Hvar isn’t just Hvar Town—and picking the right base changes the whole feel of your trip. This guide breaks down where to stay on Hvar Island by town (Hvar Town, Stari Grad, Jelsa, Vrboska, Zavala, and a few quieter inland/coastal spots), with hotel and apartment picks across luxury, mid-range, and budget.
I’ve also flagged what each area is actually like on the ground—whether you want nightlife and walkability, a calmer harbor town, family-friendly beaches, or a rural reset—plus the practical transport reality between villages.
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| Area | Best For | Vibe | Transport Notes |
| Hvar Town | Nightlife, walkability, day trips | Busiest and most expensive in summer | Best connected by catamaran; buses link to Stari Grad |
| Stari Grad | History, calmer base | Quieter than Hvar Town | Ferry port; bus connection to Hvar Town |
| Jelsa | Relaxed harbor town | Laid-back with restaurants and promenades | Seasonal passenger catamaran services (routes can run via Bol to Split):contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7} |
| Vrboska | Small village feel | Quiet, scenic bay | Easy to pair with Jelsa; limited services outside peak season |
| Zavala | South-coast swimming and quiet | Low-key and beach-forward | Car/taxi helpful; fewer late-night options |
Any Croatian island with as much history as Hvar has an (almost) endless list of options for places to sleep. Of course, narrowing down your best Hvar accommodation choices can be difficult, especially if you don’t know where to start. So, let us help you.
Before you get cracking on finding the best hotels in Hvar, you should know that island life doesn’t start and end in Hvar Town. There are many locations all across the island, perfect for your island break, no matter the time of year. Luckily for you, this Hvar accommodation guide will show you some of the best places to stay during your visit.
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Where To Stay On Hvar Island: Best Towns And Areas To Base Yourself
While you may think of Hvar Island as one destination, there are several different pockets and areas on the island. What you’d like to see and do during your visit will determine the best place to stay in Hvar for you personally.
Below, we offer a breakdown of the top towns to stay at in Hvar. Hopefully, this will help you figure out where to stay in Hvar, Croatia. We further discuss the best accommodation in each town in Hvar in this post.
Hvar Town
The central hub on the island, Hvar Town, is easily the best place to stay in Hvar for nightlife. It’s famous for being a bustling party destination, for glitz and glamor. The town center is home to charming cobblestone streets, boutiques and other shops, and many historical landmarks.
Additionally, there are excellent beaches and a beautiful seafront promenade. This is where you’ll find many of the best hotels in Hvar, but remember that things can be pretty expensive in summer. Hvar Town is easily reached from the Croatian mainland or other islands in the region, either by ferry or speedboat. There are bus links to Stari Grad, but you’ll need a car to see the rest of the island at your own pace.
Stari Grad Hotels: Best For History And A Quieter Base
As the oldest town on Hvar Island, Stari Grad (literally Old Town) is a beautiful medieval town. It features incredible views of the Adriatic Sea, charming cobblestone alleys, and scentful pine trees. You can’t go wrong with Stari Grad if you’re wondering which area in Hvar to stay for history.
Much more peaceful and quieter than Hvar Town, Stari Grad is also a great base for exploring major attractions, such as the Stari Grad plain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we said above, there’s a bus connection to Hvar Town.
Zastražišće Hotels: Best For Rural Peace And Central Drives
The village of Zastražišće is in the heart of the island and is a gorgeous place to experience rural Hvar. It’s arguably the best location to stay in Hvar for a peaceful holiday on a lovely Dalmatian island.
Characterized by hillsides and farmlands, it’s home to ancient forts, churches, stone houses, and old courtyards. Olive groves dominate the countryside around the village, a peaceful setting for a relaxing holiday.
Zavala Hotels: Best For South-Coast Beaches And Quiet
Located on the south coast of Hvar Island, Zavala is the perfect destination to get away from the summer crowds. This small village has its fair share of pebble beaches, azure-blue water, stone houses, oleander bushes, and magnificent coastal views.
On top of that, Zavala is a great place to indulge in Hvar Island’s produce and cuisine in relative peace. Enjoy a plate of freshly caught seafood and a glass of local wine while overlooking the Adriatic Sea!
