The best beaches in Croatia are some of the hottest spots in Europe right now, and there’s little surprise given their striking natural beauty. Since Croatia got on the radar of European vacationers throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the industry has expanded rapidly—more than 20 million visitors decided to soak up some Croatian sunshine in 2024. Now it’s one of the most visited destinations in the Mediterranean, as the rich history and culture, varied architecture, and food influenced by various other regions around the continent continue to draw the crowds. However, with over 3,700 miles of coastline between the mainland and hundreds of spectacular islands, one thing is for certain: Croatia’s beaches is where you’ll find all the action.
With some of the country’s most attractive cities dotted along, or near, the coast—Split, Dubrovnik and Zadar to name a few—a refreshing plunge into the sparkling Adriatic Sea is a highlight of any trip. From the bustling city beaches of Central Dalmatia to the breathtaking swathes of pebbly sand reaching out into the blue on the island of Brač, plus those dazzling wild coves only discoverable on foot, these are some of the best beaches in Croatia.
A version of this article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK.