The Adriatic Sea and its turquoise blue waters have long been a haven for cruisers looking for a unique coastal experience.
The pine-fringed beaches along the island-specked Adriatic coastline are a treasure trove of stunning beauty and natural diversity.
While a cruise to the Adriatic Sea takes you on a journey through some of the most enchanting hot spots, beyond these popular bustling cities and ports are some equally serene getaways, where the only sound you will hear is waves lapping against undisturbed shores.
This guide will take you island-hopping to places where time stands still and the world’s hustle fades away. Each of these islands stands testament to the pristine beauty and tranquillity of the Adriatic coast.
The untouched isles of Kvarner
If the essence of travel is to discover the undiscovered, these three islands provide an unmatched Adriatic detour for visitors either arriving or embarking on a cruise from Opatija, as they are just a couple of hours’ transformational journey from the port town of Rijeka.
Accommodation here is confined to private rooms and apartments that provide an authentic Adriatic stay experience, as there are no hotels here.
Unije
The island of Unije may not be on the radar of every tourist, but it promises an Adriatic getaway like no other. The landscape here is dotted with wildflowers and sprawling olive groves that are a visual treat.
The car-free policy adopted on Unije further amplifies the peaceful environment, allowing the visitors to truly immerse themselves in the sounds of nature and the soft murmur of the waves on the Adriatic Sea.
Susak
Susak is an Adriatic dream for those who love unique landscapes because, unlike most of the other islands in the Adriatic, the terrain here is predominantly sandy, rather than pebbly, due to centuries of wind-blown deposits.
Apart from the surreal beauty, be prepared to be charmed by the warm and friendly locals who will regale you with stories of the island’s history.
ILovik
Dubbed the “island of flowers”, Ilovik Island showcases the true colours of the Adriatic palette with its gardens blooming with flowers with contrasting hues against the backdrop of the Adriatic.
While life on the island is simple and unhurried, there is a narrow sea channel separating the island of Ilovik from the nearby islet of Sveti Petar, which provides ideal opportunities for an enchanting Adriatic boat ride experience.
The Karnati Archipelago
For an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience, head north to Zafar’s Karnati Archipelago.This offshore pearl is home to a beautiful national park that is just perfect for snorkeling and swimming, while at Dugi Otok you will find breathtaking cliffs and the sandy Sakarun Beach, a rarity in Croatia.
To further explore the fascinating scenery of the place, you can either use the extensive ferry network or simply charter a boat to explore the secluded coves and beaches. Remember to take time out to dine on fresh seafood at any seaside tavern or konoba.