Visiting Brela - Makarska Riveria

23rd September 2025

Brela is the first town you approach in the Makarska Riviera when travelling down the coast from Split. It is a lovely town which has long stretches of pebble beaches and crops of pine trees, and is quieter than Makarska. For these reasons, it’s a popular holiday resort (especially with families) for those looking for a relaxing type of getaway.

Punta Rata beach in Brela often features on lists of top beaches in the world! Famously so by Forbes, joining a list featuring popular places around the world, such as Miami and Bondi Beaches.

Getting to Brela

Split Airport is the closest airport to the town. See our Getting to Split section for full details on which airlines fly there from the UK and Europe.

The best way to travel from Split (assuming you aren’t taking a transfer of some sort or have a hire car) would be to take a bus from the airport to Split Bus Station. Once here, change for another bus to Brela. Journey time from Split bus station is just under one hour.

Sightseeing and Things to Do

Brela isn’t really a sightseeing type of place, but there are a few items of interest here. Amongst them is the Lady of Karmen Church, which was built in 1730.

Kamen Brela is a natural sight – a small rock island just off the coast, it is considered a symbol of the town. (See the photo above.)

One of the nicest things to do is to take a stroll along the seaside promenade, the lungomare. It stretches for over 7km through Brela and beyond, so you can also use it for more than just a stroll!

Beaches in Brela

As mentioned, Punta Rata Beach is one of the most well-known beaches in this part of Croatia…if not further afield! This pebble-y beach stretches for 400m and is located by a fragrant pine forest, which also offers plenty of shade if you ever want to escape the sun for a little bit. Very suitable for families.

Podrace Beach has also received numerous accolades and is located close to Punta Rata. Stretching for 150m around a pretty cove up to a rock, this beach is also suitable for all ages.

Sports and Activities

There are plenty of watersports and other water activities on offer in the town. You can try out parasailing and jetskiing; rent your own pedal boat (for a leisurely go on the sea); regular boat or even a speed boat. Those keen on diving should contact Bikini Dive, who offer a variety of courses.

Day Trips from Brela

The town is well placed for easily visiting the other local towns on this part of the Croatian coast, such as Makarska, Baska Voda and Omis. Split (and its many delights) is very suitable for a day trip. The local islands of Brac and Hvar are also very doable (ask at a local agency to see what trips are available). Finally, adventure seekers may be interested in the activities available in and around the Cetina River, such as white water rafting.

If you have your own wheels, you could definitely visit Krka National Park as a pleasant day trip. Visiting Dubrovnik would also be possible, although we’d recommend taking the inland motorway at least one way, as this will be quicker.

Eating in Brela

The town has a good selection of restaurants, taverns and cafes for eating out. Here are a couple of good options.

Restaurant Burin is a family-run restaurant close to the pretty bay of Jakirusa that specialises in seafood.

Konoba Ivandica Dvori is located just outside the main part of town and has a cosy interior and a pretty terrace for outdoor dining. There are excellent seafood and meat choices.