The most beautiful Croatian islands

Known all over the world for its beautiful beaches and turquoise clear sea, Croatia also has many islands that hide some of the most beautiful beaches with magical sea colors. Most of the Croatian islands are very well connected to the coast, especially during the summer season, and due to the mild Mediterranean climate and fewer crowds, an increasing number of tourists visit the Croatian islands off season as well. Most of the Croatian islands don’t offer only beautiful beaches, but also stunning untouched nature, numerous caves and hidden coves. Most of the Croatian islands are inhabited by an older population that is predominantly in fishing, agriculture and tourism in order to maintain their history and traditions. Guests most often choose islands as their vacation destinations because of greater peace, isolation, more privacy and usually less crowds compared to coastal areas. Below we bring you some interesting facts about the Croatian islands:

• Croatia has over 1,200 islands, islets and rocks

• The largest Croatian island is Cres with an area of 405 km2

• The longest Croatian island is Hvar, which is also the 4th largest island and the island with the most sunny days per year

• The highest Croatian island is Brač with the highest peak of Vidova gora at 780 m above sea level

•  The smallest island in Croatia is the island of Ošiljak located in the Zadar channel with 29 inhabitants

•  The lowest island in Croatia is the island of Krapanj, and its highest altitude does not exceed 1.25 m above sea level

Below we bring you the most famous Croatian islands:

1. Hvar

One of the most beautiful and attractive islands in Europe, Hvar is known for its large number of sunny days. It belongs to the group of Central Dalmatian islands and is the longest island in the Adriatic Sea. It is called the island of sun and flowers because of its peculiar and fairy-tale nature and multitude of plants. It is rich in culture and untouched beauty that attracts many guests. Golden streets, fortresses and a beautiful sunset turn the island of Hvar into a magical oasis of peace and romance. The Theater of Hvar is the first public theater in Europe, and Stari Grad is considered one of the oldest cities in Croatia. Every year the islanders celebrate with their lavender festival the fact that Hvar was the eighth producer of lavender in the world. Find a beautiful bay and enjoy the smell of dense pine forests that surround the island of Hvar. Visit the famous attraction Tvrdalj, which is a small castle with a pond, built by the Croatian poet Petar Hektorović. The Church of St. Mary is one of the most important monuments on the island, and from the top of the Fortica fortress there is a wonderful view of the city and the surrounding islets. For lovers of nightlife and entertainment, the island of Hvar has many beach bars and cafes that are very popular in the summer months. Enjoy traditional food and taste top wines in a wonderful atmosphere. We definitely recommend visiting the beautiful Villa Heraclea, which is located on Hvar.

2. Brač

The third largest island in the Adriatic is the impressive island of Brač. Beautiful beaches surrounded by pine forests and a mild Mediterranean climate offer you a sense of comfort. It stands out for its natural beauty, astonishing beaches and hidden bays. The island of Brač is the highest island with the top of Vidova gora at 778 meters above sea level, providing a stunning panoramic view. An interesting attraction on the island is the raw Brač stone, which is widely used in construction in Dalmatia. Brač stands out by the number of libraries and the multitude of small churches that make the island special. The oldest place on the island is Bol, special thanks to its magical Zlatni rat beach. The beautiful Zlatni Rat beach is known all over the world, and many guests are increasingly choosing to come to Brač precisely because of the beautiful sea and enchanting atmosphere. The attractive beach is interesting because of its shape, which changes depending on the wind. The trees and greenery surrounding the beach also offer shade where you can escape with a glass of refreshing drink. Beautiful promenades, fresh sea air and nature will relax you during your vacation. Explore the oldest place on the island of Brač, Škrip, and visit the attractive oil museum where you can find out interesting facts and taste olive oils and products. Taste Dalmatian dishes such as grilled fish, pasta with seafood, choose a bottle of top wine and enjoy magical days. If you are a sports fan, we recommend hiking, cycling down small paths and trails, or walking in the beautiful forest air. For the best possible vacation, we recommend Villa Petra, which is only a few minutes' walk from the beautiful Zlatni Rat beach.

