The most popular city beach, Kolovare combines convenience with comfort. It’s a graceful blend of pebbles and concrete, shaded by pines and backed by lively cafés. Expect amenities like loungers, showers, water sports, and a leisurely sunset scene.
Location: Just south of Old Town, highly walkable
Facilities: Sunbeds, showers, volleyball, kiddie zone, nearby cafés
Best For: Quick city dip, family outings, sunset watching
North of the Old Town lies Borik Beach—expansive, semi-sandy, and active. With a large waterfront, easy parking, rentals, and watersports on offer, it’s one of Zadar’s liveliest shores and fits families and groups seeking more space.
Distance: 4 km from center, part of a resort area
Facilities: Rentals, sports, eateries; small entry fee applies
Best For: Spacious lounging, activities, water fun
Tucked near Zadar’s marina and fronted by a lighthouse, Puntamika offers a charming, less touristy vibe. Its calm, shallow waters make it perfect for families, and the sunset view here is quietly unforgettable.
Atmosphere: Romantic and tranquil, with deep local feel
Access: Walkable or by short car ride; little parking
Best For: Sunset moments, family swims, low-key strolls
A rocky-leaning beach with pebbled dips, Punta Bajlo exudes a sporty, pine-shaded ambiance. With a small bar and the option to cliff-jump or volley, it’s ideal for active visitors looking for both chill and thrill.
Type: Pebble and rock beach with forest shade
Facilities: Beach bar, volleyball nets, snack corner
Best For: Cliff-jumping, light activity, shade breaks
Located just north of Zadar near Nin, this unusual sandbank beach features shallow, warm waters on both sides—perfect for playing picigin (a Croatian water game) or kitesurfing. Its long, narrow sandbank makes it truly unique.
Location: Nin Lagoon, 30 min drive from Zadar
Facilities: Rentals for water sports, scenic views
Best For: Adventurous water fun, shallow-family play, standout scenery
This gently curved shoreline is one of Croatia’s longest sandy beaches. Known for its smoothing therapeutic mud and serene shallow waters, it’s a favorite for families and those seeking gentle coastal rhythms.
Distance: Near Nin, accessible by car
Extras: Healing mud zones, family atmosphere
Best For: Therapeutic mud cover-ups, sandcastle-building, peaceful lounge time
A trip-worthy escape from Zadar, Sakarun on Dugi Otok stuns with white sands and aquamarine waters. With lush dunes, calm sea, and postcard-perfect calm, it’s a top choice for dreamy beach days—worth the ferry ride.
Access: Ferry from Zadar to Dugi Otok, then local transit
Vibe: Pristine and serene; less crowded, very photogenic
Best For: Island day trips, beach serenity, swimming in dreamy hues
Zadar’s coastline delivers character, variety, and ease. Whether you want the cozy familiarity of Kolovare, coastal activity at Borik, sunset magic at Puntamika, or dreamlike island shores like Sakarun—you’re never far from a shoreline that fits your travel vibe.