Croatia, located in the Adriatic Sea, is considered to be one of the last great bastions of pristine and unpolluted nature and sea in Europe. Due to the favorable summer climate, similar to many mainstream Mediterranean locations, Croatia entices potential visitors with its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and historical cities.
However, what many people don't know is that Croatia is also home to some of the most exotic islands and locations in Europe. Now, when we use the word “exotic”, this primarily refers to something wild and unexpected – something you would not hope to find in a temperate and continental climate, including Caribbean-like beaches, river canyons, amazing gorges, breath-taking caves, and other fantastic marvels of Mother Nature.
Since there are many stunning locations, we have decided to divide this article into two sections, focusing on exotic locations on Croatian islands and specific locations that could be designated as “exotic”.
What follows is not an entirely comprehensive list, as some veteran travelers could highlight that some places are not exotic enough, but considering Croatia`s location, every potential critique falls desperately short of the stunning beauty of nature in Croatia.
Photo credit: Aleksandra Krasinska / Unsplash Hvar is a beautiful island located in the central part of the Adriatic Sea, and it's known for its lavender fields, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. One of the best things to do on Hvar is to visit the old town, which is home to many historic landmarks, such as the 16th-century Hvar Cathedral, the Franciscan Monastery, and the Arsenal.
The town also has a wide variety of bars and restaurants, making it an ideal location for those seeking lively nightlife. Another must-see attraction on the island is the Pakleni Islands, a group of small islands located off the coast of Hvar. These islands offer visitors some of the best beaches in Croatia, such as Mlini Beach, Palmižana Beach, and Stipanska Beach.
Why is Hvar exotic? If basking in the glory of the turquoise sea overlooking hundreds of miles of indented coastline is not exotic enough for you, the beauty of and intricacy Pakleni islands is sure to discourage any nay-sayer.
Photo credit: mislaw / Shutterstock Vis is a stunning island located on the southern coast of Croatia. It is recognized for the beauty of its secluded beaches, pristine waters, and rugged landscape. One of the most popular activities on Vis is exploring the island's hidden coves and bays, which can only be accessed by boat.
Some of the best beaches on the island include Stiniva Beach, Srebrna Beach, and Stoncica Beach. Vis is also home to several historic landmarks, such as the Tito's Cave, which was used as a hideout by Yugoslav leader Josip Broz Tito during World War II, and the Greek Cemetery, which dates back to the 4th century BC.
Why is Vis exotic? Nowhere in the world will you be able to experience immaculate nature and incredible beaches, right next to historic army infrastructure incorporated into the picturesque Adriatic panorama.
Photo credit: OPIS Zagreb / Shutterstock Mljet is a paradise for nature lovers, located in the southern part of the Adriatic Sea. The island is home to a stunning national park with two saltwater lakes, which are connected to the sea by a narrow channel.
Visitors can rent a kayak or a paddleboat to explore the lakes and visit the picturesque St. Mary's Island, which is home to a Benedictine monastery. Mljet is also famous for its pristine forests, which cover more than 90% of the island. The forests are home to a wide variety of wildlife, including wild boar, deer, and numerous bird species. Visitors can hike through the forests to discover hidden waterfalls, secluded beaches, and breath-taking viewpoints.
Why is Mljet exotic? Mljet’s saltwater lakes are divided from the sea by steep cliffs, that act as a natural wall between the two bodies of water, creating a unique dynamic of colours and experiences that cannot be found anywhere else.
Photo credit: bkolodziej / Shutterstock Bisevo Island is a small island located in the Adriatic Sea, known for its beautiful Blue Cave (Modra spilja). The cave's interior is illuminated by sunlight, which filters through the water and reflects off the limestone floor, creating a mesmerizing blue glow. Visitors can explore the cave by boat, and the best time to visit is in the morning when the sun's rays are the most intense.
Why is Bisevo exotic? The Blue Cave of Bisevo is the stuff of legend and a totally unique landmark in this part of the Mediterranean. There are no words to describe the captivating beauty of the luminescent blue water in the cave – you need to experience it for yourself.
Photo credit: Andrew Mayovskyy / Shutterstock Visovac Island is located in the middle of the Krka River and is home to the Visovac Monastery, a 14th-century Franciscan monastery. The island is accessible by boat and visitors can explore the monastery, which houses a museum with a collection of religious art, manuscripts, and books. The island also has several walking trails, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Why is Visovac exotic? The fact that this island welcomes visitors en route to Krka falls might be reason enough. Another fact that bolsters its exotic reputation is that the island is a welcomed sight after passing through the picturesque Sibenik-Krka canyon.
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Croatia. The park is located inland and is known for its stunning natural beauty, including sixteen terraced lakes and numerous waterfalls. Visitors can hike through the park to explore its lush forests and crystal-clear waters. The park also has several walking trails, boardwalks, and viewing platforms, making it accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels.
