We love Bacina Lakes and that’s no secret. If you happen to visit this unique place, you’ll fall in love with it too. We have written a few articles about Bacina lakes and we suggest you explore them too for more insight into this beautiful place. In this article, we will cover the topic of the top Baćina lakes activities you must try when visiting this stunning nature creation.
Bacina lakes are not so big and we have covered everything you need to know about the activities you can do there. Of course, it would be hard to try them all and that’s not the point of this article. It wouldn’t be a good idea to take the kayaking and SUP tours since they cover pretty much the same area. With both tours equally interesting, you’ll simply have to choose whether you prefer kayak or surfboard. Paddling is in both cases.
Where Are the Baćina Lakes Located?
Baćina Lakes are located in southern Croatia, near the town of Ploče in the region known as Dalmatia. They are easily accessible from larger and more famous cities like Split and Dubrovnik, being approximately 100 kilometers away from each other.
The lakes are located just off the Adriatic Highway (Magistrala), making them a convenient stop for travelers exploring the Dalmatian coast or traveling between Split and Dubrovnik. Immersed in lush landscapes and close to the equally beautiful Neretva River Delta, Baćina Lakes offers a tranquil escape while remaining well-connected to the region’s attractions.
Our selection of the best tours you can do in the vicinity of Baćina Lakes
1. Kayaking on Baćina Lakes
Kayaking on Bacina lakes has been our specialty for years now and so far we were the only ones who had guided kayak tours on the lakes. Kayak is a great option to explore all the lakes and some places on the shore. We don’t organize kayak tours anymore but you can still rent a kayak on the lakes and enjoy paddling through them and exploring all the hidden places or taking a swim in the middle of the lake. We suggest you do the tour in the morning since that’s the time lakes are the calmest. Kayaking is definitely one of the best Baćina lakes activities.
- Why Try It? Kayaking allows you to explore the interconnected lakes at your own pace, taking in the stunning scenery and spotting wildlife along the way.
- What to Expect: Paddle through narrow channels and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
- Perfect For: Nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful outdoor activity.
2. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) Tours
Our friend and colleague started with his SUP tours a few years before we started with our kayaking tours and he made a great story out of it. Stand Up Paddling is similar to kayaking and it’s one of the best Bacina lakes activities you can try. He also has a nice secret chill oasis on Bacina Lakes where he takes all of the guests on his tours. We explored it and loved it. This SUP tour will also teach you the basics of Stand Up Paddleboarding.
- Why Try It? It’s a fun and active way to enjoy the calm waters, perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
- What to Expect: Balance on your board as you paddle across the lakes, soaking in the picturesque surroundings.
- Pro Tip: Bring a waterproof camera to capture the stunning views.
3. Cycling Around the Lakes
When it comes to Bacina Lakes activities on the land, cycling is the winner. Gravel road goes almost around all the lakes and there will be even more cycling trails in the future. If you didn’t come to Bacina Lakes with your own bike, you can rent one in one of the beach bars.
When you go for a cycling ride, make sure you stop at some of the most famous places such as the Oćusa water spring or Mindel bay. If you want to try something local during your bike ride, we suggest you visit Eco Figo in Peračko Blato and try some of their famous fig products.
- Why Try It? The cycling route around the lakes provides beautiful views and a chance to explore the area’s diverse landscapes.
- What to Expect: Well-maintained trails with informational signs about the local flora and fauna.
- Perfect For: Families and active travelers looking to combine exercise with exploration.
4. Traditional Boat Safari Tour
Now here’s something different. We are still in the exploration of Bacina lakes from the water, but this time your boat has a motor. If you are not interested in doing any work but still want to tour all the lakes, this is a perfect excursion for you.
Two companies are running these traditional boat tours and both of them have their own beach bars from where these tours start. The boats used for the tours are traditional for the Neretva Valley, they are called lađa and were used for the transportation of fruits and vegetables through the vast array of canals in Neretva Valley.
- Why Try It? These boats are replicas of those historically used in the Neretva Valley, offering a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage.
- What to Expect: A relaxing ride through the lakes while learning about their history and ecology from knowledgeable guides.
- Perfect For: Travelers interested in culture and history.
5. Exploring the Maricevac Tunnel
Now, this is something interesting and different from the rest of the Baćina Lakes activities mentioned in this article. You see, there are 2 tunnels on Bacina lakes, one is 2 kilometers long and one is much shorter. Both of them were dug around 100 years ago and the longer one brings excess water from the river in Jezero Valley (Vrgorac Valley) during the rainy season. That’s the longer one. The shorter one takes that extra water from the lakes to the sea.
During the winter, both tunnels are flooded and there is no chance of going through them. The water level in Bacina lakes is also significantly higher. But the good news is that the longer tunnel is usually dry during the summer months and can be explored.
It is located in Peračko Blato and if you are cycling around the lakes you can’t miss it. Feel free to explore it while it’s dry and don’t forget to bring some light lamps and warmer clothes.
- Why Try It? This abandoned tunnel is a relic of the early 20th century and offers an intriguing adventure.
- What to Expect: Walk through the cool, dark passage and marvel at the engineering of the past.
- Perfect For: History lovers and urban explorers of such places
6. Chilling at the Beach Bar
Ah yes. We often do this. There are only 2 beach bars in the whole area of Bacina Lakes and it doesn’t matter which one you choose for your chillout session. If you leave adventure stuff out of the equation, this is one of our favorite Baćina Lakes activities.
Just imagine you have ended your kayaking exploration of the lakes and you stop at the beach bar to take a sip of a nice coffee in the shade of the lush vegetation of Bacina lakes. It feels like you could stay there forever.
- Why Try It? It’s the perfect way to enjoy the serene ambiance of Baćina Lakes.
- What to Expect: A laid-back atmosphere, local drinks, and stunning views.
- Perfect For: Everyone
7. Jumping into the Cold Springs
Baćina lakes are full of freshwater springs that pour into the lakes. There are many of them scattered all around the lakes but just a few of them are large enough for you to jump and swim into them. So wake up inner Wim Hof in you and jump into one of these cold springs.
- Why Try It? The springs provide a refreshing escape from the summer heat.
- What to Expect: Clear waters surrounded by lush greenery.
- Perfect For: Wim Hof
8. Swimming at One of the Beaches
You didn’t think of leaving before you swim in the lakes, did you? Don’t let yourself visit this place without using the chance to immerse yourself in the rejuvenating water of Baćina lakes. The water temperature in the Bacina lakes is always warmer than in the sea so you can swim even in the months when the sea is significantly colder. If you have never swam in the lakes but you have in the sea, you’ll notice that swimming in the freshwater is a bit harder since no salt’s pushing you toward the surface.
Years ago, Bacina lakes were full of leeches that would be stuck onto you and suck your blood. I know, it doesn’t sound nice, but a lot of people came to lakes specifically because of the leeches. Traditional medicine, nothing like good old traditional medicine. But worry not, leeches became extinct in the past decades and nothing will bother you now. Out of all the Bacina Lakes activities, this is one you must not skip. That’s why we put it last on this list, logically.
- Why Try It? The warm freshwater makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely swim.
- What to Expect: Peaceful beaches with clear, inviting waters.
- Perfect For: Families, couples, and anyone looking to relax in nature.
Before you Venture
Baćina Lakes is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. If you are looking to paddle through the serene waters, cycle along scenic trails, or simply relax at a beach bar, Baćina Lakes has something to offer you.
Don’t skip this beautiful location on your travel through Croatia. So many people do. Stop at least for a while.