Zadar - where to relax on the beach

Zadar is a very popular city in Croatia, especially because the airport located on the outskirts of the city receives low-cost airline flights. It is easy and cheap to get here from different parts of Europe. Thanks to simple air logistics, many tourists, especially with small children, plan a vacation nearby or directly in Zadar.

If you are interested in information about beaches near Zadar and where to stay near them – I advise you to read this article. I have gathered the closest options for vacation near Zadar, suitable for families as well as for active tourists who like to stay in campgrounds.

Old Town Zadar

Old Town Zadar is one of the most beautiful in Croatia and a popular place for city breaks. Especially if you are not traveling by car, or have stopped for a day or two after your arrival, staying right in the historic center – in my opinion, is optimal.

You will have the opportunity to feel the morning charm of the magical city center and the evening atmosphere of the promenade, to stroll along stone streets and calmly sit in one of the cozy restaurants.

The Zadar promenade – here you can listen to the sea organ in windy weather and admire the breathtaking sunsets nearby. Some beaches are also located nearby, which can be reached on foot from the city center.

Most accommodation in Zadar Old Town are private apartments. But there are also a few nice hotels for special stays in the seaside city.

If you did manage to rent a car for further travel around Croatia – it is better to leave it in the modern part of the city. There are many parking lots here, including cheap and covered ones – so you can safely leave the car and not worry about its condition.

Beaches in the immediate vicinity of Zadar:

Borik district is located about 3 kilometers north of the historical center of Zadar and is a great option if you want to combine a beach vacation with sightseeing in the city. The district is situated on a wooded peninsula and has several beaches and its own marina. In the south of Borik, there is a small resort village with private apartments, in the northern part there are hotels right on the beach and a campsite by the sea. The beaches in the Borik area are mostly made of coarse and fine pebbles. There are also several good local restaurants in the vicinity, and Restoran Punta by the lighthouse is my personal tip – they prepare delicious seafood here.
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Kolovare district is a great option for staying in Zadar, located 1 km from Old Town. There is vibrant nightlife nearby, and you also have the opportunity to relax by the sea. You can quickly walk to the center and enjoy Zadar’s city museums. In this part of the city, there are several bays along the coast – the beaches are narrow and made of large pebbles. But the sea here is very clean. For a holiday in Zadar, you can find many accommodation options in this area, including numerous apartments next to the beach.
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Petrčane is an especially charming place for a holiday in Zadar. It is located to the north of the port city of Zadar, only 10 kilometers from the historical center. Here there are nice beaches with clean water. Most accommodations are located directly on the seafront. Some of the accommodations even rank among the best hotels in the Zadar region. For example, Falkensteiner Family Hotel Diadora. Petrčane is one of the most popular holiday destinations in this area with a wonderful waterfront and a charming town center with typical Dalmatian stone houses.
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Advantages of staying in Zadar:

You can find inexpensive apartments in Zadar city.
Excellent and scheduled bus service, including from the airport and to nearby places. Or Uber – you can easily order and for 10–12 euros get to your desired beach.
There are nice beaches nearby, and there is also the possibility to take a ferry to neighboring islands (there and back to the beach).
Historic city, there are interesting museums and a beautiful promenade.
It’s easiest to get here from Zadar airport.
There is a small beach directly in the city, but it’s better to go to the neighboring larger ones with nice fine pebbles.

Recommended reading: Zadar – the city and airport where it’s worth starting your trip to Croatia

The best accommodation options and hotels in Zadar:

Guest House Roki & Diva – nice apartment with a great location — the bus station, beach, and city center are all within easy walking distance.
Apartment Populare – small apartments, but well-designed and within walking distance from the Zadar city center. There is convenient and safe parking in the backyard.
Divinity’s Reach – The upper city Zadar – Great location, in the center yet very quiet. Stylish, modern, and comfortable apartment. Excellent amenities for staying in the city center.

Bibinje (Bibinje)

Bibinje is located 8 kilometers south of Zadar and is one of the most beautiful places for a beach holiday near Zadar. There are nice restaurants, cozy cafes, a picturesque promenade, a small old town, numerous beaches, and one of the largest marinas in Croatia.

There are also many excellent accommodation options to choose from, many of which are located right by the sea. Very convenient is the location near Zadar Airport – you can quickly and inexpensively get there by taxi.

Bibinje is a good vacation option for those traveling with small children and on a limited budget. The sea here is clean; the beaches are clean – what more do you need for a good rest?

Advantages of vacation in Bibinje:

Location near the airport – by car 10–15 minutes, taxi costs 12–15 euros.
Many apartments close to the sea, within 2–10 minutes. Focus on the area up to the railway tracks on the map.
If you go to the sea in the morning (8:00-11:00) and after 17:00, it is not very hot in summer here.
You can find shade on the beach, there are stationary umbrellas (free) and changing rooms. If you don’t lie directly by the sea, but a little further back – under the trees.
The beaches are pebbly, but gently sloping and comfortable for children.
Prices for groceries and in cafes are lower than German ones, and a bit lower than those in Kyiv. There is a wide range of housing and cafes, different in location and price, there are small stores and a supermarket 15 minutes’ walk from the center (Spar).
You can get around anywhere with a stroller. There are no significant slopes or climbs, few stairs. There is a seafront and good roads. Many people ride bicycles. Many families with infants.
The vast majority of vacationers here speak German, also many Ukrainians.

