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One of my favorite things to do in Šibenik, Croatia, is relaxing on the many beaches. Well, to be fair, I love just about any place where a beach is available, but Šibenik really has some beautiful beaches. Crystal clear blue waters, thriving marine life, all closeby to this historic Croatian city.
From right on the city’s shore to the furthest island from the mainland, here are some of my favorite beaches in Šibenik.
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Map for this guide
Here is a map I’ve made for you that shows where all of these beaches in Šibenik are located.
A note about Croatian beaches: Depending on where in the world you’re from, you might be used to different types of beaches. Where I’m from, around New Haven, Connecticut, we have sand beaches. In Croatia, many beaches consist of pebbles and stones. Still (mostly) comfortable to lounge on, but different than what you might be used to!
Looking for more information about Šibenik? Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Šibenik, Croatia!
Banj Beach
In almost every coastal city in Croatia, there’s a riva, most similar to a boardwalk. At the end of the riva in Šibenik, you’ll find Banj Beach. The city beach offers free showers and changing areas, and most importantly, free entry to the beach. You can bring your own towels and chairs, or you can rent sun loungers once you arrive.
Since the beach area is at the base of the Šibenik, you’ll find a unique, panoramic view of the city, including Barone Fortress, St. Michael’s Fortress, and the Cathedral of St. James.
And, since the beach is at the end of the riva, you’re so close to many great coffee shops, ice cream stands, and the beach bar.
Jadrija Beach
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The first of many beaches in Šibenik on this list that you’ll need to take a ferry to access, Jadrija Beach is a trendy seaside resort area. Many families have houses on the small streets just outside the beach area, and you’ll see locals of all ages relaxing on the shore.
Some areas of the shoreline at Jadrija Beach are pebble, but most of the coast is stone that extends right up to the water.
Once you’re there, there are a few different food stands in the main beach area. However, you can’t leave without trying a “krafne.” Essentially a Croatian donut, a krafne is airy and usually holds some sort of delicious cream or jelly in the center. Although you can find this treat all over Croatia, there’s something special about enjoying one seaside from Slastičarnica Jadrija, the confectionary shop on Jadrija Beach.
You can access Jadrija by driving or taking a local ferry that runs several times every day during the summer from the riva in Šibenik right to the beach. The ride takes about 30 minutes.
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Aquapark Dalmatia
Aquatic family fun for all ages? You’ll find it at Aquapark Dalmatia! The first themed water park in Croatia has a whole Kids Zone and lazy rivers, an “Aqua Rain Fortress,” water slides, waterfalls, and jacuzzis all throughout the park.
Since it’s on the coast, it also has its own private beach access through one of the hotels on its property, the Amadria Park Jakov. The Solaris resort in Šibenik has five different themed beaches along its coast, with hotel options from three to five stars.
Rezaliste Beach
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If you’re not into the Aquapark or not interested in a resort experience for your day out in the sun, you can head right next door to the city’s Rezaliste Beach. Made up of mostly fine gravel and concrete, it’s a great place to go lay back and relax in the sun outside of the city center without traveling far on the mainland.
Once you’ve enjoyed enough of the sun, walk along the water for some cute shops and restaurants. Sahara Beach Bar is a great, locally owned-and-operated coffee shop located just steps from the water.
Zlarin
About a mile off the coast of Šibenik, Zlarin is a great place to spend a day on the beach. You can take a ferry to the island’s harbor and many of the other islands around Šibenik, using the ferry company Jadrolinija. Their boats service many routes all throughout Croatia.
Once you arrive, you can walk around to explore the peaceful island’s town. No cars are permitted on Zlarin, so you might see a golf cart or a bike riding by, but nothing else! You can then lounge almost anywhere by the water on this island, so settle down in a spot that works best for you.
There are a few hotels on the island if you’re interested in staying overnight. Otherwise, have dinner at one of the island’s restaurants like Aldura before taking the ferry back to Šibenik.
Žirje
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The furthest island away from mainland Šibenik, Žirje is an incredible oasis in the Adriatic. The Jadrolinija ferry to arrive on this island is an hour and 20 minutes.
Only about 100 people live on the island, so if you’re looking for a more-remote, genuinely local experience in Croatia, you’ll find it here on Žirje. The water here is clean, crystal-clear blue, making for phenomenal swimming conditions.
There are only a few restaurants on the island, but it’s known as a fishing settlement, so if you have the chance, you need to stop at one of the few restaurants on the island. It really comes right out of the ocean and onto your dish. It’s delicious and utterly fantastic!
Whether you’re looking for a quick trip to the beach barely leaving the city center, or you want to totally unplug for a few days on a far-off island, you’ll definitely be impressed with the beaches in Šibenik!
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