Zadar, Croatia's 13 Most Stunning Beaches You Can't Miss On Your First Trip

Zadar is a vibrant coastal city in Croatia with ancient charm, endless blue water, and a deeply unpretentious atmosphere. Its expansive archipelago also includes islands such as Dugi Otok, Ugljan, Pašman, Molat, Silba, Ist, Iž, Olib, Premuda, and the Kornati Islands, along with more than 100 smaller islands. The region boasts some of the best beaches in all of Croatia and dramatic Adriatic Sea landscapes. The summer season runs roughly from June to September, but Rick Steves says that visiting Croatia during the summer can feel "like spending spring break in Florida," so it's best to wait until the shoulder season to avoid crowds. With such an abundance of natural beauty throughout the region, it's impossible to go wrong. But, there are certainly ways to get more out of your visit, especially if it's your first time.

For this guide, we focused on sandy beaches, which tend to be more comfortable for taking walks along the shore and for families. Many of the region's beaches are rocky or pebbly, which can make them less inviting for typical beach outings. Plus, given Croatia's reputation as an ideal destination for a yachting vacation, some beaches are challenging to reach without a private boat. For this reason, we selected beaches that are easily accessible from the mainland by bus, car, or ferry. 

Sakarun Beach stands out as a superstar on this list. It's a mecca for those who love turquoise waters and pristine white sand. Here, the shoreline stretches far in both directions, so it's no wonder the beach is often referred to as the "Caribbean of the Adriatic." It's conveniently located on the island of Dugi Otok — also called Long Island — the largest one in the Zadar Archipelago and not too far from the mainland. Tucked into a sheltered nook on the northern end of the island, its exquisite waters are protected from large swells and strong winds, making it a paradise for anyone seeking a calm, relaxing dip and lounging experience.

Sakarun is also perfect for families with small children — the seabed gradually slopes downward, providing abundant shallow waters for little ones to safely play in. There are a couple of bars and restaurants right on the beach, so you can plan to spend a full day here without having to leave. For example, the Sakarun Bay Bar offers up a limited but solid selection of beverages, including traditional Balkan spirits. Those with a car can drive onto the ferry from the mainland to Dugi Otok, which takes just under two hours. From the ferry dock, it's about 15 minutes to the beach, with public parking nearby. Those without a car can get to Sakarun Beach by taking a train from Božava.

You may assume that the only way to get access to beautiful beaches is by driving or sailing far away from the city, but Borik Beach will prove you wrong. This stunning beach is worth checking out for its sandy shores and gorgeous waters, and it's located only about a 10-minute drive north of downtown Zadar.

It's worth noting that the shoreline is not a continuous stretch of golden sand. Some parts are covered in pebbles, and another area is paved with stones. Nevertheless, there's plenty of sand and shaded grassy areas for everyone to enjoy. It tends to attract many families with children because of its ease of access, gentle slope, and calm water. There are public showers and toilets on site, which adds to the overall convenience. Restaurants and cafes line the area, and visitors are minutes away from the commercial districts of the city. Despite its popularity and convenient location, it remains refreshingly uncrowded — unlike the popular beaches in Europe that travel experts warn to avoid. The beach hosts occasional live performances in the evenings, creating a warm and lively atmosphere.

Climb down a scenic staircase and brush past brightly-colored wildflowers, and you will tumble directly onto the sandy shores of Sabunike Beach. This stunning beach faces northeast, meaning it has perfectly unobstructed views of the rugged Velebit Mountain Range, with its highest peak striking an impressive pose at nearly 6,000 feet above sea level.

The beach's proximity to the mountains also creates strong winds on the water and along the shore. These are the perfect conditions for adrenaline junkies seeking surfing, sailing, and other adventures. A long pier stretches out into the deeper parts of the aquamarine water, with a friendly ladder at the end that allows for graceful entries and exits without a splash. The beach is located just outside of the ancient little town of Nin, which sits about a 20-minute drive north of Zadar. There are several bars and restaurants within walking distance.

Tucked along the wild southwestern edge of Dugi Otok, Brbišćica Bay feels like stepping onto the set of a nature documentary. The bay is best known for its dramatic geological formations — limestone carved by centuries of wind and waves, alongside enormous sea caves that you can explore by kayak. The most famous of these is the Golubinka Sea Cave — a vast, majestic cavern where sunlight peeks through a natural skylight illuminating the electric blue water.

The rugged shoreline features flat stone shelves instead of sandy stretches, but that's part of its photogenic appeal. It attracts adventurous swimmers and explorers who come for cliff-jumping, snorkeling, scuba diving, and paddling through the cave networks. The water is unbelievably pristine, which is a distinctive feature of beaches in Croatia, home to the cleanest water for swimming in all of Europe. It is also quite remote, so the area feels refreshingly untouched.

