From secret island coves to family-friendly shores, here’s your ultimate guide to the most beautiful sandy beaches in Croatia.

When you think of Croatian beaches, you probably imagine smooth pebbles and dramatic cliffs, with turquoise water lapping at your ankles. And you’d be right, Croatia is famous for its pebbly coast. But if you’re dreaming of soft sand between your toes, you’re in for a surprise.

Yes, sandy beaches in Croatia do exist, and they’re some of the most breathtaking spots on the Adriatic. They’re rarer than in other Mediterranean countries, but that just makes them even more special. Whether you’re after shallow, child-friendly shores or wild bays tucked beneath pine forests, this guide takes you to Croatia’s most stunning sandy shores, from Rab to Dugi Otok and beyond.

🏖️ Rajska Plaža (Paradise Beach), Lopar, Rab Island

Let’s start with the most famous one. Paradise Beach truly lives up to its name: two kilometers of soft sand, shallow water perfect for kids, and a holiday vibe straight out of a postcard. Located in the village of Lopar on Rab Island, this beach is a summer haven. It’s ideal for families and those who love long beach walks, beach volleyball, and ice cream stands on repeat.

🛥️ Getting there: Regular ferries from Stinica to Rab, followed by a short drive to Lopar.

🏝️ Sakarun, Dugi Otok

Sakarun might just be the most photogenic of all sandy beaches in Croatia. Think Caribbean-style white sand, crystal-clear water, and a surrounding pine forest that whispers peace. The shallow bay is perfect for floating, wading, and daydreaming, no matter your age.

📍 Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the summer rush.

🌿 Šunj Beach, Lopud Island

Lopud, one of the Elaphiti Islands near Dubrovnik, is a car-free and stress-free destination. After a 20-minute walk or short electric buggy ride across the island, you’ll find Šunj Beach: a shallow, sandy paradise hugged by greenery. Ideal for a quiet escape, a romantic dip, or a game of “picigin” in the shallows.

🚤 Getting there: Ferries from Dubrovnik to Lopud run daily.

🌊 Queen’s Beach, Nin

This legendary stretch of sand near Zadar is renowned not only for its beauty but also for its therapeutic peloid mud. Queen’s Beach is a whopping 3 kilometers long and offers panoramic views of Velebit Mountain in the background. The water is warm and shallow, perfect for toddlers or a therapeutic float.

💡 Fun fact: It’s named after the Hungarian-Croatian Queen Jelena, who once bathed here.

🌅 Pržina Beach, Lumbarda, Korčula Island

In a land of rocky shores, Pržina stands out. Tucked into a wine-growing village on Korčula, this southern-facing sandy beach is a sun magnet. The sand is soft, the sea is calm, and the nearby konoba (local tavern) serves up fresh seafood with a glass of Grk wine grown just up the hill.

🥂 Don’t miss: A beach-to-vineyard sunset wine tasting.

🏖️ Slanica Beach, Murter Island

Slanica is one of the most accessible sandy beaches in Croatia. It’s great for families with kids, offering fun inflatables, water sports, and beach bars. At low tide, the sandy seabed extends far out into the sea, making it feel like you’re walking on water.

🚗 Getting there: Drive across the bridge from the mainland to Murter and park nearby.

🌾 Bijeca Beach, Medulin, Istria

Located in southern Istria, Bijeca is one of the rare sandy beaches in this region. It stretches over a kilometer and is ideal for small children, with a gradual slope into the water and plenty of activities. Beach loungers, paddle boats, and gelato—this is your easy-going beach day in a nutshell.

📍 Nearby: The ancient town of Pula is just 15 minutes away by car.

☀️ Vela Pržina, Mljet Island

Vela Pržina is one of Mljet’s few sandy beaches, located on the southern coast near Saplunara. It’s a small, lesser-known gem with glowing golden sand, shallow entry, and a sense of seclusion. Bring a book, your snorkel, and a picnic.

🌿 Why visit: It’s part of a national park island, so expect nature all around.

⛱️ Duće Beaches, Omiš Riviera

Just outside Omiš, the village of Duće is lined with a long row of soft sandy beaches, shaded by tamarisk trees. Backed by dramatic mountains and only 30 minutes from Split, it’s one of the best-kept secrets on the mainland.

🚙 Perfect for: Day-trippers, families, and those who like a scenic drive.

💛 Sahara Beach, Rab Island

North of Paradise Beach on Rab lies Sahara Beach, a wild and natural stretch that’s partly clothing-optional. Surrounded by low hills and pine trees, this is the place for those who prefer a more unspoiled, quiet atmosphere. It’s a short walk through nature trails, but totally worth it.

🧭 Bring: Water, snacks, and sun protection—no facilities here.

Why Choose Sandy Beaches in Croatia?

• Escape the pebbles: Sandy beaches offer a gentle, barefoot-friendly experience that’s perfect for long seaside strolls and lazy days by the water.
• Shallow waters: Many sandy beaches in Croatia have gentle, shallow entrances, making them great for families and non-swimmers.
• Peace and space: Compared to famous pebble beaches like Zlatni Rat, many sandy spots are surprisingly calm, even in summer.
• Natural beauty: These beaches are often surrounded by pine forests, vineyards, or rocky cliffs: raw, Adriatic beauty at its best.

🧭 Final Thoughts

Sandy beaches in Croatia might be rare, but that only makes them more rewarding to discover. From the wild, remote stretches of Mljet and Dugi Otok to well-loved family havens like Lopar and Nin, each sandy bay has its own rhythm and charm.

Plan ahead if you’re heading to the islands; ferries can book out in peak season, and some of the best spots require a short hike or boat ride. But trust us: the payoff is pure Adriatic magic.

Whether you’re chasing shallow turquoise shallows, scenic seclusion, or a place to build sandcastles under pine trees, these sandy beaches are your gateway to a quieter, softer side of Croatia.