Boat trip Makarska: detailed review of Adriatic island hopping tours, costs, schedules and personal insights for planning your Croatian sea voyage
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Sea Tours from Makarska: where to sail from here and why It's a convenient and popular starting point for day mini-cruises
Makarska is rightly considered one of the best resorts in Croatia. The city is located in a sheltered cozy bay, sunny beaches attract with crystal clear water, and the landscapes amaze with incredible beauty.
We began our acquaintance with Makarska with ordinary walks through its cozy and colorful streets. The city’s atmosphere is permeated with the spirit of antiquity, there is much to see here – buildings of ancient epochs, churches and museums. Local residents recommend visiting Biokovo Natural Park (Tour to Biokovo Park) with unsurpassed landscapes, as well as the incredible Krka National Park (Tour to Krka Park) where we gladly traveled, which we’ve already told you about.
However, now I want to talk specifically about sea voyages and destinations that are worth every tourist’s attention.
The waterfront of the Makarska Riviera, by the way, we stayed in one of those houses
We chose Makarska as the starting point for beginning our Tour Tour, guided primarily by the convenient location of this city (after all, it’s the center of Dalmatia), and we were also attracted by its developed Tourist infrastructure.
Speaking about sea Tours from Makarska, from here it’s quite convenient to reach such popular Tourist locations as:
- Brač Island – about 45 minutes by sea;
- Hvar Island – the entire journey takes about 1 hour;
- Korčula Island – 1.5 hours.
For comparison – departing from the ports of Split or Dubrovnik requires not only more time (we calculated), but the cost of the entire trip increases significantly. Moreover, the main flow of Tourists (especially during the season) falls precisely on these cities, which is why prices grow, and finding a free spot in an interesting Tour becomes even more difficult.
In addition, we were impressed by the variety of one-day Tourist cruises and affordable pricing policy, all routes are carefully planned and maximally comfortable for Tourists. The main “problem” remains deciding on the direction of the Tour from the proposed variety.
Prices for sea Tours from Makarska in 2025
Croatia has a unique feature – it has more than a thousand islands in its composition, of course not so many are inhabited – about fifty. But the very fact adds a special color to this country.
For general understanding of what types of sea Tours from Makarska exist, I made a small table:
Price List of Tours from Makarska
| Type of Tour | Number of People | Average Prices | Services Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group Tours | 15–20 | 40–60 EUR | Boat transfer, guide services, sometimes snorkeling equipment |
| Small Group Tours | 6–12 | 80–120 EUR | Boat transfer, guide services, sometimes snorkeling equipment |
| Private Tours | 2–6 | 300–1000 EUR per boat | Private hotel transfer, private boat, personal guide services, sometimes lunch and drinks, swimming and activity equipment (depending on tour program) |
| Specialized Tours (diving, fishing, kayaking, etc.) | 4–8 | 50–200 EUR | Boat transfer, instructors (diving, fishing, etc.), equipment for various activities |
Table 1 – Classification of Sea Tours from Makarska
I indicated base prices in the table (usually in off-season), but speaking about high and low seasons:
- in high season (July-August): +30-40% to base price;
- in mid-season (May-June, September): base price;
- in low season (October-April): -20-30% from base price (although not all organizers reduce prices, and some stop providing services altogether during this period).
Next, I want to analyze prices for sea Tours from Makarska in more detail using specific destinations as examples.
I’ll start with one-day group cruises to two picturesque islands – Brač and Hvar. A modern boat, incredible landscapes, the opportunity to sunbathe and swim in the warm sea – in one word, about 10 hours of complete relaxation guaranteed. Lunch is included in the price, by the way. Such group Tours (15-20 people) cost 40-60 euros per person.
If we’re talking about Tours in small groups, one option that attracted us – visiting the famous Zlatni Rat beach on Brač Island. This sandy beach sparkles with gold under the gentle Adriatic sun, impresses with turquoise water and incredible pine forests around. You can enjoy this wonder for about 8 hours. The groups are smaller than in the previous Tour (6-12 people). The price (80 euros for adults and 60 euros per child 10 years and younger) also includes snorkeling equipment.
We also considered an option similar to the previous one, but with other attractions – Hvar Island with endless fragrant lavender fields. The price, like the previous option, is 80 euros per person (60 euros per child 4-10 years).
Private yacht Tours (2-6 people) also caught our attention. This way, you can go to the Pakleni Islands, which are the calling card of Hvar Island, see remote bays of Brač – for lovers of active recreation. The cost for renting a boat with an experienced captain, drinks and underwater swimming equipment is 1000 euros for a group of up to 10 people.
There are also special Tours that we personally didn’t consider, but the routes are no less interesting – canoes and kayaks, Diving Tours and tasting cruises along the coast – guarantee unforgettable travel impressions.
Our opinion: which sea Tour destinations from Makarska are worth attention
Every day, Tours depart from Makarska to various sea locations. For ourselves, we identified the most attractive ones. Places where you can recharge emotionally, spiritually and get real relaxation. And now I want to share my thoughts on which destinations are better to choose for a sea journey from Makarska.
- Brač Island
This picturesque island is located closest to Makarska. Brač deservedly earned the title of European Maldives. Sandy beaches with incredibly blue water, framed by pine forests, are simply mesmerizing.
