If you’re planning a trip to Croatia, you’re probably going for the gorgeous beaches and coastal landscapes. But this is a country home to more than 1,000 named beaches and 3,600 miles of coastline. So where exactly should you go?
I’ve written about how Vis is the best island to visit in Croatia, and that applies to its beaches as well. They’re not only idyllic, but they’re generally less traveled than beaches you’ll find in other popular Croatian tourist spots like Split, Dubrovnik, and the islands of Hvar and Brac.
Many of the best beaches in Vis are only accessible by boat or via a hike. Because of this, you’re rewarded with minimal crowds compared to beaches on more popular islands.
Whether it’s Stiniva Beach, sheltered from the open sea in a narrow cove and rated by Lonely Planet as one of the best beaches in Croatia, or Pritiscína Beach, so hidden that it’s yet to be discovered by even the most popular travel media sites, you’re going to love the beaches on Vis.
Just be prepared to endure the rocks, or invest in some water shoes, as with other Croatian beaches, these are mainly rocky beaches (there is one exception on this list).
Let’s get into the Top 5 beaches on Vis.
1. Stiniva Beach
Stiniva Beach is commonly regarded as one of the most stunning beaches in Croatia. A visit here is one of the most popular things to do on Vis.
The beach lies in a small cove, a gap in between the towering cliffs so narrow that normal-sized boats can’t squeeze through Instead, boaters anchor out in the open water and use rafts to get to shore.
For the adventurous type, you can traverse the rocky, slippery path down to the beach from the closest parking lot. The hike to Stiniva Beach will take you about 30 minutes and requires you to be in decent physical condition but isn’t terribly treacherous. Just bring hiking shoes or decent walking shoes.
The easiest way to get to Stiniva is by boat. This beach isn’t usually packed with people, but it will fill up in the late morning and afternoon hours with sailboat or yacht island-hoppers. Not only is this because these are just your general prime hours, but since the beach is sheltered and essentially enclosed by towering cliffs on each side, the sun hits the cover only during these specific midday hours.
2. Pritiscína Beach
My personal favorite beach on Vis is one that’s inaccessible by foot. Pritiscína Beach is merely a beach, but more so a tiny cove hidden behind a bunch of distinct rock formations. Cliff-jumpers can get creative here.
There are never more than two or three boats anchored in the cove at a time. We were actually the only ones here in the late afternoon, which makes this a prime spot to anchor, listen to music, and down some drinks. Our guide, Denis, made sure to bring us here, but I suggest confirming with your skipper that it’s on their agenda since this is a can’t-miss spot on Vis.
3. Smokova Beach
Smokova Beach is also mainly accessed by boat. You’ll usually find several boaters anchored in the bay, but you’re free to enjoy the beach as well. Our skipper anchored along the edge of the coast, allowing my friends to hop off and walk to the beach. I, on the other hand just jumped off and swam to shore.
Notably, this is the best sandy beach on Vis and one of the best sandy beaches in Croatia. If you’re craving a break from the rocks, make sure you stop by Smokova Beach.
Fun fact: there’s a sunken airplane wing from World War II within the swimming area at Smokova Beach. Grab some snorkeling gear and swim down to the bottom to explore (it’s only 8 to 10 feet deep)!
4. Stončica Beach
Stončica Beach is well-rounded and family friendly. It offers great views looking out at the sea, has a small beach bar, some small docks for ample relaxation, and is easy to get to. For families with kids, there are typically some locals staked out in and around the bay by their small boats, and they’re willing to take you out into the open sea for a reasonable price if their schedule isn’t already booked.
While many of the best beaches on Vis are only accessible by boat, Stončica Beach is just a short 10-minute drive from Vis Town and a 5-minute walk down from the parking lot.
5. Porat Beach
Porat Beach can instead be found on nearby Bisevo Island, but this beach is almost always accessed by visitors from Vis, so I’m including it on this list. It’s a short 45-minute boat ride from Vis Town and 20 minutes from Komiža.
Bisevo only has 15 permanent residents, and is usually only visited for its famous Blue Cave, but Porat Beach stays occupied during high season thanks to visitors from Vis. There’s a beach bar with decent seafood and drinks, though the food is overpriced.
When tides are low, the sandy section of the beach is exposed, which, as mentioned, is a rarity for Croatia. The water is also pretty shallow for a long way out, and since it’s isolated from the crowds, it acts as a really nice getaway.
In-Summary: Best Beaches on Vis
This list of the most beautiful beaches on Vis doesn’t come close to covering every beach on the island. There are several beaches within walking distance of Vis Town and Komiza, the two settlements on Vis, if you’re just looking for a spot to dip in the water.
But the most attractive beaches on Vis are generally the ones that are hard to get to. That’s why it’s important to know how to get around Vis. Rest assured that the effort you put in to getting there will be worth it.
