Discover Zlatni Rat Beach, Croatia’s most iconic beach, and explore the charming town of Bol on Brač Island—perfect for sun, sea, and adventure lovers.
Nestled on the southern shores of Brač Island, Zlatni Rat Beach is not just Croatia’s most photographed beach — it’s a natural masterpiece. With its ever-changing golden horn stretching into the turquoise Adriatic and shaded by fragrant pine forests, this iconic beach is a magnet for sunseekers, surfers, and nature lovers alike. Just a short stroll away lies Bol, a charming seaside town where traditional stone houses, vibrant cafés, and a laid-back Mediterranean vibe await. Whether you’re here to swim in crystal-clear waters, sip local wine on a sea-view terrace, or windsurf along the channel — Bol and Zlatni Rat promise an unforgettable escape.
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🛥 How to Get to Zlatni Rat Beach and Bol
Getting to Bol and its legendary Zlatni Rat Beach is all part of the island-hopping magic that defines summer in Croatia. The fastest and most relaxing option is to hop on a catamaran from Split — a scenic ride across the turquoise Adriatic that takes just one hour. These catamarans dock right in Bol’s charming harbor, just a short seaside stroll from the beach.
During high season (June–September), you’ll also find direct catamaran routes from Makarska, Dubrovnik, and Hvar, making Bol an easy addition to any Dalmatian island itinerary.
If you’re road-tripping or planning a longer stay, you can also bring a car via ferry. The main car ferry route runs from Split to Supetar, the largest town on Brač Island. From Supetar, it’s a beautiful 40-minute drive through the island’s rugged interior, dotted with stone villages, olive groves, and sweeping sea views. The roads are well-paved and clearly marked.
🚗 Tip: Take your time on the drive from Supetar to Bol — there are a few fantastic panoramic stops overlooking vineyards and the Hvar channel that are perfect for snapping photos or just soaking it all in.
🚌 Public buses also run between Supetar and Bol several times daily in the summer, and taxis or transfers can be arranged if you’re not renting a car.
✈️ Flying in? The closest major airport is Split Airport (SPU). From there, take a shuttle or taxi to the ferry terminal and hop on a boat to Brač.
🏨 Where to Stay in Bol
Despite being a small seaside town, Bol has an impressive range of places to stay — from budget guesthouses to boutique hotels and beachfront resorts. The best part? No matter where you stay, you’re never far from the sea.
💎 Boutique Hotels & Villas
If you’re looking for charm, personalized service, and a peaceful vibe, Bol’s boutique stays are the way to go. Many are set in old stone houses with modern interiors, lush gardens, and sea views.
- Villa Giardino – A beautifully restored heritage villa with lush Mediterranean gardens and a dreamy breakfast terrace.
- Hotel Villa Amorena – Family-run and known for warm hospitality and great value.
Prices start around €80–150/night in high season.
🌴 Beachfront Resorts
Want to roll out of bed and into the sea? Stay near Zlatni Rat Beach, where several larger hotels and resorts offer full amenities like pools, spas, tennis courts, and beach clubs.
- Bluesun Hotel Elaphusa – The largest and best-equipped hotel in Bol, just a short walk from Zlatni Rat. Ideal for families and couples.
- Bluesun Hotel Borak – A more budget-friendly option with direct beach access.
Expect to pay €120–250/night in peak months.
🏡 Apartments & Private Stays
For a local experience, book one of Bol’s many sobe (rooms) or apartmani. Hosts often offer homegrown olive oil, wine, and insider tips.
- Many apartments start from €50–80/night for two people.
- Great for digital nomads or longer stays — many offer small kitchens and balconies.
💡 Tip: Book early if you’re visiting in July or August — Bol is a favorite among Croatian and international travelers alike!
🏖 Zlatni Rat Beach Guide
Zlatni Rat, often called the Golden Horn or Golden Cape, is one of Croatia’s most iconic beaches — and for good reason. This stunning spit of white pebbles shifts its shape with the wind and tides, forming a long tongue that stretches dramatically into the turquoise Adriatic. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and backed by pine forest, it’s a true postcard moment.
🏊♀️ What to Expect
- The beach is made of smooth white pebbles, not sand — perfect for sunbathing but bring water shoes if you have sensitive feet.
- The western side is usually calmer and ideal for swimming.
- The eastern side often has waves and steady wind, making it popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
- You’ll find sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, changing cabins, showers, and a few beach bars serving snacks, cocktails, and fresh fruit.
