Croatia

Croatia’s Most Idyllic Islands

Croatia’s islands are places of utter beauty. Framed by the Adriatic with scalloped bays, pine-fringed beaches and clear waters, they are the ultimate holiday destination. Whether you’re in search of chic hangouts or off the radar beaches, this list has it covered. Here is a guide to Croatia’s most idyllic islands and what to do when you reach them.

Pakleni Islands
'These tiny islands are exclusivity come good'

The Pakleni Islands are a cluster of islands located just off Hvar. Most of the islands have become fashionable with well-dressed yachties whose boats allow them the freedom to travel between the tiny islands as they please. Eat at waterfront restaurant Zori on Palmižana for an unforgettable dining experience or dance the night away at Carpe Diem on Stipanska island.

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Hvar
'A buzzing island of breathtaking beauty, trendy bars and superb restaurants'

Hvar is one of Croatia’s most popular islands, meaning the summer months bring with them lots of people. Shoulder season is the best time to visit with the best months being May and September when the temperatures are warm, skies are blue and tourists fewer. Climb the Spanjola fortress for breathtaking views of the terracotta-roofed town and the marina below. Explore the island's beautiful beaches such as Milna, Zaraće or even further off the radar Dubovica.

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Dugi Otok
'An island of tranquility and natural beauty in equal measures'

Dugi Otok is completely off the radar. If you want to escape the modern world in search of ultimate seclusion, this is the island for you. With little phone reception, you’ll be forced to stow away modern technologies in exchange for untouched beaches and natural beauty. The best thing? It’ll feel like you’ve got the beautiful island all to yourself, especially in shoulder season.

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Korčula
'From pine-framed coves to quaint old towns, Korčula has rustic charm in abundance'

Of all the islands we visited, Korčula was my favourite. It has the ideal mix of trendy hotpots and unexplored corners. Make sure to stop at secluded bays such as Pupnatska Luka and Bačva for pebbled beaches and turquoise seas. Korčula town has some of the prettiest backstreets I've laid eyes on, climb the bell tower for views over the marina or the wooded forest for views over the town.

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Vis
‘Azure waters lap the coast and trees grow wild inland’

Croatia’s furthest island remains one of the most untouched. Vis is an island of beautiful beaches, rugged interiors and few visitors. Make sure to travel to Stiniva, one of the prettiest beaches on the island. Spend your whole time on this island and you won’t want to return to the real world. There is a reason why Vis is every Croat’s favourite island.

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Rab
'Long beaches and powdery sands'

Located off northern Croatia, Rab is an island of beautiful old towns and long sandy beaches. Rab town is charming with its orange-hued rooftops and pale stoned buildings. There are plenty of winding backstreets and bougainvillea grown walls to be uncovered. Photo by Caproni

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Lopud
‘Ideal for those seeking peace from Dubrovnik’

Located only thirty minutes from Dubrovnik by boat, Lopud provides a sweet escape from the bustling medieval city. This tiny island has no chic bars, no fine dining, few luxuries and little commodities, but is ideal for fleeing the tourists. The quaint harbour is peaceful and tranquil and feels a million miles away from mainland Croatia.

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Angela says:

July 24, 2016 at 1:00 pm

Gorgeous photos! I visited Croatia’s islands last year and this post makes me miss it so much! xx

Stephanie says:

July 25, 2016 at 2:00 pm

Oh my goodness – what beautiful islands. These photos are lovely.