In the depths of Brač Island is the Blaca Monastery, founded by priests. Currently, it’s a museum that stores unique exhibits worthy of Tourists’ attention. Also, if desired, you can taste craft wines from local wineries here.
The highlight of the island is Zlatni Rat beach, which has the peculiarity of changing its shape depending on wind directions and currents. By the way, if I were choosing a Tour to Brač Island, I would book a Tour to visit Zlatni Rat beach and several other secluded bays on the island (80 euros).
Zlatni Rat Beach on Brač Island, located near the town of Bol
2. Hvar Island
The island captivates with unique Gothic architecture and incredibly fragrant lavender fields. In the city of Hvar, there are significant historical monuments, one of which is located on the city’s central square – an old well that is a symbol of fresh water for local residents, because there have always been problems with drinking water on the island.
In the northern part of Hvar city is a majestic fortress, and from there opens a beautiful view not only of Hvar Island, but also of neighboring islands. By the way, I came across an interesting Tour from Makarska along the northern coast of Hvar (80 euros). Unfortunately, we didn’t go on this Tour, but perhaps some of our readers will have such an opportunity.
Lavender fields on Hvar Island
3. Pakleni Islands
This is the calling card of Croatia’s Hvar Island. The name literally translates as “hellish islands,” because in ancient times a special resin was boiled from local pine resin for ship needs and the island was constantly in black smoke.
But the only thing truly hellish here is the stunning exotic nature and incredibly beautiful beaches. This is a favorite place for divers and water sports enthusiasts.
And this is the view from Hvar to the Pakleni Islands
4. Kornati National Park
This is one of Croatia’s pearls, famous for its national parks (Plitvice Lakes, Krka Park, Biokovo – they are all clear proof of this). Kornati Park differs from others in that it’s an archipelago of uninhabited islands, consisting of 89 islands and reefs, impressing with luxurious Mediterranean flora and the natural beauty and majesty of cliffs, also called stone crowns.
There are significant historical monuments in the park – churches and remains of a Venetian castle. Here you can take truly unique photos that will evoke pleasant memories for a long time.
And this is Kornat Island, the largest island of Kornati National Park
5. Pelješac Peninsula
It surprises with its original elongated shape. Incredible charming landscapes, gentle sunny beaches amaze Tourists. This region is surrounded by lush vineyards from which local winemakers produce incredible wines.
It’s a real paradise for gourmets here. It’s believed that it’s in this region (or to be more precise, in the town of Mali Ston) that the best oysters are caught for preparing aromatic Mediterranean cuisine dishes. It’s no wonder that many tasting Tours are organized here.
Summarizing briefly, I can confidently say that these are, in our opinion, the most interesting destinations for which Croatia has almost always favorable weather conditions, and combined with professional Tour accompaniment (if choosing an organized Tour option), they will leave a pleasant aftertaste for a long time.
Moreover, each destination is convenient to reach from Makarska. For ourselves, we chose a Tour to Hvar Island, which we talked about in a separate article – we were captivated by the opportunity to sunbathe, swim plenty, feel the aroma of lavender fields and wander through famous historical places.
Independently or with a guide: comparing options for sea travels from Makarska
Initially, we thoroughly studied the possibility of traveling independently, without being tied to organized sea Tours from Makarska. And we were immediately unpleasantly surprised by the lack of direct ferry connections to famous Tour locations.
The nearest departure points for trips are the ports of Drvenik and Split, from here you can reach Brač Island (5 euros per person) and Hvar Island (7 euros per person). Getting to Split by ferry from Makarska takes about 1 hour, from Makarska to Drvenik – about 40 minutes. And to such attractive and popular Tourist places as the Pakleni Islands and Zečevo, there’s no direct ferry connection at all.
Therefore, for these destinations specifically, the best solution would be to take a Tour Tour – an experienced guide knows the best places for swimming and the most suitable time for visiting beaches, and the Tour program usually includes visiting several interesting Tourist locations at once.
We recommend planning independent trips if you want to spend more time on the islands, for example several days, combining both beach relaxation and evening city walks with tasting local cuisine dishes.
However, in this case, keep in mind that:
- to reach Brač Island, you’ll need to travel as follows – by bus from Makarska to Split – 8 euros plus ferry 5 euros, then by bus to Bol – 5 euros. Together this comes to 18 euros per person one way;
- to reach Hvar Island, you need to take the same bus (8 euros) plus ferry 7 euros, local transport services cost 4-6 euros. Together this also comes to approximately 18 euros per person one way.
After thoroughly studying all options, we concluded that the ideal solution would be to order a Tour. Because if traveling independently – much more time is spent on the road, ferry tickets usually need to be booked in advance because there may be no seats due to high demand. And most importantly, in my opinion, besides everything listed, additional stress arises during the trip, as you need to monitor all transport schedules to manage everything, and also independently search for how to get from the bus stop to the port, etc.
Also, it’s difficult to determine a truly interesting route on your own, because all attractive Tourist places are unknown to you.
On the other hand, there are organized Tours where Tour guides know the best places for swimming, landscapes that must definitely be seen, and the most interesting historical sites worth visiting. In addition, most Tour Tours include drinks, snacks, and equipment for active recreation.
A life hack we’ve used more than once – at the beginning of your vacation, take a Tour and ask the guide which interesting places are best to choose for viewing, and then plan an independent trip.