🧘♀️ Relax or Get Active
You can spend your day here doing absolutely nothing — just floating in the sea and soaking up the sun — or you can go all in on activities:
- Windsurfing, paddleboarding & kayaking rentals are available on site.
- There’s a diving center and kiteboarding school nearby.
- The pine forest behind the beach has a walking path and shaded spots for a break from the sun.
🏝 More Beautiful Beaches Around Bol
While Zlatni Rat gets all the fame, Bol is blessed with a string of stunning beaches that stretch along the coastline in both directions. Whether you’re after quiet coves, family-friendly shores, or romantic sunset spots, you’ll find your perfect slice of the Adriatic here.
🏖 The Beach Promenade – Zlatni Rat to Bol Town
A scenic seaside promenade winds between Zlatni Rat Beach and the heart of Bol (about 15–20 minutes on foot), and along the way, you’ll find a chain of smaller beaches and coves perfect for stopping and diving in.
- Borak Beach – A pebble beach with shade, sunbeds, and a beach bar — great for families.
- Mali Rat Beach – A lesser-known mini version of Zlatni Rat; peaceful and ideal for couples.
- Potočine Beach – Sandy shallows make this a favorite for kids. Close to a beach volleyball court.
Each of these beaches has crystal-clear water, easy access, and plenty of space to relax under the pine trees.
⛪ Beaches Near the Benedictine Monastery
On the eastern side of Bol, near the historic Dominican Monastery, you’ll find peaceful coves and quieter beaches with fewer crowds.
- Martinica Beach – Just below the monastery, this beach is framed by dramatic cliffs and ancient walls. The water here is shallow and calm, ideal for a slow swim.
- Kotlina – A small bay with a charming local vibe, ideal for those seeking tranquility and a bit of local flavor.
🌅 This area is especially lovely in the morning light and during golden hour — perfect for peaceful moments and photography.
🌿 Murvica Beach – A Hidden Gem Nearby
Just 4 km west of Zlatni Rat, you’ll find the picturesque village of Murvica. Its beach, tucked beneath steep cliffs and surrounded by vineyards, feels a world away from the buzz of Bol.
- Murvica Beach is smaller, quieter, and absolutely magical — especially in the late afternoon.
- Great for couples, nature lovers, and those looking to unwind without a crowd.
- You can walk, drive, or rent a bike to reach it. The coastal path is scenic and worth the effort!
💡 Tip: Bring your own water and snacks to Murvica — amenities are minimal, but the views are unforgettable.
🌞 Naturist (FKK) Beaches Around Bol
Bol is also friendly to naturists, with two well-known FKK (Freikörperkultur) beaches for those who prefer to enjoy the Adriatic without tan lines.
🏖 FKK Beach West of Zlatni Rat
Just a short walk past the western end of Zlatni Rat, you’ll find a quiet, pebbly naturist beach tucked between pine trees and the sea. It’s well-marked and offers privacy, clear waters, and space to stretch out. Popular but rarely crowded, this spot attracts a mix of locals and open-minded travelers.
🌿 FKK Beach Near the Dominican Monastery
On the eastern side of Bol, past Martinica Beach and near the Benedictine (Dominican) Monastery, there’s another small, hidden naturist beach nestled among the rocky coves. This spot is more secluded and feels truly off-the-beaten-path — ideal for naturists seeking peace and quiet away from the buzz of Zlatni Rat.
💡 Tip: Neither FKK beach has services or shade structures, so bring your own towel, water, and sun protection.
🏛 What to See in Bol Town
While many come to Bol for the beach life, the town itself is a delightful place to explore, filled with winding stone alleys, coastal promenades, and cultural gems that add depth to your island stay.
⛪ Dominican Monastery & Martinica Beach
Sitting peacefully on a rocky peninsula just east of town, the Dominican Monastery (Samostan Bol) is one of Bol’s most beautiful landmarks. Founded in the 15th century, the monastery is home to a small but fascinating museum, a Renaissance-Baroque church, and a peaceful courtyard shaded by pines.
🖼 Inside the museum, don’t miss Tintoretto’s “Madonna with Child”, a surprisingly grand find on this tiny island.
The monastery is surrounded by tranquil pebble beaches — including Martinica Beach — perfect for combining culture with a swim.
