10 Hidden Croatian Islands Most Travelers Miss

Croatia’s coastline is famous for its dazzling islands, but beyond the well-known names like Hvar and Brač, a world of secluded gems awaits.Here are 10 hidden Croatian islands where you can escape the crowds and discover authentic Adriatic beauty.

1. Lastovo - The Remote Hideaway

Lastovo is one of Croatia’s most secluded islands, prized for its untouched nature, dense forests, and unique chimneys (fumari) that top the island’s stone houses. Once a military outpost, it’s now a haven for stargazing (as a certified dark-sky park), hiking, and sampling local lobster and Malvasia wine Don’t miss the medieval town, ancient basilica ruins, and the tranquil Saplun Cove.

Historical Highlights:

A former Venetian stronghold, Lastovo’s architecture still reflects medieval influences.

Strategic military importance kept this island off-limits for most of the 20th century.

The island’s old stone houses with distinct chimneys are a signature of Lastovo’s unique cultural identity.

Must-Do:

Hike to Hum Hill for breathtaking panoramic views.

Astronomy stargazing tours – With almost zero light pollution, it’s one of the best stargazing spots in Europe.

Hidden beaches: Saplun Cove = pristine paradise with no crowds.

Wine tasting at Lastovo vineyards – Malvasia wine here is incredibly rich and fragrant.

Local tip: Try Lastovian lobster—it’s next-level fresh.

2. Šipan - The Golden Island

The largest of the Elafiti Islands, Šipan is draped in vineyards, olive groves, and fig trees. Its two main villages, Suđurađ and Šipanska Luka, are connected by quiet roads perfect for cycling. Explore centuries-old churches, savor local olive oil, and enjoy peaceful beaches far from the crowds

At about 17 kilometers northwest of Dubrovnik and far from the bustling tourist hubs of Croatia, the island of Šipan allows you to dive into its past by visiting its numerous churches and chapels that tell tales of centuries gone by.

Tip: you can book your accommodation in the area of Šipanska Luka, the larger of Šipan’s two main settlements, offering charming harbor views.

How to get to Šipan: you can easily reach the island of Šipan from Dubrovnik by ferry. You can also get to Šipan from Mljet as well as the neighboring Elafiti Islands of Koločep and Lopud.

3. Sveti Nikola - The Uninhabited Escape

Just off the coast of Poreč, Sveti Nikola is almost entirely uninhabited except for a single hotel. The island boasts pine forests, Blue Flag beaches, a 14th-century castle, and a Venetian lighthouse. Dolphins are often spotted in the summer, and the island is easily reached by a short shuttle boat from Poreč Old Town

4. Biševo - The Island of Caves

Tiny Biševo, off the coast of Vis, is best known for the ethereal Blue Cave (Modra špilja), but it also hides 25 other caves, monastic ruins, and quiet coves. With only about 20 residents, no cars, and no shops, Biševo is a true escape into nature.

5. Vis - The Island That Kept Secrets

The farthest inhabited island from the mainland, Vis was off-limits to foreigners for decades due to its military significance. Today, it’s a paradise of hidden beaches (like Stiniva), WWII submarine tunnels, and some of Croatia’s best red wine. Don’t miss a kayak trip into the old naval tunnels or a hike to the panoramic Hum peak.

Historical Highlights:

Vis was a major Greek colony called Issa in the 4th century BC and had its own currency.

During WWII, British forces and Yugoslav partisans used Vis as a strategic military base.

The famous Yugoslav submarine tunnels, now used by curious kayakers, were built to hide naval forces.

Must-Do:

Try the local Plavac Mali wine—one of Croatia’s best and boldest red wines.

Stiniva Beach – A stunning cove hidden between towering cliffs, accessible only by boat or a steep hike.

Blue Cave (Biševo Island) – This natural wonder glows an electric blue due to sunlight refraction.

Submarine tunnels – Kayak inside real ex-Yugoslav military tunnels, once used for top-secret naval operations.

Local tip: Skip the touristy restaurants and eat peka-style octopus at Konoba Roki’s.

6. Šolta - The Untouched Island Near Split

Šolta is often overlooked for its bigger neighbors, but it offers tranquil fishing villages, ancient olive groves, and honey farms. Visit the harbor of Maslinica, snorkel at Nečujam Bay, and hike to Vela Straža for sweeping island views

Historical Highlights:

The Romans cultivated vineyards and olive groves here over 2,000 years ago.

Napoleon’s army once built fortifications on the island, some of which can still be seen today.

Maslinica, a charming fishing village, was once a pirate hotspot in the 18th century.

Must-Do:

Check out the beekeeping farms—Šolta’s honey is rich and deeply aromatic.

Maslinica village – A picturesque harbor with a 300-year-old castle, pristine waters, and hardly any tourists.

Snorkeling at Nečujam Bay – Dive into crystal-clear waters and explore the remains of a sunken Roman ship.

Olive oil tasting at Olynthia Natura – Šolta is famous for its world-class olive oil, considered one of the best in Croatia.

Local tip: Hike up to Vela Straža for 360-degree island views.

7. Kornati Islands - The Wild Archipelago

The Kornati archipelago is a labyrinth of 140 mostly uninhabited islands, protected as a national park. With little development, the Kornatis are ideal for sailing, snorkeling, and feeling like a true castaway among butterflies, wild herbs, and crystal-clear seas.

There are no permanent residents of the islands and most of the area belongs to the people of Murter island who come to tend the olive groves, the vineyards and orchards. They have cottages on the Kornati islands in which they stay during the agricultural season.

8. Dugi Otok - The Long Island of Solitude

Dugi Otok, meaning “Long Island,” is a stretch of wilderness dotted with sleepy villages and dramatic cliffs. Highlights include the serene bay of Luka Telašćica, the sandy Saharun Beach, and the Veli Rat lighthouse. Its slow pace and sparse population make it perfect for solitude seekers

9. Mljet - The Greenest Island

Mljet is renowned for its lush forests and tranquil lakes, much of which is protected as a national park. Explore bike trails, swim in the saltwater lakes, kayak to the Benedictine monastery on St. Mary’s Island, and visit the legendary Odysseus Cave.

Historical Highlights:

Mljet was mentioned in ancient Greek myths—some say Odysseus was shipwrecked here and stayed in a cave for seven years.

The Romans built villas on the island, remains of which can still be seen today.

The 12th-century Benedictine Monastery on St. Mary’s Island is one of Croatia’s most photographed landmarks.

Must-Do:

Local tip: Most tourists leave after a few hours—stay overnight to experience the island’s true magic.

Kayak in Veliko Jezero (Big Lake) – A saltwater lake inside the island, surrounded by pine forests.

Swim inside Odysseus’ Cave – A sea cave linked to the legendary Greek hero.

Hike to Montokuc for jaw-dropping sunset views.

Visit the Benedictine Monastery on a tiny island inside the lake.

10. Sveti Nikola (Poreč) - The Northern Secret

Not to be confused with the Sveti Nikola near Hvar, this island near Poreč is a peaceful retreat with beautiful beaches, a Venetian castle, and a lighthouse. It’s perfect for a quiet day trip, with opportunities for snorkeling and dolphin watching

Why Visit These Islands?

These Croatian Islands offer:

• Authentic local culture and cuisine

• Pristine nature and wildlife

• Unique historical sites and architecture

• Peaceful, crowd-free beaches

Whether you’re seeking adventure, romance, or pure relaxation, Croatia’s hidden islands invite you to slow down and savor the Adriatic at its most enchanting.