Our TOP-5 Islands and one picturesque bay for sea Tours from Makarska
Croatia attracts Tourists from all over the world with its warm transparent Adriatic Sea, stunning landscapes, mild climate and rich historical heritage. This is a true paradise for nature lovers and water activities. The Tourism business in the country is successfully developing and offers vacationers entertainment for any taste. Tour operators offer the most diverse sea Tours, and in many cases it’s convenient to depart precisely from Makarska. Let’s focus on the most popular ones:
- Brač Island, which we’ve already discussed, is the largest and closest island to Makarska.
How to get there: from Makarska by ferry (runs 3-4 times a day) to Sumartin pier, travel time approximately 50 minutes, cost 4 euros one way. If you rented a car, its transportation costs about 20 euros.
From Sumartin, you can take a bus to the most visited cities such as Bol and Supetar.
The town of Bol has earned the glory of Croatia’s Tourist leader, it’s here that the luxurious Zlatni Rat beach is located, jutting out into the sea. An ideal place for relaxation – crystal clear water sparkles under the gentle Adriatic sun, sandy beach, gentle entrance to the sea, emerald pines located around create natural shade, making relaxation even more comfortable.
Natural luxurious places for unforgettable photo sessions, well-developed infrastructure and countless marine entertainment options – make this vacation spot ideal for the most discerning Tourists.
Everything is provided on the beach – showers, toilets, if desired you can rent sun loungers and a sun umbrella. From Bol town, you can walk here (just 20 minutes on the road), and from neighboring islands, boat taxis run here.
Advice: the best time to visit Zlatni Rat beach is May-June or September (in July-August it’s very crowded here, as it’s peak season).
Besides beach relaxation, here you can enjoy delicious Mediterranean cuisine and taste local wines. Ancient architectural monuments won’t leave anyone indifferent either, one of them is the Dominican Monastery.
The oldest fishing settlement of Bol on Brač Island
2. Hvar Island and its port city of the same name Hvar, surprises with refined architecture, fragrant lavender fields and golden beaches. It has the status of Europe’s sunniest city. Also, on the island is the town of Stari Grad (listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site), it’s bordered by a stone wall, climbing which you can walk around the entire city along the perimeter, here are located many historical structures, nice sandy beaches and cozy bays.
How to get there: a catamaran runs from Makarska to Hvar (1-2 times a day, depending on the season), travel time – 50 minutes, cost 8 euros one way.
On the northern coast of the island is located the small resort town of Jelsa, known for its quality wines from local vineyards, monuments of Venetian architecture, a picturesque park with a fountain and cozy seaside cafes.
Bus connections with cities are well developed on the island, you can also rent a boat to reach neighboring bays.
The island’s exclusive feature is the Blue Cave, located in a small bay, it’s a grotto with an opening below through which sunlight enters inside and creates the effect of blue radiance (best observed around noon). You can get here either by private boat or by booking a Tour Tour (cost 30-40 euros). A similar cave exists on Biševo Island, but there’s a larger flow of Tourists and the cost is higher. By the way, visiting these two islands can be combined into one trip by booking a Tour of 4 islands and the best places of Vis and Hvar from Makarska (150 euros for an adult, 130 for a child 4-10 years).
3. Zečevo is a small island located almost opposite the Vrboska resort on Hvar, covered with evergreen pines. Here predominate pebble beaches, cozy bays attract with crystal clear water, the underwater ecosystem seems specially created for snorkeling and diving. Around are ideal natural photo zones. In addition, on the island are interesting monuments of ancient architecture. Gourmets will be interested in local delicacies and wines.
How to get there: you can get here by private boat from Vrboska or order a Tour Tour. Features – lack of fresh water on the island, undeveloped infrastructure – everything must be taken with you.
I want to recommend what I consider the best one-day Tour from Makarska to Hvar, Brač and Zečevo islands, which would be quite appropriate here.
Why do I consider this one of the best Tours? It’s simple. From our top-5 list, this trip combines three places at once, which is already a huge plus. In addition, the trip organizer promises flexibility in planning and adjusting the route, depending on the group’s interest (and in group Tours this is quite rare).
The second, no less important point is the Tour price. It’s only 75 euros per person (and for such a trip, that’s quite affordable). This cost includes boat transfer from Makarska with 4 stops for rest, photos and exploration of each place (Bol, Zlatni-rat, Zečevo, Jelsa)
In addition, during the cruise, a local team of professionals will accompany the group, sharing their knowledge not only about cities and beaches, but also about local culture and history.
You can book this one-day cruise here
4. Stiniva Bay – a natural monument of Vis Island, has a unique pebble beach in the shape of a horseshoe framed by limestone cliffs and crystal turquoise water. Features – usually very crowded here, no lounger rentals or cafes, and with strong waves swimming can be quite dangerous.
Komiža – a fabulous port on the coast of Vis Island, the oldest fishing town on the Adriatic, whose main monuments are the Church of St. Nicholas, Komiža Fortress and the Fishermen’s Museum, located in a Venetian tower. From here you can reach the Blue Cave and Biševo Island (article about the blue cave on Biševo Island).
How to get there: by bus from Makarska to Split (10-15 euros) travel time 1 hour, then ferry Split – Vis (8-10 euros) travel time 2-2.5 hours, and one more transfer to bus Vis – Komiža (2-3 euros), travel time another 20 minutes.
