6 Best Beaches in Zaton, Croatia 🇭🇷: Top Guide

Located just a short drive from Zadar, Zaton is a picturesque village nestled along the stunning Dalmatian coastline. Known for its blend of sandy and pebble beaches, Zaton Beach is the perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and adventure alike. The shallow, crystal waters make it irreproachable for families, while the nearby Bilotinjak Beach offers a more secluded escape. Whether you’re looking to enjoy beach volleyball or simply unwind at a beach bar, Zaton has something for everyone.

Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Zaton:

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Villa M Sibenik
• ✨ 5-Star: Apartment Royal
• 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Olympia Sky
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Apartment & Rooms Riva
• 💸 Cheap: Deluxe Apartment Toni
• 🏢 Apartament: Apartmani Toni Vodice
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Apartments Tonka
• 🏩 For Couples: Scala Bed & Breakfast

The region’s natural beauty is complemented by a variety of accommodations and restaurants, making it easy to discover the best of what Zaton has to offer. From the popular Punta Beach to the hidden gems scattered along the Bay of Biscay, visitors can enjoy both lively and tranquil spots. With its proximity to Zadar and other nearby attractions, Zaton is an irreproachable summer destination for beach lovers looking to explore the beauty of Dalmatia.

Best Beaches in Zaton: Quick Overview

• 🏖️ For family-friendly atmosphere: Zaton Holiday Resort Beach
• 🌊 For crystal-clear waters: Beach Bilotinjak
• 🏊‍♀️ For water sports: Jaz-Vrulja Beach
• 🌅 For scenic views: Plaza Punta
• 🌲 For natural shade: Pliša-Ploče Beach
• 👶 For children: Queen’s Beach

1. 🏖️ For family-friendly atmosphere: Zaton Holiday Resort Beach

Natural Setting: This impressive 1.5-kilometer sandy beach stands as one of Croatia’s finest coastal destinations, adorned with Blue Flag status for its exceptional water quality and environmental standards. The beach is nestled within a pristine coastal setting, where pine trees meet the shoreline, creating a perfect harmony between land and water.

Beach Features: The beach boasts a unique combination of sandy shores and partially concreted sunbathing areas, with remarkably shallow waters that extend far into the water. The gentle slope makes it exceptionally safe for families with young children. A tiled path ensures accessibility for people with disabilities, while a designated pet area welcomes four-legged visitors.

Activities: The resort offers an impressive array of activities including a spacious pool area, water slides, beach volleyball courts, mini-golf, tennis courts, and climbing nets. The beach hosts various water sports facilities, aerobics classes, and organized entertainment programs. Evening activities include live music performances, movie nights, and a nightclub with DJ entertainment.

Amenities: The beach is comprehensively equipped with multiple restaurants, including Osteria Tinel and Kuzina, numerous beach bars, and snack facilities. Visitors can enjoy various breakfast options, including continental, Italian, full English/Irish, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. Additional services include fitness centers, massage facilities, and a kids’ club.

Best Hotels Near Zaton Holiday Resort Beach

• Apartment Royal: Premium beachfront accommodation located just 250m from the sea, featuring private pools and spacious terraces. The property offers excellent amenities including tennis courts, diving facilities, and an aquapark perfect for family entertainment.
• Apartments Lovrić: Comfortable apartments situated 200m from the beach in a quiet location with excellent access to the city center. Each unit comes with a balcony and the property offers tennis court access for active guests.
• Hotel Seesea: Modern beachfront hotel offering stunning sea views and direct beach access, complemented by contemporary room designs. The property features a restaurant serving local cuisine and provides easy access to water sports facilities.

2. 🌊 For crystal-clear waters: Beach Bilotinjak

Natural Setting: Located approximately 2 kilometers west of Zaton, the beach is a natural wonder characterized by its stunning red rock formations and breathtaking turquoise waters. The beach is protected by several meters high sandy hills, creating a secluded and tranquil environment.

Beach Features: The beach showcases fine sand and exceptionally clear waters, with a relatively shallow sea bed that extends far from the coast. The natural sandy coastline is complemented by the dramatic backdrop of rocky formations, creating a unique and picturesque setting.

Activities: The beach is particularly popular among nature enthusiasts and snorkeling aficionados, offering excellent opportunities to explore marine life. The shallow waters make it ideal for children and non-swimmers, while the spacious sandy area provides ample room for beach activities.

Amenities: The beach maintains its natural charm by remaining largely undeveloped. While this means limited infrastructure (no toilets, restaurants, or umbrella rentals), it offers an authentic beach experience. Visitors should come prepared with their own supplies, including sun protection, food, and drinks.