Jelsa Hotels: Best For A Relaxed Harbor Town
The center of tourism on Hvar’s central north coast, Jelsa, offers a cooling sea breeze and pine trees. Centuries-old architecture abounds here, from picturesque churches to lavish villas. The area is home to numerous wineries and olive groves, while you also won’t have any trouble finding a secluded cove or beach to laze the afternoon away.
In season, Jelsa is connected by passenger catamaran services (including routes that run via Bol to Split), and local buses connect the main towns. However, service is limited compared with the peak summer months.
When you choose Jelsa as your accommodation on Hvar Island, we suggest renting a car to get around.
Vrboska Hotels: Best For A Small Village Feel
Situated just to the northeast of Jelsa, Vrboska is the smallest town on the island. Occupying both sides of a scenic, narrow bay, a picturesque stone bridge connects the village’s two parts. Many more stone structures, houses, and fragrant pine trees create an amazingly peaceful setting.
This is easily one of the best places to stay in Hvar for visitors who’d like to immerse themselves in what life’s like in a small and quiet island village.
Gdinj Hotels: Best For East-End Beaches And Seclusion
Located on the spine of the hills that traverse Hvar Island from west to east and along Route 116, Gdinj is just east of Zastražišće. Like its nearby neighbor, this small town is characterized by clusters of stone houses, pockets of forests, and traditional restaurants.
A side road offers access to the south coast, which is where you’ll find most of the accommodation in this part of Hvar Island.
Milna Hotels: Best For Food And A Quiet Cove Near Hvar Town
Even though it’s only a handful of kilometers east of bustling Hvar Town, Milna is its own separate town. Situated in a protected cove and home to stunning seaside scenery and gorgeous beaches, it makes for a fantastic base for day trips to Hvar Town (and other places on Hvar Island).
In this small coastal town, numerous fish and seafood restaurants serve delicious island food, homemade olive oil, wines, and other local and regional dishes. Anyone trying to figure out where to stay in Hvar for both good food and quiet should consider Milna. This under-the-radar culinary hotspot is arguably the best place to stay near Hvar Town for foodies.
What Are The Best Hotels On Hvar Island For Each Budget
This depends entirely on where you want to base yourself and your budget. For instance, you’ll spend more if you’re going to stay in the middle of Hvar Town, incredibly close to the bustling promenade and harbor area.
Having said that, some top-quality hotels dot the various other towns and villages on the island. And they don’t cost the earth. It’s really about shopping around and whether you want to be in the heart of the action.
Hvar Town Hotels: Best For Nightlife And Walkability
The most famous town on Hvar Island is Hvar Town. The island’s nightlife hotspot is a place of glitz and glamour, gorgeous architecture, and beautiful beaches. The promenade is arguably the most exquisite waterfront on the island, while charming shops and cafes line its cobbled streets.
Hvar Town lies on the island’s west coast and is easily accessible from the Croatian mainland by ferry and speedboat. From Hvar Town, there are also bus connections to Stari Grad. Renting a car is recommended to explore the rest of the island.
So, wondering where to stay in Hvar Town? Check out the accommodation options in Hvar Town below!
1. Palace Elisabeth, Hvar Heritage Hotel – 5 Stars
A landmark historic hotel in the heart of Hvar Town, Palace Elisabeth sits on the main square (Pjaca), surrounded by Renaissance and Gothic architecture.
This 5-star historic hotel occupies a late-19th-century building on a site with a much older history, and offers free WiFi and air-conditioned rooms overlooking Pjaca (the main square).
Guests can indulge in fantastic food at the hotel’s restaurant, while Arsenal Bar features jazz, cocktails, and views of Hvar’s marina.
If you love sunsets, this hotel’s rooms and many of its communal areas face Hvar Bay and the Paklinski Islands.
Other amenities include a swimming pool and wellness center, but Palace Elisabeth’s star feature is arguably its phenomenal location. All of Hvar Town’s attractions, beaches, and best restaurants are just a short walk away.
This is definitely a strong candidate if you’re searching for the absolute best place to stay in Hvar Town.
2. Heraclea House – 5 Stars
Just a short distance away from beautiful Stipanska Beach, this five-star holiday home is a top favorite among visitors to the island. You can sit and have a coffee on the terrace while checking out the vista that stretches out in front of you. Panoramic sea views are everywhere you look.
