Best White Sand Beaches in Croatia

Dugi Otok Island – which translates to “Long Island” – is a 50-kilometer long sliver of island inhabited by only 1,500 locals, and is home to some fantastic beach escapes.  Sakarun Beach consists of 800 meters of brilliant white pebble beach, curling around an enclosed bay with a shallow swimming area that extends 250 meters from the beachfront.  The tantalizing, clear waters shine with turquoise hues, reminiscent of the Caribbean.

Situated on Dugi Otok’s uninhabited and untouched southern coast, Sakarun Beach is the most popular beach on the island.  Although this sandy stretch is located over a mile from the nearest towns (Soline, Veli Rat, and Verunić), you’ll never feel the need to leave the beach during your perfect vacation day.  Amarcord Beach Bar sits on the southern edge and offers beachfront picnic tables, food, drinks, and rental lounge chairs. You can also escape from the sun into the thick pine forest, just a few feet behind the beach.

Reaching the beach area can be a bit complicated – you can take the daily ferry from Zadar, which runs about 1 hour and 20 minutes.  The beach itself can be reached by train from Božava, bus, or car on a dirt road that leads to beachside parking. Taking a boat over to the beach is also an option, and the bay is a popular spot to anchor for the day and enjoy the beach.  Since the island has so few inhabitants, transportation is not readily available, so your best choice may be to rent a car. While in the area, be sure to visit the Veli Rat lighthouse – built in 1849, it’s the tallest lighthouse on the Croatian coast at 138 feet (42 meters).  Overall, Sakarun Beach is a gorgeous vacation destination that has it all!

Grabrovica Beach, located in Pernat within the Primorje Gorski Kotar region of Croatia, is a captivating coastal gem known for its serene ambiance and crystal-clear waters. Nestled on the island of Cres, this beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking relaxation away from crowded tourist spots. Its pebble-stoned shore gently slopes into the Adriatic Sea, providing excellent swimming conditions and picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
Visitors to Grabrovica Beach appreciate the peaceful vibe, enriched by the lush Mediterranean vegetation framing the coastline. The beach is somewhat hidden, offering a secluded retreat yet still accessible for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Its unique charm lies in the combination of natural surroundings, clean waters, and a friendly local atmosphere that invites guests to unwind and connect with nature.
Throughout the year, the beach attracts a diverse crowd, including locals and tourists who enjoy not only swimming and sunbathing but also exploring the nearby marine life and engaging in various outdoor activities. Its inclusion of several beach categories emphasizes its welcoming environment and well-rounded facilities, enhancing its appeal as a must-visit coastal destination in the region.

Beach Lanterna in Tar, Istria, Croatia is a picturesque pebble beach located in a lush coastal area within a vibrant tourist zone. Surrounded by pine and oak woods, the beach offers natural shade and easy pedestrian access through scenic walking paths, creating a serene yet lively atmosphere for families, couples, and visitors of all ages. Its coastline stretches approximately 3 kilometers, featuring pebbly and rocky sections with clear, clean water recognized by the Blue Flag award for environmental quality and safety. The beach is well known for its safe and gentle sea entrance, making it especially popular among families with children and guests with disabilities. A lifeguard service maintains safety throughout the day, providing a secure environment for swimmers.

The vibe at Beach Lanterna is relaxed yet engaging, with opportunities to rent sun loungers, parasols, and a variety of water sports equipment. Visitors can partake in eco-workshops and community activities that celebrate the local natural surroundings. The adjacent Tropic Bar offers refreshments where visitors can unwind, listen to the soothing sounds of the sea, or enjoy lively entertainment as the day winds down. The beach balances natural beauty with a hospitable atmosphere, making it a favored destination close to several tourist resorts and accommodations within walking distance.

Lopar Beach, located on the northern tip of Rab Island in Primorje Gorski Kotar, Croatia, is the largest and most popular beach on the island. Spanning an extensive stretch of soft golden sand along the Adriatic coast, it offers an inviting shoreline framed by lush pine forests, providing both sun and shade options for visitors. Awarded the prestigious Blue Flag for its clean water and environmental quality, Lopar Beach is acclaimed for its family-friendly atmosphere and the variety of natural beauty it possesses.
Visitors often describe the beach as a picturesque coastal paradise where children can safely wade in shallow, crystal-clear waters, and adults can relax or engage in numerous recreational activities. The vibe is vibrant yet relaxed, making it an ideal destination for both peaceful getaways and lively summer experiences. The beach is part of a broader region known for its pristine environment, abundant wildlife, and proximity to charming local towns and cultural sites, ensuring a well-rounded holiday experience.
With its mix of natural allure and accessible amenities, Lopar Beach attracts a diverse crowd from families and solo travelers to groups of friends, especially during the peak summer months between June and September when the village awakens with festivals and all-night discos. Off-season visits promise tranquil, almost deserted sands with idyllic weather, perfect for those seeking solitude.