Korčula Island, often referred to as the „Emerald Isle“ of Croatia, boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the Adriatic. Located off the Dalmatian coast, Korčula Island is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the charming Korčula Old Town with its medieval architecture to the pristine beaches and secluded coves, this island offers an unforgettable experience for visitors.
This article will guide you through the best beaches on Korčula Island, highlighting their unique features, accessibility, and what makes each one special. So, let’s dive into the top beaches that make this island a must-visit destination in Croatia.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Korcula 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Vila Bor
- ✨ 5-Star: Holiday House Venera
- 🏨 4-Star: Moro Inn Bed & Breakfast
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Lumbarda
- 💸 Cheap: Pansion Bebic
- 🏢 Apartment: Apart Lumby Palace
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Villa Davor
- 🏩 For Couples: Captain's Attic
1. ☀️ 10 Best Beaches on Korcula Island
🏖️ Vela Przina Beach – Best for Family Fun
This sandy beach is a true gem of Korcula, located in the charming village of Lumbarda. Surrounded by picturesque vineyards, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local culture. The shallow waters make it perfect for families with children. You’ll find a beach bar serving refreshing cocktails and the option to rent sun loungers and umbrellas. It’s one of the rare sandy beaches on the island, making it a popular spot during peak season. The soft sand and crystal-clear waters create an idyllic setting for a perfect beach day.
Best Hotels Near Vela Przina Beach 🏨
- Lumbarda New Management 2023 – This apartment is located in Lumbarda, just a short walk from Vela Przina Beach, one of the most beautiful sandy beaches on Korcula island. It offers comfortable accommodation with a terrace and sea views. The property’s proximity to local restaurants and wineries allows guests to fully experience the charm of Lumbarda.
- House Baglija – Situated near Vela Przina Beach, this house offers a peaceful retreat with a garden and terrace. It’s an excellent choice for families or groups wanting to explore Lumbarda’s beaches and vineyards. The property is also close to boat rentals, perfect for visiting nearby islands like Badija.
- Pinta Apartments – These apartments offer a comfortable stay just 600 meters from Vela Przina Beach. Each unit features a kitchenette and balcony, some with sea views. The property’s location allows easy access to both the beach and Lumbarda’s center, where you can find restaurants serving local specialties.
🌊 Pupnatska Luka Beach – Best for Natural Beauty
Nestled in a secluded cove on the south side of the island, Pupnatska Luka is a hidden paradise. The journey here involves a winding road, but the reward is worth it. This pebble beach boasts incredibly clear turquoise waters framed by pine-clad hills. It’s less crowded than some other beaches, offering a more tranquil experience. There’s a charming beach restaurant serving fresh seafood, and the surrounding pine trees provide natural shade. The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, allowing you to explore the vibrant underwater world.
Best Hotels Near Pupnatska Luka Beach 🏨
- Apartments Marijana – Located in Cara, these apartments offer a tranquil base for exploring Pupnatska Luka Beach, one of Korcula’s most beautiful pebble beaches. The property features a garden and terrace with BBQ facilities. It’s a great choice for those wanting to experience the quieter part of the island.
- Apartment Tanja – This apartment in Cara provides a comfortable stay near Pupnatska Luka Beach. It offers a terrace with garden views and is close to local vineyards. The apartment’s location allows guests to enjoy both the beach and the traditional village atmosphere of Cara.
- Foissner Apartments – These apartments offer a peaceful retreat in Zavalatica, a short drive from Pupnatska Luka Beach. Each unit features a kitchenette and balcony with sea views. The property’s location provides easy access to both the beach and local restaurants serving fresh seafood.
🏝️ Proizd Island Beaches – Best for Adventure Seekers
A short boat ride from Vela Luka takes you to the stunning Proizd Island. This tiny island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the area. The water here is so clear it looks like a natural swimming pool. Bili Bok beach offers white pebbles and crystal waters, while Batalo is perfect for sunbathing on smooth rock plateaus. The last boat usually leaves around 6 PM, so plan your day accordingly. The island’s unspoiled nature and secluded beaches make it feel like your own private paradise.
Best Hotels Near Proizd Island Beaches 🏨
- Holiday House Venera – Located in Vela Luka, this holiday home offers a comfortable base for exploring Proizd Island and its beautiful beaches. It features a terrace and garden, perfect for relaxing after a day of island hopping. The property is close to the town center where you can catch a taxi boat to Proizd Island.