5. Pakleni Islands – the calling card of Hvar, here Tourists await attractive sandy beaches with gentle descent into the sea, wonderfully beautiful nature and the most beautiful places for water sports.
How to get there: from Makarska first reach Hvar, from there boats depart regularly every half hour, cost about 5.5 euros, travel time 10-15 minutes, Practical advice – it’s better to dedicate a whole day to have the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the incredible emotions of relaxation.
Tours to Brač island from Makarska and neighboring ports
Sea cruises provide an opportunity to get unforgettable impressions from observing incredible tropical landscapes, admiring the color of transparent water, the opportunity to touch ancient architectural monuments.
- Classic sightseeing Tour (one-day Tour) includes a Tour through the historical town of Bol with the opportunity for independent island exploration and coffee in cozy local cafes and relaxation on Zlatni Rat beach. You can swim in the warm crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, or dive to better examine its mysterious underwater world.
- Premium yacht Tour (small groups up to 12 people) the route is completely individual, includes visiting several cozy remote bays, swimming in deserted places and the opportunity to engage in snorkeling. Cost 120-150 euros per person, the price includes food, drinks, snorkeling equipment.
- Evening cruise “Sunset on Brač” is an opportunity to combine in a short time swimming on a sandy beach in Lovrecina bay, dinner in a cozy restaurant in Bol town and watching an amazingly beautiful sunset. Cost 70-90 euros per person, the price includes a catamaran cruise and dinner.
- Sports Tour – unforgettable relaxation for adventure lovers on Brač Island. The Tour program includes catamaran transfer to Brač, kayaking along the picturesque coast, cycling around the island and a delicious lunch in a colorful traditional tavern. Cost 70-90 euros per person, the price includes equipment, full lunch and professional instructor accompaniment.
- Daily flight to Bol (2 times a day) – opportunity for independent exploration of the popular Tourist town. Cost 20-25 euros per person one way, travel time about 40 minutes.
From Makarska you can purchase a Tour to Brač Island for any taste (although there aren’t that many Tours from here compared to Split), I tried to select interesting current offers from various organizers that might suit almost anyone (prices are indicated for the July-August period, in off-season prices may be 20-30% lower):
- Tour by speedboat to Golden Horn beach and secluded bays
An ideal opportunity to combine relaxation on the famous Zlatni Rat beach, dive with a mask into endless sea expanses and walk through the picturesque town of Bol. Included in price: snorkeling equipment, bottled water, meals not included. Total duration of the trip – 5 hours. Cost: 80 euros for an adult, 60 euros for a child (10 years and younger).
- 4 islands: Blue Cave Tour and the best of Vis and Hvar islands
An incredible opportunity to visit the mysterious Blue Cave, explore interesting places in Hvar and Komiža cities, swim in cozy bays and immerse yourself in the mysterious underwater world on Vis and Pakleni islands.
Included in price: snorkeling equipment, bottled water, not included – entrance ticket to Blue Cave (12-18 euros) and meals.
Total duration of the Tour is 10 hours.
Cost: 150 euros for an adult, 130 euros for a child (4-10 years).
- Speedboat to 3 islands: Little Blue Cave and “Hidden Gems” adventure
Explore hidden pristine bays accessible only by boat, swim in the Little Blue Cave on Hvar Island, wander through the ancient streets of the famous town of Jelsa and enjoy the atmospheric Blue Lagoon on Zečevo Island.
Included in price: snorkeling equipment, bottled water, meals not included.
Total duration of the Tour is 5 hours.
Cost: 99 euros for an adult, 79 euros for a child (10 years and younger).
Tours to Brač from Split
As I mentioned above, many more Tours and boats depart from Split to Brač Island than from Makarska, which makes the trip from here more accessible. So it’s no wonder that many Tourists come here to start their island journey.
Therefore, those considering a Tour with a starting point in Split city need to reach the city by the Makarska-Split bus route (stops in Baška Voda, Brela, Omiš towns). Tickets can be purchased at bus stations in Makarska or Split, in summer season it’s advisable to buy in advance, there’s also an option to book tickets online (bus companies Croatia Bus, Promet Makarska).
Ticket cost: 7-9 euros per person one way, 12-15 euros per person to Split and back, discounts also apply: cost for students 5-7 euros, for children under 12 years 5 euros, children under 4 years ride free.
Travel duration is about one and a half hours, on express – about an hour.
Schedule: From Makarska, the first bus departs at 5:00, the last at 21:30. From Split, the first bus departs at 5:30, the last at 22:00. In the period from June to September, buses run almost every half hour, in off-season the interval may increase to two hours.
And after reaching Split, you need to head to the port where the journey will begin. By the way, if I were traveling this way, I would choose one of the following Tours in Split to Brač Island:
- Full-day sailing Tour to Šolta and Brač islands
During the journey, enjoy tasting local wines, viewing charming landscapes and the opportunity at your own leisurely pace to explore the islands or engage in underwater swimming.
Included in price: snorkeling equipment, bottled water, snacks (cheese, prosciutto, bread), coffee and tea, white wine.
Cost: 120 euros for an adult, 90 euros for a child (5-11 years).
Total duration of the Tour 7 hours.