There are two bedrooms, a living room, and a kitchen with a dishwasher. There is also a flat-screen TV for entertainment, as well as an outdoor pool and garden area. Free WiFi comes as standard, too!
This is a real home away from home during your visit to the island. The harbor area is only 100 meters away on foot.
As far as 5-star luxury hotels in Hvar go, few places can beat this one.
3. Hotel Podstine
Hotel Podstine is set on a quiet bay with direct sea access, and is around a 15–20 minute walk from Hvar Town’s central waterfront (depending on pace and route).
Spacious rooms offer a calm and contemporary oasis to relax after the day’s adventures. Lovely balcony views, with large floor-to-ceiling windows, give the space a light and airy vibe.
4. Riva Hvar Yacht Harbour Hotel – 4 Stars
This hotel could easily be a 5 star in the eyes of many, such is its quality! This Hvar hotel is boutique-style and is situated on the promenade in the main town. You only have to look out of your window to see the harbor.
Outside, you’ll find a large terrace with a fantastic onsite restaurant and cocktail bar. Downstairs, the full-service spa tops off your already amazing experience.
5. Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort – 4 Stars
This is another of those hotels that could easily fit into the five-star bracket. Hvar Town center is about 10 minutes on foot from this property, yet it’s situated in a quiet, secluded bay for total rest.
There is direct sea access and an outdoor pool. You can comfortably sit at the rooftop restaurant and check out the stunning sea views while enjoying delicious food and cocktails.
All rooms are air-conditioned and feature a flat-screen TV and free WiFi. Parking availability and charges depend on room type and season.
6. Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel – 4 Stars
Located right on the edge of Hvar Town, the 4-star Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel is specially designed for romantic experiences and ultimate relaxation. There are numerous beautiful facilities, including the rooftop terrace and swimming pool, as well as the Top Bar and Val Marina Restaurant.
However, arguably, the most prominent feature is the incredible, luxurious Sensori Spa, a 1,600-square-meter oasis of relaxation.
Spa facilities and class offerings vary by season; the Sensori Spa is listed as 1,600 m² and includes multiple treatment rooms, saunas, a fitness studio, and an indoor pool. In other words, if you don’t find all the relaxation you crave at Hvar’s beaches, this is the place to stay.
Other amenities at this spa hotel include free WiFi, room service, and a 24-hour reception.
7. Villa Dalmacija Hvar Hotel – 3 Stars
This charming place to stay in the center of Hvar is set on the promenade, so you’ll enjoy beautiful views. Some rooms even have views over the Paklinski Islands. Rooms are large and decorated in modern taste, with private bathrooms and balconies.
The terrace serves breakfast and coffee in the morning and also serves cocktails and other drinks in the evenings. Additionally, there are countless bars and restaurants around the hotel.
Free WiFi is listed as available at the front office (coverage and access may vary in other areas).
8. Pharos Hvar Hotel – 3 Stars
Despite being situated in Hvar Town, this hotel is away from the hustle and bustle, set in a quiet pine grove. This is a top hotel at a lower price, absolutely ideal for flitting in and out of the main town.
There is an outdoor swimming pool and a pool bar for daytime refreshments. The main bar and restaurant are on hand for delicious meals and evening entertainment.
As this Hvar accommodation is set close to woodland, you can go biking or go walking, and there are tennis and dining facilities on site.
9. Heritage Suites Zanini – Apartments
You can enjoy a central location in the heart of Hvar Town with this apartment. Stipanska Beach is just 2.5 kilometers away if you want to head to the water, and you can venture to St Stephen’s Square in less than a minute on foot.
You can also ask for a continental breakfast as part of your booking,
10. Villa Vera – Apartments
Set on a hillside outside of Hvar Town, Villa Vera boasts fantastic views of the Adriatic Sea and Pakleni Islands. This is the ideal accommodation in Hvar for people looking for greater independence during their vacation.
All apartments are bright and feature a fully equipped kitchen, a modern bathroom, a living room with satellite TV, and an outdoor seating area offering partial or full sea views. There’s air-conditioning and free WiFi as well.