- Villa Davor – This villa in Vela Luka provides luxurious accommodation with a pool, just a short boat ride from Proizd Island’s stunning beaches. It offers sea views and modern amenities. The villa’s location allows guests to enjoy both the tranquility of Vela Luka and easy access to Proizd Island.
- Apartment Sego – Situated in Vela Luka, this apartment offers a comfortable stay close to the departure point for Proizd Island. It features a balcony with sea views and is within walking distance of restaurants and shops. The apartment’s location makes it easy to explore both Vela Luka and the surrounding islands.
👨👩👧👦 Bilin Zal Beach – Best for Convenient Family Outings
Located on the northern part of Lumbarda, Bilin Zal is a family-friendly beach offering a mix of sand and pebbles. The shallow entry is perfect for children, making it a favorite among locals and tourists with families. There’s plenty of natural shade on the beach provided by surrounding trees. The beach offers beautiful views of the Peljesac Peninsula and nearby islands. It’s easily accessible and has basic amenities, including a small restaurant serving local dishes.
Best Hotels Near Bilin Zal Beach 🏨
- Apart Lumby Palace – These apartments in Lumbarda offer a luxurious stay near Bilin Zal Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters. Each unit features a kitchenette and balcony with sea views. The property’s location allows guests to easily explore Lumbarda’s beaches and vineyards.
- Vila Bor – Located in Lumbarda, this villa offers a peaceful retreat just a short walk from Bilin Zal Beach. It features a garden and terrace with BBQ facilities. The villa’s proximity to local restaurants and wineries allows guests to fully experience the charm of Lumbarda.
- Pansion Bebic – This guesthouse in Lumbarda offers comfortable rooms close to Bilin Zal Beach. It features a restaurant serving local cuisine and a terrace with sea views. The guesthouse’s location provides easy access to both the beach and Lumbarda’s center.
🏛️ Banje Beach – Best for Culture and Convenience Near Old Town
For those who want to combine beach time with exploring the medieval old town of Korcula, Banje Beach is ideal. It’s just a short walk from the center of Korcula, making it easy to alternate between sightseeing and sunbathing. While not the most spectacular beach on the island, its convenience and facilities make it popular. You can rent kayaks here to paddle around the old town walls, offering a unique perspective of Korcula’s architecture. The beach has a lively atmosphere with several cafes and restaurants nearby.
Best Hotels Near Banje Beach 🏨
- Hotel Korcula – This hotel is located in Korcula Old Town, just a short walk from Banje Beach. It offers elegant rooms with views of the Adriatic Sea or the old town. The hotel’s central location allows guests to easily explore Korcula’s historical sites and enjoy the nearby beach.
- Moro Inn Bed & Breakfast – This charming B&B is situated in Korcula Old Town, close to Banje Beach. It offers comfortable rooms in a historic building and serves a delicious breakfast. The inn’s location provides easy access to both the beach and Korcula’s main attractions.
- House Dijana – This holiday home is located in Korcula Town, a short walk from Banje Beach. It offers comfortable accommodation with a terrace and garden. The property’s proximity to both the beach and the old town makes it an excellent choice for exploring Korcula.
🌴 Bacva Beach – Best Korčula Beach for Peaceful Seclusion
Bacva Beach is a secluded bay that’s worth the effort to reach. Located near the village of Pupnat, this small pebble beach offers crystal-clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere. The road to get here can be challenging, but the stunning views along the way are part of the adventure. There’s a small tavern on the beach where you can enjoy refreshments and local cuisine. The lack of crowds makes it perfect for those seeking a quiet, natural beach experience. Remember to bring essentials as facilities are limited.
Best Hotels Near Bacva Beach 🏨
- Apartment Gabrijel – This cozy apartment is located in Pupnat, just a short drive from Bacva Beach. It offers a terrace with beautiful sea views and is surrounded by olive groves. The apartment is an ideal base for exploring Korcula island, including the nearby Vela Luka and its famous Moro Beach.
- Apartment Mana – Situated in Cara, this apartment is close to Bacva Beach and offers a peaceful retreat. It features a garden and barbecue facilities, perfect for enjoying the Mediterranean climate. Guests can easily visit the nearby Luka Korculanska Beach or take a taxi boat to explore Badija Island.
