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Visiting Hvar Island, Croatia: Your Ultimate Guide to Beaches, Food, and Fun

Confession time. I thought visiting Hvar island was something different to what it is. I (wrongly) thought it was home to the triangular beach made so famous by all the tourist pics of Croatia, so when I jumped on a boat from Split to here (and don’t forget there are lots of things to do in Split), went to tourist information and asked where Zlatni Rat beach was, the chick behind the counter thought I was a complete idiot. To be fair, she was right.

After I got over the disappointed of that, I went on to explore Hvar. Hvar is the most popular island in all of Croatia so be prepared for the crowds, that being said though even in high season it doesn’t have that horrible tourist feel that Dubrovnik carried.

How to Get to Hvar Island

Getting to Hvar is a breeze. Boats leave from Split a few times a day, and the trip takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, costing around $6. Make sure you’re on the right boat to Hvar Town, as that’s the main hub. Pro tip: Sit on the deck to soak up those Adriatic views. If you’re in Split for a bit, check out my blog on things to do in Split for some extra ideas.

Once you’re off the boat, the first thing that’ll hit you is the water. It’s the kind of blue that makes you wonder if you’ve been living life in grayscale. I’ve seen clear water in places like Thailand and the Philippines, but Hvar’s might just top them all. Think 50-meter visibility—it’s unreal.

Best Time to Visit Hvar Island

Hvar’s a summer hotspot, so if you’re into that Mediterranean party vibe, head there between June and August. The downside? Crowds. But even in peak season, it doesn’t have that overly touristy vibe like Dubrovnik can sometimes have.

If you’re more about chilling than clubbing, May and September are your sweet spots. The weather’s still fab, the water’s warm, and you won’t be fighting for space on the rocks (more on those later). Winter? Nah, skip it. A lot of places shut down, and you’ll miss Hvar’s charm.

Things to see in Hvar

Hvar town is the main spot on the island, and if you get the ‘right’ boat that where you’ll end up. On each side of the town you can go swimming. There are a few ‘beaches’ on the island, but most of them are rock beaches, so don’t expect white sand beauty. The water is the draw here, not the beaches.  So you throw your towel on the least pointy rock you can find and dive in!

As far as sights go, you can check out Hvar Fortress. You have to climb the hill behind Hvar town, pay your $4 entrance and although the fortress isn’t anything to write home about, the views over Hvar Town are great, they’re worth the climb alone.

Come back down, check out the beautiful Cathedral of St Stephen (only open until midday), which offers a cool backdrop to the central square of Hvar.

Can you visit Hvar as a daytrip from Split?

I daytripped this place from Split, but apparently the nightlife is great too. Although the island is certainly more expensive than the mainland, so if you’re gonna stay, work it into your budget! Happy travels!

What to Do: A 48-Hour Itinerary for Visiting Hvar Island

Day 1: Dive In and Climb Up

Start your day with a swim. Hvar doesn’t do sandy beaches—it’s all about those rocky ones. Throw your towel down on the smoothest rock you can find and dive into the clearest water you’ll ever see.

After you’ve cooled off, head to Hvar Fortress. It’s a bit of a hike up the hill behind Hvar Town, but the $4 entry fee is worth it for the panoramic views alone. The fortress itself? Meh, but the view of the town and the Pakleni Islands is Instagram gold.

Next, make your way to the Cathedral of St. Stephen. It’s right in the main square, and while it’s only open until midday, the outside is just as stunning. Plus, it’s a great backdrop for some chilled-out people-watching with a coffee in hand.

Wrap up your first day with a seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants. Hvar’s not the cheapest place, but the food is top-notch. If you’re staying overnight, check out the nightlife. Hvar’s party scene is legendary, with beach bars and clubs keeping the vibe alive well past midnight.

Day 2: Explore Beyond Hvar Town

On your second day, take a boat taxi to the Pakleni Islands. These little gems are just off Hvar and are perfect for more swimming, snorkeling, or just lazing around. Carpe Diem Beach on Stipanska is a popular spot, though it’s more party-centric. If you’re after something quieter, scout out the lesser-known coves.

After a day on the water, head back to Hvar Town for a relaxed evening. If you’re into wine, the local Plavac Mali is a must-try. Pair it with a sunset view, and you’ve got the perfect end to your Hvar adventure.

If this has got you thinking about more island escapes, check out my post on the best islands in Southeast Asia for some inspo.

Why Hvar Stands Out

Sure, Hvar’s got the beauty and the nightlife, but what really sets it apart is the vibe. Even with its popularity, it manages to keep a laid-back charm that’s hard to find in other tourist-heavy spots. The locals are welcoming, the food’s amazing, and the water’s the kind that makes you forget about Wi-Fi for a bit.

FAQs About Visiting Hvar Island

1. How do I get from Split to Hvar?

Boats run 3-4 times daily from Split to Hvar Town, costing around $6. The journey takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Make sure to book your tickets in advance during peak season.

2. Is Hvar expensive?

Compared to mainland Croatia, yes, Hvar is pricier. Budget for higher accommodation and dining costs, especially in high season. Day-tripping from Split can be a more affordable option.

3. What’s the best way to explore the island?

Boat taxis are the easiest way to hop between Hvar Town and the Pakleni Islands. For the rest of the island, renting a scooter or car is ideal.

4. Are there sandy beaches on Hvar?

No, most beaches on Hvar are rocky. The crystal-clear water more than makes up for it, though. Bring water shoes if you’re worried about the rocks.

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia, don’t just stop at Hvar. Check out my guide to traveling Croatia on a budget for more tips and tricks. And for a broader take on Adriatic gems, here’s an excellent read from The Guardian.

Hvar Island might not have Zlatni Rat, but it’s got its own magic—and then some. Happy travels!