Without argument Hideout Festival has been the leading festival on Zrće beach for the last decade. If anything, Hideout festival's pioneering team of UK promoters forged the way and showed other festivals just how things should be done here in Croatia on a big scale.
Since year one, the promoters have consistently thrown everything into booking emphatic line ups and the yearly program is simply a "who’s who" of House, Techno, Bass, and Drum & Bass global superstars.
Located in the heart of the Adriatic Sea, Zrće Beach on Pag island is a stunning destination renowned for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful scenery, and vibrant dance music nightlife.
The unique location provides the perfect backdrop for a festival that is all about music, culture and unforgettable experiences.
The Novalja Local team have attended every single Hideout since it started back in 2011 so, of course, we were super excited to get the chance to experience the 2023 edition!
This is how it went down...
Hideout Festival 2023 Review
Day 1: Sunday 25th June
Daytime
Everyone had just arrived in the town of Novalja, they're all fresh-faced, and full of Adriatic enthusiasm, so to kick off the festival with the famous Hideout Zrce beach party had everyone properly buzzing with first day anticipation.
We got down to the impressive Zrće beach clubbing zone in time to to see our old Ibiza friend Hannah Wants, dropping her familiar beats and already the crowd was going suitably bonkers.
Hannah has been a huge part of Hideout for many years now, so to see her booting off the festival, just like DJ EZ and Fisher have done in the past, was pretty cool to see! And well deserved too!
Hannah’s energy is infectious, she has her own sound, is a firm crowd favourite and you could feel the music pulsing throughout the beach party arena.
After Hannah's set, it was Sonny Fodera's turn to take the reins. And let me tell you, he did not disappoint. The crowd was already hyped by Hannah's performance, but Sonny took things to the next level.
The combination of Hannah Wants and Sonny Fodera was a clever way to start off the festival and if the beach party is anything to go by, we're in for an incredible Hideout Festival 2023.
Night Time
As the sun dipped into the sea we then moved next door to Papaya Zrce Beach Club for the evening fun to begin.
First up, North Base took control of the decks, dropping their beats and bass-lines which ignited the night.
Their energy was bouncing, and the crowd couldn't resist getting lost in the music. It was the perfect start to an unforgettable evening!
But the D&B didn't stop there!
The legendary Chase and Status were up next unleashing their signature Drum& Bass sound.
And holy moly, did they deliver!
The combination of heavy beats and catchy melodies had the Papaya open-air crowd in a opening day frenzy.
As the night reached its peak, it was time for Charlie Tee to take center stage. She had everyone hooked from the first track.
All in all, the atmosphere on Day one was typically Hideout - AWESOME!
The variety of music was spot on, and the fresh energy of the UK crowd shook the very foundation of all the open-air venues.
It was definitely a day and night to remember, and the perfect way to open up Hideout 2023.
Read this next: Noa Beach Club Zrce – More Than Just a Club.
Day 2: Monday 26th June
Daytime
Day 2 brought the heat again as the awesome Aquarius Zrće beach club venue now came into play!
By the time we got down to the beach the venue was already rocking and we were lucky enough to see two powerhouses of the electronic music scene, Darius Syrossian and Alan Fitzpatrick, in fine form!
Darius knew exactly how to deliver the electronic energy to the Aquarius Zrce beach club. People were losing it on the dance floor and vibing from the enormous, but heaving, VIP terrace that overlooks the entire right-hand side of the dance floor!
Following Darius, it was time for the unmistakable sounds of Mr. Alan Fitzpatrick to take over the decks! And yep he meant business!
His signature blend of techno and house had Aquarius bouncing.
The energy throughout the whole day at Aquarius Zrce nightclub was off the charts. We LOVED it!
It was a wicked few hours! The beats were pumping, the bass was thumping, and the crowd was full on.
The daytime on show energy proved that the Hideout festival had no intention of slowing down.
Night Time
After the fun and games of Aquarius, it was time for something a little bit different!
