Welcome to Brac
Brac is the largest of the central Dalmatian islands and one of the most varied. It’s probably best known for Zlatni Rat — a pebble spit that extends 500 meters into the sea just outside the town of Bol, narrowing to a point that shifts position with the wind and current. It looks different every time you visit, and the water on both sides of it is exceptional for windsurfing and swimming alike. But Brac has more substance than a single beach. The island has been quarried for centuries, producing a dense white limestone that has gone into some unlikely buildings — Diocletian’s Palace in Split, the Parliament in Budapest, and reportedly sections of the White House in Washington. The quarries at Pučišća are still active, and the town itself is worth a stop for its horseshoe harbor alone.
Bol, where Zlatni Rat sits, is the more polished of the island’s towns — a pine-shaded promenade, good restaurants, and a 15th-Century Dominican monastery perched on the headland above the beach. Supetar, where the ferry from Split arrives, is quieter and more workaday, with an ornate 19th-Century cemetery that’s genuinely worth a visit. Inland, the village of Škrip is Brac’s oldest settlement, its stone streets and small fortress offering a sense of the island before tourism arrived.
Meet the Expert
Brac appeals to travelers seeking a balance of outdoor adventure, traditional Dalmatian charm, and coastal scenery. Beyond its well-known beaches, the island is home to historic stone villages, excellent hiking and cycling routes, local olive oil producers, and sweeping viewpoints that showcase the rugged beauty of Croatia’s Adriatic islands.
Things to Do in Brac
Croatia’s third-largest island is known for two things above all: the golden horn of Zlatni Rat reaching into the channel, and the pale stone quarried here for centuries.
Visit the Golden Horn beach
The paradise Golden Horn beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Adriatic and a recognizable panorama of Bol. The very tip keeps changing its shape constantly due to the influence of winds, waves, and sea currents. Top up your tan and enjoy the beautiful views from the pebble beach. For the more active, the beach is renowned for surfing.
Hike to a Hidden Monastery
Visit Pustinja Blaca a unique monastery nestled in the cliffs, a former hermitage founded by monks in the 16th century. The monastery is accessible only by foot, with a scenic hike that takes around an hour. The journey offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs, olive groves, and vineyards, providing a glimpse of the untouched natural beauty of Brac. The hike adds a sense of pilgrimage and serenity, making the visit even more meaningful.
Discover the Beautiful Seaside Town of Bol
Gathered around a compact marina, the old town of Bol is a delightful place made up of small stone houses and winding streets dotted with pink and purple geraniums. Take a stroll down narrow cobbled roads for a full Mediterranean experience and enjoy the many buildings marked with interpretative panels explaining their cultural and historical significance.
Speak to a specialist to start planning your Croatia trip
Call one of our experts for tailored vacation recommendations
When to Visit Brac
The best time to visit Brac is late May through September when ferry service is frequent, everything will be open, the weather is pleasant, and the sea will be warm enough for swimming. July and August are the busiest months, so if you go during this peak time, you’ll need to be prepared for longer ferry lines, higher accommodation prices, and crowded beaches. June and September are often ideal, bringing all the pros and few of the cons.
Where to Stay in Brac
The most popular places to stay in Brac are Bol in the south and Supetar to the north. Bol has the greatest range of accommodation options, with a romantic old town and many restaurants, cafes, and wineries. It’s also the closest to the famous Zlatni Rat beach. Supetar on the north coast is easily reached via ferry from Split and has a picturesque harbor with konobas and restaurants lining the waterfront. Milna is a typical Mediterranean village with sandy and pebbly beaches on either side of a magnificent harbor while walking paths connect the town center with vineyards and farms in the interior.
Our Brac FAQs
How many days do you need in Brac?
It is possible to see most of the highlights of Brac on a day trip from Split thanks to the many ferries running back and forth. That includes Zlatni Rat Beach, Blaca monastery, taking in the view from Vidova Gora, enjoying a scenic drive to Milna, and perhaps dining in Supetar. But ideally, you’ll have at least two full days which will give you time to cover it all without rushing. Many people like to spend a full afternoon or even an entire day at the beach. You could easily spend a week here, mixing up your exploits with time relaxing on the sand.
What is the best time to visit Zlatni Rat?
During the peak of the summer season, as many as 10,000 tourists visit Zlatni Rat every day. It tends to be less crowded in May/June or September/October. If you’re visiting during the busiest part of the year and want to enjoy it when it’s a bit more tranquil, consider arriving early in the morning or just before dusk.
What are the essential sites to see in Brac?
The No. 1 attraction in Brac is photogenic Zlatni Rat beach so be sure to spend some time there soaking up the scenery and enjoying a refreshing dip if you visit during the summer or early fall. For those up to the challenge, hiking to the highest point in the Croatian islands is essential. From the top of Vidova Gora, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view over Hvar, the mainland, and the sea. Just down the coast from Supetar, the Roman quarry and the former Roman settlement of Splitska are well worth a look.
Is Brac worth visiting?
Brac is an island that should be on every Croatian itinerary. There are several must-sees here, including Zlatni Rat AKA the Golden Horn that’s been a symbol of tourism as one of the most photographed and spectacular beaches in Europe. As it’s not as visited as islands like Hvar with its famous nightlife, it’s also an ideal place for those who want to escape the noise and crowds, preferring to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility, along with some impressive historic sites and plenty of delicious, authentic eats.
Croatia Inspiration and Advice From the Experts
Guide to The Dalmatian Coast
Croatia Specialist
The Dalmatian Coast is a beautiful stretch of coastline in Croatia's southernmost region, and is the country's most well-known and...
Read More
The Best Islands in Croatia
Croatia Specialist
Croatia, with its picturesque coastline, has a wealth of beautiful islands that will suit all travelers, whether you're looking for...
Read More
Island Hopping in Croatia
Croatia Specialist
While many people are familiar with popular islands like sunny Hvar, known for drawing celebrities and international jetsetters, there’s an...
Read More
Best Hidden Gems in Croatia
Croatia Specialist
Croatia has become one of the hottest travel destinations in the world with its endless miles of beautiful coastline, hundreds...
Read More
Why You Should Book a Small Ship Cruise in Croatia
Croatia Specialist
A land of spectacular wonders, with over 1,200 islands, a nearly 3,626-mile-long coastline, and countless beautiful beaches, the best way...
Read More
The 7 Most Beautiful Beaches in Croatia
Croatia Specialist
Croatia is a country renowned for its stunning shoreline, where gleaming white pebbles and sand meet the turquoise waters of...
Read MoreDestinations to Explore
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Whatever you want from your dream trip, our team of experts are ready to help
Why Book a Tour with Unforgettable Croatia
100% Financial Protection
We are a licensed and fully bonded luxury travel company financially protected by both the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust (ABTOT). All clients that travel with us are fully financially protected.
Destination Experts
Our travel experts live and breathe the destinations they specialise in. This shows in their passion to create hand crafted trips for our clients. We don’t offer cookie cutter trips, just truly unforgettable journeys unlike any other.
The Best Guides
What makes our trips extraordinary is the unique immersive experiences we include. We pride ourselves in our black book of sought after expert guides, game rangers and local contacts who believe in our philosophy, unforgettable.
We Care
From the moment you book your trip, we are on hand 24/7 to assist you throughout your journey. With regional offices around the world, we have ground logistics teams on hand to help you every step of the way.