Best Beach Resorts in Croatia: Luxury, Family & Boutique Picks

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Croatia is one of the hottest travel destinations in Europe; here are the best beach resorts in Croatia for you to enjoy in summer.

Discover the ultimate coastal paradise with these best beach resorts in Croatia. Our guide (written by four locals who travel year-round) will help you immerse yourself in crystal-clear waters, a pristine sandy beach, and picturesque landscapes.

IN A HURRY? THESE ARE THE RIGHT PICKS
Best Overall
Hotel Dubrovnik Palace — full-service beachfront, reliable 5‑star standards (Lapad, Dubrovnik)
Best For Families
Sun Gardens Dubrovnik — large resort, kids’ club, multiple pools (Dubrovnik Riviera)
Best Budget Boutique
Hotel Bozica — small, sea-view stay on a quiet island (Šipan)

Indulging in luxury accommodations, world-class amenities, and a rich cultural heritage sounds easy – but how do you choose where to go with so many options on offer?

From the vibrant nightlife of Split to the tranquil shores of Hvar, Croatia’s beach resorts offer an unforgettable blend of relaxation and adventure. Experience the warm Mediterranean climate, savor delectable local cuisine, and explore ancient ruins. Whether you seek sun-soaked relaxation or thrilling water sports, these beach resorts in Croatia promise you an idyllic getaway.

Here is how: We have narrowed the field to the best of the best.

Category Where To Stay Why This Is The Right Pick
Best Overall Hotel Dubrovnik Palace Direct sea access, full spa, easy access to Dubrovnik without Old Town crowds
Best Luxury Resort Hotel Lemongarden, Brač Restored heritage buildings, private beach, low-density island setting
Best For Families Sun Gardens Dubrovnik Kids’ club, multiple pools, large resort footprint
Best Adults-Only TUI Sensimar Adriatic Beach Adults-only focus, quiet pebble beach, coastal setting
Best Boutique Hotel Korsal, Korčula Small-scale, sea-facing rooms, walk to Old Town
Quietest Base Hotel Bozica, Šipan Car-free island feel, minimal crowds, sea views
Best Short Stay Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik Cliffside Beach, quick access to Old Town

Croatia is a narrow, long country that stretches along most of the eastern Adriatic Sea. Its pristine beaches, glistening turquoise waters, exotic marine life, all-inclusive cruise tours, party boats, and luxurious beach resorts make it an exceptionally appealing destination for travelers of almost any age.

Though travelers on a budget would likely have to avoid the lavish Croatia luxury hotel options right on the beach, visitors with the means to spoil themselves may be highly interested in spending their vacation in one or a few of the remarkably affordable paradisiacal beach resorts in Croatia, which are quickly making Croatia the best place for a summer vacation in Europe.

In the early 1990s, Croatia fought for independence from Yugoslavia. Today, the country has rebounded, becoming one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in the world. And the scary war times are far in the past, and Croatians are as happy and hospitable as they come. It is hard not to be happy living in this jaw-dropping country.

Below, we have outlined a list of top beach resorts in Croatia, catering to a wide range of guests. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly Croatian seaside resort or an adult-only accommodation option, you are bound to find the right place to stay for your needs.

Early Verdict: Book Hotel Dubrovnik Palace for a balanced luxury beach stay near a major city, Sun Gardens Dubrovnik for families who want resort scale and kids’ facilities, and Hotel Lemongarden (Brač) if you want a quiet, high-end island resort without party crowds.

Croatia Travel Blog_Best Beach Resorts in Croatia

Guide To The Best Beach Resorts In Croatia

See what the recent hype around Croatia is about. With over 3,600 miles (5,800 km) of coastline, including its islands, it is no wonder this country is known as an easy European beach getaway.

The sunshine and climate are hard to beat in Croatia, and it seems the resurgence in tourism agrees. It is increasingly difficult to find peace on some of Croatia’s most popular beaches. However, there are plenty of islands and resort beaches where you can keep your sanity.

Of all countries in Europe, Croatia’s wondrous long coastline tends to be our favorite, and with one visit to the country, you will soon see why. With its pebbly beaches and fifty shades of blue in the sea, the Dalmatian Coast is one of the best places to visit in all of Europe, and staying at any of these resorts in Croatia will show you why.

Without further ado, we bring you our favorite beach resorts in Croatia:

Beach Resorts In Zadar, Croatia

  • Who should stay here: Families and travelers seeking resort amenities with access to the city.
  • Who should skip it: Couples seeking a quiet or boutique beach stay.

