Exploring any island in the Mediterranean is simply not possible without enjoying the culinary delights it has to offer. Thanks to its stunning archipelago and various options for waterfront dining, Hvar is a great place to visit by boat. You can easily cruise between islands and stop to eat right by the water, making meals a part of your sailing experience.
The island offers a mix of quiet bays and more lively town spots, so there’s something for every taste. Sampling the local food is simple, and you can enjoy fresh seafood, traditional dishes, or casual snacks while taking in the views. Whether you’re on a short trip or exploring for a few days, Hvar makes it easy to combine boating with dining.
Things to know before visiting restaurants by boat
Going on a summer vacation in Croatia? Remember to think about the boat you’re arriving with. On smaller boats or speedboats, waves can splash a little, especially if it’s windy or choppy. Bring something comfortable and be ready to stay dry while approaching the restaurant. If you’re arriving in the evening, a light long-sleeve or jacket can help, since it can get fresh on open water, even in summer.
Even for a quick lunch, part of the fun is the ride – cruising along the coast, spotting hidden coves, and enjoying the water views. Some restaurants are tucked away in quiet bays, so it’s worth slowing down and taking in the scenery before you reach the dock. A short tender ride from the boat to the restaurant is normal, and all part of the experience.
Famous Boat-Accessible Restaurants on Hvar
Aria
If you want to try well-prepared local specialities in a relaxed setting, Aria is the place to go. The restaurant in Hvar is popular for a reason – consistently high ratings reflect generous portions, fair prices and friendly, attentive service.
The menu covers a nice mix of Dalmatian flavours, from black mussels and seafood risottos to gnocchi with pancetta and truffles, shrimp and seabass dishes, and creamy chicken plates with homemade-style sides.
Compared to many places in town, Aria stands out for offering quality food. The prices are reasonable, making it an easy choice for a satisfying lunch or dinner in Hvar.
Gariful
What do Prince Harry, Luka Modrić, and Rod Stewart have in common? Well, all of them had dined at one of the most famous dining spots of Hvar – Gariful.
The excellent position of this restaurant is not the only reason it’s so highly appreciated. Being situated on the waterfront of Hvar Town certainly adds to its charm, yet the atmosphere and cuisine are what truly stand out.
The restaurant opened in 1981, and it has long been known for its always-fresh daily catch. Gariful even operates its own small fleet of fishing boats that head out at dawn, supplying the kitchen with fish and seafood straight from the Adriatic each morning, which is exactly what keeps the quality consistently high.
Štajun
Celebrated for its authentic Dalmatian atmosphere and refined Mediterranean cuisine, Štajun is located just steps from Hvar’s main square. It offers privacy without losing the charm of the historic centre.
The menu of the restaurant relies on the season of the year, each having different ingredients and wines to offer. The commitment to seasonal dishes brings us to the origin of the name – in local dialect, “štajun” means season or period of the year.
Excellent service, inspiring ambiance, and Mediterranean traditional cuisine presented in a modern way by head chef Hrvoje Tomičić make a wonderful combination for true gourmets.
Dva Ribara
Dva Ribara, or Two Fishermen, as we would call it in English, is a long-standing, family-run restaurant in the town of Hvar. This beloved dining destination will not disappoint – the warm and welcoming atmosphere has been maintained for over five decades!
It’s a place where simplicity and tradition take priority over trends.
And hospitality is not the only thing that’s keeping the tradition alive. What guests remember most are the small details – family’s homemade bread served with their own olive oil, both very appreciated by the visitors.
And the best part? The service style feels personal rather than touristic.
Val Marina
Located right on Hvar’s marina promenade, Val Marina is one of those places where you can sit for hours watching boats come and go while enjoying proper Mediterranean food. The menu focuses on fresh Adriatic fish, seafood risottos, homemade pasta and quality local ingredients, all prepared with a simple approach.
The front-row terrace overlooks the harbour, which serves as a nice evening view when everything slows down. Pair your meal with a glass of local Hvar wine and you have one of the nicest dining spots in town.
The marina setting allows for easy mooring nearby, with access from the sea just steps away from the terrace, making Val Marina a natural stop during a day of cruising around Hvar.