- One-day private trip to Hvar and Brač islands with Zlatni Rat beach
Enjoying the charming nature of the Adriatic coast, tasting fragrant local wines, and relaxation on the incomparable Zlatni Rat beach.
Included in price: snorkeling equipment, drinks (beer, water and soft drinks), snacks, fruits, underwater swimming equipment.
Total duration of the Tour 10 hours.
Cost 1200 euros per boat (up to 10 people).
Tours vs independent trip to Brač from Makarska: what to choose?
The choice between a Tour and an independent trip to Brač Island from Makarska depends on the needs, budget and travel style of each Tourist. Therefore, I want to share my thoughts on this topic and tell what we base our trip planning on.
First, I’ll talk about organized group Tours from Makarska to Brač Island. Among the advantages of Tours, I can note:
- Convenience. No need to plan the route independently. The price includes – transfer, tickets, program.
- Guide who will tell a lot of interesting information about the history, culture and monuments of the island.
- Group atmosphere. If you like meeting new people, a Tour is ideal.
- One-day visit. Ideal for those who don’t want to spend much time but want to see the maximum.
But, in my opinion, Tours have some disadvantages. For example, limited time. The route and schedule are clearly defined, so there’s no opportunity to linger in favorite places (if we don’t consider private Tours where you can adjust the route to your wishes).
Undoubtedly, Tours to Brač will suit Tourists who are visiting the island for the first time and want to hear the guide’s story. Also those who value their comfort and don’t want to deal with organizing the trip.
Personally, I want to recommend:
- Premium yacht Tour (120-150 euros). This is a great opportunity to visit picturesque bays with a small group of people.
- Evening cruise (70-90 euros). Also an excellent option if you love admiring sunsets. But definitely visit Brač during the day so as not to miss much that’s interesting.
- Standard Brač Tour costs 45-60 euros. You can visit Zlatni Rat beach or the olive oil museum to learn about the traditional olive oil production process. But this is always with a large group of people according to a pre-compiled program. I don’t like that.
Now about an independent trip to Brač. There are advantages here:
- Economy. A ferry ticket from Makarska to Sumartin costs about 6 euros (one way), which is significantly cheaper than a Tour. For large groups, an independent trip will also be more economically advantageous.
- Flexibility. There’s an opportunity to independently choose which places to visit and how much time to spend in each.
- Freedom of movement. For me, this is most important. If there’s an opportunity to rent a car, you can see more monuments, such as Zlatni Rat beach, Vidova Mountain or Blaca wilderness. In an independent trip, I like that I manage my own time, can stay for a day or two, visit places not included in standard Tours. This especially applies to the northern part of the island (Sutivan, Supetar), where famous routes don’t often run.
Of course, an independent trip to Brač has its disadvantages too. For example, it’s necessary to independently develop routes and consider ferry schedules (that’s 3-4 flights a day in season). If traveling by car, additional transportation costs are 20-25 euros one way. By the way, the ferry sails approximately 50 minutes.
My conclusion is this – for experienced travelers who love freedom, are ready for adventures and want to see more, an independent trip is a good option, and if the desire to enjoy vacation without troubles prevails, a Tour will be the best choice.
TOP-10 locations of Brač island: what's worth seeing
Brač Island is a true pearl of Dalmatia, combining natural landscapes, historical monuments and the atmosphere of Croatian culture. I’ll tell a bit about the most interesting ones.
On the island, everyone will definitely find something interesting – from natural landscapes to historical monuments. I can say that visiting Brač Island will give unforgettable impressions, as nature, history, culture and unique atmosphere are successfully combined here.
If you want to see as many interesting places as possible, I recommend renting a car. This will allow you to use your time as efficiently as possible and enjoy freedom of movement.
When planning a trip, you need to consider ferry schedules. You can reach Brač Island by ferry from Makarska and from Split. Moreover, more ferries sail from Split and significantly more Tours to Brač. Therefore, if possible, it’s better to go there.
How to get from Makarska to Split
The best option is a bus. It departs several times a day. The exact number may vary depending on season and day of the week. I recommend checking the current schedule before the trip. The journey takes 1.5 hours. Ticket price – 7 euros.
After arriving at Split bus station, to reach the port, it’s enough to walk approximately 10 minutes.
Natural Attractions of the Island
Nature is exactly what calms, gives a sense of harmony and peace. Therefore, I’ll start precisely with the natural monuments of Brač Island.
- Zlatni Rat Beach. This is Croatia’s most famous beach, located in the town of Bol. The unique shape of the beach-spit changes depending on wind and currents, making it popular among Tourists and photographers. Here the water is crystal clear. If you’re interested in windsurfing, I recommend going precisely here. And it’s better to do this in the morning when there aren’t many people yet.
In this photo you can clearly see how many Tourists relax on Zlatni Rat beach during the season
- Vidova Mountain. They say this is the highest point of the Adriatic islands – about 780 m high. You can climb it on foot or by car. From the summit opens a stunning panoramic view of neighboring islands and the coastline. And they also say that in clear weather you can even see Italy. But I wasn’t very lucky with the weather – there were clouds.
View from Vidova Mountain to Zlatni Rat beach
- Dragon’s Cave. Here in ancient times (XV century) monks lived. Inside, ancient reliefs are preserved, including a dragon. I was impressed by the unique archaeological finds and the mystical atmosphere of the cave. You can only go here with a guide. Solo Tourists aren’t allowed. But this is even good, because it’s interesting to hear about the history of this monument.
