Murter Island in Croatia is known for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, charming towns, and plenty of outdoor adventures along the Adriatic coast.
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Summer holidays in Croatia are a time for relaxation, adventure, and discovering new places. If you’re looking for a destination that offers all these and more, look no further than Murter Island on the Adriatic Sea coast.
Located in Croatia, this island’s gem is the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun. With its stunning beaches, charming coastal towns, and a range of outdoor activities, Murter Island has something for everyone.
Geography of Murter Island
Small in size, big in charm – a perfect Adriatic escape
Murter Island is located along Croatia’s central Adriatic coast and is part of the Šibenik archipelago. What makes it unique is that, despite being an island, it’s easily accessible by road—thanks to a short drawbridge in the town of Tisno that connects it to the mainland, no ferry required. The island stretches approximately 12 kilometers in length and is up to 2 kilometers wide, covering a surface area of about 18 square kilometers. It’s a small island with a surprisingly diverse landscape: expect pine-covered hills, olive groves, rocky cliffs, sandy coves, and clear blue bays perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
There are four main settlements on the island, each with its own personality. Murter Town, on the northwest coast, is the largest and most lively. It’s the island’s main hub, with marinas, restaurants, shops, and access to popular beaches like Slanica and Podvrške. Just next door is Betina, a charming harbor village known for its wooden boatbuilding tradition and peaceful waterfront promenade. On the southeast coast lies Jezera, a quieter fishing village with a picturesque bay and modern marina, ideal for a more relaxed, family-friendly vibe. Finally, there’s Tisno, the gateway to the island—half on the mainland, half on Murter—famous for its laid-back charm and vibrant summer music festivals.
Murter’s coastline is dotted with scenic bays such as Slanica, known for its sandy shallows; Kosirina, a wild and rocky beach popular with campers; and Čigrađa, a peaceful pine-shaded cove with crystal-clear water. The island is easy to navigate thanks to a central road that runs from Tisno to Murter Town, with smaller side roads leading to Jezera and Betina. It’s ideal for exploring by car, bike, or scooter, and the drives offer scenic coastal views at every turn. While parking can get tight in summer near the most popular beaches, most of the island remains peaceful and easily accessible, even during the high season.
🚗 How to Get to Murter Island
Murter Island is one of the easiest Croatian islands to reach—no ferry needed! It’s connected to the mainland by a short bridge near the town of Tisno, which opens for boats once daily in summer.
✈️ By Air
The nearest airports are:
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Zadar Airport (approx. 1 hour drive)
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Split Airport (approx. 1.5 hours drive)
From either airport, rent a car or take a bus to reach Murter.
🚗 By Car
Just drive straight to the island via the bridge at Tisno. It’s a smooth ride along the coastal road from Zadar or Šibenik. The roads are good, and it’s just a short drive from the nearest highway.
The nearest highway exit to Murter Island is the Pirovac exit (Exit 20) on the A1 motorway (Zagreb–Split). From there, take the D59 road towards Pirovac, then continue on the D121 road through Tisno, crossing the short bridge that connects the mainland to Murter Island.
This route offers a smooth and scenic drive, with the bridge to Murter Island being easily accessible and eliminating the need for a ferry.
🚌 By Bus
Buses from Zadar, Split, or Šibenik head toward Tisno or Murter Town, but schedules can be limited, especially off-season. Check locally or on Croatia Bus.
🚤 By Boat
If you’re arriving by sea, Murter has several small marinas and is a popular sailing destination close to the Kornati Islands.
Accommodation options on Murter Island
When it comes to accommodation, Murter Island offers a range of options to suit every budget and preference. From luxury hotels with sea views to cozy guesthouses and apartments, you’ll find a place to stay that feels like home. If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider staying in one of the island’s campgrounds, where you can sleep under the stars and wake up to the sound of the waves. You’ll be greeted with warm hospitality and breathtaking views wherever you choose to stay.
💸 Budget-Friendly & Backpacker Options
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Guesthouses & Private Rooms – In Murter Town, Betina, and Jezera, you’ll find many affordable private rooms or small apartments rented by locals. Prices start around €35–€60/night, especially outside of peak summer.