Blue Doors
Adding another must-visit to our list of family-owned restaurants. Located in the heart of Stari Grad, on the northern side of Hvar, Blue Doors is where it’s at. It’s a small diner known for its relaxed atmosphere and consistently good Mediterranean food. The menu focuses on daily fresh Adriatic fish, scampi and mussels, Croatian steaks grilled over wood, and a well-chosen selection of local wines. Guests like the mix of rustic interior and outdoor seating, which makes it an easy spot for a long, unhurried lunch or dinner.
Simple to reach from the sea, Blue Doors has mooring available nearby in the harbour and just a short walk to the restaurant. It’s a convenient stop while cruising around Hvar and Stari Grad Bay.
Konoba Bonaca
Located right on the waterfront of charming Vrboska, Konoba Bonaca is a relaxed, local-style spot known for honest Dalmatian cooking. The menu focuses on fresh Adriatic seafood (octopus salad, fish carpaccio, black mussels and grilled fish), with a few good meat options as well. The terrace overlooks the small harbor, making it an easy place to slow down and enjoy a long lunch with a glass of local wine.
Vrboska is naturally protected, so it’s usual for boats to approach and tie up nearby before walking straight into town. Bonaca is only steps from the sea, which makes it a practical stop while cruising the north side of Hvar.
Local tip: try the daily catch and ask for a wine recommendation from nearby family vineyards – they usually know exactly what pairs best.
Laganini beach bar
Situated on the beach in Palmižana on the Pakleni Islands, Laganini Beach Bar is known for its vibrant menu combining Mediterranean classics with lighter, contemporary dishes, perfect for a midday break between swim stops.
The beachside setting is relaxed yet lively, with shaded tables just steps from the sea and plenty of space to unwind after anchoring.
Boats usually moor on buoys in the bay with tender access to shore, making Laganini an easy and natural lunch or drinks stop while exploring the Pakleni Islands.
Around Hvar and the Pakleni Islands there are several spots where you can actually moor your boat or tie to buoys and walk straight to lunch or dinner. Popular choices include the mooring‑filled Vinogradišče Bay (with restaurants like Toto’s and Meneghello), scenic Zdrilca Bay with its waterfront taverns, and smaller bays like Luka Soline. Even outside the main town, places like Konoba Kotin in Borče Bay have buoys for boat guests – just make sure to reserve ahead in high season.
Bonus Tips for Boaters Dining in Hvar
- Plan ahead: Summer is peak season, so make reservations early to secure both a table and a mooring if available.
- Check mooring options in advance: Some restaurants have buoys, pontoons, or private docks; others may require anchoring nearby and coming ashore by tender.
- Arrive early for the view: Sunset spots and waterfront terraces fill up fast.
- Mind the tides & wind: Small bays and harbor spots can get crowded or tricky in windy conditions.
- Keep it flexible: Even if direct docking isn’t available, most restaurants are easy to reach by a short tender ride.
- Enjoy the journey: Remember that part of the experience is cruising between islands and discovering hidden coves, not just the meal!
FAQ
Do you need a reservation when arriving by boat?
It’s highly recommended to make a reservation, especially during the high season (June-September). Popular restaurants can get busy, and docking space may be limited, so booking in advance ensures you’ll have a spot both at the restaurant and at the mooring.
Is mooring free when you dine there?
It depends on the restaurant. Some restaurants offer free mooring for guests, while others may charge a small fee per hour. It’s best to contact the restaurant beforehand to avoid surprises.
How close can you get to the restaurant by boat?
On the Pakleni Islands and smaller bays, many restaurants have pontoons or moorings, so you can tie up directly. In towns like Hvar, you can tie up briefly to drop off passengers, but long-term docking isn’t allowed for private boats. Most anchor nearby and use a tender or book a short-term harbor berth.
Is it safe to leave your boat while dining?
Yes, Hvar is very boater-friendly and accustomed to short-stay mooring for lunch stops. In high season it’s smart to check your lines and use official buoys or harbor spots. The most popular bays and town quays are well sheltered and frequently monitored.
**All images are sourced from official websites and partner restaurants. All rights remain with their respective owners.**