Split is the most Mediterranean city in Croatia. It has that special kind of vibe and a relaxed way of living. It’s also the second-largest city of this country and the largest in the Dalmatia region, one of the most visited regions in Croatia. This article will be about islands near Split, Croatia – what are some of the most famous, how to reach them, and what to expect out of each.
When it comes to Croatian islands, some of the most famous ones are located in the Split area and often the only way to reach them is from Split. That’s only one of the reasons many people decide to spend their vacation in Split and explore the nearby islands. And it’s not only islands, Split is a great base for exploring the whole of Dalmatia and places like Krka National Park, Trogir, Makarska Riviera, and Dubrovnik.
When it comes to the islands in Croatia, they are a place we suggest putting on a Croatia travel list because of their authenticity, traditions, and the clearest seas you’ll ever experience. Here’s our guide to the top islands near Split
1. Hvar Island We are starting this list with one of the most famous islands in Croatia. Hvar is famous for many things, and just like the other islands, it has beautiful beaches, hidden bays, and stunning nature. Hvar is also the sunniest place in Croatia which we visit at least 10 times each year.
Distance from Split: ~1 hour by catamaran or speedboat
Why Visit: Hvar is famous for its historic towns, sunny weather, beach clubs, and nearby Pakleni Islands. Almost all of the island-hopping tours from Split visit Hvar among the other islands.
What to Do:
Visit Hvar Town and hike to the Fortica Fortress for the best panoramic views
Relax at beaches like Dubovica or Pokonji Dol
Take a boat or sailing tour to the Pakleni Islands
Wine tasting, kayaking, and e-bike tours are among best activities on Hvar
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2. Brač Island We always thought about Brač as the sibling of Hvar island. They are somewhat similar, but still completely different. Brač is famous for Zlatni Rat Beach, often proclaimed as the most beautiful beach in Croatia. It’s the island full of tradition and small stone villages hidden in bays.
Distance from Split: ~50 minutes by ferry
Why Visit: Famous for Zlatni Rat Beach (Golden Horn), located near Bol and known as one of the most iconic beaches in Croatia.
What to Do:
Relax at Zlatni Rat Beach near Bol
Try windsurfing or paddleboarding while there
Hike or drive to Vidova Gora, the highest point of the Croatian islands
Explore stone-carving traditions in Pučišća
Tour Suggestion:
3. Šolta Island The first time we visited Šolta was because we were filming a wedding that was held in Martinis Marchi, located in Maslinica Bay. What a beautiful small island. Šolta is a very small island near Split with a crystal clear sea that is perfect for snorkeling and all other sea-related activities.
Distance from Split: ~30 minutes by ferry
Why Visit: A peaceful and authentic island perfect for those eager to escape crowds and enjoy a slow life.
What to Do:
Visit charming fishing villages like Stomorska and Maslinica
Swim in secluded bays
Try local honey, wine, and olive oil
Tour Suggestion:
4. Vis Island Vis is one of our favorite islands in Croatia. It’s the island that’s located a bit further away from the mainland and that’s only one thing we love about Vis. This island is also known as Mamma Mia Island because of the movie of the same name that was filmed in various locations across Vis.
Distance from Split: ~1.5–2.5 hours by ferry or speedboat
Why Visit: Vis has a mysterious, unspoiled vibe. It was closed to foreign visitors until 1989 due to its military history. There are still underground military bases on Vis that are abandoned, and you can visit them. It’s also the gateway to the famous Blue Cave, one of the most famous locations of the Croatian Islands, located on nearby Biševo Island.
What to Do:
Explore Komiža and Vis Town
Swim at Stiniva Beach (voted one of Europe’s best beaches)
Take a Blue Cave tour
Dive into WWII history and sea caves
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5. Drvenik Veli (Blue Lagoon) Drvenik Veli is yet another one of the small islands near Split, and it’s most famous because of the Blue Lagoon, a place with a shallow sea and turquoise waters.
Distance from Split: ~1 hour by boat
Why Visit: Home to the Blue Lagoon , a popular swimming and snorkeling spot.
What to Do:
Swim and snorkel in the Blue Lagoon
Enjoy boat relaxation and sunbathing
Visit the nearby village of Maslinica on Šolta Island
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6. Pakleni Islands Pakleni Islands can be considered as a part of Hvar since this archipelago of small islands is located very close to Hvar Town. Still, we have decided to put it on this list as a place worth visiting when in Split. Almost all of the day trips from Split to Hvar visit Pakleni (also known as Paklinski) Islands too.
Distance from Split: ~1 hour to Hvar, then a short boat trip to Pakleni Islands
Why Visit: A beautiful archipelago off Hvar’s coast known for secluded bays, beach clubs, and pine forests from which a special tar (Pakla) was extracted and used in shipbuilding. That’s how the Pakleni Islands got their name.
What to Do:
Swim and relax at Palmižana
Enjoy cocktails at Laganini Beach Club
Kayak and explore between islands
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7. Biševo Island (Blue Cave) Biševo is the furthest of the islands near Split of this list and a place where the famous Blue Cave is located. It’s a rather small island located just by the larger Vis. A day trip from Split to Blue Cave is one of the most booked tours in Split.
Distance from Split: ~2.5 hours by speedboat (usually part of a multi-stop tour)
Why Visit: The Blue Cave is one of the most stunning natural wonders of Croatia. It’s famous for its glowing blue light inside, which is caused by the sun hitting the sandy seabed and reflecting off the cave walls.
What to Do:
Visit the Blue Cave by small boat
Combine with a tour to Vis, Komiža, and Stiniva
Tour Suggestion:
Before You Venture to Islands Near Split And that’s it. These are the most famous islands near Split, Croatia . If you’re staying in Split for a few days , you’ll probably visit at least one of them. Which one will that be, it’s completely up to you. We hope that this article will be helpful in making that decision. All of them are beautiful, there’s no doubt about that, but think about what you would like to get out of your visit. For example, a trip to the Blue Lagoon is the best option for swimming and snorkeling. On the other hand, a day trip to Hvar is great for the mix of sightseeing and beach time.
We wish you a great time on the islands near Split!