1. Falkensteiner Club Funimation Borik

Hotel Club Funimation | Croatia Travel Blog
Photo Credit: Hotel Club Funimation

The City of Zadar, with its beautiful beaches, is known for its well-preserved Venetian and Roman ruins. The Falkensteiner Club Funimation Borik is less than a mile from the ruins, in a prime beach location at the center of the city’s tourism activity.

The resort will provide lasting memories of your getaway while also being a great destination for the whole family. This inclusive Croatia vacation offers naturally sunlit rooms in a comfortable, modern facility.

This Croatian beach resort features a full spa, easy access to indoor and outdoor pools, a water slide, a fitness center, tennis courts, and a dedicated daycare program for your young children, so you can get away and enjoy time with your significant other.

 

Beach Resorts In Pag, Croatia

2. Olea Hotel

Croatia Travel Blog_Best Beach Resorts In Croatia_Olea Hotel
Photo Credit: Olea Hotel

The top-class Olea Hotel is located on the beautiful island of Pag. The design of this hotel incorporates that of the natural surroundings on the island, from the color palette of rocks, olive groves, olive oil, and sea to furniture made from olive wood and even the long shape of the building itself, intended to showcase views of the stunning Mount Velebit.

The 124 rooms and 6 villas are modern in design, each offering a view of either the sea or the mountain range. These luxurious rooms feature toiletries, free WiFi, and ample space to relax.

Enjoy an outdoor and indoor pool, onsite dining, multiple bars, a sauna, and massage services. Villa guests can enjoy the extra perk of their own private pool and sun terrace.

 

Beach Resorts In Dubrovnik, Croatia

  • Who should stay here: Travelers who want high-end resorts with easy access to Dubrovnik’s Old Town.
  • Who should skip it: Budget travelers or those wanting nightlife within walking distance.

3. Hotel Dubrovnik Palace

Photo Credit: Hotel Dubrovnik Palace

Hotel Dubrovnik Palace will make you feel like royalty with its sophisticated interior and elegant ambiance.

Most rooms offer balconies or terraces, and select suites include living rooms and jacuzzis. Complimentary breakfast is servedevery morning with a sea view. The 10th floor offers a good place to eat fresh fruits and vegetables, which are great for a diet, and the luxurious spa and fitness facilities will suit just about anyone.

There are numerous holiday resorts in Dubrovnik, but this is one of our favorites. If you’re trying to figure out where to stay in Croatia for beaches, this resort has access to the Adriatic Sea and is just a quick drive from other beaches around Dubrovnik.

 

4. Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik

Hotel Bellevue | Dubrovnik Travel Blog
Photo Credit: Hotel Bellevue

This stunning 5-star Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik is a luxurious cliffside property overlooking the sea and is truly one of the better places to stay in bustling Dubrovnik.

Its location is secluded enough from most tourism yet close enough to be only fifteen minutes from the historic Old Town (or, for Game of Thrones fans, King’s Landing).

It has a distinctly Mediterranean feel, with black-and-white photographs depicting life in Dubrovnik from the ’60s. It is interesting to compare today’s town with yesterday’s.

The property overlooks stunning Miramare Bay, and many of the glass balconies offer views right onto the water. They also have a private beach offered just to guests and two onsite restaurants.

 

5. Hotel Croatia Cavtat

Croatia Travel Blog_Where to Stay in Dubrovnik_Hotel Croatia Cavtat
Photo Credit: Hotel Croatia Cavtat

Dubrovnik has become an increasingly popular tourist town with stunning beaches along the Adriatic Sea. However, you will be glad to know that Hotel Croatia Cavtat is situated about twenty minutes outside the city’s hustle and bustle.

It is a fancy hotel with white, modern architecture and mostly Mediterranean influences. Most rooms feature private balconies and terraces, and select suites include living and dining rooms.

The property has five restaurants to choose from; guests have reviewed them, and all rate well. In addition, the guests love the two private beaches and full-on spa facilities.

 

6. Sun Gardens Dubrovnik

Balkans Travel Blog_17 Best Hotels in the Balkans_Sun Gardens Dubrovnik -- Dubrovnik, Croatia
Photo Credit: Sun Gardens Dubrovnik

Sun Gardens Dubrovnik is another excellent 5-star hotel that caters primarily to families on vacation. The kids’ club makes this one of the best Croatian beach resorts for families, so parents can take a break from babysitting and enjoy themselves. They organize activities, trips, and other events just for the kids. And babysitting can also be arranged.

Most rooms come with sea views and balconies, but you have to book the club level to access a lounge. There are eight excellent restaurants onsite at this property, along with amenities such as a large pool, spa, sauna, tennis court, and a well-equipped gym.