And this is what the walls of Dragon’s Cave look like. Very different from the caves we’re already used to (and we’ve been to many)
Historical objects of Brač Island
Ancient monuments reflect the history of a place, so I believe they also need attention. So, what I liked most:
- Blaca Hermitage. This is a unique XVI century monastery-fortress built into a cliff. The place is known for its library, observatory and collection of antique clocks. You can reach Blaca only on foot.
The Blaca Hermitage monastery-fortress, in the photo you can see how it cuts into the cliff
- Dominican Monastery in Bol. It was built in the XV century and contains a valuable collection of artworks, including works by Tintoretto. The monastery also has a museum where a large collection of coins and church utensils is gathered.
View from the water of the Dominican Monastery in the town of Bol
- Fortress in Škrip (XVII century). The fortress is located in the oldest settlement on the island. Here you can visit a museum with a rich ethnographic collection, including an exhibition dedicated to stone quarrying.
It’s better to visit these monuments with a guide. Their story will help learn about the historical value of the collections.
Cultural heritage of Brač Island
I liked the following cultural monuments:
- Olive groves in Postira. Here they produce one of Croatia’s best olive oils. Tourists can expect tasting and the opportunity to observe the production process.
- House in the Rock near Bol (Kuća u stijeni). This is a unique structure partially carved into the cliff. A very interesting example of folk architecture.
- Port of Splitska. A cozy fishing village with interesting architecture and ancient white stone buildings. From here opens a wonderful view of mainland Split.
- School of Stonemasons in Pučišća. I was surprised when I heard that this is the only school in Europe where they still teach traditional processing of the famous Brač stone. Tourists have the opportunity to observe the work of students and masters. This is really very interesting.
Tours to Hvar and Pakleni Islands from Makarska and neighboring ports
Hvar Island and Pakleni Islands are true pearls of the Adriatic that attract Tourists with their crystal clear waters, unique nature and unforgettable landscapes. Staying in Makarska or in neighboring ports is a wonderful opportunity to discover these captivating places for yourself. I’ll tell what’s worth seeing and how best to organize Tours.
The main square in the town of Hvar on the island with the same name, here you can have a snack and enjoy the view of ancient architecture
Vacationers have the opportunity to take a Tour only to Hvar Island or choose a combined Tour. Let’s consider some options.
- Classic full-day sightseeing Tour.
Departure at 8:30-9:00. Among locations – Hvar town, fortress, old town, square. There’s free time for lunch and swimming. Return around 18:00. Tour cost – 55-70 euros for adults and 30-40 euros for children. The Tour includes catamaran transfer and guide.
- Premium yacht Tour. Number of Tourists limited (up to 12 people). This is an individual route with visiting Hvar city and Stari Grad. Travelers can expect lunch in a traditional konoba, swimming in secluded bays. Cost – 140-180 euros per person. The price includes snacks, drinks and lunch.
- Speedboat. This is only a transfer to the island (takes about an hour). Then – independent Tour. In season, such flights are regular. Cost – 25-30 euros one way.
During the Tour, additional expenses are possible. For example, for entrance tickets to Hvar fortress (price about 5 euros) or for lunches in restaurants (from 20 euros).
All prices are indicated for the high season (July-August period). In May, June and September, prices are usually 20-30% lower. Therefore, there’s an opportunity to save by planning a trip for early summer or autumn.
There are few Tours to the islands from Makarska. Therefore, as with Brač, it’s better to start your Tour from Split. How to get there by bus, I wrote above.
Among Tours to Hvar and islands, I already have a favorite. Here, in my opinion, is the best route and service – hidden pearls of Hvar Island’s northern coast.
- Tour duration – 5 hours.
- Travel by speedboat.
- Price – 80 euros per adult
Tourists will see picturesque bays on the northern shore of the island, which other Tours rarely visit. This is a place with pristine nature where you can swim and jump from cliffs.
Tours to Hvar from Split
- Blue Cave and Hvar. This is a way to visit the mystical Blue Cave and Dalmatian islands aboard a luxury boat.
Full-day Tour – 11 hours. The first half is dedicated to the Blue Cave where you can take impressive photos, and the second is swimming and exploring the ancient streets of Hvar settlements.
Cost – 145 euros.
- Blue Lagoon, Hvar and 5 islands (private 10-hour Tour)
The route is 5 wonderful islands (Pakleni, Šolta, Biševo, Brač, Hvar) and Blue Lagoon. Crystal clear water and enjoyment of combining natural beauty and relaxation. Swimming is complemented by viewing resort towns.
The trip costs 125 euros.
- 10-hour cruise to Hvar, Brač and Pakleni with lunch and drinks.
During a leisurely catamaran trip, you can see picturesque secluded corners along the Adriatic Sea coast. Appreciate the splendor of Hvar city, Pakleni islands and Brač island.
Regardless of whether a traveler is seeking adventure, romance or relaxation, Tours to the picturesque Adriatic islands will become an unforgettable experience.
In which cases should you take Tours to Hvar Island from Makarska, and when should you travel independently by ferry
When is it generally better to take a sea Tour from Makarska to Hvar Island?
- There’s only one day for walks, and
- The Tour combines Hvar and Pakleni Islands.
- Comfort is especially important and there’s no desire to deal with logistics.
