A few weeks ago, I published a post about the itinerary that we followed in Croatia last month. The place I loved the most in the whole trip was Hvar. We spent two days there and the nices spot we found there were the Paklinsky Islands.
Where are the Paklinsky Islands
The Paklinsky islands are a small group of tiny islands in Croatia. They are located in front of Hvar (you can actually see them from town), another island that is halfway between Dubrovnik and Split. Hvar is a beautiful stop to consider when tranferring by ferry from Dubrovnik to Split, or the other way around. Even though considered by many a party island, there’s no party unless you look for it. The Paklinsky islands are the perfect way to spend, if not a week, at least a day relaxing in the sun.
What are these islands
These islands are quite unique geographically speaking. Just look at the Google Map image. The Paklinsky Islands don’t have any inhabitants and there are only a few bars and restaurants here and there, but not in all islands. Most of the grouns is mostly a bunch of rocks (like most beaches in Croatia), with some trees and bushes here and there. For that reason, do not wear flip flops if you want to explore the island, there were some people there with us who regretted their shoe choice. Also, most of the bushes are dry and VERY pointy. I actually got a couple of wounds from walking around in my bikini. Be careful!
How get there and beaches in the first island
From the port of Hvar, taxi boats depart to the first island every time that a boat is full (for 5 euros return). This often translates into 2 to 3 times per hour on high to mid season. The trip takes less than 10 minutes and they take you to a small pier in Paklinsky. Right the pier there’s already a tiny and cute beach surrounded by pines. The only problem about it is that, during most of the day, an important part of the beach is in the shadows. In any case, it could be an easy option if you do not want to walk much and you are bothered by naked bodies.
What? Naked bodies? Yes. Passed the small beach there is a bar, and passed it, a nudist beach. I personally don’t care about being in a beach with naturists or more shy people, but it is nice that you can have both options. In peak season though, they ask people who want to keep their clothes on to not invade the nudist beach so that the space can be reserved. We were there in September and there were quite some people sunbathing, both with clothes on and off, and no one seemed to care. Which is often the case in these beaches, if you ask me.
Exploring the islands in another way
There is a second option on how to get to the Paklinsky Islands: renting a boat. Even though visiting these islands was in my list, it was our host Lucija that told us about this option. For about fifty euros a day, you could rent a boat from Hvar for the whole day. Without the need of anything else than a driving license, you could drive to any part of these islands and jump out to the sea. We decided not to do it because we wanted to do a cheap trip, but if you are going with more people, or even if you are going alone and want to spoil yourself… Well, it must be an amazing experience!
The nicest part about the Paklinsky Islands
Finally, the best parts about these islands are the hidden spots. Following some “roads” you can get to completely secluded places hidden from the island. Just by walking for 10 minutes you can enjoy of your own piece of private beach, and your piece of sea. We found a couple of rocks from where to relax for a bit and only two people passed near us for the rest of the day. We did find some other people later (which turned into a quite funny story tbh, but I will tell you about it in another time).
Because the islands stop most of the tide from the sea, the water is very quiet and extremely clean. You can see it in the video right above. The most clear water I have ever seen. The camera was capable of filming meters away, and the currents were minimal. It was our own private piece of heaven.
For me, this was one of those places you know you will always remember. What about you, do you have any sweet memory from a place like this?
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Wow, I love the video of the water – it’s clear as glass! Thanks for sharing!
It’s one of the clearest water I have seen in my life!
I’d never heard of these islands around Hvar before! They look absolutely amazing, and I would definitely love to visit them! Thanks for all the helpful tips (including what to wear)!
Beautiful! I haven’t been to Croatia but I definitely would love to visit.
I love knowing about this ‘secret spot’! My husband’s mother is from Croatia and he’s never been – It’s very high on our travel bucket list. Thanks for the tips.
OKAY this place looks amazing!! Dying to go to Croatia soon!
This looks like a beautiful paradise! Croatia has been on my bucket list for years – I’m adding these islands!
I’ve never even heard of these islands! They look fab. I’ll have to make it to Croatia one of these days and hit them up!
Wow, that water clarity! I love Croatian islands and these are definitely ones I’d like to visit now. Thanks for all the tips!
I’ve heard nothing but amazing things about Croatia! Thanks for the tips!
I have to agree with Hvar having the clearest water! I absolutely love the Pakleni islands and have been visiting them every week for the past 4 summers as a tour guide in croatia! <3
Fabulous photographs! A few of my family members have been out that way and I was jealous BEFORE reading this. At least I know what area I want to focus on…Thanks!
This is a place I would love to visit! I also checked your Croatian itinerary. I like that is at a slow pace. As I have never been to Croatia I am saving it for future reference.