🏺 Bol Town Center & Waterfront Promenade
The heart of Bol is a car-free old town, where narrow stone-paved streets lead to hidden courtyards, tiny shops, and wine cellars. Stroll past Venetian-style houses, local artisan stalls, and cozy cafés that spill out onto terraces.
- The waterfront promenade (riva) is the perfect place for a sunset walk or to grab a drink at a sea-view bar.
- Visit the Fishermen’s Pier early in the morning to see local fishermen unloading the day’s catch.
🏛 House in a House (Kuća u Kući)
One of Bol’s quirkiest sights, this small attraction shows a tiny stone house built inside a larger one — a curious architectural layer that fascinates history buffs and Instagrammers alike.
🍷 Local Wine Tasting
Brač Island is known for its wine, especially Plavac Mali, and Bol is home to a few family-run wineries where you can enjoy tastings in authentic stone cellars.
- Visit Stina Winery, right on the waterfront, for a guided tasting in a stylish setting inside a former wine cooperative.
🍽 Where to Eat in Bol
For a small town, Bol punches well above its weight when it comes to food. From fresh-off-the-boat seafood to traditional Dalmatian dishes and even a few fine dining surprises, this is a place where every meal can be a highlight of your day.
🐟 Local Flavors & Seafood
You’re on an island, so it’s no surprise that fish and seafood are the stars of most menus. Think grilled Adriatic fish, octopus salad, black risotto, and shrimp buzara — all best enjoyed with a glass of local white wine like Pošip or Vugava.
- Konoba Dalmatino – A charming, rustic konoba known for fresh fish, homemade gnocchi, and a lovely terrace.
- Pumparela – Located by the harbor, great for seafood platters and people-watching.
- Ranc Restaurant – Tucked a few blocks inland, this cozy spot serves some of the best grilled meat and seafood in Bol. Very popular with locals.
🐠 Hidden Gem: Ribarska Kućica
Tucked away near the Dominican Monastery on the quieter eastern edge of Bol, Ribarska kućica (The Fisherman’s Cottage) is a true local secret — a rustic seaside tavern where time slows down.
Set just above the rocks and waves, this tiny konoba offers fresh-caught fish grilled over an open fire, often caught that very morning. There’s no printed menu — just whatever the sea provided that day, served with island olive oil, local wine, and a view that’s hard to beat.
🌅 Tip: Go for dinner and watch the sky turn gold as the sun sets behind Zlatni Rat in the distance.
📍 A short 10-minute walk from the town center along the coastal path — peaceful, romantic, and authentic.
🍷 Wine & Dine: Stina Winery
Right on the waterfront, Stina Winery offers wine tastings in a chic, modern space with a sea view. You can also enjoy small tapas-style plates — ideal for a light, elegant lunch or early evening aperitivo. Don’t miss their Plavac Mali red!
🌱 Vegetarian-Friendly & Modern Eats
While traditional Dalmatian cuisine leans heavy on meat and fish, Bol has several vegetarian and vegan-friendly options — and some creative Mediterranean fusion cuisine.
- Arguola Sandwich Bar – Great for light lunches, smoothies, and vegetarian wraps.
- BioMania Bol – A modern bistro offering plant-based bowls, fresh juices, and healthy desserts.
🍨 Sweets & Cafés
Need a coffee fix or something sweet after the beach?
- Taverna Ager – Cozy spot for cakes and espresso under the vines.
- Varadero Bar – For a sweet crepe or gelato with a sea breeze.
💡 Price range tip:
- Casual eats: €7–12 per dish
- Mid-range restaurants: €15–25
- Fine dining & tasting menus: €30+
🌙 Nightlife in Bol
While Bol isn’t a party capital like Hvar, it still knows how to have fun — just in a more relaxed, beachy way. Nights here usually start with a sunset drink by the sea, followed by dinner under the stars, and maybe a cocktail or two with good music. If you’re in the mood, there are even a couple of places to dance barefoot into the night.
🍸 Sunset & Cocktails
Start your evening the Dalmatian way — slowly.
- Varadero Cocktail Bar – Right on the promenade, this bar is a Bol classic. With comfy cushions, great cocktails, and a sea view, it’s the spot for a sunset aperitif.
- Belvedere Terrace Bar – Classy rooftop vibes with panoramic views of the channel and nearby islands. Great for a romantic drink.
🎶 Live Music & Beach Vibes
- Vendetta by Vagabundo – A mix of lounge bar and club, with live DJs, Latin nights, and themed parties during summer. You’ll find both locals and tourists here dancing late into the evening.