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Hostel Murter – A cozy and social option in Murter Town, great for solo travelers and backpackers looking to meet others.
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Apartments in Tisno – Known for its festivals, Tisno has plenty of budget apartments during non-event weeks.
⛺ Camping & Glamping
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Camp Slanica – Located right next to one of the island’s most popular beaches. Offers pitches under pine trees, mobile homes, and basic amenities.
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Kosirina Camp – A scenic, rustic campsite with beach access and stunning sunsets. Ideal for nature lovers and campers with tents or campers. It is a nudist-friendly camp.
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Jezera Village Holiday Resort – A well-equipped family campsite offering mobile homes, bungalows, and great facilities including pools and playgrounds.
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Glamping in Betina or Tisno – Some local properties now offer glamping tents or eco-cabins, great for a comfy yet outdoorsy experience.
🏡 Mid-Range Apartments & Boutique Hotels
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Holiday Apartments & Seaview Studios – Found across Murter, Betina, and Jezera, these are ideal for couples and families. Expect air-conditioning, terraces, and walking distance to the sea.
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Boutique Hotel Tisno – A charming, locally loved hotel with elegant rooms, historic vibes, and a seaside terrace.
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Hotel Stomorin (Betina) – A small, stylish hotel with modern interiors and great location near the waterfront.
💎 Luxury Villas & High-End Stays
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Private Villas with Pools – Around Murter Town and Betina, you’ll find sleek, modern villas with infinity pools, panoramic sea views, and outdoor kitchens. Perfect for groups or families.
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Luxury Apartments near Slanica Beach – Fully-equipped, designer-style apartments just steps from one of the island’s best beaches.
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Villas near Kornati National Park access – Stay in style before or after your boat trips to the Kornati Islands.
Local cuisine and dining options on Murter Island
A travel guide would only be complete with mentioning the local cuisine, and Murter Island does not disappoint. The island is known for its fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen. Whether you’re a fan of grilled fish, seafood risotto, or octopus salad, you’ll find a variety of delicious dishes to try. Remember to pair your meal with a glass of local wine or rakija, a traditional Croatian brandy. For a truly authentic experience, visit one of the family-run konobas, traditional Croatian taverns, where you can savor the flavors of the island.
🐟 Traditional & Seafood Restaurants
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Konoba Boba (Murter) – A top-rated, elegant seafood restaurant serving refined Dalmatian cuisine with a modern touch. Great for a special night out.
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Konoba Skalinada (Murter) – Cozy, rustic atmosphere and homemade dishes. Try the grilled fish or peka (slow-cooked meat/seafood under a bell).
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Konoba Kanata (Murter) – Family-run with a great reputation for seafood risotto, black cuttlefish risotto, and octopus salad.
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Konoba Tic-Tac (Murter) – Located on the waterfront with amazing seafood platters and a romantic sunset view.
🍕 Casual Bites & Pizzerias
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Pizzeria Lantana (Murter) – Delicious pizzas, pastas, and salads with a sea-view terrace. Family-friendly.
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Reful Pizzeria & Grill (Tisno) – A laid-back option with affordable prices, local grilled dishes, and classic pizzas.
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Buffet Toni (Betina) – Simple, friendly, and filling – think schnitzels, fries, pizzas, and pastas.
🥗 Modern & Creative Dining
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Fine Food Lanterna (Murter) – Small, stylish restaurant with gourmet versions of Croatian favorites, craft cocktails, and a beautiful interior.
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Fabro Bar & Kitchen (Murter) – Trendy spot with modern decor, craft beer, good coffee, and light Mediterranean meals.
🌅 Beach Bars & Sunset Spots
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Caffe & Beach Bar Lantana (Slanica Beach) – Cold drinks, snacks, and sea views—great after a swim.
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Beach Bar Lostura (near Kosirina Camp) – Chill vibes, cocktails, and beach snacks with turquoise views.
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Barbarella’s Discotheque (during festival season) (Tisno) – Not just a club—grab early evening bites and drinks before the music kicks in.
🍨 Dessert & Ice Cream
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Gelato Moreta (Murter) – Homemade ice cream with local flavors like lavender and fig.
