Croatian islands

Croatia’s dazzling coastline is home to more than one thousand islands – yes, you read that right! If you were to look out to sea from anywhere along the Croatian coastline, it would be unusual for you not to see a green speck in the distance! Most of the Croatian islands, however, are small and uninhabited and there are therefore only 20 or so larger islands which are popular with visitors.

This section provides a guide to many of these, starting from those just off Istria at the north of Croatia’s coastline, going all the way down to the islands near Dubrovnik in the south.

Croatian Islands

Croatian Islands Guides

  • The Brijuni Islands
    14 islands and islets make up this archipelago, also a National Park that is located close to Pula on the mainland
  • Cres
    The second-largest island in the Adriatic, near Rijeka
  • Losinj
    A neighbour to Cres, this popular island is well known for its lush green vegetation
  • Susak
    One of the smallest islands, less touched by tourism, it is home to several sandy beaches
  • Krk
    Connected to the mainland by bridge, Krk is easily accessible and is also the largest Croatian island
  • Rab
    Covered with fragrant pine forests, Rab is one of the greenest islands
  • Pag
    Famous for its sheep’s cheese and lace-making, also home to the party town of Novalja!
  • Vir
    Attracting many holidaymakers each summer, there’s plenty of beaches on Vir
  • Dugi Otok
    One of Croatia’s quieter islands, ‘long island’ (which is what its name means) is the perfect place to relax
  • Ugljan
    The “olive” island is covered with olive groves
  • Pasman
    A lovely green island with lots of beaches!
  • The Kornati Islands
    Peaceful and tranquil, this archipelago consists of 140 islands
  • Murter
    Easy to reach from the mainland, this island is great for activities (sailings, diving), a base for exploring the Kornati islands…or partying at a festival in Tisno!
  • Solta
    One of the smaller Croatian islands, very close to Split – perfect for a day trip!
  • Brac
    One of the livelier islands, Brac is famous for Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) beach in the town of Bol
  • Hvar
    Hvar is one of the chic-est options for the discerning Croatian visitor, and well known for its hours of sun!
  • The Pakleni Islands
    A small group of magical islands, ideal for an easy day trip from Hvar
  • Vis
    With a fascinating history, Vis is often considered more ‘off the beaten track’ than some of its more popular neighbours
  • Bisevo
    Home to the spectacular Blue Cave, and peaceful sandy beaches
  • Korcula
    Famous for its thick dense forest, the island was nicknamed Black Korcula by the ancient Greeks
  • Lastovo
    One of the more remote islands, perfect for a wonderfully peaceful holiday
  • Mljet
    Home to a wonderfully enchanting National Park, Mljet is an excellent choice for a day trip or a relaxing holiday
  • The Elafiti Islands (Kolocep, Lopud & Sipan)
    Beautifully untouched – some even car-free – islands near Dubrovnik

Do see our guide to Events on the Croatian Islands.

Other Islands

Information about the island of Silba can be found at Silba.net.