Best Hotels Near Bilotinjak Beach

• Villa M Sibenik: A luxurious beachfront property offering modern amenities and elegant accommodations. Due to limited search results, specific details about this property are not available.
• Hotel Miramare: A hotel located just 150m from the beach and 850m from Vodice city center. The property features a restaurant, fitness center, swimming pool, nightclub/DJ, and receives an excellent breakfast.
• Apartmani Seka: Well-located apartments just 200m from the beach and 600m from Vodice center, featuring balconies and terraces. The property offers bicycle rentals, walking tours, and cultural excursions, with an impressive guest.

3. 🏊‍♀️ For water sports: Jaz-Vrulja Beach

Natural Setting: Jaz-Vrulja Beach is situated in a stunning natural bay, characterized by its pebbly coast and crystal Adriatic waters. The beach is surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation, creating a natural amphitheater that protects the bay from strong winds.

Beach Features: The beach combines fine pebbles with sections of concrete platforms, offering diverse sunbathing options. The sea floor gradually descends, creating perfect conditions for both swimmers and water sports enthusiasts. The water clarity is exceptional, with visibility often extending beyond 20 meters.

Activities: This beach is a water sports paradise, featuring jet ski rentals, parasailing opportunities, paddle boarding, and kayaking adventures. The beach also hosts a certified diving center offering courses and guided underwater excursions. Wind conditions in the afternoon make it particularly popular among windsurfers and kitesurfers.

Amenities: The beach is well-equipped with modern facilities including changing rooms, showers, and rental services for sports equipment. Several beach bars and restaurants serve local specialties and refreshments throughout the day. Parking facilities are available nearby, and the beach is accessible via a paved pathway.

Best Hotels Near Jaz-Vrulja Beach

• Hotel Olympia Sky: A hotel offering luxurious accommodation with check-in from 3:00 PM and check-out until 11:00 AM. The property welcomes children of all ages and features premium amenities, though pets are not allowed.
• Apartments & Room Marina View: Located just 250m from the beach and 500m from Vodice city center, this three-star property features the Argola restaurant and offers various accommodation types including apartments, studio rooms, and double rooms.
• Villa Neda: A situated 600m from the beach and 1.1km from Vodice center, offering accommodations with balconies. Check-in starts from 14:30, and the villa can accommodate groups of 2-3 guests.

4. 🌅 For scenic views: Plaza Punta

Natural Setting: Plaza Punta occupies a privileged position on a small peninsula, offering panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and neighboring islands. The beach is framed by ancient trees that provide natural and a distinctive Mediterranean aroma.

Beach Features: This pebble beach is known for its exceptionally clear turquoise waters and unique rock formations. The shoreline alternates between smooth pebbles and natural rock platforms, creating interesting swimming and sunbathing spots. The sea bed is rich in marine life, making it a favorite among snorkelers.

Activities: The beach’s calm waters make it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The rocky outcrops provide excellent spots for fishing, while the surrounding paths offer scenic walking routes. During sunset, the beach becomes a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Amenities: While maintaining its natural charm, Plaza Punta offers basic amenities including seasonal beach bars and umbrella rentals. The nearby promenade connects to several restaurants serving fresh seafood and local specialties. Public parking is available within walking distance.

Best Hotels Near Plaza Punta

• Apartment & Rooms Riva: Centrally located accommodation offering air-conditioned rooms with sea views and private bathrooms. The property is situated within walking distance to restaurants, bars, and the main beach, making it perfect for exploring the town.
• Apartment Ajdukovic: Comfortable apartments featuring well-equipped kitchens and private balconies with garden views. The property provides free private parking and is conveniently located near local attractions and beaches.
• Apartments Ulica Roca Pave: Modern apartments with air conditioning and free WiFi, located in a peaceful area. Each unit comes with a fully equipped kitchen and a terrace or balcony perfect for outdoor dining.

5. 🌲 For natural shade: Pliša-Ploče Beach

Natural Setting: Pliša-Ploče Beach is distinguished by its dense pine forest that extends right to the shoreline, providing natural throughout the day. The beach is situated in a protected cove, offering shelter from strong winds and waves.

Beach Features: The sandy beach is interspersed with smooth pebbles, creating a comfortable surface for beachgoers. The shallow entry and gradual depth make it particularly safe for families. The pine trees not only provide but also create a unique microclimate that keeps the area cool even during peak summer heat.

Activities: The beach features a modern children’s playground integrated into the forest, offering entertainment while maintaining natural shade. The calm waters are perfect for swimming and floating, while the forested area provides opportunities for picnicking and nature observation.

Amenities: The beach is equipped with wooden walkways, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Fresh water showers, changing rooms, and waste bins are strategically placed along the beach. A small café serves refreshments and light meals during the summer season.

Best Hotels Near Pliša-Ploče Beach

• Deluxe Apartment Toni: Modern one-bedroom apartment located 750m from Vodice center and 1km from the beach. The property features a balcony and can accommodate up to 3 guests, with check-in from 14:00 and check-out until 10:00.
• Apartments Tonka Centar: Excellently located apartments just 200m from Vodice center and 400m from the beach, featuring balconies and terraces. The property offers numerous activities including cycling, diving, tennis, fishing, and windsurfing, with units accommodating 3-4 guests.
• Studio Apartman Oliva: Studio apartment situated 250m from the beach and 1.4km from Vodice center. The property features a terrace and can accommodate up to 3 guests, with beach access among its amenities.