- Holiday Home Zule – This charming holiday home is located in Zrnovo, offering easy access to Bacva Beach. It boasts a spacious terrace with panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. The property is a great starting point for day trips to Hvar Island or exploring the historic town of Korcula.
🚣♀️ Vaja Beach – Best for Snorkeling Enthusiasts
Vaja Beach is a hidden gem near the village of Racisce. It’s a typical Croatian pebble beach reached by a 15-20 minute walk from the village. The path is steep, but the reward is a stunning beach with incredibly clear water, perfect for snorkeling. There’s a small shack bar for refreshments and sun umbrella rentals. The beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs, adding to its secluded and picturesque nature. It’s less crowded than some of the more accessible beaches, offering a more intimate beach experience.
Best Hotels Near Vaja Beach 🏨
- Apartments Korta – These modern apartments are situated in Racisce, close to the beautiful Vaja Beach. They offer stunning sea views and are equipped with kitchenettes. Guests can enjoy the nearby restaurants or take a short ride to Korcula Town to experience its vibrant nightlife.
- Apartman Ivan – Located in Lumbarda, this apartment provides easy access to Vaja Beach and other nice beaches around the town. It features a terrace and garden, perfect for relaxing after a day of swimming. The property is also close to some of the best restaurants on the island.
- Captain's Attic – This unique attic apartment is situated in Korcula Town, offering a central location for exploring the island, including Vaja Beach. It boasts charming decor and is just steps away from the town’s main attractions. Guests can easily arrange boat trips to nearby islands like Lastovo from here.
🌅 Przina Beach – Best for Local Vibes
Another sandy beach in Lumbarda, Przina offers a different experience from Vela Przina. It’s smaller and tends to be less crowded, making it a favorite among locals. The beach provides beautiful views of the surrounding islands. The shallow, sandy bottom makes it ideal for families with young children. There are a few beach bars and restaurants nearby, offering local specialties and refreshing drinks. The beach is easily accessible by bike or car from Lumbarda center.
Best Hotels Near Przina Beach 🏨
- House Baglija – This lovely house is located in Lumbarda, just a short walk from Przina Beach, one of Korcula’s most beautiful sandy beaches. It offers a garden and terrace with sea views. Guests can enjoy water sports or relax on the beach, which is paved and perfect for sunbathing.
- Apartments Mate Cebalo – Situated near Przina Beach, these apartments offer comfortable accommodation with sea views. They are located in Lumbarda, known for its vineyards and beautiful beaches. Guests can easily reach Korcula Town by bus or taxi boat to explore its rich history.
- Apartmani Music – These apartments are located in Lumbarda, close to Przina Beach and other favourite beaches on the island. They offer a garden and barbecue facilities. The property is an excellent base for wine tasting tours, as Lumbarda is famous for its white wine, Grk.
🏊♂️ Orlandusa Beach – Best for Nature Lovers
Orlandusa is a secluded pebble beach located on the southern coast of Korcula. It’s known for its crystal-clear waters and peaceful atmosphere. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation, providing natural shade. It’s a bit off the beaten path, which means it’s usually less crowded than other beaches. The clear waters make it excellent for snorkeling and swimming. There are no facilities here, so come prepared with everything you need for a day at the beach. The untouched nature around Orlandusa adds to its charm.
Best Hotels Near Orlandusa Beach 🏨
- Apartment Luvi – This apartment is situated in Zrnovo, providing easy access to Orlandusa Beach. It offers a terrace with beautiful sea views and is surrounded by nature. Guests can enjoy hiking in the nearby hills or take a short drive to explore Korcula Town.
- Apartment Maris – Located in Korcula Town, this apartment is a short drive from Orlandusa Beach. It offers modern amenities and a balcony with city views. The central location allows guests to easily explore the town’s medieval architecture and visit the alleged birthplace of Marco Polo.
- Old Small Stone House – This charming stone house is located in Korcula Town, offering a unique stay near Orlandusa Beach. It features traditional architecture with modern comforts. Guests can enjoy the nearby restaurants or take a water taxi to explore the small islands around Korcula.
🌿 Zitna Beach – Best for Romantic Getaways
Zitna Beach is a beautiful pebble beach located in a deep bay near Zavalatica. It’s one of the most romantic beaches on the island, surrounded by rich Mediterranean vegetation. The turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. While the main area is a pebble beach, there are also rocky areas around it offering more privacy. The beach is easily accessible by car or on foot from Zavalatica. There’s a small beach bar where you can get refreshments. The surrounding cliffs and clear waters make it a picturesque spot for beach lovers and photographers alike.
