Supetar: A Relaxed Seaside Gateway to Brač Island

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Discover Supetar, the charming seaside town on Brač Island, Croatia. Explore beaches, historic sites, local cuisine, and travel tips in this ultimate Supetar guide.

Supetar is the main town on Brač Island of the Adriatic Sea in Croatia – and for many, it’s the very first taste of island life thanks to the regular ferries from Split. But don’t rush off too quickly. With its charming harbor, pebble beaches, lively cafés, and laid-back Dalmatian vibe, Supetar is much more than just a ferry port – it’s a destination in its own right.

Your essential guide to visiting Brač Island, Croatia.

📍 About Supetar

Supetar is the largest town on Brač Island and its official administrative center, located on the northern coast, directly facing Split across the Brač Channel. Thanks to its strategic location, it serves as the island’s main ferry port, welcoming travelers year-round with easy access to the rest of Dalmatia.

The town’s roots go deep—Supetar was already inhabited in Roman times, and traces of early Christian mosaics still whisper stories of its past. Its name comes from Saint Peter (Sveti Petar), the town’s patron saint, whose church still anchors the main square today. During the Venetian era, Supetar was a humble fishing village, but it began to grow steadily in the 18th and 19th centuries as people moved from inland villages to the coast.

Supetar, Brač, Croatia

Today, Supetar blends historic charm with a relaxed seaside vibe. You’ll find narrow cobbled streets winding through stone houses with orange rooftops, palm-lined promenades, and a harbor dotted with small fishing boats and ferries. The Parish Church of St. Peter, with its white bell tower, is the town’s postcard-worthy centerpiece, while elegant old mansions and quiet courtyards hint at a prosperous past.

While Supetar has developed to accommodate tourism, it has managed to keep its soul intact—you’ll still see locals gathering in cafés for morning espresso, kids playing along the quay, and fishermen mending their nets by the sea. Whether you’re passing through or staying a while, Supetar offers the perfect blend of authentic Dalmatian life and island holiday bliss.

Supetar, Brač, Croatia

🚢 How to Get to Supetar

Supetar is the main gateway to Brač Island, with frequent car and passenger ferries connecting it to Split on the mainland. The route is operated by Jadrolinija, and the journey across the Brač Channel takes about 50 minutes.

Ferries run multiple times per day year-round, with extra departures in summer—from early morning to well past sunset. No need to book far in advance unless you’re bringing a car during peak season.

🚢 Ferry Prices (Split – Supetar, one-way):

  • Foot passenger: €5.30
  • Car (standard vehicle): €23.50
  • Motorcycle/scooter: €10.10
  • Bicycle: €5.30
    Prices may vary slightly depending on season; check Jadrolinija’s website for current schedules and rates.

Ferries depart from Split Ferry Port, located near the old town and train station, and arrive right in the center of Supetar—you’ll step off the ferry into the heart of town.

Once you arrive in Supetar, you’ll find it’s also the main transport hub on Brač:

  • Buses run regularly to other towns like Bol, Milna, Postira, and Pučišća.
  • Car and scooter rentals are available near the port—perfect for exploring Brač’s hilltop villages, hidden beaches, and olive groves at your own pace.
  • Taxis and transfers can be arranged directly from the ferry terminal.

Whether you’re staying in Supetar or heading deeper into the island, getting here is simple, scenic, and part of the adventure.

Supetar, Brač, Croatia

🏛️ What to See & Do

Supetar may be small, but it rewards slow exploration. Tucked between its sun-washed stone streets and harborfront cafés are some truly special sights that reflect the town’s deep cultural roots and laid-back charm.

⛪ Parish Church of St. Peter

This elegant 18th-century church dominates Supetar’s main square and is dedicated to the town’s patron saint. With its graceful white bell tower, carved details, and Romanesque-Baroque blend of architecture, it’s a quiet spot to pause and admire the town’s spiritual heart. Don’t miss the early Christian mosaics tucked behind the church—small but fascinating remnants from the 6th century.

Supetar, Brač, Croatia

⚰️ Cemetery of St. Nicholas

It may sound unusual to list a cemetery as a highlight, but Supetar’s Cemetery of St. Nicholas (Sv. Nikola) is truly something else. Perched beside the sea, this serene spot is home to some of the most beautiful funerary sculptures in Croatia, many crafted by the renowned local sculptor Ivan Rendić. The combination of art, sea breeze, and old stone walls creates an atmosphere that’s both peaceful and deeply moving.

Supetar, Brač, Croatia

🌴 Supetar Promenade

The palm-lined riva is the heart of daily life in Supetar. Stretching along the marina, it’s perfect for sunset strolls, people-watching, or just sitting with a cone of local gelato. Colorful fishing boats bob alongside sleek yachts, and the cafes spill out onto the stone-paved walkways, creating a buzzing yet relaxed vibe—especially in the golden light of early evening.

Supetar, Brač, Croatia

🫒 Olive Oil Tasting

Brač is famous for producing some of the best olive oil in Croatia, and Supetar is a great place to try it at the source. Local olive mills and family-run farms often offer tastings, where you can learn about the traditional process and sample different varieties—from peppery green to buttery smooth. Some tastings even include homemade bread, cheese, and wine.

