When it comes to the best beaches in Zadar to visit, there’s no shortage of options. From the calm waters of Kolovare Beach, just a stone’s throw from the city’s walkable Old Town, to the thrill of cliff jumping in Duboka Draga in Vrsi, adventure knows no bounds.
Whether craving the busyness of Uskok Beach or the remoteness of Uvala Kukinica, there’s something for every type of traveler. Here are some of the best beaches to explore in and around Zadar.
Kolovare Beach
Kolovare Beach
In terms of proximity, pebbly Kolovare is the closest beach to Zadar’s Old Town. It takes about 10 minutes to reach on foot as you stroll south along the waterfront from the Sea Organ, an installation of 35 pipes laid under the stone steps, allowing the pounding waves to create “music.” As it’s so central, there are plenty of public facilities available, including restrooms, cafés, ramps for wheelchair access, and loungers to rent.
Kolovare is among the most lively beaches in Zadar and is a great place to start. If you’re up for a scenic walk after taking a dip in the sea, tie your laces and set off on the coastal path that leads to Punta Bajlo Beach. The horizon is specked with rocky islands and on a fine day, you’ll see hundreds of sailing yachts zipping across the sparkling Adriatic.
Punta Bajlo Beach
Punta Bajlo Beach
A little further than Kolovare Beach, but still walkable in about 20 minutes, Punta Bajlo Beach has a really secluded feel, thanks to the pine forest that serves as its backdrop.
Unlike sand beaches, at Punta Bajlo, people lay out their towels along the flat rocks to sunbathe and descend the stairs built into the rocks to go swimming. It’s a more rugged experience, but beautiful nonetheless. Water visibility is excellent here, and many visitors spend some time snorkeling or free diving. Just remember to bring your own snorkel mask.
Puntamika Beach
Puntamika Beach
Like Uskok Beach, Puntamika is a pebble beach and a popular spot for swimming or just relaxing in the sun. While you can reach Puntamika Beach on foot, a quick taxi ride will get you there faster. This beach doesn’t offer the amenities that a place like Kolovare Beach provides, such as lounger rentals, but the trees do offer shade during the hotter months.
Another must-see in Puntamika is the famous Puntamika Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea.
Borik Beach
Borik Beach
Located in the Borik district of Zadar, Borik Beach is a popular beach destination for families, solo travelers, and anyone interested in water sports. Compared to other beaches in Zadar, Borik Beach is a little more developed, which makes it extra appealing to travelers who like a little beach buzz.
Aside from amenities like lounge chairs to rent, beach umbrellas, and changing rooms, there are plenty of bars and restaurants along the promenade. As for water sports, visitors can choose from activities like jet-skiing, sailing, parasailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding.
Read: Best Things to Do in Croatia
Sabunike Beach
Sabunike Beach
Sabunike Beach is located in nearby Nin, about a 20-minute drive north from Zadar’s city center. Like some of the other best beaches in Zadar, Sabunike is ideal for families, as the water is shallow and the sand soft.
There are a few beach bars and kiosks around, so bring all your beach day essentials with you before heading out. If you’re looking for a beach where you can relax completely and leave the busy city behind, Sabunike Beach is it.
Uskok Beach
Just a few minutes down the road by car, you’ll reach Uskok Beach, one of the best beaches in Zadar. Families in particular will enjoy Uskok because the waters are shallow and calm, and thanks to the stony sea bed, crystal clear.
Uskok is a pebble beach, so try to pack or buy a pair of water shoes to prevent any scrapes. When you’ve worked up an appetite, there are a few cafés to stop at for a small bite.
Sakarun Beach
Sakarun Beach
If you’re up for a fun day trip, exploring Dugi Otok Island is a must. It’s a bit of a trek, but very doable. You’ll first need to hop on a ferry heading to one of the ports on Dugi Otok and then drive or take a shuttle over to Sakarun Beach. Once there, you’re greeted by a long stretch of soft sand and turquoise water.
With so much space, even the summer season never feels too crowded. If you’re new to snorkeling, this is a great beach to test the waters. The water is exceptionally clear, making it easy to spot fish swimming nearby.
Petrcane Beach
Petrcane Beach
For a truly picturesque beach experience, plan to visit Petrcane Beach. Perhaps the most appealing thing about this beach is that it’s surrounded by olive groves, pine trees, and terraced vineyards, so it has a lush, verdant feel.
Petrcane was actually a fishing village, and although it has become more built-up today to accommodate tourists, it still retains the charm of a small town. On any given day, you’ll see people bobbing in the bays, soaking up the sun on the pebble beach, or cycling along the coast. Whenever you need a breather or just an excuse to cool off in the summer heat, a beach bar or local restaurant serving authentic Croatian food is never far from view.