Why is Plitvice exotic? If UNESCO`s word is not enough evidence for itself, then consider that Plitvice lakes have more different bodies of water than some countries. Dozens of waterfalls, lakes, streams and rivers make up the multi-leveled aquatic paradise that is Plitvice.
Photo credit: LeonP / Shutterstock Krka National Park is another stunning natural wonder located in central Dalmatia. The park is home to seven waterfalls and a network of hiking trails that take visitors through the park's lush forests and crystal-clear waters. The park also has several swimming areas, making it a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports. The park's most famous waterfall is Skradinski Buk, a 45-meter-high waterfall with numerous cascades and pools.
Why is Krka exotic? Imagine naturally transitioning between saltwater swimming and freshwater swimming in a span of 20 minutes. And all of this in an environment that takes the breath away with its pristine beauty.
Photo credit: Esc Leo / Shutterstock Dubrovnik is a historic city on the Adriatic coast and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Croatia. The city is known for its ancient walls, medieval streets, and stunning views. Visitors can explore the old town to discover the city's rich history and culture, including the Stradun, a pedestrianized street that runs through the heart of the old town. The city is also home to several historic landmarks, such as the Rector's Palace, the Sponza Palace, and the Dubrovnik Cathedral.
Why is Dubrovnik exotic? A centre of trade during most of Croatia’s existence, this city’s history spans more than a millennium. If Dubrovnik cannot be considered exotic for literally millions of visitors returning every year, then it is definitely well-known for its major role in the popular TV show “Game of Thrones”.
Photo credit: Zadar Archipelago Saharun Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia and is located on Dugi Otok Island. The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and peaceful surroundings.
The beach is surrounded by pine trees and is an ideal location for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, and it is accessible only by boat or a long drive, making it a secluded and peaceful destination. The island also has several hiking trails that take visitors through its lush forests and rugged coastline, offering breath-taking views of the Adriatic Sea.
Why is Saharun exotic? If you are craving a little Caribbean flair right in the middle of the Adriatic, you need not look further than Saharun beach. Due to its translucent water and white sand, the entire lagoon glows in a warm turquoise aura, highly reminiscent of only the most beautiful of tropical beaches.
Photo credit to mislaw / Shutterstock Zlatni Rat Beach, also known as the Golden Horn, is one of the most unique and beautiful beaches in Croatia. The beach is located on the southern coast of Brac Island and is famous for its distinctive shape, which changes with the tides and wind. The beach is surrounded by pine trees and is an ideal location for swimming, windsurfing, and sunbathing.
Why is Zlatni Rat exotic? When observed from a distance, Zlatni Rat beach looks like something that does not belong in the surrounding landscape. This is mostly due to its one-of-a-kind shape, which cannot be replicated or found anywhere else in the world.
Kornati National Park is a stunning archipelago located in the northern part of the Adriatic Sea. The park is home to 89 islands, islets, and rocks, and is known for its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and unique flora and fauna.
Visitors can explore the park by boat, and the park is an ideal location for swimming, diving, and snorkeling. The park's most famous attraction is the Telascica Nature Park, which is home to numerous saltwater lakes, cliffs, and bays.
Why is Kornati exotic? Widely considered to be Croatia`s most cherished maritime National Park, Kornati dazzles visitors with its desolate, but alluring panorama, interrupted by scattered oases that give this landscape its recognizable character.
Stiniva Cove is one of the most picturesque and secluded beaches in Croatia. The beach is located on the southern coast of Vis Island and is surrounded by cliffs, creating a natural amphitheatre. The beach is accessible by boat or via a narrow path, and the clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Why is Stiniva exotic? If you have not seen “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio, I suggest you go take a look, because then you will have a pretty good idea of why Stiniva beach could be considered exotic: hidden from plain sight, the natural high cliffs provide a natural barrier and a totally bespoke atmosphere, where travelers can marvel at the miracles of Mother Nature.
Croatia's islands and locations offer visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. From the lavender fields of Hvar to the waterfalls of Krka National Park, Croatia's natural beauty is breathtaking.
If you want to experience some or all of these fantastic locations, the first step is coming to Croatia. Since this country is a member state of the European Union, intercontinental flights are prevalent in all major Croatian airports.
Also, most major islands are very well connected with the mainland via ferries, but there are some locations that are much harder to reach. Alternatively, you might find that an itinerary comprised of all the best exotic locations in Croatia might pose a problem to your timetable, considering transit.
To avoid potential setbacks, travel complications, and itinerary miscalculations, the best way to experience all of these amazing Croatian locations would be to charter a yacht since booking a yacht is a guaranteed way to enjoy the best possible service while touring the hidden natural treasures of Croatia.
