July 6, 2023 – So Paul decided to spend his summers in Zagreb these days. As someone who needs the sea to survive, I say bold choice. Zagreb is a great place and so much fun in the summer, but a little dip in the Adriatic is always welcome. Thankfully, the silky shimmering waters of the Adriatic aren’t that far at all. Whether you’re going on day trips from Zagreb or escaping for the weekend specifically to enjoy the sea, try one of the places as listed on Journal.
weekend Beach getaways or Day Trips from Zagreb
Within an hour and a half to two hours’ drive from Zagreb, there are many adorable places, small towns, and even an island, where you can completely escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a day, two or three. It is enough to wake up early, pack only the most essential things for the beach in your backpack, get in the car and go!
Below are suggestions of places where you can enjoy your seaside weekend getaway.
Crikvenica
One of the most popular seaside destinations coming from Zagreb is the town of Crikvenica. It is located in the middle of Kvarner Bay, and its beautiful and long beaches make it unique. The waterfront is full of attractions, cafes, pastry shops, restaurants, and souvenir stands. From Crikvenica, you can quickly and easily get to Krk, which will only take 5 minutes by taxi boat!
You can also enjoy walks in the park, a visit to the Crikvenica Aquarium, and one of the beach bars, including the first Croatian beach bar for dogs. In addition to the sea and beaches, ice cream, coffee and cocktails, the sunsets here are stunning, so try and catch one from the beach.
Jadranovo
The small tourist town of Jadranovo is settled only 9 kilometres from Crikvenica. Unlike Crikvenica, Jadranovo is much calmer and more in touch with nature. Although crowds are expected on the main beach, there are many small coves, hidden beaches and rocks where you can enjoy privacy. There are no hotels there. It’s ideal for families with children, couples, and adventurers looking for beautiful walking spots.
If you go to the main beach in Jadranovo, you’ll enjoy its many cafes and bars, restaurants and pizzerias. There are also pedal boats and other sea activities, as well as a kids’ playground. In addition, the beach in Jadranovo became famous for its sea swing, perfect for your Instagram feed! If that’s a bit worn out, go for the old classic with the crystal clear sea and the view of Krk. If you stay in Jadranovo for several days, also be sure to visit Havišće beach.
Novi Vinodolski
Another destination near Crikvenica perfect for day trips from Zagreb. The main beach in Novi Vinodolski is called Lišanj, and it is located in the very city centre. Just below it, the hotel complex “Lišanj” has four stars and one of the most beautiful swimming pools on the coast. It is full of sports activities on the water and sand, suitable for children and adults. For all outdoors adventurers, Novi Vinodolski offers promenades, cycling and hiking trails. You will also be well fed in one of its many restaurants, bistros and taverns, or enjoy a couple of drinks in the cafes or bars.
The Novi Vinodolski Riviera also includes smaller nearby towns that are worth visiting. Try Povile, with its beautiful beaches, pine forest and campsite, the small fishing town of Klenovica, or the towns of Smokvica, Sibinj Krmpotski and Kozica. The Novi Vinodolski Riviera is characterized by an indented coast with beautiful beaches and crystal clear sea.
Island of Krk
The island of Krk and the neighbouring island of Cres are the largest islands in the Adriatic Sea. Krk also has the highest number of towns and many tourist places. Some of the most popular ones are Baška, Stara Baška, Malinska, Omišalj, Punat, Krk, Vrbnik and Njivice. If you are only coming for a day, it might be best to stick to the island’s northern part. The places closest to the Krk bridge include Omišalj, Njivice, Čižići, Klimno, Šilo, Porat and Malinska. The Biserujka cave is also located in that area.
Rijeka
Rijeka is the third-largest Croatian city and the largest Croatian port. It is very well connected to Zagreb and other Croatian cities. You can also quickly get there by bus. The centre of Rijeka is packed with exciting things. From the main street Korzo full of shops and cafes, to excellent restaurants, hotels, clubs and beaches.
Although it’s an industrial city, several locations are perfect for all-day swimming and sunbathing. Try the beaches of Pećine, Sablićevo, Kostrena, Kantrida, Ploče, Kostanj and Bivio. With many sea and land attractions, water sports or cocktails and iced coffees, summer in Rijeka does not disappoint. If you aren’t a fan of city beaches, you can swim at the Kantrida Pools, Croatia’s most beautiful and largest pool complex.
Opatija and Volosko
Opatija and Volosko are two excellent places just over an hour and a half’s drive away. They have historically been the most popular spots for day trips from Zagreb. They are trendy tourist spots, so there is no shortage of luxury hotels, restaurants, parks, bathing areas and beaches. Apart from architecture, one of the most beautiful attractions and symbols of Opatija is the Lungomare promenade, which stretches along the sea and connects all places of the Opatija Riviera. Beautifully landscaped paths will take you to Opatija’s most beautiful beaches and sights.
Volosko is a small fishing village of unique charm and warmth. It is incredibly cheerful and picturesque, so visit it if you want a little quieter and less touristy break by the sea. Top restaurants and taverns with local specialities also lie hidden there.
The Opatija Riviera includes magical places, with Lovran, Mošćenička Draga, Ičići and Ika, Kastav, Volosko and Opatija standing out. If you have time, see if you can visit them all.
