Most visitors to Hvar Town visit the Pakleni Islands, and you can see them stretching out immediately in front of the town. The islands are easily accessible by boat and offer a range of activities for tourists, including swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing. Each Island has its own unique charm, with some offering secluded beaches and others bustling beach bars and restaurants.
If you’re planning a trip to Croatia, the Pakleni Islands are definitely worth a visit. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the beach or an adventure-filled day of exploring, the islands have something for everyone. So pack your sunscreen and your sense of adventure and get ready to experience the beauty of the Pakleni Islands.
Book your Pakleni Islands Essentials
Private boat tour
Dedicate a day to the waters around the Pakleni Islands with this private daytime cruise from Hvar. Offering a more intimate and laidback alternative to the busy tourist boats, this private cruise takes you on a route around Hvar’s southern beaches, the famous Red Rocks, and the Pakleni Islands minus the rush and the crowds.
Small group speedboat tour
Skip the big tourist boats when you go to the Blue Cave, and book a small-group speedboat ride from Hvar instead. With numbers limited to just 12 people on board, you’ll cut out the crowds and enjoy a more intimate ride to the island of Biševo where the famed Blue Cave and other sea grottoes await. Stops to swim and a friendly skipper complete the experience.
Half day kayak experience
Get up close and personal with Croatia’s exquisite coastline on this independent kayaking tour of Hvar and the Pakleni Islands. Pick your own departure time, and, upon arrival, you’ll be provided with an open-top kayak, a dry bag, safety and snorkeling equipment, and a map of the area, plus guidance based on your personal preferences.
What are the Pakleni Islands and why should you visit?
The Pakleni Islands, also known as the Paklinski Islands, are a group of beautiful islands located just off the coast of Hvar, Croatia in the Adriatic Sea. The archipelago is mostly uninhabited.
The islands are a popular destination for tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the mainland. Visitors are drawn to the Pakleni Islands for their crystal-clear waters, hidden beaches, and deserted lagoons. The islands are also home to some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Croatia.
One of the main attractions of the Pakleni Islands is their natural beauty. The islands are covered in dense pine forests and surrounded by turquoise waters, making them the perfect spot for nature lovers. Visitors can explore the islands by foot or by boat, taking in the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding coastline.
Another reason why visitors should consider visiting the Pakleni Islands is the range of activities on offer. From swimming and sunbathing on the beaches to hiking and cycling through the forests, there is something for everyone on these islands. Visitors can also enjoy water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing.
Best time to visit Pakleni Islands
The best time to visit Pakleni Islands is during the shoulder seasons, which are from April to early June and September to October. During these months, the islands are less crowded, and the weather is still pleasant with long days and warm sea temperatures. Additionally, the prices for food and accommodation are lower than during the peak season.
The peak season for Pakleni Islands is from July to August, and during this time, the islands can become quite crowded with tourists. The weather is hot, and the sea temperatures are warm, making it an ideal time for swimming and water activities. However, visitors should expect higher prices for food and accommodation during this time.
It is worth noting that the weather in Pakleni Islands can be unpredictable, and visitors should be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions. It is advisable to check the weather forecast before planning a trip and bring appropriate clothing and gear.
Getting to Paklinski Islands
The Paklinski islands are just 10-20 minutes away by boat, and you have several options to get across. If you have a licence, the best experience is definitely renting a boat so you can explore at your own pace!
- Book a private boat tour
- Book a group boat tour
- Book a kayak
Private boat tour
If you don’t want to drive a boat, or fancy having a few drinks on the way, a private tour is the next best thing. Your itinerary will be customisable and the skipper should listen to your wants and needs. They’ll be able to recommend the best stops and make sure you have an amazing day on the water.
Book: Click here
Price: From £653 for up to 9 people
Island hopping group tour
For those who want to see more of the surrounding islands, an island hopping group tour is a great option. These tours typically take visitors to several different islands, including the Paklinski Islands, and include stops for swimming, snorkelling, and exploring.
The downside to this is the itinerary won’t be flexible and you’ll be surrounded by other groups most of the day, but you will get an amazing experience and are great if you’re on a budget.
Book: Click here
Price: £87 per person
Kayak to Pakleni Islands
For the more adventurous visitors, kayaking to the Paklinski Islands is a great option. This allows visitors to get up close and personal with the islands and explore some of the more secluded bays and beaches. Joining a kayaking tour is one of the best ways to do this.
Book: Click here
Price: £39 for 4 hour hire
Taxi boat
For those who want to get to the Paklinski Islands quickly and easily, a taxi boat is a great option. These boats run regularly between Hvar and the Paklinski Islands, and the journey takes around 15 minutes. Taxi boats can be found at the main harbour in Hvar.
You’ll get dropped off at the Palmizana Marina, Mlini Beach, Jerolim or in front of Carpe Diem.
This probably isn’t the best method to take if you want to explore. You’ll be limited as to where you can go, and don’t get the amazing boat experience.
The best one to take is the taxi boat that goes to Palmizana, as you’ll have the most to do on this island.
Book: No need to book, just turn up to Hvar harbour
Price: 60 kuna return
Which Pakleni Island to visit?
Each island has its own unique characteristics, making it difficult to decide which one to visit. Here are three of the main islands that are worth considering:
Sveti Klement Island
Sveti Klement Island is the largest island in the Pakleni archipelago. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and secluded coves. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling in the turquoise waters. The island is also home to several restaurants and bars, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat or a drink.