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Slasticarnica Jadran (Tisno) – A local favorite for crepes, ice cream sundaes, and cakes.
Outdoor activities on Murter Island
For those who love the great outdoors, Murter Island is a paradise. The island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, making it a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re into snorkelling, diving, or kayaking, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to indulge in your favourite activities.
If you prefer to stay on land, you can explore the island’s hiking trails through the fragrant pine forest, which offers stunning Adriatic Sea views. Remember to pack your camera, as you’ll want to capture the natural beauty surrounding you.
🛶 Sea Kayaking & Paddleboarding
With its calm, turquoise bays and countless islets nearby, Murter is ideal for paddling.
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Rent kayaks or SUP boards in Murter, Jezera, or Betina.
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Paddle to nearby hidden beaches like Kosirina or explore the coastline near Slanica Beach.
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Sunset paddles are a must for the glowing Adriatic views.
⛵ Boat Trips to Kornati National Park
Murter is the gateway to Kornati, a stunning archipelago of over 80 islands.
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Join a day tour by boat or rent your own small motorboat.
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Enjoy swimming in turquoise coves, snorkeling, and stopping at tiny island taverns.
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Many tours depart from Murter Town, Jezera, or Betina.
🐠 Snorkeling & Swimming
The crystal-clear waters around Murter are perfect for spotting marine life.
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Best spots: Kosirina, Čigrađa Bay, Podvrške Beach, and Slanica.
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Bring your own snorkel gear or rent from local dive shops.
🚴♀️ Cycling & E-Biking
Cycle through olive groves, coastal roads, and scenic villages.
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Bike rental shops are available in Murter and Jezera.
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Try the Jezera–Tisno coastal path or Murter–Betina countryside route.
🥾 Hiking & Scenic Walks
While Murter isn’t mountainous, there are plenty of panoramic trails and coastal paths to enjoy.
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Hike to Velika Raduca hill for amazing views over Murter and Kornati.
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Stroll the coastal promenade from Murter to Betina or Jezera for a relaxed walk at sunset.
🐬 Diving & Dolphin Spotting
Dive centers in Murter offer excursions to underwater caves, shipwrecks, and rich reef life.
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Try a discovery dive, or book a certified diving tour to Kornati’s marine zones.
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Dolphin sightings are possible around the Kornati and Žut islands—bring binoculars!
🌳 Olive Grove & Nature Walks
Murter has a long tradition of olive farming—many trails pass through ancient groves and quiet rural landscapes.
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Great for photography, birdwatching, and foraging in spring and autumn.
Exploring the beaches of Murter Island
A visit to Murter Island would only be complete with a visit to its stunning beaches. With their rocky coast, sand coves and clear turquoise waters, these beaches are the epitome of paradise. One of the most popular beaches on the island is Slanica Beach near Murter Town, which offers a range of water sports activities and has a vibrant beach bar scene. If you’re looking for a more secluded spot, head to Podvrške Beach, where you can relax in peace and tranquillity. Whether you’re a sun worshipper or a water sports enthusiast, Murter Island has a beach that’s perfect for you.
🌅 Natural & Wild Beaches
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Čigrađa Beach (south of Murter town)
A gorgeous bay with clear blue water, pine shade, and rocky edges perfect for snorkeling. Two small bars offer drinks and simple food, but the vibe stays wild and relaxed. -
Kosirina Beach (near Camp Kosirina)
Surrounded by nature and far from crowds, this pebble and rocky beach has some of the clearest water on the island. Great for snorkeling and sunsets. Clothing-optional spots nearby. -
Podvrške Beach (northwest of Murter town)
A semi-wild cove with white rocks and turquoise water. Quieter than Slanica and a favorite for those seeking a peaceful swim with scenic views.
🏝️ Urban & Family-Friendly Beaches
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Slanica Beach (Murter town)
The island’s most popular and lively beach. It’s sandy at low tide, with shallow water, inflatable playgrounds, cafés, and music. Great for families but can get crowded in high season. -
Luke Beach (Murter town center)
A concrete and pebble beach close to restaurants and shops. It has easy access, shade, and is great for a quick dip in the heart of town. -
Jezera Beach (near Jezera Marina)
A neat and tidy beach with small pebbles, sunbeds, and calm waters. It’s popular with families and has nearby ice cream stands and cafés.