Guided kayak tours leave regularly from nearby spots, making it an excellent half-day trip for anyone based on the island. From Zadar, it's a two-hour ferry ride followed by a 10-minute drive. While it's possible to do a day trip to Dugi Otok, it's best to stay on the island for at least a night or two to give yourself ample time to discover its magic.

Stretching along the southeastern side of Dugi Otok, Telašćica Nature Park is a natural sanctuary and a tentative UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is filled with hidden coves and secluded inlets, each offering unique swimming opportunities. One of its standout locations is Mir Lake, a saltwater lake separated from the sea by a thin strip of land, where the water is especially warm in the summer. Many parts are shallow and perfectly inviting for leisurely paddling or floating. It's also believed to be filled with mineral-rich mud called fango, known for its therapeutic properties. 

Beyond swimming, the park is a haven for nature lovers. Hike on winding trails amid dense Mediterranean shrubbery, including holm oaks and Aleppo pines that emit a calming earthy scent. Wildlife is abundant here, and the park is home to 115 species of birds, including raptors and songbirds, as well as turtles and lizards. The park features many easy hiking paths and lookout points that offer panoramic views of the Kornati Islands, making it a paradise for photographers. As with other locations on Dugi Otok, the journey from the mainland is roughly two hours by ferry followed by a short drive to the park's entrance. 

Nestled on the island of Ugljan, Zelena Punta Beach is a delightful mix of pine-shaded concrete platforms and natural rocky stretches. This beach is a perfect option for those who enjoy a more structured seaside experience outside of Zadar. From the beach, the charming village of Kukljica unfolds like a postcard, complete with terracotta rooftops framed by the deep blue hues of the Adriatic Sea.

Pedal boats and kayaks are available for rent, letting you explore the calm waters beyond the shore. A small aquatic playground will keep little ones happy. Cafes and casual restaurants line the promenade, offering refreshing drinks and light bites like grilled fish, octopus salad, seafood risotto, calamari, and local cheeses. Although sand is limited, the combination of shade, amenities, and activities makes it a comfortable spot to settle in for a full day of outdoor fun. From Zadar, it's a short 20-minute ferry ride to the port in Preko and a short car or bus ride to the south side of the island.

Walk down to the end of the road in this remote beachside town on Otok Vir and you will see a historic lighthouse made of white stone rising out of a forested grove. The iconic Otok Vir Lighthouse is part of a private inn that offers luxury overnight accommodations complete with a private beach area, a hot tub, and a sauna. Even if you don't stay there, the lighthouse provides charming scenery for beachgoers at Lanterna Beach. The island is connected to the mainland by bridge, making it accessible by car in about 40 minutes from downtown Zadar.

Visitors describe it as especially quiet and remote, giving you the sense that you've found a secret slice of paradise. The shoreline is both pebbly and rocky — wear durable water shoes if you plan to wade into the sea, as there may be some sharp rocks and corals underfoot. Needless to say, it's not an ideal place for children or beginners to go for a swim. This beach is not within close walking distance of any bars or restaurants, so pack a succulent Mediterranean picnic to eat under the refreshing shade of the surrounding pines.

Tucked into a generous, sea-hugging cove is the island of Vir's most popular beach, Jadro — not to be confused with Jadra Beach on the island of Pag. To get there, you'll cross over the Vir Bridge, an elegant columned sea bridge stretching over jewel-like waters, connecting the island to the mainland in Zadar. It's only about 40 minutes by car.

The beach sits comfortably within the laid-back town of Vir, so there's a more urban feel with tons of cafes, bars, and restaurants offering terraced seating with amazing views to enjoy while you dine. This impeccable beach is outfitted with excellent amenities such as lounging chairs, umbrellas, showers, and watercraft rentals such as stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, and jet skis. There's also an epic floating playground in the water, complete with slides and bouncy surfaces to cannon ball into the crystal-clear water. The pebble beach transforms into a sandy seabed as you wade into the water, which remains comfortably shallow for a long stretch. 

A leisurely walk south from Zadar's Old Town leads you to Kolovare Beach, one of the city's most beloved swimming spots. The coastline here curves in a long, graceful arc, with stretches of smooth concrete sunbathing platforms that jut out over the clear, sapphire water. Along the shore is a lively scene of families setting up in the shade of nearby trees, locals wading into the sea for their daily swim, and teenagers launching themselves off diving points into the glistening waters below. 

Kolovare is an urban Zadar beach in the best sense — it's accessible, generously equipped, and wonderfully relaxed. Showers, changing cabins, lifeguards, and plenty of shaded corners make it especially comfortable for long, lazy days. There's also an enclosed seaside swimming area, Bazen Kolovare, surrounded by concrete barriers and home to a popular 33-foot, multi-platform diving board for those who love a thrill. 