We quickly nipped into Noa Beach Club for a little boogie as we knew that another Ibiza favourite of ours Doorly was spinning!
After we composed ourselves a little it, had a few quiet drinks in the VIP, it was then back over into the madness of Papaya
The Papaya stage was already set for a drum and bass extravaganza, featuring a lineup including Harriet Jackson, and the revered drum and bass king, Andy C. Get ready to witness the power of bass!
Harriet Jackson was on the decks when we arrived, already unleashing her beats and captivating the upfront crowd with her mesmerising energy!
Of course, the night would not be complete without the legendary Ram Records founder, Andy C, the drum and bass maestro performing himself.
As he stepped up to the decks you could feel the excitement fill the air.
Andy C took the crowd on a sonic journey like no other. The bass dropped, the drums intensified, and the crowd couldn't get enough, craving every beat and bass-line that reverberated through Payaya Zrće!
The sounds of the D&B echoed long into the night on day 2!
Read this next: Aquarius Zrće: The Next Chapter of the Zrće Beach Book.
Day 3: Tuesday 27th June
We had been particularly looking forward to Day 3 as Ben Hemsley was booked to takeover the main stage at Papaya.
He is currently one of our favourite break through artists so we wanted to get down there super early for him.
Plus, it was a double whammy as we also got to see Alan Fitzpatrick for a second time!
Alan Fitzpatrick was spinning before Ben, and he wasted no time in delivering yet another fierce Techno set that really set the stage for Mr. Hemsley!
And OMG Ben Hemsley brought his A++ game!
Let me tell you, he played one of the most memorable sets of the entire festival. Just check the video out below:
From start to finish, his track selection was on point, creating a set with so many different styles of music all intertwined.
Ben's set was “odličino”! (which is excellent in Croatian!)
The dancefloor was an Adriatic sea of bouncing beach clothed bodies, the crowd noise was immense, and it was so refreshing to see so few mobile phones being stuck in the air!
This lot was really here to party! And party they did! As you can see in the video it really went off the Richter scale.
Ben Hemsley truly brought the Croatian heat and beats, he connected with the audience (even signing a customised yellow "Caution, Slippery when wet" floor sign that a fan had brought with them bizarrell, and his set will leave a lasting impression on me and everyone lucky enough to be there!
Sadly, by the end of Ben’s set, we were a bit pooped!
Our energy levels were running on red by day 3 so we decided to call it a day and have an early night to recharge the batteries for Hideout Day 4!
Read this next: Papaya Club Zrće – Arguably The BEST Open Air Club in the World
Day 4: Wednesday 8th June
Daytime
Batteries fully charged to 100% and English breakfast polished off!
Day 4 is another delicious daytime outing, this time to the oldest venue (founded in 1989) on the beach, and one of our favourite Pag Island locations, Kalypso Zrće
The highlight of the day for many was Patrick Topping who has been another firm fixture at Hideout since the very early days of the festival.
Sarah Story warmed things up before Patrick, creating the perfect audio backdrop as the Kalypso Zrće dance floor filled up nicely!
The dance floor was filled to the brim with smiling faces and tanned bods, as they surrendered to the open air sounds and letting all their worries melt away in the daytime sunshine.
Sarah Story definitely knew how to keep the daytime vibes flowing, and created the perfect atmosphere for Patrick to follow on from.
But, you guessed it, it was Patrick Topping who truly stole the show.
He is definitely a DJ of the moment, and he took us on a journey with a set filled with surprises, plus he dropped some unusual and fun remixes that had the crowd going radio-rental.
The energy was bonkers, and the atmosphere was typically 'Topping' supercharged!
Patrick Topping had everyone jiving, singing along, and it was a testament to his skill as a DJ and understanding of what makes the Hideout crowd tick.
Night Time
As the sun set we decided to embark on a club-hopping adventure all around Zrće beach.
That’s the beauty of the Zrće beach festival location, there are so many world-class open-air venues within a few hundred metres of each other.
Aquarius, Papaya, Noa, and Kalypso Zrće all feature very highly in DJ Mag’s Top 100 clubs!