⛺ Beaches in Campsites
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Kosirina Camp Beach
One of the most beautiful camp beaches on the island, with natural surroundings, shallow clear sea, and epic sunsets. -
Jezera Village Camp Beach
Located within a large holiday resort, this beach is ideal for families and comes with amenities like sunbeds, showers, and playgrounds.
🧘♀️ Clothing-Optional/Naturist-Friendly
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Islets & Hidden Bays near Kosirina and south of Jezera
There are a few small clothing-optional coves accessible by kayak, bike, or walking trails. Quiet, beautiful, and perfect for naturist travelers looking for solitude.
Highlights of the Murter Island
Murter Island is a total gem on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast — small, laid-back, and full of character. Here’s what I’d highlight if you’re planning a visit:
Camp and swim in Kosirina Bay
For nature lovers and camping enthusiasts, Kosirina is a beautiful bay gem on Murter Island. This secluded bay offers a tranquil setting for camping, surrounded by lush greenery and a clean sea with an abundance of marine life. You can set up your tent just steps away from the beach and spend your days swimming, snorkelling, or simply relaxing in the shade of pine trees. It’s the perfect spot to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature.
Coastal towns on Murter Island
Murter Island is home to several charming coastal towns, each with its own unique character. One of the island’s most picturesque towns is Murter Town, with its narrow streets, colourful stone houses, and bustling marina. Enjoy a drink or dinner on the seafront. Tisno, another coastal town, is famous for its annual music festivals and lively nightlife. For a taste of history, visit Betina, a town known for its traditional wooden shipbuilding industry. Jezera is another town on Murter Island. Exploring these towns will give you a glimpse into the local way of life and leave you with unforgettable memories.
Swim above Roman ruins in Colentum
History buffs will be fascinated by the ancient Roman ruins in Colentum on the northern part of Murter Island. This archaeological site offers a glimpse into the past, with its remains of a Roman settlement dating back to the 1st century BC. One of the most unique aspects of Colentum is that you can actually swim above the ruins, as they are located just off the coast. It’s a surreal experience to snorkel or dive among the ancient walls and columns, and it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in history.
Olive Groves & Dry-Stone Walls (Otok Murter Interior)
Murter is famous for its ancient olive groves, with some trees believed to be over a thousand years old. Winding through the interior of the island, you’ll find peaceful walking and cycling trails that lead you past these silvery trees and alongside traditional dry-stone walls, a remarkable part of Croatia’s cultural heritage and recognized by UNESCO.
Along the way, keep an eye out for small stone shelters known as bunje — charming, dome-shaped huts once used by shepherds, and now perfect for a quiet photo stop or a glimpse into rural island history.
Exploring nearby islands and attractions
While Murter Island has plenty to offer, it’s also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding islands and attractions. Just a short boat ride away, you’ll find the Kornati Islands, a national park known for its stunning landscapes and rich marine life. Vransko jezero Nature Park offers excellent birdwatching. You can also visit the nearby town of Šibenik, with its UNESCO-listed cathedral and charming old town. For a day trip, consider visiting the Krka National Park, where you can swim beneath the waterfalls and explore the park’s network of walking trails. There’s no shortage of things to see and do in the area.
Essential travel tips for visiting Murter Island
Before you embark on your journey to Murter Island, here are a few essential travel tips to keep in mind. First, don’t forget to pack sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be pretty intense during the summer months. Also, be sure to bring a reusable water bottle, as the tap water on the island is safe to drink. Finally, respect the local culture and customs, and remember to leave the island as beautiful as you found it.
Conclusion: Why Murter Island should be on your travel bucket list
In conclusion, Murter Island is a destination that should not be missed. From its stunning beaches and outdoor activities to its charming coastal towns and rich history, the island offers something for every traveler. You’ll find it here whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure. So pack your bags, book your ticket, and get ready to discover the hidden gems of Murter Island. It’s a place that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
