will inspire your travels
BEST BEACHES AND BAYS ON THE PAKLENI ISLANDS
Just off Hvar lies the Pakleni Islands, an archipelago made up of 16 pine-covered islands and turquoise coves. We visited during our favourite days out on Hvar, where we hired a small speedboat and ventured around the beautiful bays and beaches of the islands.
Here are our favourite beaches and bays on the islands (or read our Pakleni Islands guide)
PALMIZANA BEACH, PALKENI ISLAND
One of the best, and certainly the most popular, beaches in this archipelago is Palmižana. Although small, the beach is filled with sunbeds while the day away (sunbeds are available for hire, ranging from 70 - 100 kuna for the day).
Flanked by a number of good Konoba's and bars, it's the perfect place to spend the whole day relaxing. there's also the chance to explore a little more of the surrounding area,
You can get to Palmižana via water taxi, or you can cruise to the bay yourself in a small, easy-to-drive, boat from one of the many companies on Hvar island.
The bay, and beach, does get very busy, so as always, get there early.
THE DETAILS
Where | Palmižana beach, Pakleni Islands
Pack | Towel, sunscreen, water, cash for sunbeds and treats at the Konobas / bars
Read more | A guide to the Pakleni Islands, Hvar
HVAR ACCOMMODATION | Where to stay on Hvar Island
MLINI BEACH
Mlini beach is a beautiful little spot and the perfect place to chill and unwind. It might also have the brightest blue waters we saw on Hvar, which we made the most of, by swimming in it for at least an hour (needed - it was HOT!).
If you’ve hired a boat for the day (totally recommended), head to Mlini around lunchtime and enjoy a fresh seafood BBQ from one of the many small restaurants. Then, park yourself on a sunbed for an afternoon of sun therapy and swimming.
You can hire sunbeds, which range from 70 - 100 kuna for the day, or 10 kuna per hour.
THE DETAILS
Where | Mlini beach, Pakleni Islands
Pack | Towel, sunscreen, water, cash for sunbeds, lunch (or take a packed lunch) and drinks
Read more | Our favourite things to do on Hvar Island, A day trip guide to the Pakleni Islands
the best of hvar | 11 awesome things to do in stari grad, hvar
JEROLIM ISLAND, THE WORLD’S #1 NUDIST BEACH
Naturist, nudist, or just wanting to try something a little different?
Head to Jerolim Island in the Pakleni Islands, which is home to one of the most famous FKK beaches in the world.
Jerolim island itself is a beautiful little island, covered in low lying pine, sheltered bays and coves, perfect for swimming, and a little restaurant that welcomes naturists.
There are also many places to shade yourself should the searing sun prove too much.
TOP PAKLENI ISLANDS BAYS
The crystal-clear waters surrounding the Pakleni islands are perfect for a dip… or ten.
There are many hidden coves around the archipelago which provide the ideal spot to spend a few hours enjoying the Adriatic. If you’ve packed your snorkel and mask, it’s also a great opportunity to explore underwater life.
Some of our favourite bays and beaches including:
The two large bays on Sveti Klement after Vinogradisce Bay (unfortunately they don't have a name)
Zdrilca beach, located on Marinkovac Island
A MAP OF THE BEST BEACHES ON HVAR ISLAND, CROATIA
We’ve created a detailed map of Hvar’s best beaches, as well as where to eat, which you can download for your visit.
To save our map, click the star to the right of the map title while will download the map to: your places - maps in your Google account.
Easy!
HOW TO VISIT HVAR’S BEST BEACHES
WHERE TO FIND THE BEST BEACHES ON HVAR
If you're coming to Hvar expecting long, white sandy beaches like those on Menorca or Sardinia, you're going to be disappointed - the bulk of Hvar's beaches, like most of Croatia, are made up of large stone beaches, rocky coves, or man-made slabs.
But what Hvar lacks in sand, it makes up for in the clearest blue waters, hidden coves, and vast natural beauty. In many ways, we actually prefer diving straight into the sea from our own secluded cove than dealing with sand (sacrilege, coming from two Australians!).
Fortunately, this means it doesn't take much to find a perfect spot in which to enjoy the salty waters of the Adriatic, and the best beaches on Hvar can be found scattered all across the island.
Hvar town is home to a number of awesome coves and beaches, as well as private beach bars which beckon those on a short trip to the island.
In the north, beyond Stari Grad, Vrboska and Jelsa, you'll find exquisite coves overlooking the mountains of Brac island. These coves are quieter, much like this part of the island, and are great for families or those looking to escape the crowds of Hvar Town.
To the south, you'll find remote beaches and a much more relaxed vibe. It's these beaches that are perfect for sunset swims as the sun slowly dips over the horizon.
And then there are the nearby Pakleni Islands, just a short boat ride away. Home to mesmerising bays, all you need to do is drop anchor, dive in, and enjoy some of the clearest water imaginable.
But really, any beach on Hvar you place your towel will be amazing!
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT HVAR'S BEST BEACHES?
We're massive fans of visiting Hvar Island during the shoulder seasons (April - early June, Sept-Oct).
