The Most Beautiful Islands in Croatia

With over 1,000 islands scattered along its rugged coastline, Croatia is Europe’s ultimate island-hopping destination. In 2026, the most beautiful islands in Croatia offer a mix of ancient history, turquoise waters, and timeless Mediterranean charm.

Whether you are looking for a lively beach club, a secluded hike, or a glass of world-class wine, these islands embody the soul of the Adriatic.

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Hvar: The Sun-Drenched Celebrity

Often called the “St. Tropez of Croatia,” Hvar is the country’s most famous island for a reason. It is officially the sunniest spot in Europe, with lavender-scented hills, UNESCO-listed heritage, and a sophisticated capital, Hvar Town.

Best for: Nightlife, luxury, history.
Must-See: The Spanish Fortress (Fortica). The hike up is steep, but the panoramic view of the red-roofed town and the emerald Pakleni Islands is the best in the country.
Pro Tip: If you want a quieter experience, head to Stari Grad, one of the oldest towns in Europe, for a more authentic, laid-back vibe.

Korcula: The "Little Dubrovnik"

Korčula is a favourite island for many locals. Its main town is a mini-fortress of narrow marble streets arranged in a herringbone pattern to protect against the wind. Legend has it that the island was the birthplace of Marco Polo.

Best for: Wine lovers and romantic escapes.
Must-See: The Lumbarda vineyards. This is the only place in the world where the Grk grape grows, producing a crisp, dry white wine that pairs perfectly with the local seafood.
Unique Feature: Unlike many rocky Croatian islands, Korčula has rare sandy beaches near the village of Lumbarda.

Brac: Home of the Golden Horn

Brač is famous for the Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) beach, a V-shaped sandbar that actually changes its shape depending on the tide and wind currents. The island is also the source of the famous white Brač stone, which was used to build the White House in Washington, D.C.

Best for: Families and adventure seekers.
Must-See: Vidova Gora. At 778 meters, it is the highest peak in the Adriatic islands. The view of Zlatni Rat from the summit is iconic.
Activity: Windsurfing and kitesurfing in the channel between Brač and Hvar.

Vis: The Untouched Secret

Because it was used as a secret military base until the late 1980s, Vis remained closed to tourists for decades. This “forced isolation” preserved its authentic Mediterranean feel, making it the go-to spot for those who want to escape the crowds.

Best for: Authenticity and natural wonders.
Must-See: The Blue Cave (Modra Špilja) on the nearby islet of Biševo. Between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, sunlight enters the cave through an underwater opening, turning the entire interior a glowing, neon blue.
Film Fact: Fans of Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again will recognize the island’s stunning coves; it served as the filming location for the fictional island of Kalokairi.

Mljet: The Green Island

If you want to trade cobblestone streets for pine forests, Mljet is your sanctuary. Over half the island is a National Park, featuring two saltwater lakes—Veliko and Malo Jezero—connected to the sea by narrow channels.

Best for: Nature lovers and hikers.
Must-See: St. Mary’s Island, located right in the middle of the Great Lake. It houses a 12th-century Benedictine monastery that looks like something out of a fairytale.
Activity: Rent a bike and cycle the perimeter of the lakes; the shade from the thick forest keeps it cool even in the height of July.

Ready to discover the soul of the Adriatic?

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