So festival goers are utterly spoiled for choice! Especially when a big festival like Hideout are in town
There was a load of artists sprinkled all across the beach that we wanted to catch up with so we decided to stretch our feet and managed to have a boogie to sets from Skream, Girls Don't Sync, Mystique, Ewan Mcvicar, and several others whose names I didn't even have take the time to catch.
Each Zrće venue injects its own unique flavour into the festival experience so it was cool to experience them all in just a few hours.
As we flittered from club to club, the excitement never waned. The dance floors were packed with enthusiastic festival-goers, all loving the Hideout experience and making lifelong festival memories!
It is no wonder people come back year after year to Hideout Festival.
Read this next: Kalypso Club Zrće: It all Started Here in 1987
Day 5: Thursday 9th June
The Grand Finalé
Day 5 of the festival was all set up as the epic finalé which had us buzzing with excitement mixed with a tinge of last-day sadness.
After catching some rays on on our local beach and having a beautiful lunch/dinner and Bazilika in Novalja we began our last voyage to Zrće Beach!
Our first stop was to catch the fabulous Honey Dijon at Papaya in the late afternoon.
The Papaya atmosphere was rocking as she controlled the stage, bringing her unique blend of beats and soulful melodies.
After a dazzling set by Honey Dijon, it was time to make our way over to Noa Beach Club for the grand finale of the festival.
Mason Collective set the stage alight with his high-octane performance, delivering an explosive mix of house and techno that had the dance floor pumping.
And then, the moment we had been waiting for arrived.
One of our all time favourite artists, Locodice, took over the decks and unleashed a performance that topped the festival off for us just perfectly.
Noa Beach Club transformed into a sanctuary of Locodice love and electronic beats, as he guided us on his usual musical journey that we never wanted to end.
The crowd again was the pulsating heartbeat of the festival, radiating positive energy and creating an atmosphere full of fun and togetherness.
As the festival came to a close, we couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia mixed with some sore feet and foggy heads!
Hideout Festival once again delivered a wicked festival experience, with Day 5 being a fitting closing show!
Hideout Festival Review 2023: The Verdict
Overall Hideout Festival in Croatia was an absolute blast! Over the course of five unforgettable days, we experienced a non-stop party at some of the best open-air clubs on the planet filled with a typical Hideout blend of electronic music combined with non-stop energy from the ravers!
I have to say that the people who made the effort to come to Croatia were just ace!
They totally made it for us. Everyone was so friendly!
There is a lot of talk about party people using their phones too much and attending festivals primarily so they can post on TikTok on Instagram.
Well, that couldn’t be further from the truth here. You only have to look at the couple of videos in this post to see that. The dance floor vibe was POPPING!
The audience we experienced and danced with were here for a damn good party and what they they all generated between them was top notch!
So hats off to them!
From the daytime beach parties, and crazy boat parties to the open-air night time club experiences, this festival has it all.
The lineup is always stacked with talented artists who seem to embrace Zrće Beach by always bringing their A-game.
Each day at Hideout offers its own unique musical journey and that is hard to find these days.
Hideout festival provides the perfect escape, it offers a world class festival location where people can let their hair down, and dance music takes center stage.
Whether you wanted to lose it on the beach, immerse yourselves in the House and Techno or Bass line beats or simply make new friends with like-minded music lovers, Hideout festival united everyone in a shared musical experience on breathtaking Croatian island.
Hideout Festival, thank you AGAIN for an incredible journey filled with a load of music, laughter, endless moments of dance music magic, and sleepless nights. We can't wait to do it all over again!
But first time for some kip!
Hideout Festival: Your Festival Guide
The Hideout Festival is an experience like no other. It offers a chance to dance to the biggest DJ lineups, generally at a much lower price than alternative places like Ibiza, and to discover emerging artists from all across the electronic music spectrum.
Beyond the music, the festival offers a range of activities and attractions that cater to all interests, from relaxing on the beach to taking part in exciting water sports.
