Rogoznica is a lovely little holiday town in the north Dalmatian region of the Croatian coast, located roughly halfway along the coast between Split and Sibenik. This part of the Adriatic Sea is very pretty indeed, a protected bay with a highly indented coastline (totalling 54 kilometres, no less!) and a top-quality marina, Marina Frapa – it is no surprise to learn that Rogoznica attracts numerous avid sailors and boats.
The town is also home to a number of natural sights – including the Dragon’s Eye Lake – and has stunningly clear seawater. It’s a restful place for a holiday, and you’ll be within easy reach of a number of places for day trips, such as the aforementioned cities and Krka National Park. Give Rogoznica a try!
Getting There
Split Airport is undoubtedly the nearest airport to Rogoznica. This airport has very frequent flights from the UK, Ireland and countries all over Europe. See our Getting to Split page for more details of these flights.
There are several buses per day from Split to Rogoznica, with a journey time of just 55 minutes. Take a look at the Split Bus Station website for timetable details. There are also buses from Sibenik, which take just 40 minutes.
If you’re making the drive yourself from either city, do take the very beautiful D8 coastal road to Rogoznica. It will be a lovely, highly scenic journey for you.
If you’re driving from further afield (for example, from Zagreb), the best route would likely involve the A1 motorway. Take the Prgomet exit to drive down to Rogoznica.
Things to See and Do in Rogoznica
Dragon’s Eye Lake
A gorgeous natural phenomenon, the natural saltwater Dragon’s Eye Lake sits just 200 metres inland from the Adriatic with cliffs from 4 metres to 24 metres in height surrounding the 10,000 square metres of water. There is no channel connecting the lake to the sea that can be seen, with the lake and Adriatic instead linked via cracks and channels – and a cave – in the ground. 15 metres deep at its deepest point, the lake takes on different hues at different parts and levels on the lake. Even more surprisingly, the lake sometimes “boils” due to the presence of hydrogen sulphide in lower parts of the lake (making it hotter the deeper you go), causing salts and bubbles to rise to the surface.
It is named Dragon’s Eye (Zmajevo oko in Croatia) because of the legend of how the lake came to be created. In fact, not just one legend! The first tale believes that the lake was created because a dragon named Murin lost in a battle to Aristoles and, in its dying state, gouged its own eyes out with its claws. One of his eyes fell down to land and dissolved the rock, allowed the sea to pour in and the lake was created. This legend believes that if a pair swim together in the lake, they will have a long and happy marriage.
The second legend involves two brothers – one of who was blind – who lived here in ancient times. Upon dividing up the family fortune, the blind brother told the other that their land would be swallowed up by water and a dragon would leap out if he was being tricked over the fortune. And that is what happened – a dragon appeared out of the lake and swallowed the none-blind brother!
Dragon’s Eye Lake isn’t just a beautiful slice of nature with a great story – it’s also somewhere you can swim in. A must when you’re in Rogoznica!
Marina Frapa
If you’ve chartered on your own boat or are part of a sailing tour, it’s easy to see why Rogoznica is a popular stop. The main marina in town is Marina Frapa which has many times won the prestigious Golden Anchor award. The marina complex of course include berths for boats and other facilities for sailors, but also a few restaurants and bars. It is a pleasant part of town to explore.
Lavender Labyrinth
Located at the top of hill at the base of the small island of Kopara (connected to the rest of Rogoznica by bridge), this lavender-based maze is perhaps a little disappointing as far as mazes go. When you visit, you might find that the lavender is rather small or that it’s not been maintained and there’s barely any trace of it! (But let’s think positive and hope that it will be in full bloom when you’re there.) If nothing else, there are truly amazing views from this hill so the walk up here is still worth it.
Activities
Unsurprisingly, there are plenty of sporty activities for your to enjoy here, whether you rent a bike to stay on land or a boat to take you out to sea. Rogoznica is also an ideal location for diving, whether you’re already relatively experienced or just a beginner. Deep Blue Diving can help you out with all your diving needs.
Do also go for a walk along on the coastal promenade and out to locations such as Lavender Labyrinth (mentioned above) or the Chapel of the Blessed Virgin Mary. You will be rewarded with gorgeous sea views and it’s wonderful to watch the boats sail by.
Beaches
It won’t surprise you to find out that there are many beaches dotted in and around Rogoznica. There’s even a dog beach! One of the main beaches near the centre of town is Sepurina Beach, a pebble beach that has great facilities – beach equipment for hire, a small waterpark out on the sea and a number of restaurants and cafes.
A little further around the bay to the north is Lozica Beach, another pebble (and part concrete slab) beach that’s good for families (it is also home to a little playground).
On Kopara island, head to either Art Beach or Racice Beach which are both fairly small, pebbly beaches. But at either you can enjoy some peaceful sunbathing and swimming with the lovely backdrop of Rogoznica.
Eating and Drinking in Rogoznica
Botinero is a popular place offering exquisitely presented meat, fish and seafood dishes – and pizzas too – and is a top choice in town.
Resotoran Antonijo is another friendly place in a great location. You can’t go wrong with one of the steak or freshly caught fish dishes.
Garden Kitchen & Bar is a fun place serving tasty, hearty meals (think of burgers and pizzas) and drinks with a view.
Restoran Atrium has a pretty courtyard and is another good pick if you’re hankering after some fish or seafood dishes.
Janka’s Grill Streetfood is a tasty option for a quick bite. You can’t beat a plate of cevapcici (mini sausages) and chips! Several burger options are also available.
For evening drinks, head to the lively Moonshiners Pub. Try one of their local craft beers…or treat yourself to a cocktail.
Accommodation in Rogoznica
There are only two hotels in Rogoznica but plenty of private rentals, including villas and apartments. Use the search box and map below to search for rental places to stay.
One of the top options in town is the Villa Mint which has two available units, one sleeping four and the other sleeping eight people. There’s also an inviting outdoor pool and relaxing garden. Another private rental option is the Villa SeaBreeze which has a range of rooms and apartments for two to five people. It’s in a prime location, steps away from a beach.
For those keen on staying in hotel accommodation, take a look at the four-star Hotel Perla which has a pool, a restaurant and a private beach. Alternatively, the Marina Frapa Resort is linked to the excellent marina and has smart rooms across its two sites. The hotel also has an outdoor pool.
Another four-star option is the boutique Hotel Life which benefits from a prime location right on the waterfront. Hotel Life offers outdoor and indoor pools (the latter being part of the wellness centre) as well as a restaurant with seating on a lovely outdoor terrace.
Mini Camp Marko is a small campsite for 30 guests that offers bungalows for rent as well as providing plots for tents.
More info
You can learn more about the town on the Rogoznica Tourist Board website or on the Rogoznica page on the Dalmatia-Sibenik Tourist Board website.