Island Hopping in Croatia

With so many Croatian islands, they’re generally divided into three main groups. That includes the southern Dalmatian islands, the central Dalmatian islands, and northern Adriatic islands. Those in the south are known for serene escapes with unspoiled nature, abundant forest, and secluded coves with hidden beaches, such as Lastovo, Mljet, and Korcula. The central group includes Hvar, Solta, and Brac which tend to be livelier, with Hvar particularly renowned for its world-class dining and nightlife. In the north, islands like Losinj, Cres, and Krk offer a diverse mix of nature, picturesque beaches, and charming historic towns. No matter which you choose it’s sure to be unforgettable, but an island-hopping adventure that includes some of these options is ideal for the ultimate itinerary.

Hvar

One of Croatia’s most popular islands, Hvar attracts VIPs of all types, including celebrities and royals for its party scene with everything from beach bars to nightclubs along with world-class restaurants. But there’s plenty more to enjoy too, including idyllic sands framed by brilliant turquoise water, wineries for touring and tasting, aromatic lavender fields, and historical landmarks. Explore its past everywhere from the fortress that overlooks the town, sea, and nearby islands, to the still-active public theater that opened in 1612. A full tour of the island can bring you to hidden spots with breathtaking views, abandoned villages, and Croatia’s oldest town of Stari Grad at the north end, dating all the way back to the 4th century BC.

Korcula

One of the most enchanting of the Croatian islands, Korcula offers picturesque landscapes that include dense forest, vineyard- and olive grove-covered hills, and postcard-perfect sandy beaches. But it may best be known as the purported birthplace of international explorer Marco Polo and Old Town Korcula, a storybook-like walled historical center sometimes called a “mini-Dubrovnik,” complete with imposing gates and towers. The narrow streets and alleyways are laid out in the shape of a fishbone to help protect homes from the elements while significant Venetian influence can be seen throughout. Look for the winged lions featured on the Gothic-Renaissance St. Mark’s Cathedral. Its bell tower is the highest point in town with the spiral staircase leading to a 360-degree view over the island.

Mljet

One of the best islands for nature lovers, over 84 percent of Mljet Island is covered in forest with Mljet National Park making up nearly a third of the terrain. It’s the top attraction here, known for its two saltwater lakes, Malo (Small) and Veliko (Great) with their brilliant shades of greens and blues. In the middle of Veliko, there is a tiny islet topped by a 12th-century Benedictine abbey which includes a gift shop and cafe that can be reached via a short boat ride. Kayaks are available for rent making it easy to explore both lakes, joined by a narrow channel. There are sandy beaches along the shores for sunbathing and swimming and scenic trails for hiking and biking.

Brac

Brac is renowned for its limestone, something that’s shaped its history and economy, with the stone quarries used to build everything from Dioceltian’s Palace in Split to the White House in Washington, D.C. It’s home to the Pucisca Stonemasonry School which opens to the public in the summer with works by the students on display. But most come to enjoy its beautiful beaches like Zlatni Rat, one of the most photographed in Europe. It has a unique horn shape with pine trees for shade while swirling out about a third of a mile into the transparent turquoise sea, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Hiking enthusiasts can trek to Vidova gora, the highest point in the Croatian islands for a panoramic view.

Rab

Nestled in the Kvarner Gulf, Rab dates back to at least the 4th century BC when it was known as Arba, named for its dark green forests. You’ll find some of the region’s most diverse landscapes here with pine forests and picturesque beaches along the south coast, the fertile interior growing vegetables, grapes, and olive trees, while the northeast coast has high cliffs with more barren grounds and few settlements. One can do everything from spending the day on the beach enjoying a variety of water sports to exploring history. In the town of Rab, you’ll find a wide range of cultural and historical attractions, like its four bell towers. The 12th-century Romanesque-style St. Mary’s is the tallest at about 85 feet.

Losinj

Located in the northern Adriatic island group, Losinj has long been a renowned wellness retreat as the “island of vitality. Many say its abundant sunshine, crystal-clear blue waters, salty sea air, wild herbs, eucalyptus trees, pine forests, and fragrant lavender fields provide healing properties for the ultimate in travel therapy. By touring the Losinj Aromatic Garden, you can smell, touch, and even touch the plants as you learn more about their uses. Of course, many come to experience the unspoiled beaches with remarkably clear water in stunning hues of blues and greens. Be sure to take a stroll along the Dolphin Way promenade. Starting at Sunny (Suncana) Cove, it leads to Mrtvaška Cove, the island’s best spot to watch for dolphins.

Explore Medieval Towns

There are charming medieval towns throughout Croatia with magnificent architecture that makes it fun to wander, with the feel of walking back through time. That includes the medieval walled Old Town of Korcula, with its succession of narrow streets branching off the spine of the main street like a fishbone. The shape was used for its layout to reduce the effects of wind and sun on the residents. There are two imposing medieval gates and multiple towers along with many Venetian-influenced buildings that date to the medieval era. Marvel at churches like 15th-century St. Mark’s Cathedral with its bell tower providing a panoramic view, and multiple palaces such as the Governor’s Palace, Bishops Palace, Garielis Palace, Arneri Palace, and Caenazzo Palace.

Go Wine Tasting

Croatia has become increasingly popular for its wines with many of the islands producing some fantastic options, including Hvar. Hvar is widely regarded as one of the best when it comes to wine with a favorable climate, unique terroir, and a long winemaking tradition with everything from refreshing, crisp whites like acclaimed Posip to velvety and robust reds such as Plavac Mali. Family-owned Tomic Winery in Jelsa is particularly renowned for its exceptional reds and whites with a visit to the cellar providing insight into the traditional winemaking techniques. Korcula is another great pick, known for the local Grk and Posip, particularly tasty whites. Visit the small villages of Smokvice, Cara, and Lumbarda to sample them at family-run wineries.

Enjoy Watersports

With the islands surrounded by an incredibly enticing turquoise sea, taking part in watersports is one of the top things to do no matter which you visit. From one of the most famously beautiful, Zlatni Rat on the island of Brac, you can enjoy everything from sea kayaking and standup paddleboarding to kitesurfing and windsurfing when the Maestral (a strong thermic wind) blows. Hvar is popular for sailing, swimming, and snorkeling. The best islands for diving enthusiasts include the Pakleni Islands which are just off the coast of Hvar. A popular day trip, they’re known for sunken relics that include World War II shipwrecks, underwater cliffs, colorful coral, and abundant marine life. Losinj is another great pick with an underwater museum.

Relax on the Beach

Of course, the opportunity to relax on a beautiful beach is what draws many to the Croatian islands and you’ll find many of them. As noted earlier, Zlatni Rat on Brac Island is one of Europe’s most photographed, often ranking high in terms of beauty, a horn-shaped stretch extending a third of a mile into the sea, surrounded on three sides by stunning translucent turquoise water. Sahara on Rab Island is another great pick as one of the country’s rare sandy beaches located near the town of Lopar. Hvar is home to many gorgeous stretches, some with swanky venues like the Hvar Beach Club, set along a secluded bay with 1920s-style white stone cabanas.

We mentioned earlier that it’s possible to island-hop on your own, charter a boat, or take an island-hopping cruise to get between the islands. Ferries are commonly used and reasonably priced. There are passenger and car ferries with tickets available at the port or online. Most operate on a reduced schedule during the off-season, but during the peak season, there are as many as five departures a day on popular routes. You can also charter a boat to explore at your own pace, enjoying total freedom at sea, but this is usually the most expensive option. The easiest and most popular way to explore the Croatian islands is on a small ship cruise, generally visiting from five to seven islands over a week.