If you can only visit one island, make it this one! It has the best variety of bays, restaurants and beaches.
Marinkovac Island
Marinkovac Island is the second biggest, and home to two of the best beaches – Mlini and Zdrilica as well as the famous beach club, Carpe Diem. It’s a popular clubbing spot after dark and you’ll find the best parties in Hvar here.
Jerolim Island
Jerolim Island is a small island and the closest to Hvra. It’s known for having a popular nudist beach, known as one of the most beautiful in Europe.
Best Beaches on the Pakleni Islands
Tarsce Beach
Tarsce Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the Pakleni Islands. It is located on the southern side of Marinkovac Island and is accessible by boat. The beach is known for its clear turquoise waters and pebble-strewn shore. It is an excellent spot for swimming and snorkelling.
Stari Stani
Stari Stani is a secluded cove located on the northern side of Marinkovac Island. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and is accessible only by boat. It is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Perna Bay
Perna Bay is a hidden gem located on the eastern side of Marinkovac Island. The beach is known for its soft sand and calm waters. It is an excellent spot for swimming and relaxing.
Soline Beach
Soline Beach is located on the southern side of St. Clement Island. It is known for its therapeutic mud, which is said to have healing properties. Visitors can cover themselves in the mud and let it dry before rinsing it off in the sea.
Mlini Beach
Mlini Beach is located on the western side of Marinkovac Island. It is a small pebble beach that is accessible only by boat. The beach is surrounded by pine trees and is an excellent spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Palmižana Beach
Palmižana Beach is located on the northeastern side of St. Clement Island. It is the most popular beach on the Pakleni Islands and is known for its white sand and clear waters. Visitors can rent sun loungers and umbrellas and enjoy drinks and snacks at the beach bar.
Things to do on Pakleni Islands, Hvar
Snorkel and Swim
The crystal clear waters surrounding the Pakleni Islands make it the perfect place for snorkelling and swimming. Tarsce beach and Stari Stani are both popular spots for snorkelling. Visitors can also take a dip in the turquoise waters of the secluded bays.
Chill at Laganini
Laganini is a popular beach club located on the island of Palmižana. Relax on sun loungers, enjoy a cocktail, and take in the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. The club also hosts live music events during the summer season.
Have lunch
There are plenty of restaurants and cafes on the Pakleni Islands serving up delicious Croatian cuisine. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, grilled meats, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Some of the most popular restaurants include Zori and Meneghello.
Have a Mud Bath at Soline Beach
Soline Beach is known for its therapeutic mud baths, and centuries ago was a Roman spa. Along with the Roman ruins, you can can slather yourself in the mineral-rich mud and let it dry before washing it off in the sea. The mud is said to have healing properties and is great for the skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth.
You can walk to Soline beach from Palmizana by following a trail, it takes around 30 minutes. Follow the signs to Vlaka and you’ll reach it! There’s also a restaurant in Vlaka if you want to grab some food.
Go to the sandy beach at Perna Bay
Perna Bay is home to one of the few sandy beaches on the Pakleni Islands. Relax on the soft sand and take in the beautiful surroundings. The bay is also a popular spot for swimming and snorkelling, as there’s no sea urchins on the sandy sea bed.
Grab Drinks at Carpe Diem
Carpe Diem is a popular bar, taking up a lot of Marinkovac islands. It has sun beds, loungers, tables, a huge stage, dance floor, wimming pool and boat docks. You could easily spend all day and night here! They host legendary parties in the Summer. The bar also hosts parties and events during the summer season.
Visit a secluded bay
There are plenty of secluded bays on the Pakleni Islands that are perfect for a quiet afternoon. Visitors can anchor their boats and take a dip in the crystal clear waters or relax on the rocky beaches. Some of the most popular secluded bays include Mlini and Ždrilca.
Pakleni Islands FAQs
The Pakleni Islands are home to several beautiful beaches, and some of the best ones include Mlini Beach, Palmižana Beach, and Jerolim Beach. Mlini Beach is a secluded beach with crystal-clear water, while Palmižana Beach is a popular spot with plenty of restaurants and bars. Jerolim Beach is a clothing-optional beach that is perfect for those looking for a more adventurous experience.
Hvar is a beautiful town with plenty of things to see and do. Some of the most popular towns to visit on Hvar include Stari Grad, Jelsa, and Vrboska. Stari Grad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history, while Jelsa is a charming town with plenty of restaurants and cafes. Vrboska is known for its picturesque harbour and stunning architecture.
The Pakleni Islands are home to several excellent restaurants serving up delicious Croatian cuisine. Some of the most highly recommended restaurants include Meneghello, Toto’s, and Zori. Meneghello is a popular spot on Palmižana Island, while Toto’s is known for its seafood dishes. Zori is located on the island of Marinkovac and offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
The Pakleni Islands offer plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. Some of the most popular things to do include swimming, sunbathing, hiking, and exploring the islands. Visitors can also take a boat tour of the islands or go snorkelling to explore the underwater world.
Yes, snorkelling is a popular activity on the Pakleni Islands. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands are home to a variety of marine life, making it the perfect spot to explore the underwater world. Visitors can rent snorkelling gear from local shops or take a guided snorkelling tour.
The Pakleni Islands are located just off the coast of Hvar, and visitors can easily reach them by boat. There are several water taxis and boat tours available from Hvar Town that will take visitors to the islands. Visitors can also rent their own boat or kayak to explore the islands at their own pace.
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