Hidden Gems Unveiled: Unraveling Croatia's Best-Kept Secrets along the Dalmatian Coast

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For many, Croatia's southern Dalmatian coast epitomizes the country's charm. Stretching between Split and Dubrovnik, this region is home to some of the most sought-after destinations in Croatia. However, the popularity of this coastal area has reached such heights that it often feels overcrowded, with a growing influx of tourists flocking to Dubrovnik, Split, and other popular spots.

Split

It's impossible to hold them accountable. The Adriatic coast is unquestionably breathtaking, boasting the imposing Dinaric Alps as a striking backdrop to the intricately carved coastline and numerous dispersed islands. However, even within the prominent destinations, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Croatia's second city serves as the starting point for ferries to the islands of Dalmatia, resulting in large crowds of people maneuvering their luggage through the port and old town. The picturesque remains of Diocletian's Palace, constructed by the Roman emperor himself as a retirement residence in the 2nd century CE, can sometimes make it difficult to navigate. The nearby Bačvice beach, located just east of the ferry port, is also heavily crowded. For a more peaceful experience, seek refuge in the tranquil greenery of Marjan, a vast forested park encompassing an entire peninsula west of the port.

After strolling along Marjan's woodland paths and taking in the breathtaking views of Split and the sea from the Telegrin observation point, which stands as the highest point of Marjan at nearly 600 feet, descend to Ježinac beach located beneath the park for a refreshing swim. While you're there, take a few minutes to visit the Meštrović Gallery, a short walk away, and admire the artworks of Croatia's esteemed sculptor, Ivan Meštrović, who lived from 1883 to 1962. His opulent summer villa, designed by himself during the 1930s to maximize the scenic sea views, serves as a captivating exhibition space for his art. Additionally, you can find his religious artworks in the 16th-century church within the Crikvina complex, which is only a five-minute walk away.

Å olta

Lovely Solta is often overlooked for Hvar.

Poelzer Wolfgang/Alamy Stock Photo

Solta island, often overshadowed by its neighbors Hvar and Brac, offers a serene and tranquil setting with hidden pebbly coves along its southern coast. Visitors should not miss the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Senjska, Stracinska, and Skoljic.

Yacht enthusiasts may already be familiar with the charming village of Maslinica on the island's western coast, boasting a well-equipped marina and the picturesque Sesula Bay nearby. On the eastern side, Stomorska captivates with its charm and proximity to renowned wineries that produce the robust and authentic dobricic red wine. Indulge in a splendid wine tasting experience at Kaštelanac Agroturizam, where homemade seafood pâtés and tapenades complement the offerings. Amidst it all, countless miles of olive groves thrive, yielding award-winning oils from native Dalmatian varieties.

Croatia's secret beaches and little Venices

Brač

Croatia's iconic beaches are often associated with the elongated V-shaped Zlatni Rat on the island of Brač. The small pebbles on this beach resemble white sand, attracting a significant number of visitors to the nearby town of Bol. For a more tranquil experience, explore the charming villages dotted along the rugged northern coast of Brač, such as Pučišća. This area is known for its quarries that produce the famous creamy Brač stone, widely used in the architecture of Dalmatia and even the White House in Washington, DC. Dominating the waterfront is the impressive Klesarska Škola, a stonemason school that you can't miss.

On the western coast lies the laid-back village of Milna, nestled around a deep harbor. Surrounding the village are olive groves and vineyards that provide beautiful landscapes for leisurely cycling. From Milna, you can embark on a breathtaking journey along the winding southern coast for approximately 10 miles. Along this route, you will discover the captivating Blaca Hermitage, a UNESCO-listed site built into the cliffs by 16th-century monks, offering a glimpse into Brač's rich history.

Hvar

Outside of Hvar Town is a peaceful island with villages such as Stari Grad.

Goran Bogicevic/Alamy Stock Photo

Lured by its reputation for indulgence, young tourists flock to Hvar Town in large numbers. However, the island offers much more than being Croatia's designated party destination. Beyond the crowds, boat parties, and nightclubs, there lies a different world of lavender fields, vineyards, pine forests, farm restaurants, and olive groves.

Discover a more serene side of Hvar in Stari Grad, which, despite being situated along a busy ferry route, exudes a remarkable tranquility. Take a stroll through its Venetian marble streets before embarking on scenic walks in Stari Grad Plain, an olive grove and vineyard-covered area recognized by UNESCO, originally established by the Greeks in the fourth century BCE. Continue eastwards to explore some of the charming fishing villages, such as Jelsa and Milna, boasting delightful beaches. Don't forget to add Vrboska to your itinerary - with its white stone houses lining a canal flowing from the meandering harbor, it is a sight not to be missed.

Lastovo

Lastovo, a hidden gem in Croatia, is well worth the journey. Whether you embark on a three-hour ferry ride from Split or Dubrovnik, the effort is richly rewarded. The entire island is a pristine nature park, boasting over 125 miles of enchanting hiking trails that meander through lush forests and pass by charming terracotta-roofed stone houses in picturesque villages. It is the ultimate escape, where you can unwind on pebbly beaches and indulge in mouthwatering grilled seafood at beachfront restaurants, replenishing your energy after a breathtaking hike through the woods.

