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Beaches in Zadar offer a mix of lively and tranquil places where people come to swim and relax at the Adriatic Sea. From sandy stretches to pebbled shores, beach bars to natural hideaways, every location has its own atmosphere. Some are great for social gatherings, while others are better for peaceful afternoons. Whether you want to sunbathe, take a refreshing swim or try water activities, plenty of options suit every preference. With clear waters and scenic surroundings, these beaches make for an enjoyable seaside experience.
Best Beaches In Zadar
Here is a list of the best beaches in Zadar for your next trip to this coastal city, providing the lively experiences during your trip:
1. Kolovare Beach
Photo: dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons
Kolovare Beach is Zadar’s oldest and longest beach, stretching along the coastline. It has pebbles, paved areas and shaded spots under pine trees. Its proximity to the city centre makes it easy to reach, attracting both locals and visitors looking for a quick swim. The calm waters and wide space make it comfortable for families, while younger crowds gather near the bars for drinks and music. Sunbathers lounge on the beach and take evening walks along the promenade. With showers, sunbeds and snack bars, it’s a convenient spot to spend the day.
Location: Kolovare, 23000 Zadar, Croatia, Europe
Major Highlights: Long coastline, calm waters, shaded pine trees, city proximity
2. Borik Beach
Photo: Böhringer Friedrich / Wikimedia Commons
Borik Beach sits 4 km north of Zadar’s centre and is part of the Falkensteiner hotel complex. The beach has a mix of pebbles, a sandy cove, and concrete platforms, offering different options for relaxation. Families enjoy the shallow waters and soft sand, while adventure seekers take advantage of the water sports, including jet skiing and parasailing. The organised layout and facilities, including sunbeds and showers, make it a comfortable place to spend the day. Though an entrance fee is required, the clean environment and range of activities make it a popular choice.
Location: Borik, 23000 Zadar, Croatia, Europe
Major Highlights: Sandy cove, water sports, family-friendly, resort amenities
3. Vitrenjak Beach (Uskok Beach)
Photo: Bella White / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Vitrenjak Beach, also called Uskok Beach, is located near the Uskok Sailing Club in the Borik area. It’s smaller than other beaches but offers a laid-back setting with a café bar and a small playground for children. Parents can watch their kids play while enjoying a coffee or a cold drink by the water. The pebble beach has clear, shallow water, making it ideal for relaxed swimming. Many locals prefer this spot for its quiet mornings and less crowded atmosphere compared to larger beaches in the area.
Location: Vitrenjak, 23000 Zadar, Croatia, Europe
Major Highlights: Quiet, sailing club nearby, café bar, kid – friendly
4. Puntamika Beach
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Puntamika Beach, located near the Puntamika lighthouse, is a pebbled beach known for its relaxed atmosphere, among the best Zadar Beaches. The Bamboo Beach Bar serves drinks throughout the day, attracting both locals and tourists to unwind by the water. The beach is suitable for all ages, with a children’s playground nearby and shallow waters for swimming. Some visitors bring their own chairs and settle in for the afternoon, while others enjoy walking along the shore. As the sun sets, the view of Zadar’s coastline makes it a great place to sit and relax.
Location: Puntamika, 23000 Zadar, Croatia, Europe
Major Highlights: Pebbled shore, beach bar, sunset views, relaxed atmosphere
5. Punta Bajlo Beach
Photo: Asad Photo Maldives / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Punta Bajlo Beach is located in a pine forest, providing natural shade and a quiet escape from the busier beaches near the city. The beach is mostly rocky, with some areas for easy water access. Many visitors bring towels and settle on the rocks to enjoy the sea breeze. It’s popular among locals who prefer a calm atmosphere without large crowds. Free parking makes it a convenient choice. Those who come here often spend hours reading, sunbathing or simply listening to the waves.
Location: Punta Bajlo, 23000 Zadar, Croatia, Europe
Major Highlights: Rocky coast, pine forest shade, peaceful local retreat
6. Maestrala Beach
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Maestrala Beach is located near the city centre, making it easy to visit for a short swim or a relaxed afternoon. The pebbled beach is lined with wooden piers and benches, giving people a comfortable place to sit and enjoy the sea. It’s a quieter alternative to Kolovare Beach but still provides easy access to restaurants and shops. The trees nearby offer some shade for relaxation. Many visitors use the benches to watch the waves before heading off for an evening in town.
Location: 23000, Zadar, Croatia, Europe
Major Highlights: Wooden piers, shaded benches, close to city center
7. Riva Beach
Photo: Wittylama / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Riva Beach is the closest beach to Zadar’s Old Town, sitting along the main waterfront promenade. It’s a convenient place for travellers exploring the city who want a quick swim between sightseeing stops. The beach is small, but its location makes it a popular spot. Visitors often bring a towel, enjoy a swim, and continue walking along the promenade. It’s also a nice place to sit and watch the sunset before heading into the city for dinner or drinks.
Location: Maestrala, 23000 Zadar, Croatia, Europe
Major Highlights: Promenade location, quick swim spot, sunset viewing point
More Beaches In Zadar And Around
Here are some more beaches in Zadar and around for an elevated experience during your trip to Zadar:
1. Queen’s Beach (Ninska Laguna Beach)
Photo: Isa Bödi / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Queen’s Beach in Nin is a long sandy beach known for its shallow waters and natural mud, said to have therapeutic benefits. Families with children love the gradual depth of the sea, making it safe for little ones to splash around. The wide sandy stretch is comfortable for long walks, and visitors often try the mud treatment before rinsing off in the sea. The open space and warm, shallow waters make it a relaxing spot for those who enjoy a slow-paced beach day.
Location: Nin, 23232, Croatia, Europe
Major Highlights: Sandy stretch, shallow waters, natural mud therapy
2. Sakarun Beach
Photo: Greta Ceresini / Wikimedia Commons
Sakarun Beach on Dugi Otok Island is known for its soft white sand and clear, turquoise water. It has a peaceful atmosphere, attracting visitors who prefer a quiet escape rather than a crowded beach. The shallow water extends far from the shore, making it great for families and swimmers who enjoy wading in the sea. Though it takes a boat trip to get here, the clean water and open space make it a popular choice. A few beach bars serve drinks, but most visitors bring snacks for the day.
Location: Sakarun, Dugi Otok, 23287, Croatia, Europe
Major Highlights: White sand, turquoise waters, peaceful island escape
3. Zrće Beach
Photo: Zrce.eu Tours UG / Wikimedia Commons
Located on Pag Island, Zrće Beach is famous for its nightlife, attracting visitors from around the world for music festivals and beach parties. Beach clubs line the shore, hosting live DJs and events that keep the atmosphere lively from afternoon until early morning. The pebbled beach offers plenty of space for sunbathing between events, and water sports such as jet skiing and wakeboarding add to the fun. It’s the go-to destination for those looking to mix swimming with all-day entertainment.
Location: Diklo, 23000 Zadar, Croatia, Europe
Major Highlights: Party destination, beach clubs, festivals, water sports
Beaches in Zadar offer a mix of lively, family-friendly, and quiet spots for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the sea. Whether you’re looking for a quick swim, a peaceful retreat, or a social scene, Zadar’s coastline has plenty of choices. Book your trip with TripXL and enjoy the cool adventures of this coastal beauty, from exploring crystal-clear waters to relaxing under the Mediterranean sun.
Cover Photo: dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons
