Croatia is a world-renowned sailing destination, celebrated for its crystalline Adriatic waters, over a thousand islands, and a rich maritime heritage.
Travelers from around the world are drawn to iconic hotspots like Hvar, Dubrovnik, and Korčula, where vibrant nightlife, historic charm, and luxury experiences define the classic Croatian sailing adventure.
However, beyond these well-known destinations lies a hidden world of untouched beauty, remote islands, and authentic local experiences waiting to be explored.
For those seeking a true escape, Funky Tours offers curated sailing adventures that take you off the beaten path, immersing you in Croatia’s secret bays, lesser-known villages, and unspoiled nature.
Imagine anchoring in secluded coves, dining in family-run taverns, and waking up to the sounds of nature on islands untouched by mass tourism.
Below is a glimpse into ten incredible islands that offer a unique and personal sailing experience, far from the crowds.
Zlarin, a gem of the Šibenik archipelago, is renowned for its centuries-old tradition of coral harvesting and jewelry craftsmanship, making it one of the most unique islands in Croatia.
Completely car-free, Zlarin offers a peaceful retreat with charming stone villages, pristine beaches, and unspoiled nature. Visitors can explore the Zlarin Coral Museum, where they can learn about the island’s deep connection to the Adriatic’s red coral, and even purchase handcrafted coral jewelry as a meaningful souvenir.
The island’s historic center features St. Mary’s Church, a 16th-century landmark surrounded by picturesque alleys and welcoming cafés.
For nature lovers, a scenic hike to Magarna Hill rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the Šibenik archipelago, while Vela Lovka Beach and the secluded Ošljak Bay offer crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Whether you’re seeking history, relaxation, or adventure, Zlarin is an enchanting escape into Croatia’s authentic island life.
Culinary Delights on Zlarin
While Zlarin is a small island, it boasts several delightful dining options that showcase the rich flavors of Dalmatian cuisine:
Konoba Prslika: This charming tavern offers a unique atmosphere with its indigenous interior and traditional homemade food. Seafood lovers will appreciate the fresh catches, while meat enthusiasts can enjoy Dalmatian specialties. (tripadvisor.com)
Restoran Ivana: Known for its diverse menu, Restoran Ivana serves a variety of dishes, including pizzas baked in a traditional wood-fired oven. (Facebook)
Things to do on Zlarin
A must-visit attraction is the Zlarin Coral Museum, where you can delved into the island’s rich tradition of coral harvesting and craftsmanship. The museum showcases the history of coral diving, techniques of coral jewelry making, and the importance of this industry to the island’s heritage. You will be fascinated by the intricate process of crafting these beautiful pieces and even have the chance to purchase an exquisite handmade coral souvenir. You can learn more about the museum and its offerings on their official website.
Getting to Zlarin
Funky Tours Sailing Programs: For those seeking an immersive sailing experience, Funky Tours offers tailored sailing adventures that include stops at Zlarin:
4-Day Shared Sailing Program: This program provides a shared sailing experience through the Dalmatian coast, with Zlarin as one of the highlights. (Funky Tours)
7-Day Private Sailing Adventure: For a more exclusive journey, this all-inclusive private sailing adventure offers a comprehensive exploration of Croatia’s islands, including a visit to Zlarin. (Funky Tours)
One of the most remote inhabited islands in Croatia, Lastovo is a true hidden gem, designated as a Dark Sky Park, making it an exceptional destination for stargazing. Far from the glow of city lights, the island offers breathtaking night skies, perfect for those who appreciate the wonders of the cosmos.
Lastovo Town, the island’s historic and cultural heart, is known for its medieval stone houses, unique chimneys (fumari), and a laid-back island atmosphere. For those seeking a more tranquil seaside escape, Skrivena Luka (Hidden Harbor) offers a picturesque bay with crystal-clear waters, lush surroundings, and a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.
Mali Žal Beach is a hidden gem with pristine pebble shores and turquoise waters, perfect for a secluded swim. For an even quieter escape, Kručica Beach offers a rare sandy shoreline, accessible only by boat or a scenic hike, making it an untouched paradise for nature lovers.
Zaklopatica Bay is a prime sailing spot, offering breathtaking sunset views, calm waters, and a perfect overnight anchorage. On the southern coast, Skrivena Luka, one of the most well-sheltered bays in Croatia, features deep blue waters, a scenic lighthouse, and ultimate tranquility, ideal for a peaceful sailing stop.
