Croatia is actually sprinkled with over a thousand islands 1,244 to be precise, like tiny hidden jewels across the sea. Not many of them are inhabited, but each one is unique in its own way.
Now, simply imagine a colourful patchwork quilt. Some patches are green with dense forests, whilst some are golden with sandy beaches, and others are dotted with picturesque coastal villages.
Each has its own charm. It's the exact same with these islands. Some have amazing hiking trails, others offer delicious local food, others have incredible festivals, and some will take you on a trip back in time with their historical locations.
There's always something fresh to explore or find here on the coast of Croatia. Each island has its own local festivals, music, and dances. And let's not forget the food - it is out of this world!
So which are the best Croatian islands to visit?
Vrbnik Town , Krk Island, Croatia
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Krk Island: The Golden Island
The first stop on our tour is Krk Island. It is nicknamed, The Golden Island. That is not because there's physical gold buried there, but it is because the island is so rich in beauty and history.
One of the most popular spots in Krk is the old town of Krk. It's like walking into a fairy tale with its ancient stone houses and beautiful winding streets. And then there are the beaches.
Just imagine this, warm, golden sand under your feet, the sun shining down, and the clear blue sea stretching out before you.
That’s Krk!!
Have you ever been inside a real cave? There's one here called Biserujka Cave. It's got amazing stalactites and stalagmites, which are those pointy rock things that grow from the ceiling and floor.
Now, the food. The local people love prosciutto, which is a kind of cured ham. And their wine - they are big wine fans.
To get to Krk, you can take a car or a bus but as it is an island you will have to take the bridge which connects the mainland to Krk. You can visit Krk all year around as it's got something special each season.
The famous Pag Bridge, entrance to Pag Island by car.
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Pag Island: The Island of Lace and Cheese
Welcome to Pag Island, an amazing place that's famous for several things - lace, cheese, and wild festivals. Yeah, that is some combination!
First, let's talk lace. They've been making Pag lace for centuries and it is ‘woven’ into the island’s heritage. It is a very unique type of lace as each piece is like a work of art. You can even visit a lace museum here to see this beautiful craft up close. Check out this article about Pag lace here.
Next up is cheese. Believe it or not but Pag is one of the most famous cheese-production areas in the World. Pag Island is home to a special kind of sheep that grazes on the local herbs and plants.
Due to Pag’s unique location, the plant life has a high level of salt which filters down into the flavour of the cheese,
It's called Paski Sir (Pag Cheese), it's loved by foodies all over the world and you can read more about it in this article here.
Pag Island isn't just about lace and cheese, though. You've got the town of Novalja, with its historic buildings and cute little streets. And of course, the famous party beach of Zrće.
Zrće Beach is home to five of the best open-air superclubs in the world and every year tens of thousands of revelers come to dance at the globally recognized festivals.
So, how do you get to Pag? Like Krk, it is connected to the mainland by a bridge, so you can just drive over in a car or bus.
And finally, when’s best to visit? It is obviously a beautiful place to visit all year round but the spring and summer are especially enjoyable with lots of festivals and events.
Hvar Town
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Hvar Island: The Sunny Island
Next on our list is Hvar. This has a nickname too, Sunny Island. This is because it's one of the sunniest places in all of Croatia.
Imagine this. You're standing in a field of purple lavender flowers, and that unmistakable sweet scent fills the air. That's what it's like on Hvar because it's covered in lavender fields. Bliss!
So, what is there to do in Hvar? Let's start with the town of Hvar, where you can explore a real castle, and mooch around Stari Grad, which is one of the oldest towns in Europe.
Some of the streets are over two thousand years old!
If you fancy a beach and swim day then there is a group of tiny islands right off the coast of Hvar which are called the Pakleni island. Perfect for a day of swimming and sun worshipping.
When it comes to food, you are in for a treat in Hvar. There is an abundance of fresh seafood caught that day, mouthwatering local dishes, and for the adults, some really excellent wines.
There is no bridge this time so in order to get to Hvar you'll need to take a ferry or a catamaran, and it's a beautiful ride across the sea.
What is the best time to visit? Anytime but if you love the sun, summer is definitely your best bet.
View of Korcula old town on Korcula island, Croatia
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Korcula Island: The Emerald Isle
Another island with a nickname. Korcula is known as the Emerald Isle because it's so green and lush. It's like stepping into a Croatian magical forest!
Korcula town is the star attraction here. There is a mini fortress surrounded by the ultra-blue sea. The town has narrow cobblestone streets, ancient old houses, and even a cathedral that you can visit.
The sandy beaches are hidden amongst the forests so it is a great island to get your exploration head on.
And yes, it is another established wine production area. Korcula is famous for its vineyards. They spread out for acres rolling over the Korcula hills. Ultimately, they make some fantastic wines here so when in Rome!
To get to Korcula you can take a ferry from the mainland or direct from Hvar. The summer is when the island really comes alive with all music festivals and other island-based events.
Vis town, Franciscan monastery and harbour, Vis Island, Croatia
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Vis Island: The Remote Paradise
Vis is a bit out of the way compared to the other islands above s, but it's totally worth the trip.
First, there's Vis Town, a lovely little place that is again lined with old stone houses, winding cobbled streets, and friendly local people.
Close by you have, Komiza, a cute fishing village where you can really take in the local way of life.
Vis is also famous for its Blue Cave! Have you ever seen a blue cave?
I'm not joking, the water in the Blue Cave on Vis Island actually glows blue. It's like something out of a sci-fi movie!
Again the food on Vis is amazing. The fish is caught daily so it can’t be any fresher, there is an array of local dishes, and, of course, some excellent local wines. You won’t want to leave.
To get to Vis, you'll have to hop on a ferry. It's a bit longer journey, but hey, that is all part of the adventure.
Summers are great with all the sunshine, but it's pretty amazing across all the other seasons too.
Best Croatia Islands To Visit: Summary
And there you have it! This is just a handful of the 1000 or so islands that sit off the coast of the mainland.
Each one has its own unique charm and experience. Remember, these are just a handful of the stunning islands in Croatia.
There are countless more waiting to be explored. Who knows, maybe one day, you'll set sail and discover your own favourite island.
Whether it's the fabulous beaches, the world-class food, the ancient history, or just the joy of exploring something new, I hope this virtual journey has got you thinking about an island-hopping adventure!