- Snorkeling in different locations is of interest.
- Planning to visit hard-to-reach bays.
For those who prefer independent travels, I’ll write about traveling to Hvar Island without Tour accompaniment. Getting there is possible by ferry. Unfortunately, there’s no direct ferry from Makarska to Hvar. You need to first get to Drvenik (that’s 30 minutes by bus, cost 4-5 euros). And then board the Drvenik – Sučuraj (Hvar) ferry. Ferry fare:
- for adults – 4-5 euros;
- for a car – 25-30 euros.
Travel time – 35 minutes. The ferry has up to 8 flights per day in season.
You can only reach Pakleni Islands by taxi-boat from Hvar town (price 10-15 euros one way).
This option is ideal for Tourists who:
- plan to stay on Hvar for several days;
- want to explore the islands in depth to see lavender fields and visit wineries;
- are traveling with a large group (this way it’s cheaper);
- love and value freedom of movement on their own routes.
My personal experience
If I’m going on vacation for 1-2 days, I take a VIP yacht Tour. For longer stays, a ferry to Sučuraj and scooter rental on the island suits me (price about 40-50 euros per day).
In high season (July-August), independent travel can be more difficult due to ferry queues and the need for early accommodation booking. In this case, a one-day Tour may be a more practical option.
10 Top locations of Hvar - from antiquity to Instagram spots
You can confidently say that Hvar is one of Croatia’s most beautiful islands. Here is an ideal combination of historical monuments, natural wonders and modern entertainment. Therefore, thanks to its unique atmosphere, history and picturesque landscapes, this place has become a favorite destination for me. I’ll tell about some interesting locations.
Historical monuments
- Hvar Fortress Fortaleza. This is a majestic Spanish fortress from the XVI century. The stair climb to it takes about 20 minutes. I recommend taking comfortable shoes, as the ascent is quite steep. At the top awaits not only a wonderful fortress with a museum, but also a fantastic panoramic view of the city, harbor and neighboring islands. An excellent place for captivating photographs, especially at sunset.
- Franciscan Monastery from the XV century. This monastery is located on the seashore in Hvar city. Inside are preserved unique collections of ancient books, maps and artworks, also the painting “The Last Supper.” Tourists usually like the beautiful monastery garden with cypresses that’s over 300 years old.
- Hvar City Theater. This is Europe’s oldest public theater, founded in 1612. The theater still functions and hosts performances. This is a true treasure for culture and history lovers. I recommend visiting it with a Tour to learn more about the theater’s history. They’re conducted daily.
Natural and photo locations
- Palmižana Beach on one of the Pakleni archipelago islands. This is a true pearl of the region that attracts crystal clear water, exotic plants and a picturesque bay. This is an ideal place for swimming and snorkeling. You can reach the beach by taxi-boat from Hvar city. This takes 15-20 minutes.
- Lavender fields. Hvar is known for its lavender fields located in the island’s center, especially near the villages of Velo Grablje and Brusje. In June and July, lavender fields look like a fabulous carpet of purple color. The fields are especially impressive at sunset. This is a true find for bright photo sessions. Here you can also purchase local products made from lavender.
- Grapčeva Cave. This is an archaeological monument dating to the Neolithic era. The cave is known for its unique formations and historical finds (the oldest is 6000 years old). Visiting is only possible with a guide by prior appointment, as the route is quite complex.
- Galešnjak Island is part of the Pakleni Islands. This uninhabited heart-shaped island is a popular place for photo sessions and snorkeling. You can only reach it by boat, best as part of an organized Tour. This is a true paradise for sea adventure lovers and romantic travels. You need to bring food and water, as many islands don’t have cafes.
Enchanting lavender fields on Hvar Island. Even in photos you can see their beauty, but this doesn’t compare to seeing them yourself
UNESCO cultural heritage
- Benedictine Monastery. Famous for its collection of agave lace woven by local nuns. This unique art is included in the UNESCO list. The monastery is active, so visiting hours are limited.
- Stari Grad Plain. This is a piece of land demonstrating the ancient Greek agricultural system from the IV century BC. This is the largest ancient Greek cadastre in the Mediterranean, a UNESCO site. It’s especially beautiful here in spring when olive trees bloom.
Benedictine Monastery in Hvar city, included in UNESCO world cultural heritage
Gastronomic experience
Hvar is famous for wine, so when it comes to delicious drinks, I recommend starting with Tomić Winery in Jelsa. This is one of the island’s oldest wineries where you can taste local wines, including the famous Plavac Mali, and learn about ancient winemaking traditions.
By visiting these locations, you can discover the unique charm of Hvar Island, its rich history, natural beauty and authentic culture.
When is the best time to visit Hvar?
From May to September. In my opinion, this is the ideal period to enjoy warm climate and open sea.
How to Quickly Get to Hvar?
The most convenient way to reach Hvar is by ferry from Split city or catamaran from neighboring Croatian islands. In the high season (from June to August), I advise making advance bookings for visiting Pakleni Islands. This will help avoid crowds.
Boat rides from Makarska to 3-5 Islands
Boat rides are one of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of the Adriatic, especially when the route covers several islands. Such a Tour will give peace, unforgettable landscapes and lots of impressions. There are several types of Tours departing from Makarska.