Nestled within the breathtaking Kornati archipelago, Smokvica is a remote, uninhabited island known for its rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and untouched natural beauty.
Part of the protected Kornati National Park, it offers a true wilderness escape, perfect for those seeking solitude and unspoiled Adriatic landscapes. The island is only reachable by sailing yacht or speedboat, making it an exclusive destination for sailors and adventurers.
One of its highlights is a hidden seaside Konoba Piccolo, where visitors can indulge in a seafood feast featuring fresh local catches, prepared in the traditional Dalmatian way.
Whether you’re anchoring in its tranquil bays, snorkeling in its pristine waters, or simply enjoying the dramatic coastal views, Smokvica promises a serene and authentic Kornati experience.
A true hidden gem of the Šibenik archipelago, Prvić is an island steeped in history, tradition, and tranquility.
It is best known as the birthplace of Faust Vrančić, the Croatian inventor and polymath who famously designed one of the first parachutes. Today, visitors can explore his legacy at the Faust Vrančić Memorial Center, where interactive exhibits showcase his groundbreaking inventions and contributions to science.
The island is completely car-free, making it a peaceful retreat with narrow stone streets, charming old villages, and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
Prvić is also famous for its centuries-old olive groves, where visitors can enjoy olive oil tastings, learning about the island’s traditional production methods and the rich flavors of Dalmatian olive oil. Beyond its history and culture, Prvić boasts pristine beaches and hidden coves, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing in total serenity.
The crystal-clear waters of Šepurine Beach and the secluded bays around Prvić Luka offer some of the best spots to unwind and connect with nature. Whether exploring its heritage, indulging in local flavors, or simply soaking in the Adriatic’s beauty, Prvić offers a truly authentic and intimate island experience.
Once a strategic military base closed to visitors, Vis has preserved its authenticity, making it one of the most untouched and charming islands in Croatia. Today, it is a secluded paradise, perfect for those seeking serene landscapes, hidden beaches, and rich history.
The island is home to Stiniva Cove, a breathtaking natural wonder enclosed by towering cliffs, accessible only by boat or a steep hiking trail, making it one of Croatia’s most exclusive and picturesque beaches. Just a short boat ride away, the famous Blue Cave on Biševo Island enchants visitors with its ethereal blue glow, created by sunlight reflecting through an underwater opening.
Beyond its natural beauty, Vis is also known for its local vineyards and traditional Dalmatian cuisine, offering some of the best seafood and wine in the Adriatic. With its crystal-clear waters, secret coves, and a laid-back atmosphere, Vis remains a true hidden gem for sailors and nature lovers alike.
Nestled in the Zadar archipelago, Veli Iž is a charming island that has preserved its traditional maritime and artisan heritage.
Once an important center for olive oil production and pottery, the island still thrives on these crafts today, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into Croatian island life. Strolling through the peaceful, narrow streets, you’ll encounter stone houses, picturesque harbors, and locals engaged in their daily routines, embodying the island’s laid-back and welcoming atmosphere.
One of Veli Iž’s highlights is its centuries-old pottery workshops, where visitors can take a ceramics-making class and learn about the island’s deep-rooted connection to handmade terracotta pottery, a craft passed down through generations. The island is also dotted with olive groves, producing high-quality local olive oil, which can be sampled at small family-run farms.
For nature lovers, Veli Iž offers pristine beaches, hidden coves, and scenic walking trails, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and cultural immersion. Whether you’re learning a new craft, enjoying fresh seafood by the harbor, or simply soaking in the slow-paced island lifestyle, Veli Iž promises a genuine and tranquil Adriatic experience.
Located just south of Hvar, Šćedro is a protected nature park that offers a rare sense of serenity and seclusion, making it an ideal destination for sailors looking to escape the busy tourist routes.
This small, uninhabited island has no permanent residents, only a handful of seasonal restaurants serving fresh, locally caught seafood. Known for its lush pine forests, hidden coves, and tranquil bays, Šćedro provides the perfect setting for peaceful anchorage and nature exploration.
One of its most beautiful spots is Lovište Bay, a quiet haven with crystal-clear waters and pristine surroundings, ideal for an overnight stay under the stars.
The island is also home to the ruins of a 15th-century Dominican monastery, adding a touch of history to its natural beauty. Whether you’re anchoring in a secluded bay, enjoying an undisturbed swim, or savoring a sunset in complete tranquility, Šćedro is a true hidden gem of the Adriatic, perfect for those seeking nature, solitude, and a timeless sailing escape.
