Scattered across several islets including Jerolim, Stipanska, and Palmižana, the Pakleni beaches offer varied vibes from clothing-optional coves to upscale beach clubs with cocktails and music. Crystal waters attract yachts from across the Mediterranean.
The Pakleni Islands (Paklinski otoci) form an archipelago of eleven main islets stretching roughly 10 kilometres westward from the harbour of Hvar town on the island of Hvar in central Dalmatia, Croatia. Accessible exclusively by water taxi (approximately 15 minutes from Hvar harbour, with fares around 50–80 HRK each way), the islands offer the most varied beach scene on the central Dalmatian coast, catering to everything from yacht-club luxury to naturist coves.
Each islet has its own character. Jerolim, closest to Hvar, is traditionally clothing-optional and attracts a relaxed, alternative crowd; its pebbly coves and clear water require no reservation or entrance fee. Stipanska and Marinkovac offer a mix of pebble beaches ranging from small, sheltered inlets to more open shores. Palmižana — on the island of Sveti Klement — is the largest and most developed: the Meneghello family's Palmižana resort operates a botanical garden, restaurant, and mooring facilities, while the Carpe Diem Beach Club on nearby Stipanska has established itself as one of Dalmatia's best-known destination events, with afternoon DJ programmes and cocktail service.
Water quality across the Pakleni Islands is uniformly excellent, with EU Blue Flag standards regularly met or exceeded at the main beaches. Visibility of 10 metres or more is common in calm conditions. The beaches are predominantly pebble and rock with some finer-grained pockets. Snorkelling, diving, and sea kayaking are all popular activities. Most beaches have seasonal bar and restaurant services and sun-loungers for hire.
The social scene peaks in July and August, when the islands fill with yachts from Split, Dubrovnik, and further afield. Outside those months the Pakleni Islands are tranquil and largely deserted, with most facilities closed by mid-October.
Amenities
- beach clubs
- restaurants
- sunbeds
- water sports
- nudist options
- boat access only
Good to know
- Best for
- couples, partiers, nudists, snorkellers, sunbathers
Highlights
- Eleven islets offering beach variety from naturist coves on Jerolim to upscale beach clubs on Stipanska
- Carpe Diem Beach Club hosts Dalmatia's most celebrated afternoon DJ and cocktail party programme
- EU Blue Flag water quality with 10m-plus visibility making it excellent for snorkelling and kayaking
- Botanical gardens and restaurant on Palmižana (Sveti Klement), reachable by the same water taxi route
- 15-minute water taxi from Hvar town harbour connecting all major islands efficiently
Tips for visiting
- Book Carpe Diem Beach Club in advance for peak July dates — capacity is limited and the programme fills early
- Confirm the drop-off island with the water taxi skipper before boarding — multiple islands are served on the same route
- Jerolim is clothing-optional; visitors who prefer a clothed environment should alight at Stipanska or Palmižana
- Multi-island days are possible — most water taxis allow additional stops for a small extra fare
- Bring cash for smaller beach bars on the islands that do not accept cards, and for water taxi return fares
When to visit
June and early September deliver excellent water conditions and dramatically fewer visitors than peak August. July and August are the best months for the beach club social scene and water sports. Most facilities are closed outside June to September and the islands are largely empty off-season.
Accessibility
The Pakleni Islands are accessible only by boat, which involves boarding from the Hvar town harbour jetty. Paths from water-taxi landing points to most beaches are short but involve uneven rocky terrain. No adapted beach facilities or beach wheelchairs are known to be available across the islands.
Frequently asked questions
How do water taxis work between Hvar and the Pakleni Islands?
Water taxis depart from Hvar town harbour throughout the day in summer, roughly every 30 minutes during peak hours. Fares are typically 50–80 HRK per person each way depending on destination; agree the return pickup time with the skipper before being dropped off.
Is there a beach suitable for families with young children?
Stipanska and some coves on Sveti Klement (Palmižana) have calmer, shallower water suitable for children. Jerolim's naturist sections and the Carpe Diem party area are better suited to adults.
Are any of the Pakleni beaches free to access?
Yes — most beaches on the islands are freely accessible pebble or rock coves. Organised sunbed areas and beach clubs charge for their services, but the water and main beach space remains public.
Can visitors moor a yacht in the Pakleni Islands?
Yes — designated mooring areas exist around Palmižana, Stipanska, and other islands. The Meneghello marina on Palmižana accepts reservations; some anchorages are free but limited in space during August.