The festival attracts a crowd mainly from the United Kingdom and Ireland, all united by their love of electronic dance music and a desire to have fun.
With a range of ticketing options and accommodation packages, it's never been easier to join the Hideout community and experience the magic of this week long unforgettable festival.
We'll take a closer look at the history and background of the Hideout Festival, explore the types of music and artists featured at the event, and delve into the importance of Zrće Beach as the festival's location.
We'll also offer some tips on how to make the most of your Hideout Festival experience.
History and Background
The Hideout Festival was first launched in 2011 by a group of UK-based event promoters who wanted to bring something fresh to the festival circuit.
Their aim was to create a festival that combined world-class electronic dance music with a stunning, unique location, and an unparalleled atmosphere.
They chose Zrće Beach in Croatia as the festival's home due to its stunning scenery, clear waters, and exciting nightlife.
Hideout Festival has been consistently one of Europe’s leading electronic music festivals over the last decade.
Hideout festival is scheduled over 5 jam-packed days and they fully involve every key venue available on Zrce beach.
Since its inception, the Hideout Festival has grown in popularity, attracting over 15,000 music fans from across the globe.
The festival has featured an impressive lineup of electronic dance music stars, including Locodice, Hannah Wants, and Andy C, as well as up-and-coming DJs and producers.
Overview of the types of music and artists featured at the festival:
The festival's stages host some of the most exciting names in the industry, from house and techno to bass, disco, drum and bass and more.
The festival's five-day lineup features over 100 artists across multiple stages, ensuring that there's something for everyone.
Attendees can expect to hear the latest tracks and remixes, as well as classic anthems that are sure to get the crowd moving.
Importance of Zrće Beach
Zrće Beach's stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and lively nightlife make it the perfect location for the Hideout Festival.
The festival takes over several clubs and outdoor stages, including the famous Papaya club, Aquarius Club and Kalypso Club, both of which boast incredible views of the Adriatic Sea.
With alternative beach stages right and others locations around outside of Zrce, Hideout Festival truly takes advantage of Zrće Beach's and Novalja’s unique surroundings.
Overall, the combination of world-class electronic dance music, stunning scenery, and lively atmosphere makes the Hideout Festival at Zrće Beach an unmissable experience for any music lover.
It is undisputedly one of the biggest and best festivals in Croatia.
Festival experience
The parties roll on all day by the pool and all night on the main stages so expect a suntan, many sleepless nights and a head full of unforgettable memories.
Hideout Festival offers a unique and exciting experience for attendees. The festival is known for its high-energy performances, stunning surroundings, and lively atmosphere.
With am eclectic range of music genres and performances from both established and emerging artists, there's something for everyone at the Hideout Festival.
World Class Line Ups
Previous Hideout Festival artists have included Seth Troxler, Nina Kraviz, MK, Patrick Topping, Camelphat, Alan Fitzpatrick, SBTRKT, Ricardo Villalobos, Annie Mac, Skrillex, Four Tet, Andy C, Jamie Jones, DJ EZ, Pendulum, Modeselektor, Disclosure, Rudimental, Solomun, Sasha, Derrick Carter, Gorgon City, Eats Everything, Jamie XX, Hot Since 82 and Hannah Wants.
Yep, a monumental list of artists for the juggernaut UK festival here on Zrće.
Festival Vibe
Hideout Festival is known for its lively, British and welcoming atmosphere, with attendees all coming together to party hard.
And it is a party, the energy is far more wild than some of the other festivals you may find in Europe.
The Hideout audience come to dance...not sunbathe!
As the sun sets, the festival comes alive with the headline events kicking in across all the main stages on the beach.
The daytime vibe takes on a different, but still as energy driven, vibe. The festival's beach parties and pool party stages are a big highlight for many attendees, with DJs playing music against the stunning backdrop of the Adriatic Sea and the Velebit mountains.
Hideout Festival's combination of stunning scenery, high-energy performances, multiple arenas and a lively atmosphere make it an unforgettable experience for any music lover with many people returning year on year.