Queen’s Beach, Nin
Queen’s Beach, Nin
Over in Nin, a small town just a short drive from Zadar, Queen’s Beach stretches about two miles and is one of the best Zadar beaches, as well as one of the longest sandy stretches in Croatia. It’s also famous for its mud, which many locals believe has healing properties. As folklore has it, the mud is said to have helped people suffering from a range of conditions, including rheumatic diseases, skin diseases, and even infertility.
Queen’s Beach is also unique in that it serves as the divider between Nin’s Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea. To see it all, I recommend basing yourself in Nin’s Old Town, and from there, heading to the lagoon for some birdwatching, or renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the area. Then, head to Queen’s Beach for a bit of swimming or sunbathing.
Plaza Bilotinjak, Nin
Plaza Bilotinjak, Nin
Another beach in Nin worth exploring is Plaža Bilotinjak. Its sandy shoreline and shallow, crystal-clear waters make Plaža Bilotinjak one of the most picturesque beaches near Zadar. Parking is limited here, so your best option is to take a taxi or arrange a private transfer. This way, you can enjoy the beach without the struggle to find parking.
Keep in mind that there also aren’t many amenities here, so plan to head closer to town afterward when you’ve worked up an appetite or want to enjoy a cocktail in the shade.
Uvala Kukinica, Vrsi
To experience some of the more secluded beaches near Zadar, make your way to Uvala Kukinica in Vrsi, a village located north of Nin and near the top of Nin Lagoon. Easy to miss if you don’t know where you’re going, Uvala Kukinica is a lovely pebble beach set within a cove and feels very remote.
Since this is a more secluded beach spot, you’ll want to bring along your own snorkel mask, water shoes, and any other essentials you might need, such as sunscreen or water.
Duboka Draga, Vrsi
Duboka Draga, Vrsi
Another beach near the village of Vrsi is Duboka Draga, offering one of the most breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. The beach itself is covered in small pebbles and is surrounded by red cliffs, so water shoes or even sneakers are recommended for traction.
If you’re feeling daring, there are a few access points to jump safely from lower cliffs. Otherwise, enjoy the views, go for a swim in the clear waters, or be a spectator while others cliff jump.
Read: Croatia Travel Tips
FAQs
Does Zadar have nice beaches?
Borik Beach
There are dozens of wonderful beach destinations in Croatia and Zadar is certainly one of them. The city has numerous beautiful beaches, including several that are conveniently located near the center and easily accessible by car. Other beaches, such as those in Nin, Privlaka, and Vrsi, are slightly further away but still very doable for a day trip.
As for the vibe, some of Zadar’s beaches are on the quieter side, while others cater more toward families and water sports enthusiasts.
Is Zadar nicer than Split?
Kolovare Beach
Whether you prefer Zadar to Split ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you’re looking for on your trip. Both cities have so much to offer that you really can’t go wrong no matter which you choose.
One of the biggest differentiators between Zadar and Split is the size and atmosphere. Split tends to attract more tourists and can get crowded during high season, while Zadar is slightly more off the beaten path and feels more local. Split, on the other hand, has a vibrant dining and drinking scene as well as lots of places to eat and drink along the harbor.
Since Zadar is smaller than Split in both population and geographic size, you can really make the most of your time here. When I visited, I spent a few hours exploring the Old Town, including the Roman Forum and the famous Sea Organ. By lunchtime, I was more than ready to head to the beach for a quick dip.
Is Zadar a good beach vacation destination?
Queen’s Beach
Zadar is whatever you want it to be, and that includes a beach holiday. Instead of classic resort towns, the beaches in and near Zadar feel more secluded and quiet. Since many beaches are located within the city or just a few minutes’ drive away, it’s easy to experience both culture and coastline.
Can you swim in the sea in Zadar?
Queen’s Beach
The best beaches in Zadar are set along the Adriatic Sea and are renowned for their clean, clear, and calm waters. Since temperatures can definitely drop in the cooler months, many travelers plan their trips from late May through October, when the water is at its warmest.
What should you pack for a beach day in Zadar?
Beach essentials
When it comes to the best beaches in Zadar, there are a few essentials you’ll want to pack. Swimwear, towels, and sunscreen are a must, while other items, such as water shoes and snorkel gear, are not always necessary but can be helpful to bring along. Some of Zadar’s beaches are pebble-strewn, which is where water shoes come in handy.
While most beaches, even the more remote ones, are never too far from a café or bar, it never hurts to pack enough water for the day, as well as a light cover-up for when you head back into town.
Queen’s Beach
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