 

7. Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik

Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik | Croatia Travel Blog
Photo Credit: Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik

The Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik is, perhaps, the oldest property on this list, housed in a manor dating back over 100 years. However, it has aged like fine wine, and the view of the Adriatic, as well as the Old Town of Dubrovnik, has only grown more stunning over time.

As soon as you set foot in the hotel, you will feel as if you have traveled back in time while enjoying modern amenities and 24/7 room service. You can also enjoy an exclusive private beach for guest use only and three on-property restaurants. This fantastic hotel is one of the most popular resorts in Croatia’s crown jewel, Dubrovnik.

 

8. Valamar Dubrovnik President Hotel

Valamar Hotel Dubrovnik | 2016 Croatia Family Resorts & Hotels
Photo credit: Valamar Hotel Dubrovnik

Another 5-star seaside resort near Dubrovnik, the Valamar Dubrovnik President Hotel, offers a beautiful location with a wide, secluded beach. The property is only four miles from Dubrovnik’s busiest place, the historic medieval Old Town.

The best part of the Alamar President Hotel is that all rooms and suites feature private terraces with sea views in various sizes, and even the most affordable rooms are comfortable, with soft beds and a pull-out sofa for families with children.

For families who need more space, connected rooms are also available so the whole family can stay together. In addition, amenities include a restaurant, swimming pool, spa, sauna, and a well-equipped gym.

Guests will love the complimentary buffet breakfast and the beach just steps from their room.

 

9. Rixos Premium Dubrovnnik

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Photo Credit: Rixos Premium Dubrovnik

One of the best beach resorts on Croatia’s southern coast, the 5-star Rixos Premium Dubrovnik is a phenomenal place to stay. It’s approximately a 25–30-minute walk from Old Town, with its historic sites, museums, restaurants, and atmospheric streets.

After a long day of exploring, you can relax in your well-appointed room, which features air conditioning, stylish furnishings, a large bathroom, free WiFi, and more.

Communal facilities are both plentiful and high-quality. They include at least three bars and three restaurants serving international cuisine, a 2-story spa center with indoor and outdoor pools, and a casino. Set right on the Dubrovnik coast, you can also go for a swim in the Adriatic Sea. This fantastic holiday resort in Croatia is a great option for family beach holidays in Croatia.

 

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Beach Resorts In The Dalmatian Islands, Croatia

  • Who should stay on the islands: Travelers prioritizing beaches, calm nights, and scenery over nightlife.
  • Who should skip the islands: Short stays with limited ferry flexibility.

10. Hotel Lemongarden

Croatia Travel Blog_Best Beach Resorts in Croatia_Hotel Lemongarden
Photo Credit: Hotel Lemongarden

A 5-star property on Brač Island, this beachfront resort is a heritage site comprising three stone buildings dating back more than 300 years. They have been meticulously restored and now house 35 rooms across several categories.

The best have sea views from furnished terraces. All come with luxurious decor, including Murano glass chandeliers, high-end linens, and strategically placed objets d’art throughout.

The grounds here are beautiful, with flowering bushes and trees ranging from lemon to palm, creating the feel of a private country retreat. But the hotel is just steps away from a private beach and the seafront promenade in Sutivan, a small town on the northwestern coast. Amenities include a restaurant, spa, and heated swimming pool.

 

11. Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort

Hotel Amfora | Croatia Travel Blog
Photo Credit Hotel Amfora

Hvar Town is located on the beautiful island of Hvar, which can get busy during the summer but maintains a lively nighttime ambiance you will love to share with your significant other.

Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort sits just outside the busy main port. It includes amenities such as large heated pools and a lively atmosphere, with music playing from speakers throughout the resort. Young couples and groups of friends tend to enjoy this place more than older couples.

With an international buffet and a kids’ club, it is an excellent Croatian holiday resort for families. It is a fifteen-minute walk from the ferry terminal, making it easy to reach, and past guests will receive the 1930s-themed beach club.

Other than that, the resort offers stylish rooms with awe-inspiring waterfront views, balconies with sunset views, and access to a rooftop gym and onsite drinking and dining options.

 

12. Hotel Korsal

Croatia Travel Blog_Where To Stay In Korcula_Hotel Korsal
Photo Credit: Hotel Korsal

Hotel Korsal is right in front of one of Korčula’s best beaches, with an easy five-minute walk to the city’s historic Old Town.

This is one of the smaller places on this list, and the city of Korčula is not the largest tourist destination on it either. Still, you will enjoy the seclusion of this 18-room facility, and the quietness will play to your favor over a larger resort. Many couples prefer this kind of escape to the hustle of Split or Dubrovnik, for example.