Its quiet location is great for relaxing after exploring the busy town of Hvar, but it’s still well within walking distance of all the highlights. The Riva Promenade and the town center are only 15 minutes away on foot. You’ll also find a pebbly beach about 350 meters from Villa Vera.
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Stari Grad Hotels
The oldest town on Hvar Island, Stari Grad (literally Old Town), is a beautiful medieval town with impressive views of the Adriatic Sea, atmospheric cobblestone alleys, and pine trees.
It’s a great base if you want to explore major attractions, such as the Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check out the best hotels in Hvar Old Town (Stari Grad) below.
11. Villa Harpcrates Hvar – 5 Stars
This particular Hvar B&B villa is situated in Stari Grad andofferss stunning mountain views in the morning.
This is a sizeable five-star villa, so ideal for a larger family or group visiting the island. There are five bedrooms, a large kitchen with all mod cons, and air conditioning as standard. There is also a large bathroom with a bathtub and a sitting area.
You can chill out on the balcony or visit the garden and use the barbecue.
The villa is about 5 kilometers from Stari Grad; transport options depend on the season and route
12. Maslina Resort – 5 Stars
This luxury resort, located in the stunning Maslinica Bay, prides itself on being contemporary and chic while also being family-friendly. The resort was designed with special attention to Hvar’s natural environment, using local materials and suppliers, and reforesting the property and protecting native species in the property layout.
Organic and seasonal ingredients are highlighted in Mediterranean cuisine at the resort restaurant, which features both breakfast and dinner, with poolside ordering available during daytime hours. Other refreshment choices include a wine & culture club and a beachside hangout bar.
Entertainment options are quite endless, with a library, garden, beach, children’s playroom, infinity pool & family pool (both heated), a spa with hammam and sauna, and even a gallery with local handicrafts & international art pieces.
13. B&B Heritage Villa Apolon – 4 Stars
Located in Stari Grad, this hotel is a B&B, so you can quickly get out and about and enjoy the local restaurants around the island. All rooms are air-conditioned, feature flat-screen TVs and minibars, and have private bathrooms. WiFi is free across the hotel, and there is an onsite bar if you don’t want to venture very far.
Bookings at this hotel include breakfast, and you can choose to have it in your room if you want. There are also gardens and a terrace outside for ultimate sunbathing opportunities. Additionally, you can venture out to Petar Hektorovic Palace, which is a short walk away.
14. Arkada Sunny Hotel – 3 Stars
If you are looking for affordable accommodation on Hvar, Arkada Sunny Hotel is it! Just a 3-minute drive from the center of Stari Grad.
Comfortable rooms are available with either sea or garden balcony views, and family rooms offer additional space for larger groups. Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel.
With a beachfront location and an outdoor saltwater pool, you can enjoy the water at any time of the day. A kids’ club, a children’s playroom, and sporting equipment and courts will keep the entire family entertained.
Onsite restaurant dining offers guests Dalmatian fare and a massive breakfast buffet, and the sea-view bar features live music and enticing drinks.
15. Apartmani Roic – Apartments
This apartment is in Stari Grad and is less than 10 minutes’ walk from the beach. The balcony will wow you with mountain views, sea views, and garden views to boot, and you’ll get free WiFi to wow your friends with it, too!
Apartments are large and feature a living area with a flat-screen TV, a large bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private bathroom. You can easily venture out to the nearby grocery stores for supplies, and there are many bars and restaurants close by.
Zastražišće Hotels
The village of Zastražišće lies in the middle of the island and is a gorgeous place to experience rural Hvar.
Characterized by hillsides and farmlands, it’s home to ancient forts, churches, stone houses, and old courtyards. Olive groves dominate the countryside around the village, a peaceful setting for a relaxing holiday.
16. Villa Amalia – 5 Stars
Staying in Villa Amalia will give you a real home-away-from-home feel, as it is set in a secluded area, around 2 kilometers away from Pokrivenik Bay. This is ideal if you really want to chill out.
There is an outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi, and a wine cellar onsite! There is free parking onsite, and you’ll be able to get around relatively quickly.