Disadvantages of vacation in Bibinje:

Bibinje is a small village, near the industrial zone of Zadar city.
There are no special attractions in Bibinje, but you can get to Zadar and other interesting places by suburban bus.

The best accommodation options and hotels in Bibinje:

Apartment Velika obala 2 – The apartments are near the sea. The view from both balconies is of the sea. The apartments have everything for a comfortable stay: well-equipped kitchen, bathroom with a large boiler and washing machine, comfortable bed. Apartments have been recently renovated. Everything is thought out so you feel at home.
Apartment Mia – Homely atmosphere, silence, breakfast on the terrace in the morning with birdsong, a short walk to the beach under fig and olive trees.
Apartments Mira – Wonderful small apartment. Everything you need and a balcony. Really good value for money. There is a sofa bed, so 3 people can stay.

Zaton

The resort town of Zaton is a very popular vacation spot near Zadar, especially among families with children. Zaton is located about 15 kilometers north of the center of Zadar, it is easier to get here by car.

The main reason tourists come here is the resort complex Zaton Holiday Resort Apartments. It has a beautiful large area, its own camping site – Zaton Holiday Resort Camping Homes, as well as buildings with apartments. There are also pools and a water park, mini-golf, children’s playgrounds, restaurants, and cafes. There is a long sandy beach here, which has a gentle entry into the sea and guarantees safe swimming.

However, in the village of Zaton you can also rent private apartments and holiday homes. In addition, there are many nearby beaches offering the best conditions for a peaceful vacation on the Adriatic Sea.

Advantages of a vacation at Zaton Holiday Resort Apartments:

The complex has a wonderful sandy beach 1.5 kilometers long with partially concreted sunbathing areas. Zaton beach was awarded the Blue Flag.
There are 4 pool zones designed for adults and children of all ages. Guests of the resort can also enjoy a spacious pool area, a cool water park with various slides.
There are also animators for children in the complex – you can leave your child for a while, and adults can relax separately.
Zaton Holiday Resort Camping Homes – a separate area of the resort, where you can stay in mobile homes and glamping tents, which are ideal for a beach vacation.
Two restaurants offer good food – you don’t have to cook yourself if you plan a full relaxation.

Advantages of staying in private apartments in Zaton:

This is an opportunity to holiday on the same beach, but cheaper than at the Zaton resort.
In the town of Zaton there are other beaches, for example Bilotinjak beach in the north of Zaton. This natural bay is only 500 meters from Zaton Holiday Resort and can be easily reached on foot.
Another nice beach in Zaton, a bit away from the hustle and bustle, is Plaza Plise. It’s located slightly south of the center and is especially attractive for its silence. There are far fewer people here.
You can also save money by cooking on your own in the apartments.
If you plan to travel around by car, there are many apartments with their own parking, located near the beach.

Apartments in Zaton near the beach

Aparthotel Lekavski – Excellent pool and access to free bikes for short rides to the beach. Free coffee, convenient parking on the premises, clean room and equipment. Zaton beach is about a 10/15-minute walk, there are several bars and restaurants nearby, and it’s great for sunset photos.
Dalmatian stone cottage – If you are looking for a cozy and quiet place with atmosphere, this is a great choice. Clean apartments, had everything necessary. Great location, design, close to the beach, wonderful beach. There is also a small balcony and private parking space.
Mobile Homes Peroš – another campsite with mobile houses by the Zaton beach. There is a private clean pool, the mobile home has everything a family of four needs. Location – close to the beach and bakery (about 8 minutes walk), beaches are neat and clean, there is a wonderful promenade.

Nin

The town of Nin is located just 17 kilometers from Zadar (a couple of km from Zaton). This is a charming historical old town, and besides that, a nice place for a family holiday. There are cool sandy beaches with shallow water – just ideal for small children.

Ninska Laguna Beach – the main beach of Nin, a sandy beach located on the east side of the lagoon.
Queen’s Beach or Beach of Kings – located west of the city, about 3 kilometers long and the longest sandy beach in Croatia.

In addition, you will find in Nin authentic restaurants, cozy cafes, as well as stylish beach bars. Also, for holidays in this region, Nin offers many good accommodation options.

But there are a couple of disadvantages – there is no natural shade on the beach, so bring umbrellas. And also, the water is very shallow, and to swim properly, you need to walk 200 meters knee-deep in water.

The best accommodation options and hotels in Nin:

Most of the lodging are private apartments and holiday cottages. Many of them are located right on the seafront. There are no large hotels or campgrounds here, which makes this place more peaceful and attractive for those who value a tranquil vacation.

