Dugi Otok and Sakarun Beach

Dugi Otok, meaning Long Island, stretches for around forty-five kilometres off the coast and is the largest island in the Zadar archipelago. It is quiet and unhurried, with small villages, olive groves and pine woods, and it offers some of the best swimming in the region. The most famous beach is Sakarun, a curved strip of pale pebbles and sand sheltered by a pine-covered ridge, with water so clear and green that it looks tropical on a calm day. A day tour from Zadar usually combines Sakarun with a boat stop at sea caves or a shipwreck snorkelling spot, a swim in a sheltered bay and a lunch in a village. It is a good choice for travellers who want a more relaxed island day than the Kornati trips.

The island's character is defined by its quietness. There are no large resorts, and the main settlements, such as Sali and Veli Rat, are small fishing and farming communities. The northern tip carries a lighthouse at Veli Rat, one of the tallest in the Adriatic, and the cliffs and caves along the coast are popular boat stops. Hiking and cycling are possible on the island, with trails passing through scrub, stone walls and viewpoints over the sea.

Sakarun is the headline. The beach sits in a protected bay on the north-west side and has shallow, gently sloping water, which suits families and casual swimmers. In summer it can be busy with day trippers, and there are simple facilities such as a beach bar and sunbed rental. In the shoulder seasons it can be nearly empty. Early arrival is the best way to enjoy it, as boats and cars arrive later in the day.

Several kinds of excursion are available. Speedboat tours from Zadar move fast and cover multiple stops. Slower boat trips include time to snorkel and eat. Kayak and stand-up paddle tours explore sea caves and shoreline. Private tours let you plan your own pace. The best of Dugi Otok style trips, with a shipwreck, a sandy beach and a sea cave, give a good variety in a single day.

For those travelling independently, passenger ferries run between Zadar and the island, and it is possible to stay overnight in small guesthouses or apartments. This is a rewarding option for people who want to slow down. Bring cash, as some small businesses accept only local currency or cards sparingly.

Check the weather forecast before going. Wind can make the sea uncomfortable and may lead to cancelled sailings. Always bring sun protection, plenty of water and shoes you can walk in on pebble and rock.