Not to mention, the hotel recently underwent big-time renovations, and most rooms have excellent Adriatic Sea views.

 

13. Hotel Bozica

Croatia Travel Blog_Best Beach Resorts in Croatia_Hotel Bozica
Photo Credit: Hotel Bozica

This property is unique on this list as the only small, family-owned 4-star boutique property. Hotel Bozica is also the only property on the exotic Sipan Island just off the coast of Dubrovnik.

The accommodation comprises only 27 rooms, designed with light colors, space, and comfort in mind. Most have sea views; some have great balconies overlooking Sudjuradj Bay.

This is an excellent opportunity for budget travelers to secure a discount on the “attic rooms,” which are on the third floor with no elevator access. Hotel Bozica offers a great deal. It is also easy to reach Brač and Hvar from Sipan Island, which many guests take advantage of after enjoying the quiet, secluded, relaxing atmosphere of Sipan. Enjoy your beach resort vacation in Croatia.

 

14. The Maslina Resort Hvar

Croatia Travel Blog_Best Beach Resorts in Croatia_The Maslina Resort Hvar
Photo Credit: The Maslina Resort Hvar

If you’re looking for the top resorts in Croatia, chances are you’ll come across the Maslina Resort Hvar. Located in Stari Grad, one of the island’s main towns, this 5-star hotel offers a range of superb amenities. From an onsite restaurant, seasonal outdoor pool, and bar to free parking, Turkish baths, saunas, and sea views, it’s a great place to relax and unwind on a beautiful Dalmatian island.

When staying at this top-rated resort, one of the best resorts in Croatia, you can enjoy a continental breakfast each morning, while your room comes with a private bathroom, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, a desk, and a wardrobe. A business center and meeting facilities are available, too.

This is an especially popular resort to stay for snorkeling and scuba diving, as well as sunbathing on nearby beaches. A car rental service allows you to explore the rest of stunning Hvar Island.

 

Beach Resorts In Makarska, Croatia

15. Tui Sensimar Adriatic Beach Resort

Croatia Travel Blog_Best Beach Resorts in Croatia_Tui Sensimar Adriatic Beach Resort
Photo Credit: Tui Sensimar Adriatic Beach Resort

Looking for the best beach resorts near Split? Located right in the middle of Split and Dubrovnik, in the small seaside town of Makarska, is Tui Sensimar Adriatic Beach Resort, open to adults only, and is a favorite among vacationing (honeymooning) couples.

The resort has 266 modern, stylish rooms with comfortable beds and Mediterranean color schemes throughout, all featuring stunning views of the natural surroundings.

It is in a perfect location on the Dalmatian coast, where you can visit both Split and Dubrovnik if you choose, or stay cozy on the pebble beach or high up on one of Croatia’s highest peaks, where the resort sits.

Note: This property operates as an adults-only resort; branding and name may vary by season under TUI’s portfolio.

 

Beach Resorts In Split, Croatia

16. Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Split

radisson-blu-slovenia | Croatia Travel Blog
Photo Credit: Radisson Blu Split

With a stunning view of Brač Island and the colorful Adriatic Sea, the Radisson Blu Resort and Spa is still only a thirty-minute walk or short taxi ride from the splendid and culture-filled medieval Old Town of Split.

With 250 rooms and suites, floor-to-ceiling windows that open to beautiful sea-view balconies, and a brand-new annex with the best views and swankiest decor, this is a fantastic Croatia resort for beachgoers and vacationers looking for total relaxation.

Amenities include access to a pebble beach with sun loungers, as well as stand-up paddle-boards and Jet Ski rentals. There is also a swimming pool and a very impressive spa with hydrotherapy, including an ice fountain.

 

17. Le Meridien Lav Split

Photo Credit: Le Meridien Lav

Located on a private beach in Split’s busy tourist district, Le Meridien Lav Split is a 5-star resort that is well-suited for families, couples, and groups of friends on vacation together.

The property spans 381 rooms and suites of various sizes. They are designed with warm colors and feature local art, with black-and-white photos hanging on the walls. Most rooms come with excellent balconies with stunning sea views.

Exceptional onsite amenities include four local restaurants with wide menus, a Finnish sauna, a portion of a world-class spa, and three Roman baths with multiple swimming pools, plus a kids’ club ideal for parents on vacation with young children. Theisare a playground and a children’s swimming pool.

The private beach just a few miles from the center of Split is really incredible, le considering how crowded most Split beaches are. You can tell as soon as you set foot on the property that Le Meridien Lav Split was built and designed for the upscale experience. It’s one of Croatia’s top luxury holiday resorts, particularly on the Dalmatian coast.