3. Korčula

The charming island of Korčula is the sixth largest island in the Adriatic with approximately 16,000 inhabitants, making it the second most populous island. The island is full of sights, and the Mediterranean climate is pleasant, so tourists visit the island all year round. The town of Korčula is surrounded by high walls, and inside the walls there are charming small stone houses and narrow streets that attract many tourists to take pictures of unforgettable moments. Visit the city museum of Korčula, the Marko Polo museum and the cathedral of St. Marko, whose bell tower offers a wonderful view of the city. Enchanting beaches, greenery and forests will relax you during your vacation, and the pleasant atmosphere will take you away from everyday life. Visit the most famous Vela Pržina beach on the island, which is an excellent choice for a family holiday with children. If you are keen on activities, organize a route along the mountain trail of St. Antuna, which is an easy trail, so it won't be too difficult for you during activities. On the island of Korčula you can enjoy many concerts, manifestations and various events. To taste local specialties, visit taverns that offer traditional fish dishes and taste the best wines for which Korčula is famous. Villa Karla on Korčula is the ideal choice for your dream vacation on this magical island.

4. Vis

The island of Vis is also called the pearl of the Adriatic because of its beautiful hidden coves that attract guests who want peace and real rest away from the hectic pace. The island of Vis and its surroundings is full of astonishing beauties, numerous sights and the most beautiful beaches. We recommend a tour of small streets and romantic houses that will remember forever. The American magazine Harper's Bazaar declared the island of Vis one of the most romantic destinations in the world, and the portal European Best Destinations declared the beautiful Stiniva beach the most beautiful European beach. Stiniva beach stands out for its unique and unusual appearance and the high rocks that surround it. Clean air and greenery provide complete relaxation on the beach during your stay. On the island of Vis, there is a bus that connects Vis and Komiža, and if you do not have a car on the island of Vis, we recommend renting a scooter to explore the area. Set sail and take a boat to the island of Biševo and enjoy the wonderful beach of Porat and collect wonderful memories. The most famous caves on the island of Vis will attract many adventurers, and one of them is the Blue Cave, located on the neighboring island of Biševo. Visit the church of St. Jerolim, the promenades and enjoy the wonderful atmosphere and pleasant climate that the island offers. Drink your favorite coffee in the sun and surrender to the sea magic of the island.

5. Mljet

The island of Mljet is the eighth largest island in Croatia, and the largest in the Dubrovnik region to which it belongs. The area is 100.4 square kilometers, and more than 70% of the area is covered by forests and greenery. There is also a national park on Mljet, where forest coverage exceeds 90%, which is precisely why it is nicknamed the greenest island in Croatia. It is one of the most natural islands with poorly developed infrastructure and stunning nature, and is an ideal choice for a complete vacation away from everything. There are two bus lines on the island if you don't want to walk too much, and bicycles and scooters are the favorite means of transportation for many locals. Wake up to the chirping of birds, the wonderful smell of the sea and breathe in the clean forest air while planning your activities. Be sure to visit the previously mentioned national park, the specialty of which are 2 lakes: Veliko and Malo, which connect to the sea. As part of the tour of the national park, you will also visit the charming island of St. Marija, on which there is a small Benedictine monastery. For guests with an adventurous spirit, we recommend a visit to the famous Odysseus Cave. The road to it is very steep and difficult to pass, but when you get there, all your efforts will pay off. In addition to the cave for an active holiday, we recommend hiking or cycling, which is a great opportunity for recreation and exploring the natural beauty of this magical island. The beautiful and crystal clear sea hides abundant animal life in the sea, so lovers of diving will also find their way to Mljet. Taste the red and white wines that the island of Mljet is famous for or enjoy delicious goat cheese. Enjoy the sunny days and have your favorite drink in the nearest cafe with fresh sea air.

6. Cres

The magical island of Cres is the largest Adriatic island located in the northern part of the Kvarner Bay and is connected by a drawbridge to the island of Lošinj. Cres is an island of hidden beaches, lush vegetation and old houses that give the island a special charm. The island of Cres is the least populated island in the Mediterranean where the locals are engaged in olive growing, plants and beekeeping. A beautiful island surrounded by lots of greenery and nature is the ideal choice for a quiet, relaxing vacation. The green oasis and sea air will relax your mind and body, and the turquoise sea will enhance your stay on the island. For romantic moments with the most beautiful sunset, visit the village of Martinščica on the west coast of the island. Enjoy the view, small fishing boats or take a walk to Sveti Blaž beach, which is the most beautiful beach on the island. If you come by boat, the unmissable part is the Sveti Ivan beach, which is protected, and the enchanting peace and privacy that the island provides is priceless. The island of Cres contains over 1,300 plants, and the unique nature and environment give the island a special charm. Also, Cres is one of the rare habitats of protected griffon vultures. If you want to complete your dream vacation, choose Villa Leucolea, which is located on this charming island.