Beyond Hvar: Discovering Croatia’s Quietest Islands

It’s easy to default to Hvar when planning a trip to Croatia, but the Dalmatian Coast’s lesser-traveled islands reveal a quieter, more authentic perspective. With over a thousand islands dotting the Adriatic, exploring Croatia by sea is truly the best way to maximize your experience. Sailing itineraries allow travelers to move effortlessly between historic harbour towns, secluded bays, and lesser-known islands while settling into a slower rhythm of travel. Think mornings gliding across glassy turquoise waters, afternoons anchored in quiet coves, and evenings docking beside centuries-old towns where dinner stretches late into the night.

A sailing journey with Yacht Getaways follows this very rhythm. While there are several itineraries to choose from, a popular route begins near Split and winds through a string of lesser-known islands before ending in Dubrovnik. Here is a breakdown of the magical islands you will discover, along with tips to maximize your getaway. —Maddie Clerides

Split / Trogir

Fly into Split two days before the itinerary begins so you can experience this popular coastal town and adjust to the time change. Split’s ancient city dates back to the 4th century, making it so much more than just a beach town. From the incredible Diocletian’s Palace to quaint markets, it’s the perfect place to get your first taste of Croatia. About 35 minutes away from Split, transfer to Trogir a few hours before your journey is scheduled to begin to explore the Old Town and get settled onboard.

Each Yacht Getaways voyage is led by an RYA-qualified skipper and host whose local knowledge truly elevates the experience. From selecting the most beautiful anchorages to recommending the best local restaurants, their guidance adds a deeper layer of discovery. That expertise becomes clear on the very first evening, when your boat slips into the bay of Šolta for dinner at Lonely Paradise — a picturesque, rustic konoba (tavern) accessible only by water. Perched above the sea and serving freshly caught fish alongside traditional peka, it’s a dreamlike way to begin your voyage.

Stari Grad

On day two, you will make your way to Stari Grad, which directly translates to “Old Town.” Located on Hvar’s northern coast, this historic harbour town is calm, charming, and steeped in history. Stone houses cluster around a peaceful marina while waterfront restaurants spill onto shaded terraces. Just beyond town, ancient agricultural fields planted by Greek settlers more than two thousand years ago still shape the landscape. In the town’s oldest square, the quaint and traditional La Gitana provided one of the trip’s best meals.

Hvar Town

Your journey then routes through Hvar Town, one of Croatia’s best-known and most glamorous spots. Yachts line the harbour beneath a hilltop fortress, and the central square buzzes with energy from morning espresso to late-night cocktails. Climb up to Fortica Fortress for magical views of the island and peek into the Franciscan Monastery along the seawall. Grab a gelato and wander through the lively town, pop into a few boutiques, and enjoy a spritz before heading back to the boat. It’s not hard to see why Hvar Town is so popular — but there is still so much more to discover.

The Pakleni Islands / Korčula

Just offshore from Hvar lies one of the Adriatic’s most beautiful island chains: the Pakleni Islands. Scattered across the water, these small islets are defined by hidden coves, pine forests, and impossibly clear water. Boats anchor in secluded bays while swimmers drift between rocky inlets and sandy lagoons.

From here, you will spend the afternoon heading to Korčula. Often described as a quieter counterpart to Dubrovnik, Korčula is one of the Adriatic’s most atmospheric island towns. Encircled by medieval stone walls and watchtowers, its Old Town rises dramatically from the water, with narrow streets arranged in a distinctive herringbone pattern. Terracotta rooftops, Gothic-Renaissance architecture, and small wine bars tucked into ancient alleys give the town a distinctly romantic feel. Beyond its historic core, Korčula is also known for its vineyards. The island also offers lively bars, fascinating history, and traditional coral jewelry shops.

Mljet

Much of Mljet is protected as a national park, where dense pine forests surround two luminous saltwater lakes connected to the sea. One of the best ways to explore the park is by renting an e-bike and cycling along the winding paths that trace the shoreline, with countless opportunities to pause for a swim in the impossibly clear water.

At the center of the larger lake sits one of the island’s most enchanting landmarks: a centuries-old Benedictine monastery perched on a tiny islet. Reaching it feels like a small adventure in itself. Along the bike path, visitors eventually come across a simple bell beside the water; ring it, and a small boat departs from the monastery to ferry guests across for lunch at the island restaurant. Bikes are simply left along the path while visitors cross the lake to enjoy local seafood and a cold Croatian beer before returning the same way. Equal parts natural wonder and storybook setting, exploring Mljet is not to be missed.

The Elaphiti Islands

On your second-to-last day before reaching Dubrovnik, the route winds through the Elaphiti Islands, a small archipelago known for its quiet villages and sheltered swimming spots. There are even a few beach clubs accessible only by boat, attracting locals who are “in the know.” Many of these small islands are largely car-free, giving them an especially relaxed feel.

Dubrovnik

The journey concludes in Dubrovnik, where towering medieval walls rise dramatically above the Adriatic Sea. After days spent drifting between quiet islands and secluded coves, arriving here feels cinematic. Extend your trip by two nights at Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik, a legendary waterfront property just steps from the Old Town. Often considered Croatia’s best hotel, it offers panoramic views of Dubrovnik’s fortified skyline and direct access to the sea in a chic, stylish setting.

After spending your first night on land, start the morning by walking the ancient city walls before the crowds roll in. Enjoy sweeping views of terracotta rooftops and the deep blue Adriatic, while the polished limestone streets of the Old Town bustle with cafés, restaurants, and centuries of history at every turn. Fans of Game of Thrones will instantly recognize many corners of the city, as Dubrovnik famously served as the filming location for King’s Landing throughout much of the series. For a pit stop along the wall, drop into a hole-in-the-wall — literally. Cliffside Buža Bar is known for its dramatic perch above the sea, where visitors gather to watch daring cliff jumpers below. While more touristy than the islands, Dubrovnik is well worth the visit.

Despite a wide variety of touristic offerings, Croatia’s true charm reveals itself in the quieter moments between the major destinations. Traveling by boat makes it possible to experience the Dalmatian Coast in a way that simply isn’t possible from land. With the route, logistics, and local recommendations thoughtfully handled by Yacht Getaways’ experienced skippers and hosts, much of the planning is taken care of, allowing you to simply relax. Whether arriving with a group of friends or traveling with a partner, the shared experience of life on the water often leads to new friendships — a reminder that Croatia’s magic is as much about the people you meet as the places you discover.