Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coast has long been a magnet for sunseekers and sailors – but beyond the buzz of Hvar, Krk, and Korčula lie quiet islands that remain delightfully off the radar. These hidden gems are havens of tranquility, raw beauty, and authenticity. In this insider guide, we’ll take you to Croatia’s most untouched islands – from car-free sanctuaries and rare sandy beaches to wild, windswept national park isles.
1. Quick Overview: Croatia’s Untouched Islands for Nature Lovers & Serenity Seekers
| Island | Why Visit? |
| Veli Iž | Olive groves, pottery, near Zadar |
| Silba | Car-free, creative vibes, between Zadar and Lošinj |
| Susak | Sandy beaches, unique dialect, near Mali Lošinj |
| Drvenik Veli | Quiet coves, close to Split |
| Šolta | Authentic village life, just off Split |
| Vrgada | Pine forests and picnics, near Biograd |
| Unije | Coastal hiking, west of Lošinj |
| Zlarin | Culture and coral craft, car-free, near Šibenik |
| Lastovo | National park island, stargazer’s dream, south of Korčula |
| Šćedro | Remote, uninhabited escape, near Hvar |
2. Island Spotlights: Highlights & How to Get There
Veli Iž – Tradition, Pottery & Olive Groves
Veli Iž, part of the Zadar Archipelago, is the definition of slow travel. The island’s main village, Iž Veli, is dotted with stone houses, artisanal pottery studios, and charming family-run guesthouses. Trails wind through ancient olive groves to secluded, often deserted bays. Time seems to pause here.
- Best for: Craft lovers and peaceful hikers
- Getting there: Ferry from Zadar (~1.5 hrs)
- Insider tip: Visit in autumn to witness the olive harvest and connect with locals.
Silba – The Car-Free Island of Artists
On Silba, cars are banned – and even bikes are limited during summer. The silence is magical. Wander through pine forests, browse cozy artist studios, and discover peaceful beaches. Don’t miss the scenic walk to the “Tower of Love” (Toreta), offering panoramic sea views.
- Best for: Tranquil beach days
- Getting there: Ferry or catamaran from Zadar or Mali Lošinj
- Insider tip: Stay in the island center for easy access to beaches and eateries.
Susak – The Sandy Exception
Susak is unlike any other Croatian island. Instead of pebbles and rock, it boasts golden sand. The car-free island feels like a time capsule, with pastel-colored homes, its own dialect, and vineyards growing in sand. Ideal for barefoot beach lovers.
- Best for: Families and fans of sandy beaches
- Getting there: Ferry from Mali Lošinj or catamaran from Rijeka
- Insider tip: Book your stay early – accommodations are limited!
Drvenik Veli – Hidden in Plain Sight
Just an hour from Split, Drvenik Veli feels like a forgotten world. With one small village, a tiny port, and stunningly quiet coves, it’s the perfect place to watch the sunset in solitude.
- Best for: Day-trippers and peace-seeking travelers
- Getting there: Ferry from Trogir or Split (~1 hr)
- Insider tip: Escape the mainland crowds with a simple island picnic.
Šolta – Split’s Under-the-Radar Neighbor
Šolta is so close to Split, it’s often overlooked. Yet this peaceful island offers lavender-filled villages, fisherman-run konobas, and quiet coves. A taste of authentic Croatia – just 30 minutes from the city.
- Best for: Short island breaks and local charm
- Getting there: Ferry from Split (~30 min)
- Insider tip: Rent a scooter to reach the island’s more secluded beaches.
Vrgada – Pines, Peace & Picnic Spots
Tiny, pine-covered Vrgada is surrounded by turquoise waters and features one of Croatia’s rare sandy bays. With no cars and little tourism, it’s a perfect escape for a laid-back beach day.
- Best for: Picnics and peaceful swims
- Getting there: Ferry from Biograd na Moru (15–20 min)
- Insider tip: Bring water shoes—sea urchins and rocks are common.
Unije – A Car-Free Coastal Hiker’s Dream
Hidden to the west of Lošinj, Unije is home to just a few hundred residents, no cars, and a wonderfully slow pace of life. Wander coastal trails and discover secret beaches along the way.
- Best for: Hikers and solitude seekers
- Getting there: Ferry or small plane from Mali Lošinj
- Insider tip: Visit in June or September to avoid summer crowds.
Zlarin – The Island of Coral and Culture
Known for its coral jewelry heritage, lush Zlarin is also blissfully car-free. Walk past stone chapels and olive groves to hidden swim spots. In summer, the island is lively, yet never hectic.
- Best for: Cultural explorers
- Getting there: Ferry from Šibenik (~30 min)
- Insider tip: Local artist shops are perfect for meaningful souvenirs.
Lastovo – Stars, Cliffs & Absolute Quiet
Lastovo, part of a protected nature park, is among Croatia’s most remote inhabited islands. Those who make the journey are rewarded with dramatic cliffs, pine-scented forests – and starry skies unlike anywhere else in Europe.
- Best for: Photographers, divers & stargazers
- Getting there: Ferry or catamaran from Split (4–5 hrs)
- Insider tip: Book early – accommodation is limited and fills quickly.
Šćedro – Wild Bays & Zero Distractions
Just off the coast of Hvar, Šćedro remains nearly untouched. No roads, no hotels, just a few seasonal konobas. A dream for sailors, kayakers, or anyone who craves off-grid freedom.
- Best for: Day trips by boat
- Getting there: Only by private boat from Hvar (e.g., from Zavala)
- Insider tip: Bring your own water and snacks – no infrastructure here.
3. Getting There & Travel Tips
While larger islands like Šolta, Lastovo or Veli Iž are best explored by rental car or scooter, many of Croatia’s most untouched islands are purposefully car-free – such as Silba, Susak, Vrgada, Zlarin and Šćedro. There, the best way to get around is on foot, with light luggage and a sense of adventure. Want more freedom? Consider a boat charter, especially if you’re island-hopping.
Our conclusion: Whether you’re after a quiet hike, an unplugged retreat, or a swim in crystal-clear waters – Croatia’s untouched islands offer a rare kind of relaxation. From the surreal sands of Susak to the stargazing magic of Lastovo, these hidden paradises promise a more soulful, slow-paced escape. Which one will be your favorite?
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