A line of bars and restaurants sits just behind the promenade, offering everything from cold drinks and gelato, to delicious meals with waterfront views. Because it's within easy walking distance of downtown, the beach stays lively from morning to sunset. With its west-facing orientation, it's also the perfect spot to watch glorious sunsets over the rest of the archipelago.

What this beach may lack in sandy shoreline, it makes up for in accessibility. Step off the ferry at Preko Pier, a quick 25-minute cruise from Zadar, and you're practically already there. It's about a 20-minute walk or short car ride from the port. Jaz Beach sits right beside the seaside promenade, making it one of the easiest island beaches to reach without a car or private boat.

A spread of amenities along the shore keeps things easy — showers, shaded seating, and cafes are just steps away on the promenade. And for adventurous swimmers, there's a bonus. A short paddle, swim, or boat ride offshore leads to Galevac Island, a pocket-sized islet with a historic monastery that makes for a nice cultural detour and change of scenery. The 15th‑century Franciscan complex houses a rich library and museum, although you may need to towel off first before entering.

Just beyond the historic town of Nin lies one of the longest sandy beaches in the entire Zadar region. From the road, follow the wooden boardwalk that skims over the water toward the beach and you'll emerge onto a golden sweep of shoreline. Queen's Beach is unique for its views of the dramatic Velebit Mountain Range, with jagged peaks that form a striking backdrop behind the waters. According to legend, the beach was once beloved by the Croatian Queen Jelena, and it's easy to imagine royalty choosing a place like this to unwind.

Nearby, you're likely to stumble upon patches of the region's naturally occurring medicinal mud, rich with minerals and used for its healing benefits. Since the Roman times, locals and visitors alike have sworn by "thalassotherapy," or seawater-based treatment, to help with various ailments, rheumatic diseases, muscular problems, skin conditions, and more. Amenities at this beach are minimal but convenient. There are a handful of beach bars and cafes within walking distance in downtown Nin.

Near the village of Privlaka, Mostina Beach and its surrounding cove are one of the Zadar region's quieter, more family-friendly beaches. The ultra-calm waters stretch far from shore, making it perfect for small children, leisurely wading, or anyone who prefers a relaxed, low‑stress swim. Unlike some of the more crowded surrounding beaches, Mostina has a peaceful, almost private feel, with soft sand underfoot and plenty of natural shade from surrounding pine trees. The beach and its facilities are also adapted for folks with reduced mobility, ensuring ease of access for everyone.

A handful of cafes and snack stands sit within walking distance, offering cold drinks, ice cream, and light meals, while sun loungers and umbrellas can be rented for those looking for extra comfort. Mostina Beach is easily accessible by car from Zadar, and is only about a 25-minute drive from downtown. It makes an excellent spot for a day trip. It's the kind of beach where you can spread out a towel, watch the sunlight glitter across the Adriatic Sea, and enjoy a slow, calm day with family or friends.

History and saltwater combine in this charming location to provide beach-goers with a unique atmosphere. Between the towns of Nin and Vrsi, Zukve Beach is another gem in the Zadar archipelago that is not as well known to visitors, perhaps because of its location. Parts of the beach here are sandy, while others are more pebbly. Yet, visitors remark that it's a fantastic, uncrowded place for swimming, snorkeling, and watching the sunset.

Another special feature of this beach is its proximity to ancient ruins and historical sites. Nearby on the hillside is a charming 12th-century seaside chapel dedicated to St. James that's worth checking out between dips in the ocean. Woodstock, the local beach bar, is well stocked with a full menu of wines, beer, and cocktails, and occasionally hosts live music performances to keep the good times rolling. Zukve Beach is a 25-minute drive from Zadar, or an hour by bus. There are a few businesses in the sleepy town of Vrsi-Zukve for quick convenience. Slightly farther away, the town of Nin offers numerous options for dining, shopping, and sightseeing.

Our research started with a review of rankings and published resources by reputable travel outlets to get a broader sense of the most popular beaches in the Zadar area. We also looked to define the boundaries of the Zadar Archipelago, and which of the surrounding islands are not formally included. From here, we narrowed down our selection based on countless reviews published by visitors on Tripadvisor and Google Reviews. This allowed us to get a better sense of the firsthand experiences of each location, and whether it is suitable for families or convenient for tourists in Croatia. We relied on tourism boards and local publications for details regarding nearby attractions, available amenities, landscape features, water conditions, and accessibility within the Zadar region. Since many of the smaller and lesser-known beaches do not often appear on English-language travel guides, we also relied on Google Maps to understand the location. This combination of curated lists, visitor experiences, and mapping tools allowed us to highlight both well-known and hidden gem beaches, while providing practical, accurate, and up-to-date information for visitors.