Best Beaches in Zadar

The closest beach to the old town and a long-standing favourite among locals, Kolovare is a well-maintained pebble beach with clear water and a lively atmosphere. A tree-lined promenade runs behind the beach, and there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and facilities nearby. Its proximity to the centre makes it the most convenient option for visitors staying in the old town.

Located in the Borik resort area north-west of the old town, this family-friendly beach offers a mix of sandy and pebble sections with shallow, calm water. The beach is backed by pine trees providing natural shade, and the resort area has hotels, restaurants, and sports facilities. It is one of the best choices in Zadar for families with young children.

Widely considered one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Croatia, Saharun is a stunning 800-metre stretch of fine white sand on the island of Dugi Otok, accessible by ferry from Zadar. The turquoise water is incredibly clear and shallow for a long way out, creating an almost Caribbean feel. Despite its growing popularity, the island setting keeps it far less crowded than mainland beaches.

A long, shallow sandy beach near the ancient town of Nin, just 15 kilometres from Zadar. Queen's Beach is famous for its therapeutic mud found in the shallows, which has been used for centuries for its mineral-rich properties. The water is extremely shallow and warm, making it ideal for children and relaxed swimming. Nin itself is worth exploring for its tiny medieval churches and salt works.

A large, well-maintained beach in the resort village of Zaton, about 15 kilometres south-east of Zadar. The beach features a long stretch of sandy and pebble shore with very shallow water that extends far out, making it exceptionally safe for children. The Zaton Holiday Resort provides excellent facilities, though the beach is open to everyone. Water sports and activities are widely available.

A popular local beach in the Puntamika residential neighbourhood north-west of the old town. The coastline here is a mix of flat rocks and small pebble coves, ideal for sunbathing and swimming in clear water. Pine trees along the shore provide natural shade, and the residential setting means it is far less touristy than Kolovare or Borik. Several small beach bars operate in summer.

A stretch of coastline in the upscale Diklo neighbourhood north-west of the city. The beach is made up of small pebble coves and rocky platforms with clean, calm water and views across to the islands of Ugljan and Preko. It is quieter than the central beaches and popular with locals for evening swims. The coastal promenade connecting Diklo to Borik is a pleasant walk.

The island of Ugljan sits just a 25-minute ferry ride from Zadar and has some of the best beaches in the wider region. Mostir Beach near the village of Ugljan is a favourite, with fine pebble and some sandy patches in a sheltered bay. Muline Beach at the northern tip of the island has remarkably clear water. The short ferry crossing makes Ugljan an easy half-day or full-day beach trip from Zadar.