Discover the charming seaside village of Zaklopatica, located just a short eight-minute drive from the center. Ascend to the elevated observation area for breathtaking panoramic views. After parking your car, take a hike of approximately 400 yards to reach the summit of Sožanj and enjoy even more stunning vistas. Lastovo is renowned for its smaller islands, attracting diving enthusiasts and snorkelers.

Another captivating destination that rivals Lastovo in distance is the island of Vis. This island gained significant popularity following its appearance in the movie "Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again." Experience the allure of Venetian-style villages such as Vis Town and Komiža on this enchanting island.

The beautiful Croatia coastline with fewer tourists

Biokovo Nature Park

Skywalk Biokovo is a glass-bottomed viewing platform over a national park.

As beach enthusiasts relax along the extensive coastline of the Makarska Riviera, particularly in Tučepi, Baška Voda, Brela, and Makarska itself, adventurers inclined towards hiking and mountain biking gravitate towards the rugged trails of Biokovo Nature Park. Spanning approximately 78 square miles of the Dinaric Alps, Biokovo presents awe-inspiring views of the sea as you ascend further into the mountains. Hardy hikers may aspire to conquer the towering peak of Sveti Jure, the second highest mountain in Croatia at 5,780 feet. For a different kind of excitement, visitors can experience the thrill of Skywalk Biokovo, an observation deck shaped like a crescent with a glass bottom, suspended over the cliff at an altitude exceeding 4,000 feet above the sea level.

Just north of Biokovo and worth a detour is Omiš, a geographical marvel. This stunning destination is characterized by the Cetina River, which gracefully carves its way through a series of canyons and gorges before merging with the Adriatic Sea. As a result, the town itself is divided by this magnificent natural phenomenon. For those seeking an exhilarating experience, Zipline Croatia offers the opportunity to soar across the canyon on one of their eight ziplines. Prepare to test your nerve and embrace the breathtaking beauty of Omiš from an extraordinary perspective.

Neretva delta

In the midst of the rugged Dinaric Alps that stretch alongside the majority of the Adriatic coast lies the expansive, level, and exceptionally fertile expanse of the Neretva delta and valley. Emptied into the Adriatic between the villages of Rogotin and Blace, the same Neretva river that flows beneath Bosnia's renowned stone bridge in Mostar creates a serene aquatic realm. Orchards, waterways, wetlands, and lakes beckon visitors to leisurely explore by boat, on foot, or on bicycles, offering glimpses of roadside stalls displaying the very fruits that grow abundantly in the surroundings. Take a moment to relax on the vast sandy shores of Delta Beach, where you can observe and marvel at kiteboarders gracefully gliding across the sandy terrain.

Pelješac peninsula

In 2022 the Pelješac Bridge connected the Pelješac peninsula to the Croatian mainland.

The northern finger of land near Dubrovnik boasts some of Croatia's finest vineyards, featuring abundant rows of red plavac mali and dingač grape vines. Along its coastline, you'll discover numerous pebbly coves nestled amidst serene pine forests. Previously, accessing this area from the north required crossing into Bosnia, where its 12.4-mile coastline lies beneath the Neretva delta, before transitioning back to Croatia's southern Dalmatian coast. However, with the opening of the Pelješac Bridge in 2022, the peninsula is now connected to the Croatian mainland north of Bosnia, eliminating the need for border checks when traveling to the rest of southern Dalmatia.

to discover the enchanting beauty of Slovenia's Julian Alps.

Elaphiti islands

Stroll along the historic harbor of Dubrovnik and within moments, you'll be captivated by the opportunity to embark on a day excursion to the Elaphiti islands, situated to the north of the city. While a day may suffice to explore all three inhabited islands - Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan - it is more fulfilling to select one and indulge in a few days of tranquility once the day-trippers have departed. Šipan, the largest island, is the sole one permitting vehicles, yet it exudes an irresistible charm. With minimal activities to engage in, one can meander through olive groves (which adorn large parts of the island), bask in the pebbly beaches, and relish delectable freshly grilled fish. In essence, Šipan encapsulates the epitome of summertime Dalmatian life.

Dubrovnik region

Cavtat is a peaceful alternative to Dubrovnik.

robertharding/Alamy Stock Photo

Dubrovnik's old town is Croatia's most popular destination, particularly during the summer. The sheer number of tourists can be overwhelming, prompting many travelers to choose accommodations in the nearby coastal villages. Thankfully, there is a well-established bus network that allows for easy transportation. One such alternative to staying in the city is Cavtat, located approximately 15 miles south of Dubrovnik. In recent years, Cavtat has gained significant popularity as a more peaceful option. Alternatively, travelers can also consider heading north of Dubrovnik to Slano, which is only a 40-minute drive away. Slano not only offers a convenient location, but it is also the perfect gateway to exploring the Trsteno Arboretum before unwinding in the tranquil waters of the bay, surrounded by beautiful pine trees.

Mary Novakovich, the well-known author of "My Family and Other Enemies: Life and Travels in Croatia's Hinterland," provides further insight into the country's unique experiences.