The Complete Pakoštane Beach Guide: From Family Fun to Hidden Coves
One of the best things about Pakoštane? You're not stuck with just one beach. Depending on your mood—whether you want beach volleyball and ice cream stands or complete solitude—there's a spot for you within walking distance.
Here's our honest guide to Pakoštane's beaches, organized by what you're actually looking for.
Best for Families with Kids
Janice Beach (5-minute walk from Lukenda Rooms)
This is Pakoštane's "city beach" and the most popular for good reason.
Why families love it:
- Shallow, sandy entry into the sea (perfect for little ones)
- Concrete platforms for easy access
- Beach volleyball, kayaks, SUPs, pedal boats available
- Cafés and snack bars right on the beach
- Public showers and changing facilities
The trade-off: There is no natural shade, so bring an umbrella or rent a lounger with shade (available on-site). During July and August, it gets busy, but that's also when the beach vibe is most lively.
Local tip: Visit early in the morning (before 10 AM) or late in the afternoon (after 5 PM) to avoid peak crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos.
Punta Beach (18-minute walk)
Just past the harbor, Punta offers a mix of pebbles and stone platforms.
Why families choose it:
- Calmer than Janice, but still with amenities
- Some natural shade from trees
- Pedal boat and water sports rentals
- Family-friendly events and activities during summer
- Easy access from the promenade
Good to know: A mix of pebble and platform means water shoes are helpful.
Best for Active Beachgoers
Oh, Entschuldigung! Hier ist die korrigierte Version:
Best for Privacy & Nature Lovers
Pine Beach (25-minute walk)
This is where things get more exclusive. Pine Beach is a resort beach with an entrance fee, but it delivers.
Why it's worth it:
Stunning white velvet sand (rare on the Croatian coast!)
Well-maintained facilities
Family-friendly entertainment program
Less crowded even in high season (entrance fee filters crowds)
Beautiful, clean environment
The catch: Entrance fee applies. Best suited for a full beach day rather than a quick swim.
Best for Active Beachgoers
Pilatuša Beach (35-minute walk)
A large area surrounded by pine trees at the northern end of Pakoštane.
What makes it special:
Natural shade! The pine forest keeps things cooler
Lots of space to spread out
Water sports central: kayaking, SUP, pedal boats
Several snack stands
Nudist-friendly area (more north, up the hill)
Perfect for: Groups who want activities, nature lovers, people who hate beach umbrellas
Note: It's a longer walk, but you can also bike there easily or take the car.
Forest “Beach” (15-minute walk)
A beautiful walk through shaded paths leads you to wilder, more natural beach areas.
What to expect:
- Rocky/natural coastline
- Lots of shade from surrounding forest
- Much quieter than main beaches
- Great for snorkeling (bring goggles!)
Important: Pack water, snacks, and water shoes. No facilities here—it's pure nature.
Best for: Couples, photographers, anyone seeking that "undiscovered Croatia" feeling
Best Beach Experience: Vrgada Island
Vrgada Sandy Beach (15-minute ferry from Pakoštane harbor)
Okay, technically not a Pakoštane beach, but you can see this island from our terrace, so we're counting it.
Why locals obsess over it:
- Genuine sandy beach (super rare in Croatia!)
- No cars on the entire island
- Only 249 residents
- Crystal-clear water
- Pine forests for shade
- Authentic island taverns
How to get there: Public ferry runs several times daily. Check the timetable at (confirm times for Sundays and seasonal changes). During high season you might have to buy the tickets in advance.
Pro tip: Make it a full day. Pack a picnic, take a hike on the island, explore. It's worth it.
Want to Know Where Locals Go?
Here's the thing about high season (July 11 - August 20): the main beaches get busy. Not Dubrovnik-level insane, but busy enough that if you're seeking total peace, you'll want alternatives.
We know the secret spots: the little coves, the beaches locals don't advertise, the times and places where you'll have the Adriatic almost to yourself.
Just ask us when you arrive. We're happy to share our insider knowledge based on what you're looking for: snorkeling spots, sunset beaches, family-friendly hidden gems, or romantic coves.
Some secrets are better shared in person. 😉
General Beach Tips for Croatia
Sea urchins are real: Wear water shoes, especially on rocky beaches. They're not everywhere, but better safe than sorry.
Bring snorkeling gear: The underwater world here is stunning, especially around rocky areas.
Tap water is drinkable (in Pakoštane): Yes, even the showers at public beaches. Fill up your bottles!
Peak sun hours: 11 AM - 3 PM gets HOT (often 35°C+). Seek shade or plan beach time around these hours.
Best months for swimming:
- June: Warm enough (22-24°C water), fewer people
- July-August: Warmest water (25-27°C), most crowded
- September: Still warm (23-25°C), way fewer tourists—our favorite!
May and October might also be some lucky months!
See you on the beach!
Ana & Sanja