Best Hotels Near Zitna Beach 🏨
- House Riva Cara – This beautiful house is located in Cara, close to Zitna Beach. It offers a garden and terrace with sea views. The property is situated in a quiet area, perfect for a relaxing beach holiday, and is near some of the best restaurants on the island.
- Apartments Ranko – These apartments are located in Zavalatica, providing easy access to Zitna Beach. They offer comfortable accommodation with sea views and are just 50 metres from the main beach. Guests can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters or explore the nearby coves.
- Apartment Zara – Situated in Cara, this apartment is close to Zitna Beach and offers a peaceful retreat. It features a terrace with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. The apartment is an excellent base for wine enthusiasts, as Cara is known for its production of Posip, a popular Croatian white wine.
2. 🌊 Korcula Beach Characteristics and Activities
🤿 Snorkeling Paradise: Korcula’s crystal clear waters offer incredible visibility, making snorkeling and swimming must-do activities. Explore the vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life at beaches like Pupnatska Luka, Orlandusa, and Proizd Island. Bring your own snorkel gear to save on rental costs – you can find affordable sets at sports stores in Korcula Town.
🏖️ Korcula’s Beach Variety: While most of Korcula’s beaches are picturesque pebble beaches, the island also boasts a few rare sand beaches. The famous beach Vela Przina in Lumbarda is a stunning sandy stretch. Don’t worry about the pebble beaches though – the smooth stones are easy on the feet and create incredibly crystal clear waters. Each type of beach offers its own unique charm and beauty.
🌊 Water Sports Galore: Many beaches, especially those close to Korcula Town, offer water sports rentals like kayaks, paddleboards, and jet skis. I highly recommend renting a kayak and exploring the hidden coves and islets around the island. You might even discover your own private beach! Freestyle Watersports in Korcula Town is a great spot for guided tours and rentals at reasonable prices.
🍴 Beachfront Dining Delights: After a day of swimming and sunbathing, satisfy your appetite at Korcula’s excellent beachfront restaurants and bars. Konoba Mate in Pupnatska Luka offers delicious seafood with a stunning view. Maestral in Lumbarda is perfect for casual beachfront dining with great pizza and salads. For cocktails and light bites right on the sand, head to Przina Beach Bar in Lumbarda.
🏝️ From Fully-Equipped to Rustic Retreats: Korcula’s beaches range from fully-equipped to more rustic. Popular beaches like Vela Przina and Bilin Zal offer amenities like sun loungers, umbrellas, and changing rooms. However, the more natural beaches like Orlandusa or Pupnatska Luka offer unspoiled beauty that’s worth the lack of facilities. Choose the beach that suits your preferences and desired level of comfort.
3. 🚌 Getting to Korcula’s Beaches
🛳️ Getting to Korcula Island: The best way to get to Korcula is by ferry from the mainland. Regular ferries run from Split and Dubrovnik, taking around 2-3 hours depending on the route. Once you arrive in Korcula Town, you’ll be perfectly positioned to start your beach hopping adventure. Check out the Jadrolinija website for ferry schedules and book in advance for the best prices.
🚤 Vela Luka Adventures: Vela Luka, on the western side of the island, boasts its own set of stunning beaches. Take a bus from Korcula Town (about 45 minutes) or rent a car to get there. Don’t miss the chance to take a taxi boat to Proizd Island for a day of swimming and sunbathing.
🚶♂️ Beaches Near Korcula Town: If you’re staying in Korcula Town, some of the island’s most beautiful beaches are just a short walk away. Banje Beach, located just outside the old town walls, is a popular spot that’s easily accessible on foot. For a more secluded experience, walk a bit further to Zakerjan Beach, a stunning pebble beach with crystal-clear waters that’s rarely crowded.
🚲 Lumbarda Beach Hopping: Lumbarda, on the eastern tip of the island, is home to some of Korcula’s best beaches. Take a local bus from Korcula Town (about 15 minutes) or rent a scooter or car to get there. Once in Lumbarda, you’ll have your pick of stunning beaches like Vela Przina (sandy), Bilin Zal (sandy with shallow waters).
