Croatia is a paddleboarder’s dream destination. And with a total of 1244 islands and islets, there’s plenty of opportunity to explore. If you take a look at a map, you’ll notice that many are super close together too – ideal for days out and experiencing plenty of dreamy SUP spots Croatia has to offer.
Better still, the crystal clear Adriatic sea is hailed as one of the calmest oceans in the world. This means your paddle adventures will be smooth and hassle-free! All that’s left to do is pack up your Bluefin SUP and decide where to paddle first.
To help you choose, I’ve put together a list of my top 10 places to paddleboard around Croatia.
10. Fratarski
Located near the city of Pula, it takes just 10 minutes to paddle from the mainland to Fratarski island. Surrounded by little islets, you’ll also have direct access to stunning bays, multiple caves for exploring, and the Verudela resorts and beaches.
This island is also a top camping hot spot. So pack your tent too if you want the full Fratarski experience!
9. Galešnjak (Love Island)
Also known as Love Island, Galešnjak is almost a perfect heart shape! Hailed as the most heart-shaped island in the world, it’s the ideal spot for a paddleboarding date.
And while the picture doesn’t quite do it justice, there’s a bunch of surrounding islets too. Secure a food basket onto your paddle, and you’re all set to have a picnic on the island of love!
8. Vis
Situated off Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, Vis island is home to the famous Stiniva Beach. Regularly voted the most beautiful beach in Europe, its views and crystal clear waters are simply breath-taking.
Vis island is also where Mamma Mia 2 was filmed. If that’s not reason enough to check it out and explore with your paddleboard, I don’t know what is!
7. Čiovo
Connected to the mainland by bridge, Čiovo island is the proud home of Uvala Duga – to name just one example of the many stunning locations you’ll find on this island.
Pack plenty of water, and explore the surrounding islets to your heart’s content.
6. Brač
Brač island is a firm favourite for many reasons. Home to Croatia’s most iconic beach of Zlatni Rat, picturesque beauty can be seen from all angles here.
Also known as the Golden Cape or Golden Horn, Zlatni Rat is primarily made-up of stunning white pebbles and a lush grove of pine trees. Brač is also renowned for being Croatia’s water sport mecca. Ideal for perfecting your paddleboarding skills or trying something new!
5. Vrsi
A region of Zadar, Vrsi is perhaps my all-time personal favourite. It’s the perfect choice if you want to avoid crowds and have some quiet privacy.
Featuring plenty of intricate coves and secluded beaches ideal for 2-4 people, Vrsi is definitely worth exploring if you want a chilled out, secluded paddleboard experience.
4. Korčula
The 6th largest island in Croatia, Korčula is often referred to as a mini Dubrovnik. I’ve explored some of the most beautiful islets I’ve ever seen here.
There’s more than 50 to investigate, but my personal favourite is Vrnik. It’s the pick of the bunch! You’re sure to see more shades of blue than you’ve ever viewed in one place, especially in bright sunshine.
3. Primošten
Situated on a small island connected to Croatia’s mainland, Primošten is one of the most beautiful towns in Croatia.
Its crystal clear waters are simply stunning. Perfect for paddling the day away. And if you’re a fan of wine, Primošten is famous for its impressive vineyards.
2. Hvar
Hvar town boasts plenty of beautiful islands and islets close by. No matter which direction you choose to paddle, you’re sure to experience a breath-taking journey every time.
My personal recommendation is to paddle around Palmižana bay. One of Hvar’s most popular tourist spots, you can explore vibrant blue waters and a nautical marina.
1. Dubrovnik
Probably the first location that springs to mind when thinking of Croatia is Dubrovnik. And for good reason!
Not only is it the primary location for King’s Landing in the ever-popular Game of Thrones, but this fortress city offers plenty of stunning buildings, shops, and restaurants to try. Perfect if you want to take a break from the water to explore on land instead, and even more beautiful when paddling around them!
SUP Croatia
A real experience of a lifetime, Croatia offers a huge range of top paddleboarding spots you’ll struggle to replicate elsewhere.
And remember, the sun always sets into the sea in Croatia. So make sure you find time to paddle directly into the sunset at least once during your Croatian adventure. Just imagine the amazing photos!
Written by Timotej Gošev (Croatian photographer)