- Bolero Cocktail Bar – Set under pine trees along the Zlatni Rat promenade, this place has serious retro-beach-club vibes. Occasional live bands and casual dancing by the sea.
🧘♀️ Or… keep it chill
If your idea of a perfect night is strolling under the stars, sipping wine on your balcony, or catching a free concert in the old town square — Bol has that too. During summer, local cultural nights and music performances are common, especially around the harbor or monastery.
💡 Tip: July and August are when nightlife peaks. In shoulder season, evenings are quieter — ideal for lovers of peace, stargazing, and midnight swims.
Day Trips & Things to Do Around Bol
While Bol itself offers more than enough for a relaxing beach holiday, it also makes the perfect base for exploring Brač Island and the surrounding Adriatic beauty. Whether you’re into nature, wine, history, or just jaw-dropping views, these day trips are well worth adding to your itinerary.
🏞 Vidova Gora – The Best View on the Adriatic
Towering above Bol is Vidova Gora, the highest peak of all the Adriatic islands (778 m). From the top, you’ll get a spectacular panoramic view of Zlatni Rat, Bol, the Hvar Channel, and beyond.
- Hike (about 2–2.5 hours round trip) or drive to the summit via a winding road from Nerežišća.
- Best done early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
📸 Don’t forget your camera — the view is iconic.
🥾 Dragon’s Cave (Zmajeva špilja)
From the nearby village of Murvica, take a guided hike to this mysterious 15th-century cave, carved by Glagolitic monks with dragons, angels, and pagan symbols. A fascinating blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty.
- The trail is steep and rocky, but rewarding.
- Guided tours are highly recommended.
🍇 Wine & Village Hopping in Inland Brač
Rent a car or join a wine tour to explore central Brač’s sleepy stone villages like Škrip, Donji Humac, and Nerežišća. You’ll find ancient olive groves, stone quarries, and some of the island’s best winemakers and artisans.
- Visit Stina’s inland vineyards, or smaller family-run estates.
- Stop for lamb under the bell (janjetina ispod peke) in a traditional konoba.
🏝 Island Hopping: Hvar, Pakleni Islands & More
Bol is a fantastic jumping-off point for day cruises and island-hopping adventures.
- Hvar Town – Chic cafés, Venetian architecture, and lots of history (1-hour boat ride).
- Pakleni Islands – A stunning archipelago near Hvar, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and hidden beach picnics.
- Blue Cave & Biševo – Go further on a full-day speedboat tour to see the mesmerizing glowing cave near Vis.
🛥 You’ll find plenty of organized tours at the Bol harbor, or you can rent your own boat if you’re feeling adventurous.
🧘♀️ Active Adventures & Watersports
- Windsurfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding – All available near Zlatni Rat.
- Diving excursions – Discover underwater caves and Brač’s vibrant marine life.
- Bike rentals – Explore the coast or head inland via scenic olive grove trails.
Final Tips for Visiting Zlatni Rat Beach & Bol Town
Whether you’re here for the beach bliss, island adventures, or that magical Adriatic light, Bol and Zlatni Rat Beach are the kind of places that stay with you long after the tan fades. Here are a few last tips to help you plan the perfect escape:
📅 Best Time to Visit
- May to June and September to early October are ideal — warm weather, fewer crowds, and better prices.
- July and August are peak season with buzzing nightlife and perfect beach days, but book early!
💸 Money & Budget Tips
- Most places accept cards, but it’s good to have some euros in cash, especially for small beach bars or local markets.
- Accommodation prices range from €50 to €250+ per night, depending on location and season.
🧭 Getting Around
- Bol is small and walkable, with a scenic seaside promenade connecting most beaches and hotels.
- To explore the rest of Brač Island, rent a car, scooter, or bike, or book a local tour.
💡 Good to Know
- Beach shoes are useful — most beaches are pebbly.
- Windsurfers and kiteboarders will love the steady Maestral wind in summer.
- Book popular restaurants and boat trips in advance during high season.
- Don’t miss the sunset from Vidova Gora or the sound of waves at night from your balcony in Bol.
Zlatni Rat Beach and Bol Town are more than just pretty faces — they offer a complete experience of Croatian island charm, natural beauty, and Dalmatian slow living. Once you’ve been, you’ll understand why so many return year after year.
Enjoy the gallery!