Not only are the days still long and the sea warm, but the crowds are smaller and more manageable, making the island extremely pleasant, and the beaches quieter.
Beaches close to Hvar Town can be overrun with day-trippers during the middle of the day, so we recommend visiting these beaches either early in the day, or later in the afternoon.
Our favourite time of day to visit many of the beaches on the south of the Island, such as Pokonji Dol, Mekićevica, Dubovica, Milna and Malo Zarace is during the late afternoon, as the light turns the sky and sea orange.
However, if you wish to experience the beautiful blues of the Adriatic, visit Hvar's beaches during the early afternoon.
The more remote beaches on the north of the Hvar tend to be better in the morning - early afternoon.
ACCOMMODATION ON HVAR ISLAND
We’ve written a complete guide on where to stay on Hvar, which you can find here. It’s super detailed and provides accommodation options for all budgets, including our personal recommendations.
Basically, it’s your Hvar accommodation bible, so use it to book for your stay! We’ve also written a guide to the very best Airbnbs on Hvar, which you can read here.
Alternatively, our top 3 picks are:
HERACLEA HOUSE | James Bond would be happy to call this home for a few days. A stunningly appointed 5* hotel right in the centre of town, with views to die for. A splurge here is worth it! Prices and availability here
ADRIANA HVAR SPA HOTEL | Modern, chic hotel located right in the thick of the action, and with a rooftop bar with Hvar's best sunset viewpoint. Prices and availability here
HISTORY HVAR DESIGN APARTMENTS | Superb and modern apartment built within a traditional old house. Excellent location right in the heart of Hvar town. Prices and availability here
If they’re not quite right for you, search for all hotel options for Hvar using Booking.com here.
OUR RECOMMENDED DAY TOURS ON HVAR ISLAND
Looking for different ways to explore Hvar Town, and the villages of Hvar? These are some of our fave picks for day tours around the island.
From Hvar: Green & Blue Caves Tour | A visit to Blue and Green Caves is probably the most famous day trip from the island. This full-day speedboat tour will get you to both caves, plus give you plenty of opportunities to swim, sunbake, and enjoy a cold beer at one of the many beach bars.
Hvar: Romantic Sunset Sail | Nothing quite beats a romantic sunset cruise, and this 2-hour sunset cruise ensures you have the best seat in Hvar town to watch the sunset from. Tours depart from the Hvar port and are perfect for friends, families, and couples (max group size of 7).
Pakleni Islands Kayaking Tour | The Pakleni Islands are absolutely worth a day’s exploration and this 4-hour guided kayaking tour is a totally unique way to see them. You’ll explore many hidden coves and beaches and stop for lunch at the beach bar before paddling your way back to Hvar town again. And for those keen on a more romantic adventure? You can also book a sunset kayaking tour too!
BOOK | Pakleni Islands Kayaking Tour or Sunset Kayaking tour
Hvar: Guided Walking Tour | Get to know the real Hvar town beyond the glitz, glam and party reputation on this walking tour with a local. You’ll discover the town’s rich and colourful history, from its Venetian roots to its medieval history and beyond. Tours run for 2 hours and depart from the harbour area.
BOOK | Hvar: Guided Walking Tour
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR CROATIA
We firmly believe that if you can't afford travel insurance, you really can't afford to travel. As the current pandemic has taught many; things can go wrong anywhere in the world and insurance is often the only way of mitigating any issues with minimal expense or stress for you.
For all travellers | HeyMondo - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out-of-pocket fees. *Get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here.
For digital nomads | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.
Car Insurance | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy
READ | Our ultimate guide to travel insurance
ARE YOU PLANNING TO VISIT CROATIA SOON?
We have a heap of essential reading before you travel to the paradise island of Hvar:
HVAR GUIDES | The best things to see and do in Hvar Town, Read this before you travel to Hvar island, 11 amazing things to do in Stari Grad, Hvar, How to visit pretty Vrboska, Our guide to the stunning Pakleni Islands, Our complete guide to Hvar’s best beaches
HVAR ACCOMMODATION | The best places to stay on Hvar Island, and the best Airbnbs on the island too
HVAR DAY TRIPS | The best day trips to, from, and on Hvar
HVAR PHOTOS | 42 incredible photos of Hvar island that will inspire you to visit!
HOW TO GET AROUND | How to get from Hvar to Stari Grad, how to get from Split to Hvar
DUBROVNIK | 10 Essential things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia
TRAVEL INSURANCE | Don’t leave home without travel insurance (seriously, don’t!). Click here to get the best deals with World Nomads, our trusted travel insurance provider
PHOTOGRAPHY | Love our photography? Wondering what gear we use to get all of our photos around the world? Click here to view our detailed photography gear guide, as well as our top travel photography tips!
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. REALLY IMPORTANT. Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and your friends travel more consciously around the globe
ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials
We're sure there's many more beaches we may have missed (although we tried to visit them ALL!), so if you've got a favourite beach on Hvar that we haven't listed, let us know in the comments!
EXPLORE THE BEST OF CROATIA WITH THESE POSTS!
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