Apartmani Bosiljka – Very convenient location in a quiet and peaceful place. Nearby are large grocery stores, and the city center is 5 minutes’ walk, where you can stroll the waterfront, along archaeological excavations and restaurants. Spacious apartments – ideal for a family: two balconies, air conditioning, dishwasher, large bathroom. With a car, you can choose any beach, and in the evening return to peace and just relax. The hosts are friendly and ready to cooperate, treat guests to their own figs and wine.
Kartini Apartment – great location, 10–15 minutes’ walk to Queen’s Beach. The apartment is comfortable, it has everything you need for cooking or doing laundry. Comfortable beds. Stable internet. The apartment is not far from the town of Nin, 13–15 minutes on foot. The town is small but quite charming. Parking is spacious and quite safe. There are shops near the apartment to buy essentials.

Vir Island

Vir Island is another great place for a vacation not far from Zadar. The island is connected by a bridge to the mainland, so from the airport and Old Town Zadar it is easiest to reach by car. The most beautiful thing in Vir is the many natural sandy beaches and bays. Thanks to its optimal and quite close location, this island is ideal for not only beach holidays, but also for various car trips.

Jadro Beach – a very clean pebble beach with a shallow sandy seabed. This is one of the most popular and at the same time the largest tourist beach on the island. Located in the village of Vir of the same name.
Plaza Zitna – a beautiful elongated bay located to the north of the city of Vir with a shallow pebble beach and shallow entry to the sea. The bottom is partially sandy, which appeals to families with children as well as elderly people.
A large number of small bays with large and small pebbles – an opportunity to escape the crowds of vacationers.

The best accommodation options and hotels:

On Vir Island, you will also find many accommodation offers. Most are private apartments, located right by the sea. There are also cottages for the whole family and small guest houses.

Apartmani Morska Vila – The apartments are clean, bright and spacious, everything required for a comfortable stay – the kitchen is fully equipped, bed linen and bed are very comfortable. The beach is 3 minutes away. Private parking, guests receive a tourist card with which you don’t have to pay for parking at the beach. (The beach is closed by two barriers. You don’t have to pay for parking with this card).
Apartmani Matan Vir – The apartment is clean and spacious enough for a family of four, very well equipped with air conditioning, dishwasher, and washing machine. Excellent location, everything within walking distance. Jadro beach, restaurants, fast food, supermarket, ATM, and bakery are almost at hand. There is private parking. The hosts are very hospitable.
Apartment Novak Vir – clean, spacious, and well-equipped apartment. Sandy beach is very close, about 2–3 minutes easy walk. Very comfortable and good apartment for relaxing and having fun with the family.

Biograd na Moru

Biograd na Moru in Croatia is a popular resort in the southernmost part of the Zadar region. Located 30 km from the airport and the city of Zadar. This romantic old town has a beautiful promenade connecting the city center with the marina and numerous beaches. Here you will find excellent restaurants, cozy bars, pleasant cafes, as well as several shops and boutiques. In the evenings, clubs also open here where you can have fun until early morning.

Biograd na Moru has pebble beaches, but in the surroundings there are also sandy beaches with a great gentle entry with sand and no stones. There are many pine trees by the beaches, making the air wonderful – easy to breathe. And there is shade under the pines – you can stay on the beach all day, especially if you relax in June or September.

Beaches of Biograd na Moru:

Plaza Dražica – is one of the most popular beaches in Biograd. This fine-pebble beach is located on the promenade in the southern part of the old town, it can be reached on foot in just a few minutes. Little shade, but you can buy an umbrella.
Soline Beach – located to the south of the center, not far from the main beach. This is the best beach in Biograd with very fine pebbles, which turn into sand in the sea.
Soline Beach Park – located south of Biograd’s old town, not far from the sandy Soline beach and next to a popular campsite. Along the promenade there are several pebble beaches separated by piers, which are great for swimming and snorkeling. During high season it’s very crowded here because of the neighboring campground.
Plaza Crvena Luka – a long, beautiful bay located about 5 kilometers south of the city, right under the Crvena Luka resort. It is also available to guests not staying at the hotel. Fine pebbles on the beach and there are pines with shade.
Kumenat Beach – almost no infrastructure, absolutely open, no shade even under a bush. The bottom is large pebbles, but the water is as clear as a tear.
Ciuleanu-Veres Beach – located almost on the outskirts of neighboring Pakoštane. An excellent sandy beach with pines, there are sun loungers and umbrellas. The beach is paid, because it belongs to Adriatic Eco Resort. Entrance: €4 for adults, €2 for children, loungers, shower, toilet — all included. Ideal for children: shallow, sandy, safe.

Where to stay in Biograd na Moru:

Camping Park Soline Mobile homes – Excellent location of the campsite, nearby is the beautiful Soline beach, large grounds, great houses, perfect for a family holiday with kids.
Apartments Maya – apartments close to the beach and also to the historic center of Biograd na Moru. Clean rooms with a convenient mini-kitchen with all necessary amenities and a nice terrace. There is parking inside the courtyard.
Villa Daja – clean, nice apartments, located 10 minutes’ walk from the beach. The apartment is perfect for a family of three, close to the Plodine and Konzum supermarkets.

Useful links for travel to Croatia:

Car rental – Rentalcars.com
Hotel bookings and apartments – Booking.com
Travel insurance with discounts – HotlineFinance

Zadar, Croatia – where to stay for a seaside holiday

Old Town Zadar