Brac island is the highest and third largest among the more than 1,000 Croatian islands, and it is thanks to this vast territory that it has numerous and varied destinations to visit. While it is true that Brac island has become popular in recent years thanks to the highly recognizable Zlatni Rat in Bol, it would be unfair to reduce such an island to just one beach. It could be said without hesitation that Brac island has something for everyone, from olive oil to adventure sports. The island has spectacular hiking trails, interesting towns both on its coast and inland, and even a museum dedicated exclusively to olive oil.
Due to its proximity to the Croatian mainland, specifically to the City of Split, Brac island is easily reachable by ferries and catamarans, as well as with small boats that offer daily tours. The main ports of the island are Supetar (from Split), Milna (from Split), Bol (from Split and Dubrovnik), and Sumartin (from Makarska). If you plan to visit Brac island via any of these ports, consider checking out these destinations.
Supetar
If you find yourself vacationing in Split, especially in the south of the city, it is difficult not to recognize Supetar from a distance. It is undoubtedly the best reachable destination from the Dalmatian city due to the high frequency of ferries that take you to Supetar from the port of Split. However, this does not stop it from being a town that deserves all your attention. Supetar has many cultural events, and numerous beaches to choose from. It also serves as a starting point for various themed trails on the island, including Via Brattia, which you can learn more about here.
Photo: Mario Romulić
Sutivan
Just 13 minutes by car from Supetar, Sutivan lies on the northwest coast of the island of Brač. It is a small picturesque destination with a Mediterranean vibe and beautiful pebble beaches stretching west. Numerous cultural landmarks, various events, and sports activities make it a good place for a pleasant vacation. Despite having its fair share of beaches, another great way to spend your time in Sutivan is learning about its diverse religious heritage, by visiting St. Rocco’s Church or St. John’s Church. Likewise, Sutivan is a friendly town for bicycles, in addition to having trails both by land and also for diving.
Image: Sutivan Tourist Board
Splitska
East of Supetar is Splitska, just a 9-minute drive away. Splitska is a settlement developed in the 16th century, after the foundation in the 13th century was destroyed by pirates from Omiš. Historically, the stone of Brač was transported from the port of Splitska, which was used to build Diocletian’s Palace in Split. Splitska is a small and quiet place, ideal for families and travelers looking for a peaceful vacation.
Photo: Mario Romulić
Postira
Postira, located 7 minutes east of Splitska, is a town founded in the 16th century and today has a great tourist offer that successfully unites its agricultural and fishing traditions. In addition to having a wide variety of beaches and accommodations, Postira definitely stands out for its countless activities to do, since Postira is home to the World Olive Picking Championship. Yes, you heard it right. During the fall, in the olive picking season, teams made up of people from all over the world gather in Postira to compete against each other to see who picks the most olives. You can learn more here.
Image: Postira Tourist Board
Pučišća
This list is of destinations that you cannot miss, but there are some destinations that you simply cannot miss. For me, one of those destinations is Pučišća, on the northeast coast of Brač. Pučšića is the largest settlement on the island of Brač, and is known not only for its picturesque buildings but also for the stonemasonry tradition of its famous school, the best examples of which are erected throughout the town, visible also in its beautiful harbor. Pučšića is an excellent destination to spend relaxing days, where you can enjoy beautiful beaches, spectacular local food and top quality olive oil.
Photo: Mario Romulić
Povlja
This picturesque village exudes peace and quiet and is ideal for a vacation away from the hustle and bustle of the larger tourist destinations on the island. Povlja is surrounded by numerous bays, ideal for enjoying the abundant sun and crystal clear sea. Don’t forget to visit one of the most spacious sacred buildings of its kind in Croatia, an early Christian basilica with a baptistery from the 6th century. Two legends are associated with Povlja. It is believed that St. Jelena, the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great, was originally from Brač and was taken to Constantinople via Povalje. Another legend says that St. Ivan, who is the patron saint of the place, walked on the sea and drove away the plague with his sermons.
Photo: Mario Romulić
Pražnica
Who says that the only destinations worth visiting on Brač are on its coast? Being the highest island in Croatia is no surprise that its inland hides incredible villages with a lot of history. One of them is Pražnica, a small medieval town, 7 km south of Pučišća. Surrounded by numerous pastures, livestock farming has developed in the village, and rural tourism is also developing nowadays. Many visitors enjoy traditional Brač delicacies here, such as the famous Brač cheese, lamb on a spit, homemade olive oil, and high-quality Brač wines.
Photo: kruno/Flickr
Nerežišća
Fifteen minutes west of Pražnica, also inland on the island of Brač, the village of Nerežišća is located. As a district, Nerežišća comprises much of the interior of the island of Brač, as well as part of the southern coast of the island. Nerežišća is one of the smaller settlements on Brač, with a population of less than 1,000, but was once the capital of the island, built inland rather than on the coast as protection from pirates who sailed long ago. Nerežišća is an ideal destination to feel closely the rural life on the island, without being far from the paradisiacal beaches. An unmissable landmark is a chapel with a bonsai, located in the center of town.
Photo: Argo Navis/Wikimedia Commons
Sumartin
Located on the easternmost point of the island of Brač, Sumartin is an increasingly popular tourist destination. It is also the youngest settlement on the island, which was founded by settlers from the mainland in the 17th century fleeing the Turkish invaders. Aside from its popular and beautiful beaches, you’ll find numerous coves and hidden beaches that can only be reached by boat. Fans of active tourism will surely enjoy exploring the hiking and biking trails that lead through ancient olive groves and vineyards, offering unique Mediterranean scenes. Sumartin is a popular destination not only for those already on the island of Brač, but also for those in the Makarska Riviera, as both towns are directly connected by a ferry line.
Image: Selca Tourist Board
Milna
Milna, located on the western tip of the island of Brač, is perhaps one of the most popular destinations, not only due to its connection by catamaran from the port of Split but also because it is a beautifully hidden bay with numerous coves and beaches, protected of storms in the region. With an identity strongly marked by its fishing and sailing traditions, Milna is today a popular destination for tourists during the summer season. If you are looking for spectacular events, you will not want to miss the Mrduja Tug of War, an event that takes place every last Saturday of July, where the inhabitants and guests of the islands of Brač and Šolta compete to define who owns the islet of Mrduja. Learn more here.
Photo: Mario Romulić
Bol
Bol, what else can be said about this destination that is not already known? Well, believe it or not, a lot. Known worldwide for its spectacular and beautiful beach, Zlatni Rat, Bol has an endless offer of experiences for all types of visitors. Being the oldest settlement on the coast of the island of Brač, the heritage that can be found in the village is a matter of wonder for those history buffs. Likewise, its beaches are praised by windsurfers and kitesurfers alike. Bol is located on the southern coast of the island and is reachable not only from Split and Dubrovnik but also for those looking to do a bit of island hopping, with the possibility of traveling from Hvar as well.
Photo: Mario Romulić
Murvica
Also on the south coast of the island of Brač, 6 kilometers west of Bol, our last unmissable destination is located: Murvica. Although it contrasts with other destinations mentioned in this list, due to its small size (Murvica has a population of just over 20 inhabitants), it is absolutely worth being included in your itinerary, since you will not only find beautiful beaches, but also the Dragon’s Cave, whose incredible stone carvings have never been properly explained. Zoran, a very enthusiastic local guide, provides an outstanding experience.
Photo: Mario Romulić
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