Activities and Attractions
Hideout Festival offers much more than just music, with a range of activities and attractions available to attendees throughout the festival.
Attendees can also take part in a range of water sports, including jet-skiing, parasailing, paddle-boarding or if you are brave enough, even a bungee jump.
There are also opportunities to explore the surrounding area, with excursions available to nearby islands and other tourist destinations.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the festival also offers yoga and wellness activities, as well as spa treatments and massages.
Food and drink
Hideout Festival offers a range of food and drink options to keep attendees fuelled throughout the festival.
Food stalls and vendors on the beach itself offer a variety of options, from traditional Croatian dishes to international cuisine. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available.
The festival also offers a range of bars and drink vendors, including specialty cocktail bars and VIP areas with table service.
Attendees can enjoy a range of drinks, from ice-cold beers to refreshing cocktails, while dancing the night away.
Surrounding area
Zrće Beach is located 5 kilometres from the town of Novalja, which is known for its stunning scenery and unique culture. The island is home to several historic towns and landmarks, including the famous Pag lace, a centuries-old tradition of handmade lace production.
Novalja offers a range of tourist attractions, including bars, restaurants, wonderful beaches, and shopping.
The town's rich history is on display in the form of ancient ruins, including a Roman aqueduct and a variety of world famous cheese factories.
Tips for Attending
Attending the Hideout Festival is an unforgettable experience, but it's important to plan ahead to ensure that you make the most of your time at the festival.
Here are some tips to help you prepare:
What to Wear
It's important to pack appropriately for the festival, taking into account the warm weather and beach setting.
Comfortable, lightweight clothing and shoes are a must, as well as plenty of sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun. It's also a good idea to bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the festival.
Tickets and Accommodations
Tickets for the Hideout Festival typically go on sale in the months leading up to the event, and early-bird tickets are often available at a discounted rate.
It's important to purchase tickets from an authorized seller to avoid scams or counterfeit tickets.
Accommodations options include hostels, hotels, and apartments. Many attendees choose to stay in the nearby town of Novalja or Gajac, which offers a range of accommodation options. It's important to book accommodations early to avoid missing out, as the festival attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Transportation
During the festival, attendees can take advantage of the festival's shuttle buses, which run between the festival venues and nearby towns. Taxis in Novalja and car rentals are also available, but it's important to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE
Planning ahead and being prepared is key to enjoying the Hideout Festival to the fullest. By packing appropriately, booking accommodations early, and considering transportation options, attendees can make the most of their festival experience and create unforgettable memories.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated at Hideout Festival is extremely important to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable time. Here are some tips to help you stay hydrated throughout the festival:
Drink plenty of water: Make sure to drink water regularly throughout the day, especially if you are dancing or spending time in the sun. Carry a refillable water bottle with you at all times and make use of the water stations available throughout the festival.
Avoid overdoing the alcohol: Drinking alcohol can dehydrate you, so it's important to be careful with your alcohol consumption and alternate alcoholic drinks with water or other non-alcoholic beverages.
Eat water-rich foods: Eating fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumber, and strawberries, can help keep you hydrated.
Take breaks: Take breaks from the sun and dancing to rest in the shade and drink water.
Wear light-colored and loose clothing: Wearing light-colored and loose clothing can help you stay cool and reduce the risk of dehydration.
Remember, staying hydrated is crucial for your health and safety while attending Hideout Festival. So make sure to drink plenty of water and take care of yourself throughout the event.
Hideout Festival: Summary
Hideout Festival at Zrće Beach is once in a lifetime experience that combines world-class electronic dance music with stunning scenery, exciting activities, and a lively atmosphere.
Hideout Festival offers a diverse range of electronic dance music genres, with performances from both established and emerging artists.
The festival's multiple stages, beach parties, and boat parties offer a variety of musical experiences, while the range of activities and attractions provide something for everyone.
The festival's welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, set against the stunning backdrop of Zrće Beach, make it an unmissable event for any music lover.