🗿 Gallery of Ivan Rendić

A small but meaningful stop, this gallery is dedicated to Ivan Rendić, a celebrated Croatian sculptor born in Supetar. It features busts, drawings, and personal items that showcase his life and artistic legacy. If you’ve admired his work at the cemetery, this is the perfect follow-up to dive deeper into his influence on Croatian art and culture.

🏖️ Beaches in Supetar

While Brač is famous for the Zlatni Rat beach in Bol, Supetar has its own chilled beach scene worth While Zlatni Rat in Bol steals the headlines, Supetar has its own charming stretch of coastline that’s perfect for lazy beach days without the crowds or long drives.

Supetar, Brač, Croatia

🌊 Vela Luka Bay

Tucked away just east of the center, Vela Luka is a peaceful, pebbly bay fringed with pine trees and shallow turquoise water. It’s ideal if you’re seeking a quieter vibe, a book under the pines, or a long swim without music or commotion. The sea here is stunningly clear, and the natural setting makes it feel worlds away from the ferry crowds.

☀️ Tri Mosta Beach

One of Supetar’s most popular beaches, Tri Mosta has a bit of everything—concrete sunbathing terraces, gravel access points, and plenty of shade nearby. You’ll find sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, a couple of beach bars, and even water sports like pedal boats, SUP, and jet skis. It’s a lively spot, perfect for couples or groups of friends looking for a social seaside scene.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Banj Beach

Just a short stroll from the center, Banj Beach is the go-to choice for families with kids. The water is shallow and calm, there’s a small playground, and the surrounding cafés and pizzerias make it super convenient. You can rent loungers or just lay down a towel under the trees. It’s relaxed, friendly, and close to everything.

🐚 Hidden Coves Nearby

If you’re up for a little adventure, head west or east along the coast on foot or by bike. You’ll discover rocky coves and small pebbled bays perfect for snorkeling or simply soaking up the sun in peace. Many of these spots are backed by pine forests and accessed only by narrow paths, adding to the feeling of discovery.

🥘 Where to Eat in Supetar

Food in Supetar is all about tradition, freshness, and that slow island rhythm. You’ll find simple ingredients elevated by wood-fired ovens, open grills, and generations-old recipes. Think: grilled Adriatic fish, octopus peka, creamy risottos, and local lamb cooked under the bell (peka).

🍽️ Palute

A cozy, family-run konoba that feels like dining in someone’s garden. Palute is known for its authentic Dalmatian dishes, generous portions, and friendly vibe. Order the veal peka if it’s available (pre-ordering recommended), and don’t skip the house wine.

🐟 Konoba Vinotoka

Hidden slightly uphill from the promenade, this charming spot serves elegant seafood dishes with a focus on local flavors. Their black cuttlefish risotto and grilled squid are standouts. The wine list leans local and the service is slow in the best way—meals are meant to be savored here.

🍕 Roso

A more casual but super popular pick by the harbor, Roso has something for everyone: wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, burgers, and daily fish specials. It’s a great place for a relaxed lunch or dinner with a view of the boats coming and going.

🍰 Sweet Treats to Try

Hrapoćuša – A decadent Brač specialty cake made with walnuts, eggs, and figs, often called “the cake of love.” Look for it in bakeries or on dessert menus—it’s a must.

Gelato – You’ll find multiple kiosks along the promenade. Try flavors like fig, lavender, or carob for a local twist.

Supetar, Brač, Croatia

🌙 Nightlife

Supetar doesn’t do wild parties—but it does offer something better: easygoing, coastal evenings with great vibes. When the sun dips below the horizon, the waterfront promenade comes to life. Locals and travelers alike take leisurely walks, sip cocktails under the stars, and listen to the sounds of laughter, waves, and sometimes live Dalmatian singing.

🍹 Thriller Bar

A Supetar classic, this relaxed bar is just steps from the beach. Think cold drinks, reggae tunes, and a salty breeze. It’s a great place to start (or end) the night, especially with one of their fruity island cocktails in hand.

🍸 Yummy Bar

True to its name, Yummy Bar serves up tasty drinks and a picture-perfect view of the harbor. The vibe is cozy and unpretentious, with bean bags, outdoor seating, and great people-watching as boats come and go.

🎶 Open-Air Events & Klapa Nights

During summer, Supetar hosts cultural events almost every week. From open-air cinema screenings to live klapa (traditional a cappella singing) in the main square, the town’s warm evenings are filled with music and life. Look out for posters around town or ask at the tourist office for the latest schedule.

Whether you’re enjoying a lazy evening cocktail or dancing barefoot at a local festival, Supetar’s nightlife is all about slowing down and soaking it all in.

Supetar, Brač, Croatia

🛏️ Where to Stay

Whether you’re after boutique comfort, a beachside apartment, or a budget-friendly local stay, Supetar has you covered. Accommodation options range from romantic hotels with sea views to spacious family villas and even glamping in nature.