- Classic “Three Islands” Tour. Covers Brač, Hvar and Šćedro. The tour starts at 8:30-9:00. Among the main locations: Zlatni Rat on Brač, Hvar city, and swimming in Šćedro bay. Return around 18:00. The tour cost 80-95 euros for adults, 40-50 euros for children. Tour includes – transfer, guide, light lunch.
- Premium “Four Islands” Tour. Covers Brač, Hvar, Pakleni Islands, Šćedro. This is a Tour for small groups – only up to 15 people. Compared to the previous option, there will be a more comfortable vessel and more time for swimming. Also a nice plus – lunch in a restaurant on Palmižana. Tour cost – 110-130 euros for adults and 60-70 euros for children. Tour includes – transfer, guide, lunch, snorkeling.
- VIP “Five Islands” Tour. Covers Brač, Hvar, Šćedro, two Pakleni Islands, which Tourists travel to on a premium yacht. Tour for private groups of up to 12 people. The value of the trip is in the individual approach to the route, premium meals and expensive drinks included in the price. Tour price – 150-180 euros per person.
- Economy “Three Islands” Tour. Covers Brač, Hvar, one of the Pakleni Islands. Includes basic program for large Tourist groups. The schedule is fixed. Good option if budget is limited. Tour cost – 65-75 euros for adults and 35-40 euros for children. Only transfer and guide included.
- “Four Islands at Sunset” Tour seems created for romance seekers. Starts after lunch. Includes visiting Brač, Hvar and two Pakleni Islands, plus dinner on Palmižana. Return home after dark. In the evening light, islands look fabulous. Tour cost – 120-140 euros per person. Includes – transfer, dinner, drinks.
Main features to consider for all Tours:
- in high season booking needed at least 2-3 days in advance;
- routes may be adjusted depending on weather conditions;
- children under 3 years usually participate in Tours free;
- discounts exist for groups of 6 or more.
What else I want to draw attention to. Travel time between islands takes a significant part of the day. On each island, Tourists spend on average 1-2 hours. I recommend taking sun protection, sea shoes and definitely water. Entrance tickets to monuments aren’t included in the base Tour price, so you need to have small money with you.
Among the listed types of Tours, I personally liked the following 3 sea Tours. I suggest paying attention to them:
- Speedboat trip to 3 islands.
The Tour’s feature is the opportunity to swim in hidden bays, visit the Little Blue Cave (Hvar), visit Jelsa town and the Blue Lagoon on Zečevo Island. The Tour leaves wonderful impressions of natural landscapes.
Lasts 5 hours and costs 99 euros.
- Private full-day motorboat Tour of 3 islands: Hvar, Zečevo and Brač.
Tourists can expect: swimming, snorkeling, viewing island towns, restaurants. The trip’s highlight: opportunity to swim in 5-6 unique locations.
Cost – 290 euros per boat for 4 people.
- Journey to Blue Cave and the best places on Vis and Hvar islands. A 4-island trip – 10 hours of enjoying walks in Hvar and Komiža cities, swimming and diving in picturesque bays on Vis and Pakleni islands.
Trip cost 150 euros per person.
I hope my advice will help you relax in the most picturesque places of the Adriatic and get real pleasure.
When should you take 3-5 Island Tours from Makarska, and when should you think carefully
Island Tours are worth taking if:
- You only have a few days for vacation, so there’s no time to independently visit several islands.
- There’s no plan to rent a car. Public transport between ports and monuments runs rarely, and taxis on islands are expensive (from 30-40 euros for a short trip). Tours use speedboats on direct routes. And this allows visiting many monuments in a short time.
- There’s a desire to see Pakleni Islands. Because you can only reach them by boat from Hvar. So as part of a Tour this works out cheaper than a separate transfer.
Who needs to think carefully about whether to order a Tour:
- Fans of immersing in the atmosphere of places. On each island during a Tour, only 1-2 hours are spent. This doesn’t allow me to feel the true atmosphere of the place. There will be a superficial overview and lots of time on the road between islands.
- Those suffering from seasickness. A boat Tour is 6-8 hours on water. There may be several exits to open sea total.
- Traveling with small children. An island boat Tour is a long day at sea and sun with many movements and limited time on beaches. A child won’t be able to rest during the Tour.
Also, for decision-making, it’s useful to compare prices. Let’s compare the cost of an independent route and a Tour. Independently by ferry:
- Makarska – Sumartin (Brač). Ferry cost 6 euros per person, for a car an additional 20-25 euros is paid.
- Sučuraj (Hvar) – Drvenik. Ferry price 4-5 euros per person, for a car additional payment 25-30 euros.
Cost of taxi-boat to Pakleni Islands from Hvar – 10-15 euros per person one way.
You’ll also need to pay for:
- transfers between ports and cities – from 30 euros;
- gasoline when renting a car (plus the rental itself);
- parking – 8-15 euros per day;
- meals.
Thus, independent travel to 3 islands will cost at minimum 100-120 euros per person when traveling as a couple, and this is without accommodation. Therefore, I advise for first acquaintance with the archipelago to definitely take a Tour, better premium with a small group. And then return to the island for 2-3 days for detailed acquaintance.
In the high season, Tours need to be booked in advance because they’re popular and free spots end quickly. It’s better to choose a Tour with lunch included in the price. This saves time and is often cheaper than lunching in Tourist restaurants.