Croatia’s Adriatic coastline is a paradise for island-hopping adventures, with crystal-clear waters, secluded bays, and charming islands steeped in history. Split, a vibrant city on the Dalmatian Coast, is the perfect starting point for exploring the archipelago of over 1,000 islands.
Island hopping from Split is best experienced aboard a private yacht, and Condor Yachting is one of the top choices for a luxurious sailing experience. Condor Yachting offers modern, fully-equipped yachts with professional crews, ensuring a seamless and stress-free journey through the Adriatic.
Whether you’re looking to explore hidden coves, visit bustling island towns, or relax in remote bays, Condor Yachting can tailor the perfect itinerary for your island-hopping adventure, and here are just some islands you shouldn’t miss visiting.
The Beach Lover’s Haven
Just a short sail from Split to Brač offers you a great start to your island-hopping adventure. Known for its stunning beaches, Brač is home to the famous Zlatni Rat beach in Bol. This iconic, V-shaped pebble beach changes its shape with the currents, making it a unique natural wonder. Zlatni Rat is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and windsurfing, with plenty of water sports available.
In addition to its beaches, Brač has charming villages like Supetar and Pučišća, where you can explore the island’s rich history and enjoy local cuisine. The island is also known for its white limestone, used to build the Diocletian’s Palace in Split and even parts of the White House in Washington, D.C.
While you’re on Brač, hike or take a tour to Vidova Gora, the highest peak on the Adriatic islands, for breathtaking views of the Dalmatian coast and Zlatni Rat beach.
Island of Glamour and Parties
If you’re seeking a mix of culture, nightlife, and natural beauty, Hvar is the place to be. Known as Croatia’s most glamorous island, Hvar attracts yachts from all over the world and is famous for its vibrant nightlife, upscale beach bars, and historic town center. Carpe Diem Beach and Hula Hula Beach Bar are two of the most popular spots for sunset cocktails and after-dark dancing. So if you’re a party maniac, add these two locations to your must-visit list.
Hvar Town, the island’s main hub, is full of elegant stone buildings, narrow alleyways, and lively squares. You can explore the Hvar Fortress for panoramic views, visit the Cathedral of St. Stephen, and relax at one of the chic restaurants or cafés. For beachgoers, the nearby Pakleni Islands offer pristine beaches, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters just a short boat ride away.
The Island of Untouched Beauty
For a more tranquil and authentic Croatian experience, sail to Vis, one of the most remote islands in the Adriatic. Closed to tourists until the 1990s due to its strategic military importance, Vis has managed to preserve much of its untouched natural beauty and laid-back charm.
Vis is known for its crystal-clear waters, secluded beaches, and rugged coastline. A must-see on the island is the Blue Cave on the nearby islet of Biševo. This natural phenomenon creates a mesmerizing blue glow inside the cave when the sunlight hits the water at the right angle. There are many boat trips to the Blue Cave in Vis, but here is an insider tip – the Green Cave on Ravnik island, near Vis, offers an equally beautiful but less crowded experience.
In Vis Town and Komiža, the island’s two main settlements, you can enjoy fresh seafood, traditional Dalmatian dishes, and locally produced wine. Vis is also a great place for diving and exploring the underwater world, including shipwrecks and marine life.
The Historical Island
Often referred to as a “mini Dubrovnik,” Korčula is an island with a rich history, medieval architecture, and a strong connection to the explorer Marco Polo, who is believed to have been born here. The town of Korčula, located on the northeastern tip of the island, is a beautifully preserved medieval walled city with narrow streets, stone buildings, and a striking cathedral.
Visitors to Korčula can enjoy exploring the town’s history, strolling along its picturesque promenade, and indulging in local wine and cuisine. The island is also famous for the Moreska Sword Dance, a traditional performance depicting a battle between Moors and Christians, which takes place during the summer months.
For those looking to relax, Korčula has several quiet beaches and bays, such as Lumbarda, where you can unwind and enjoy the clear waters.
If you’re a wine lover, Korčula is famous for its white wine made from the Grk and Pošip grape varieties, so be sure to visit a local winery for a tasting.
An Oasis of Tranquility
For those looking to escape the crowds, the peaceful island of Šolta is a hidden gem just an hour away from Split. With its sleepy villages, olive groves, and vineyards, Šolta offers a slower pace of life and is ideal for nature lovers and those seeking tranquillity.
The island’s main village, Maslinica, is a charming fishing village with a beautiful marina, making it a great spot for a leisurely lunch or a quiet afternoon. The waters around Šolta are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and paddle boarding, with plenty of secluded bays where you can drop anchor and enjoy the peace.
A Remote Paradise
For those who seek solitude and untouched nature, Lastovo is the perfect final stop on your island-hopping journey. Located further south than the other islands, Lastovo is one of Croatia’s most remote and least developed islands, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
The island is part of the Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park, a protected area known for its pristine waters, diverse marine life, and unspoiled landscapes. Here, you can enjoy swimming, diving, or simply relaxing in one of the island’s peaceful coves.
Lastovo is also home to quaint stone villages, ancient churches, and rolling vineyards, where you can sample local wines and enjoy the island’s slow pace of life.