💸 Price Ranges (per night, high season):

  • Budget: €40–70 (studio apartments, guesthouses)
  • Mid-range: €70–130 (3-star hotels, stylish apartments)
  • Luxury: €130–250+ (boutique hotels, sea-view villas, resorts)

🌟 Top Picks

🏨 Hotel Osam (Adults Only)

  • 💰 From €150/night
  • Why stay: Rooftop bar, spa, sea views, central location
  • Perfect for: Couples, honeymooners, design lovers

🌿 Boutique Hotel Villa Adriatica

  • 💰 From €120/night
  • Why stay: Lush garden, pool, personalized service
  • Perfect for: Couples, small families, relaxed retreats

🏠 Airbnb & Private Apartments

  • 💰 From €50/night for studios, €80–120 for 2-bedroom apartments
  • Look for:
    • Sea-view balconies near the harbor
    • Old stone houses in the historic center
    • Family-friendly villas with gardens and grills
  • Perfect for: Families, groups, digital nomads, longer stays

Airbnb tip: Search for listings in Put Vele Luke and Ulica Hrvatskih Žrtava for walking distance to beaches and shops. Superhosts with private entrances and self-check-in are great for independence.

⛺ Camping & Glamping – Waterman Beach Village

  • 💰 From €60 for glamping tents or €90+ for mobile homes
  • Why stay: Nature, beach access, ideal for kids
  • Perfect for: Families, eco-conscious travelers, road trippers

🎯 Best Stays by Travel Style

❤️ For Couples

  • Hotel Osam – Chic, adults-only, great for sunset drinks.
  • Airbnb loft apartments – Romantic terraces, quiet corners in old town.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families

  • Private apartments with kitchens and parking.
  • Camping Waterman – Kid-friendly and close to the beach.
  • Villa-style Airbnbs with multiple bedrooms and fenced yards.

💻 For Digital Nomads

Cafés like Bistro Kala and Roso are great remote work spots during the day.

Modern apartments with strong Wi-Fi and balconies.

Look for monthly stay discounts on Airbnb.

Pučišća, brač, croatia

🚤 Best Day Trips from Supetar

Supetar is not only a charming base—it’s also perfectly positioned for exploring the rest of Brač Island and beyond. Whether you’re chasing hidden beaches, historic towns, or epic viewpoints, here are some of the best day trips you can take from Supetar:

🌅 1. Vidova Gora

🚗 45 min drive | 🥾 Short hike or scenic drive
The highest peak of all Adriatic islands (778 m) offers panoramic views over Zlatni Rat, Hvar, and the shimmering sea. You can hike from Bol or drive most of the way up. Bring water, a camera, and prepare for a breathtaking reward.

⛱️ 2. Bol & Zlatni Rat Beach

🚗 1 hr drive or 1.5 hrs by public bus
No trip to Brač is complete without visiting Zlatni Rat, Croatia’s most iconic beach. Bol itself is a lovely town with seaside cafés, a lively promenade, and excellent windsurfing. Go early to beat the crowds and stay for a beachside lunch.

🕍 3. Škrip – The Oldest Settlement on Brač

🚗 15 min from Supetar
Tiny but packed with history, Škrip is home to the Island of Brač Museum, with Roman, medieval, and even Illyrian artifacts. Don’t miss the Olive Oil Museum, where you can taste freshly pressed oil in a 100-year-old mill.

🏝️ 4. Pučišća – Stone Masonry and Sea Views

🚗 30 min from Supetar
Often called one of the most beautiful villages in Croatia, Pučišća sits in a deep bay with white stone houses, blue shutters, and calm waters. Visit the stone carving school, unique in Europe, and grab a coffee by the sleepy waterfront.

🚴‍♀️ 5. Ložišća & Bobovišća

🚗 20–25 min from Supetar
Two small, postcard-perfect villages tucked into Brač’s west coast. Ložišća stuns with its stone clock tower, while Bobovišća is great for a quiet swim in turquoise water. Ideal for a bike ride or a lazy afternoon escape.

⛪ 6. Nerežišća & Donji Humac

🚗 15–20 min inland
These traditional hill villages offer stone art studios, galleries, and slow Dalmatian life. Great for a more local, off-the-beaten-path experience and some unique souvenirs.

🛥️ 7. Boat Trip to Blaca Hermitage or Nearby Coves

Join a local boat tour to explore Blaca Monastery, a 16th-century hermitage built into the cliffs. Or simply cruise to hidden bays and pebble coves only accessible by sea. Many tours leave from Supetar and include snorkeling and swimming.

Bonus Tip: Want to island hop? Day tours to Hvar, Šolta, or even the Blue Lagoon are possible from Brač—ask around the harbor or check with local agencies for summer options.

🧭 Final Tips

  • Best time to visit: Late May to early October. July and August are the busiest.
  • Getting around: Supetar is walkable. Rent a bike or scooter if you want to explore beyond.
  • Currency: Euro (EUR).
  • Shops & Markets: Local bakeries and a morning green market near the port are great for fresh goods.

Supetar may be your first stop on Brač, but it’s worth slowing down for. Grab a coffee by the sea, explore the cobbled lanes, and let island time take over.