The property has an upstairs and downstairs area, and in total, there are four en-suite bedrooms, a large living room, a dining area, and a large kitchen with all mod-cons. There is also a spa, a whirlpool, a gym, a sauna, and a massage table. Outside, you’ll find a barbecue, a tennis court,t and another small studio apartment.
Really, what more could you want from Hvar hotels? This may just be one of the best accommodation options in Hvar if you’re looking for well-appointed self-contained holiday homes.
Zavala Hotels
Located on the south coast of Hvar Island, Zavala is the perfect destination to get away from the summer crowds. This small village has its fair share of pebble beaches, azure-blue water, stone houses, oleander bushes, and magnificent coastal views.
Additionally, it’s also a superb spot to enjoy the island’s produce and cuisine in relative peace. Enjoy a plate of freshly caught seafood and a glass of local wine while overlooking the Adriatic Sea. How good does that sound?
17. Villa Stella Mare – 4 Stars
Rooms are air-conditioned and have a kitchenette and dining area. All rooms also have a sea view and a flat-screen TV.
You can grab breakfast in the restaurant if you prefer not to cook, and you’ll find dinner options here, too. There is an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub for your extra enjoyment.
18. Cast Away Eco Resort
Near the village of Gromin Dolac, just east of Zavala, you will find Cast Away Eco Resort. Cast Away is described as an off-grid, back-to-basics eco campsite with hut-style accommodation near the coast (inventory and setup can change by season).
This is the perfect place to unpack and unwind from the rest of the world.
Beach huts are outfitted with memory foam mattresses, linens, lights, and mosquito netting, along with stunning views of the sea and stars.
Guests can enjoy shared use of a kitchen, bathrooms, hammocks, sea-view BBQ, and multiple lounge areas. Coffee and tea are commonly included; shuttle availability depends on the property’s current offering and season.
19. Hotel Skalinada – 3 Stars
Located in Zavala, this hotel is another ideal choice for chilling the hell out in beautiful surroundings! All rooms have a sea view, and some have a private terrace. There is free WiFi throughout the property, as well as an onsite restaurant and bar. Continental breakfast is served daily.
Rooms are large, with seating areas and private bathrooms. There is a flat-screen TV in each room and air-conditioning as standard.
Jelsa Hotels
The center of tourism on Hvar’s central north coast, Jelsa, offers the scents of pine trees and a sea breeze. Centuries-old architecture abounds here, from picturesque churches to lavish villas.
The area is home to numerous wineries and olive groves, while you also won’t have any trouble finding a secluded cove or beach to laze the afternoon away.
20. Adriatiq Resort Fontana Deluxe – 4 Stars
Rooms are large and air-conditioned, and all feature a TV and DVD play. Some rooms have kitchenettes. Other facilities across the hotel include a sun terrace, a gym, and a table tennis area. You can get out and about quite easily, too, with bus services running past the hotel.
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Vrboska Hotels
The smallest town on the island, Vrboska, lies just northeast of Jelsa on both sides of a beautiful, narrow bay. A photogenic stone bridge connects the village’s two parts, while its stone houses and fragrant pine forests complete a truly gorgeous setting.
This former fishing village is now a well-equipped tourist destination. It’s perfect for those who want to experience life in a small Dalmatian coastal village.
21. Senses Resort – 4 Stars
Rooms are air-conditioned and feature a private balcony, seating area, and flat-screen TV. The hotel has a large swimming pool, a wellness center, and a spa. You’ll also find a gym, and you can book diving lessons, too. Some of the best beaches in Hvar are a stone’s throw away, while the onsite restaurant and bar have beautiful sea views, perfect for your evening’s relaxation.
22. Villa Welcome – 3 Stars
Located in the small village of Vrboska on the north side of Hvar Island, Villa Welcome offers accommodation in rooms and apartments, all with private bathrooms. Guests can prepare food in the communal kitchen, while a nearby supermarket and bakery provide all necessary ingredients and products. You’ll also find restaurants and coffee bars within a 350-meter radius around Villa Welcome.
Within walking distance is the center of Vrboska, as well as Maslinica Beach and Soline Beach. The popular town of Jelsa is about 3 kilometers away, while bustling Hvar Town lies 10 kilometers from the villa. Note that the owners can provide transportation to Hvar Town (and even Dubrovnik) at an additional cost. They can also help you with advice on local tours, sightseeing, food, and rentals.