6. 👶 For children: Queen’s Beach

Natural Setting: Queen’s Beach stretches an impressive 3 kilometers along the coastline, featuring a unique combination of sandy shores and therapeutic mud deposits. The beach is protected by a natural bay formation, creating consistently calm waters ideal for young swimmers.

Beach Features: The beach is renowned for its fine golden sand and exceptionally shallow waters that extend up to 100 meters from the shore. Natural mud deposits along certain sections of the beach are known for their therapeutic properties. The gentle slope of the beach creates safe swimming conditions, with water depths remaining child-friendly for considerable distances.

Activities: The beach offers numerous child-focused activities including supervised swimming lessons, sand castle building competitions, and organized beach games. Special zones are designated for different age groups, with dedicated shallow pools for toddlers. The beach also features floating platforms and gentle water slides suitable for young children.

Amenities: The beach is fully equipped with family-friendly facilities including baby changing stations, children’s toilets, and freshwater showers. Multiple snack bars and ice cream stands cater specifically to children’s preferences. First aid stations and lifeguard towers are positioned at regular intervals along the beach. Dedicated family zones feature shade structures and comfortable seating areas for parents.

Best Hotels Near Queen’s Beach

• Apartmani Toni Vodice: Comfortable apartments located just 450m from the beach and 600m from Vodice center. The property offers terraces and is ideal for families, with options for groups of 3-4 guests.
• Scala Bed & Breakfast: A charming bed & breakfast located only 100m from the beach and 650m from Vodice center. Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast and have access to a beachfront, live music, and a children’s playground.
• Apartments and Rooms Mare: Accommodation located just 300m from the beach and 450m from Vodice center. The property offers rooms with balconies or terraces, perfect for groups of 2-4 guests, and provides easy access to the beach.

🤔 FAQ about best Beaches in Zaton

What is the best time to visit Zaton’s beaches?

The prime beach season in Zaton runs from June to September, when average temperatures range between 25-30°C and water temperatures are most pleasant. July and August are the peak months, offering perfect conditions for swimming and water sports, though they can be crowded. May and October also provide comfortable weather for beach activities with fewer tourists.

Which beach in Zaton is best for families with children?

Zaton Holiday Resort Beach is the most family-friendly option, featuring a 1.5km stretch of sandy beach with shallow waters. Queen’s Beach is another excellent choice with its 3km shoreline and therapeutic mud deposits. Both beaches offer comprehensive facilities including children’s playgrounds, supervised activities, and safe swimming areas.

What water sports activities are available in Zaton?

Jaz-Vrulja Beach and Zaton Holiday Resort are the main hubs for water sports, offering jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Professional instruction is available for various activities, and equipment can be rented on-site. The resorts also feature beach volleyball, tennis courts, and organized sports programs.

Are there any secluded beaches in Zaton?

Beach Bilotinjak offers a more secluded experience, located 2km west of Zaton. While it has limited facilities, it provides crystal-clear waters and beautiful natural surroundings. Plaza Punta also offers quieter spots, especially during early morning or late afternoon hours.

What amenities can I expect at Zaton’s beaches?

Most developed beaches like Zaton Holiday Resort and Queen’s Beach offer comprehensive facilities including restaurants, beach bars, showers, changing rooms, and equipment rentals. However, natural beaches like Bilotinjak have minimal amenities, so visitors should come prepared with their own supplies.

Is there parking available at Zaton’s beaches?

Most major beaches provide parking facilities, particularly at Zaton Holiday Resort and Plaza Punta. However, during peak season (July-August), arriving early is recommended as parking spaces can fill up quickly.

Are dogs allowed on Zaton’s beaches?

Zaton Holiday Resort has a designated pet area where dogs are welcome. However, most other public beaches restrict pet access during peak hours in the summer season. It’s best to check specific beach regulations before bringing pets.

What should I bring to Zaton’s beaches?

For developed beaches, bring sunscreen, beach towels, and swimming gear. For natural beaches like Bilotinjak, also pack water, snacks, umbrellas, and any other necessities as there are limited facilities. Water shoes can be useful for pebbly areas at beaches like Jaz-Vrulja.

Are the beaches in Zaton suitable for snorkeling?

Yes, particularly Beach Bilotinjak and Plaza Punta offer excellent snorkeling opportunities with their crystal-clear waters and rich marine life. The rocky areas around these beaches create perfect conditions for observing underwater flora and fauna.

How accessible are Zaton’s beaches?

Many beaches, including Zaton Holiday Resort and Pliša-Ploče Beach, feature paved pathways and facilities for people with disabilities. Wooden walkways and tiled paths make these beaches accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.