Nestled on the southern tip of Dugi Otok, Telašćica Nature Park is one of Croatia’s most breathtaking natural wonders, offering a perfect blend of serene waters, dramatic landscapes, and rich biodiversity.
The spacious and well-protected Telašćica Bay is a haven for sailors, providing calm, turquoise waters ideal for anchoring and relaxing in total peace.
The park’s most unique feature is Lake Mir, a saltwater lake known for its healing mud and warm, therapeutic waters, perfect for a rejuvenating swim.
Adventurers can explore panoramic hiking trails leading to the park’s famous cliffs, which rise over 160 meters above the open Adriatic, offering breathtaking sunset views. The area is also home to wild donkeys, lush Mediterranean vegetation, and a diverse marine ecosystem.
Whether you’re sailing through its tranquil bays, hiking to its dramatic viewpoints, or soaking in the healing waters of Lake Mir, Telašćica is a must-visit gem for nature lovers and sailors alike.
Often referred to as Croatia’s greenest island, Mljet is a haven of untouched nature, dense pine forests, and pristine waters, making it one of the most tranquil and enchanting destinations in the Adriatic.
Almost 70% of the island is covered in lush forest, creating an atmosphere of serenity and seclusion. The highlight of Mljet is its two stunning saltwater lakes, Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero, located within Mljet National Park. These lakes are ideal for swimming, kayaking, and cycling, offering an immersive nature experience.
In the middle of Veliko Jezero lies St. Mary’s Island, home to a 12th-century Benedictine monastery, a peaceful retreat steeped in history. The island’s rugged coastline also features hidden beaches, quiet coves, and scenic hiking trails, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Don’t miss the chance to kayak through the tranquil waters of the national park, where the stunning reflections of the forest and sky create an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re exploring ancient history, indulging in fresh seafood, or simply soaking in the island’s natural beauty, Mljet is a true Adriatic jewel waiting to be discovered.
Tucked between Dugi Otok and Ugljan, Rava is a tiny, tranquil island that remains largely untouched by tourism, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking pure isolation in nature.
With only a handful of local fishermen and olive growers, the island exudes an authentic Mediterranean charm, where life moves at a slow and peaceful pace. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and rocky coves, Rava is a paradise for snorkeling and diving, offering a vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life and colorful reefs.
The island has two main villages, Mala Rava and Vela Rava, both featuring traditional stone houses, narrow pathways, and picturesque harbors, perfect for an afternoon stroll. With its hidden beaches, scenic hiking trails, and stunning Adriatic views, Rava is a true escape into untouched island beauty, making it a perfect stop for sailors and nature lovers looking to experience Croatia’s coastline in its most peaceful and authentic form.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore its secluded bays and immerse yourself in the pristine waters of this Adriatic gem.
Unlike most of Croatia’s rocky islands, Susak stands out with its soft sand dunes and golden beaches, making it one of the most unique islands in the Adriatic.
This small, remote island is covered in layers of fine sand, creating a distinct landscape rarely found elsewhere in Croatia. Beyond its natural beauty, Susak is also known for its rich cultural heritage and unique dialect, spoken only by the island’s residents, who have preserved their traditions for centuries.
With no roads and very few visitors, Susak offers a quiet, car-free escape, perfect for those seeking relaxation and simplicity. A visit to the island isn’t complete without a walk through its picturesque vineyards, where locals produce homemade Prošek wine, a traditional Dalmatian dessert wine.
Whether you’re strolling through charming villages, sunbathing on sandy shores, or enjoying the island’s authentic atmosphere, Susak is a true hidden treasure for those looking to experience Croatia beyond the usual tourist trails.
SAILING ADVENTURES
Escape to the pristine beauty of the Adriatic Sea with Funky Tours’ exclusive sailing adventures in Croatia. Set sail on a journey that seamlessly blends relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments in the heart of Croatia.
Join our Croatia sailing odyssey via Kornati National Park, Zlarin, Prvić Kaprije & Tijat islands. Explore Šibenik, Skradin with Krka National Park. Four days and three nights of joy and sailing adventure on a 13m stunning catamaran.
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Central and North Dalmatia, from the Kornati and Krka National Park to the iconic islands of Hvar, Brač, Vis, and Korčula.
With everything included—half-board meals, a professional skipper, marina and mooring fees, and fuel—you can simply relax and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Adriatic.