Gdinj Hotels
Located on the spine of the hills that traverse Hvar Island from west to east and along Route 116, Gdinj lies just east of Zastražišće. Like its neighbor, this small town is characterized by clusters of stone houses, pockets of forests, and traditional restaurants. A side road offers access to the south coast, which is where you’ll find most of the accommodation in this part of Hvar Island.
23. Hotel Timun – 3 Stars
This is a small, charming hotel set right on the beachfront in Gdinj, within a small bay. You can easily see right over to Pokrivenik Bay, a truly gorgeous view. This excellent accommodation in Hvar features large rooms with flat-screen TVs, private balconies, and air conditioning. There are laundry facilities onsite, too, if you need any clean clothing during your stay.
On top of that, the terrace is ideal for checking out the scenery, while the onsite restaurant is perfect for a dinner al fresco, serving delicious seafood dishes. Check out the local wine list, too!
Milna Hotels
Although it lies only 4 kilometers to the east of Hvar Town, Milna is a separate town on Hvar Island. It lies in a sheltered cove featuring beautiful beaches and coastal scenery. Because of its many restaurants that serve fresh fish, homemade olive oil, and other Dalmatian dishes, this is arguably the best place to stay in Hvar for foodies looking for a quieter getaway.
24. Apartments Mario Tudor – Apartments
These apartments are set in a small village called Milna, about 4 kilometers from the main town. The perfect home away from home, there are a lot of parking spaces around the apartments, and you can also walk to the three beaches surrounding it. There are many restaurants within walking distance.
Apartments are large, comfortable, and have everything you need inside. There is a terrace with a sea view attached to each apartment, too.
The most popular tours in Hvar:
- 🚢 Admire the stunning architecture in the world-famous town of Hvar and visit all major Adriatic island destinations in just one day
- 🍷 Enjoy a small-group wine and olive oil tasting tour that takes you from Hvar
- 🌊 Experience the beauty of the Blue Cave, where the sun rays create a glowing blue light,t on this tour from Hvar
- 🌺 Enjoy a small-group tour to the remains of the lavender fields around the village of Brusje
- 🏞️ Enjoy this amazing day tour encompassing scenic views and visits to Stari Grad and Vrbovska towns with a delicious dinner from locals
- Get a quote on a car rental here
What is the best area to stay on Hvar Island for first-time visitors?
Hvar Town is the easiest first base if you want walkability, restaurants, day trips, and nightlife in one place.
Is Hvar Town the best place to stay for nightlife?
Yes. Hvar Town is the island’s main nightlife hub, with the highest concentration of bars and late-night venues.
Where should I stay in Hvar for a quieter trip with easy access to restaurants?
Jelsa is a relaxed harbor town with good dining options and a calmer feel than Hvar Town.
What is the best place to stay on Hvar for history and a slower pace?
Stari Grad is the island’s oldest town and a strong base if you want historic atmosphere and quieter evenings.
Where should families stay on Hvar?
Stari Grad and Jelsa are typically easier for families who want a calmer base; beach-focused areas like Zavala can also work well if you’re prioritizing swimming and downtime.
Where should I stay on Hvar for beaches on the south coast?
Zavala is a south-coast base known for its quieter vibe and easy access to swimming spots along the coast.
Do I need a car on Hvar?
You can get to Hvar Town, Stari Grad, Jelsa, and Vrboska by bus and taxi in-season, but a car makes it much easier to reach smaller coves, inland villages, and the east end.
How do I get to Hvar Island from Split?
Most travelers arrive via Split (airport), then connect by catamaran to Hvar Town or by ferry to Stari Grad, plus a local transfer depending on where they’re staying.
How many days do I need on Hvar?
3–5 days is a practical range for beaches and two or three towns; longer is better if you want slower travel and time in smaller villages.
Is Hvar Island good to visit outside peak summer?
Yes, but the atmosphere changes: shoulder season is calmer, while winter months are much quieter,r and some businesses reduce hours or close.
Do we need to add any other great spots to this list of where to stay on Hvar Island? If so, let us know about other amazing hotels on Hvar Island below.