🏝️ Hidden Gems: For those willing to venture off the beaten path, Korcula has plenty of hidden beaches waiting to be discovered. Pupnatska Luka, located in the middle of the island, is a stunning pebble beach that’s worth the winding drive. Bacva Beach, on the southern coast, is another secluded spot perfect for a peaceful day by the sea. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak and explore the hidden coves and lonely beaches along the coast.
4. 📅 Best Times to Visit Korcula Beaches
🌞 Peak Season Buzz: July-August Excitement
During peak summer months, Korcula Town and Vela Luka buzz with energy. Beaches are lively, and the atmosphere is electric. You’ll enjoy warm sea temperatures, perfect for swimming, and plenty of organized boat trips to nearby islands. However, be prepared for crowds, especially on beaches near the town centers. Book your beach hotels and restaurants in advance to secure the best spots.
🍂 Shoulder Season Serenity: May-June, September-October
The shoulder season is my favorite time to visit Korcula. You’ll enjoy warm weather and swimmable seas without the intense summer crowds. It’s perfect for those seeking a more relaxed vibe. Beaches like Vaja Beach are less crowded, and you’ll find better deals on accommodation. September is particularly magical, with warm seas and golden light that makes every beach look postcard-perfect.
❄️ Off-Season Adventure: November-April Exploration
While not ideal for swimming, the off-season offers a unique perspective of Korcula’s beaches. It’s perfect for long walks on deserted shores and experiencing the raw beauty of the Adriatic. Try beach combing after winter storms or capture stunning coastal photographs. Focus on main towns like Korcula Town, as smaller villages may have limited services during this time.
🎯 Activity-Specific Timing: Tailoring Your Visit
For the best swimming, aim for July to September. Water sports enthusiasts should visit from June to August. Beach party lovers will enjoy July and August the most. If you prefer quiet beach time, May, June, and September are ideal. For exploring Korcula beyond the beaches, consider April, May, or October when the weather is mild and perfect for sightseeing.
5. 💡 Tips for Beach-goers
🎒 Beach Essentials: When heading to the beautiful beaches of Korcula, come prepared! Pack sunscreen, water shoes for pebble beaches, a beach towel, snorkeling gear, and cash. If you’re staying in Korčula Town or Vela Luka, you can buy forgotten items easily. But for remote beaches, it’s best to bring everything you need. Remember, the Adriatic sun is strong, so don’t skimp on sun protection!
🏝️ Beach-Hopping Adventure: Make the most of your beach-hopping adventure! Rent a scooter or car to access beaches away from the old town. Join boat tours to visit multiple beaches in a day, including nearby islands. Use water taxis for hard-to-reach spots. Don’t miss the beaches on the west of the island – they’re some of Korcula’s best-kept secrets.
🤝 Respect Local Etiquette: Respect local customs for a better beach experience. Nudist beaches are clearly marked – stick to swimwear elsewhere. Many locals bring their own umbrellas and chairs. Keep noise levels down during siesta time (usually 2-5 PM). Always clean up after yourself to keep these beautiful beaches pristine.
🚨 Safety First: Stay safe while enjoying paradise. Pay attention to flag warnings on supervised beaches and be cautious of sea urchins in rocky areas. The sun is strong, so reapply sunscreen often and seek shade during peak hours. If visiting a remote beach, let someone know where you’re going. For secluded beaches, consider joining a guided boat tour for a safe and informative experience.
FAQs about Trip to Best Beaches in Korcula Island, Croatia ❔
Is it worth going to Korcula?
Yes, Korcula is definitely worth visiting. It offers beautiful beaches, historical sights, great food, hiking opportunities, and water activities like snorkeling and diving.
Which part of Korcula is best?
Korcula Town is generally considered the best part to stay, offering a charming old town, historical sites, and good amenities. However, other areas like Lumbarda are known for great beaches.
What is the most beautiful seaside town in Korcula Island?
Korcula Town is often cited as the most beautiful, with its picturesque old town and seaside location. However, beauty is subjective and other towns like Vela Luka also have their charms
Where is the best snorkeling in Korcula?
Some of the best snorkeling spots include:
- The islets in front of Prizba (Stupa, Crklica, Sridnjak, Vrhovnjak)
- Bays on the South Coast of the island (Defora)
- Raznjic near Lumbarda
- Bays near Racisce on the Northside
The clear waters around Korcula offer great visibility for snorkeling, often up to 20 meters in summer months.