It also features the Diocletian Spa and Wellness Center, which offers saunas, a steam room, meditation rooms, a fitness center, and a range of pampering treatments.

 


Beach Resorts In Kvarner Bay, Croatia

18. Hotel Amabalis

Croatia Travel Blog_Best Beach Resorts In Croatia_Hotel Amabalis
Photo Credit: Hotel Amabalis

Hotel Amabalis may be located in the quietest location of any property on this list in the tiny village of Selce, which overlooks the Adriatic Sea. The rooms are modern, with a contemporary structure and chic design, and include balcony upgrades with sea views.

Visitors are welcome to cycle or take a taxi to nearby Crikvenica Beach or the nearby Muzej Grada Crikvenica. The hotel’s Mediterranean-style restaurantsoffern excellentviews throughh large glass windows. It also offers amenities such as beach bars, a fitness gym, and a spa.

 

19. Alhambra Boutique Hotel Lošinj

Croatia Travel Blog_Best Beach Resorts in Croatia_Alhambra Boutique Hotel Lošinj
Photo Credit: Alhambra Boutique Hotel Lošinj

Situated in Čikat Bay on Mali Lošinj, in the heart of Kvarner Bay, the Alhambra Boutique Hotel is one of the best resorts in Croatia’s northern archipelago. It has beautifully furnished rooms, complete with iPod docking stations, WiFi, satellite TV, architectural lighting, hypoallergenic pillows, and a bathroom.

The 5-star resort itself is housed in an amazing Austro-Hungarian villa. Guests can use the fitness room, wellness area, and indoor swimming pool. An onsite restaurant serves a wide array of high-end dishes and beverages.

For more dining options, you can easily walk over to the Mali Lošinj town center, about 1 kilometer away. Additionally, Alhambra Boutique Hotel is also able to arrange excursions and sightseeing tours for you. Another reason this is a good option for beach holidays in Croatia is that you’ll be just minutes away from several great beaches in the area.

 

20. Bellevue Hotel Lošinj

Croatia Travel Blog_Best Beach Resorts In Croatia_Bellevue Hotel Lošinj
Photo Credit: Bellevue Hotel Lošinj

The Bellevue Hotel Lošinj is near the Alhambra Boutique Hotel, both of which are among Croatia’s top beach resorts. This is one of the most popular resorts on Mali Lošinj, thanks to its excellent amenities. For example, guests can enjoy two swimming pools, a lounge bar, a conference center, free WiFi, and a beach with loungers.

There are also two restaurants oonsiteserving Mediterranean and Japanese cuisine. Set in Mali Lošinj, a popular health destination, this beach resort in Croatia distinguishes itself from other Croatian beach resorts with its state-of-the-art Spa Clinic. This superb wellness facility offers all kinds of treatments, from cosmetic to medical to holistic, anti-stress programs, a winter garden, a variety of massages, and relaxation zones.

So, if you’re looking for northern Croatia beach resorts with a spa, this is one of the best options you’ll ever find.

 

Beach Resorts In Istria, Croatia

21. Park Plaza Verudela Pula

Croatia Travel Blog_Where to Stay in Pula_Park Plaza Histria, Pula
Photo Credit: Park Plaza

Located in the lesser-visited but just as a worthy beautiful region of Croatia, Istria, Park Plaza Verudela sits right on the sea in the popular northern town of Pula.

This spacious property is popular with groups because it offers apartment-style rentals and direct beach access. The resort also features shops, cafes, and a supermarket if you want to try your hand at preparing a local dish.

There is a mini-golf, a gym, and even resources to book diving trips straight from the resort. Many groups of friends love this place for the ease of planning their stay.

 

Croatia Resorts FAQS

CROATIA RESORTS FAQS

What’s the best area to stay in Croatia for beach resorts?

Dubrovnik Riviera offers the widest choice of full-service resorts, while Dalmatian islands like Brač, Hvar, and Korčula are better for quieter, scenery-driven beach stays.

How many nights do you need at a Croatian beach resort?

Three to four nights works for mainland resorts; islands are best with five or more nights to offset ferry travel.

Are Croatian beach resorts good for families?

Yes—large properties like Sun Gardens Dubrovnik and Valamar President are well-suited to families, while smaller island hotels are better for couples.

Are most Croatian beaches sandy?

No, most Croatian beaches are pebbled, which keeps the water exceptionally clear. Sandy beaches are rare and location-specific.

If you have any questions regarding our list of the best beach resorts, don’t be afraid to comment below, and we will do our best to help!

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