Found Your Next Island Getaway! Hint: It’s In Croatia
By Sam Lee, 2025. Brač is a dreamy Croatian island with the charm of the Italian Riviera without the price tag or the snootiness.
Why haven’t you heard of this place? Because it’s Croatia’s most underrated island and perfect if you crave a low-key, affordable getaway.
Sure, Croatian tourist hotspots like Split and Dubrovnik get all the love, but let me let you in on a little secret: the west coast islands are where the real magic happens.
Brač Island (pronounced like 'Brash') is the perfect example. You can hop over from Split or Makarska and find yourself in a paradise that feels like a high-end Italian seaside escape—minus the hefty price tag. I was so happy when I found this little gem a few years back!
It’s the largest Dalmatian Island which boasts idyllic villages, accessible beaches, and historical sites. Plus, it’s got some seriously mouthwatering food.
Fun things to see and do on Brač
Just because the island is chill doesn’t mean it’s not fun.
If you don’t have a car, having a local expert show you around for a day is a fantastic thing to do. Honestly, you won’t regret it.
And you can dive into activities like scuba diving, kayaking, windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, swimming, or even exploring shipwrecks. If you’re a small group, it’s worth booking a boat trip and exploring the entire west coast of the island.
The island's crown jewel is Zlati rat, also known as the Golden Horn (main picture), thanks to its unique shape and golden pebbles. It’s worth visiting, but it’s a little touristy, and I personally think there are better places on the island to stay.
Notable must-see beaches include Murvica, Draceva, Slatina, Mali and Veliki Zagradac, Cicco, and Vela Planica. Bol is the main tourist magnet, but don't skip the historical richness of other towns. Supetar, Postira, Milna, and Pucisca have been inhabited since Neolithic times and offer a cultural smorgasbord.
The Škrip's Museum showcases the island's super interesting history, while the 16th-century monastery complex of Pustinja Blaca (The Blaca Hermitage) is a hidden gem on a rocky hillside. And if hiking or cycling uphill is your jam, Vidova Gora, the highest point in the Adriatic, is calling your name. The views really are spectacular.
Areas to visit and stay on Brač
Bol
Known as one of the most beautiful towns in Croatia, Bol is a gorgeous mix of modern amenities and old-world charm. This picturesque town boasts stunning beaches, such as Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn), which is considered one of Europe's most spectacular beaches. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly apartments and guesthouses to upscale hotels and resorts with sea views. I would only stay a few nights here and move on to other parts of the island.
Supetar
As the largest town on Brač Island, Supetar offers a bustling atmosphere with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops. It is also home to some impressive historical landmarks like the Church of St. Peter and Vidova Gora, the highest peak on any Croatian island. You can choose from cozy bed and breakfasts or luxurious villas with private pools for your stay in Supetar.
Milna
If you're looking for a quieter and more laid-back experience on Brač Island, then Milna may be just the place for you. This charming fishing village boasts serene coves and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling. For accommodation options in Milna, there are charming family-run guesthouses as well as stylish boutique hotels overlooking the marina.
Sutivan
Another small village located on Brač's northern coast is Sutivan. With its idyllic setting surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, it's an ideal place for nature lovers seeking peace and relaxation away from tourist crowds. There are several affordable apartment rentals available in Sutivan that provide guests with comfortable accommodations near the sea.
Pučišća
For a truly unique and authentic experience on Brač Island, consider staying in the charming town of Pučišća. Often overlooked, this picturesque town is known for its white stone quarries and traditional stone masonry schools, making it one of the most interesting places to visit on the island. You can choose from cozy family-run guesthouses or modern apartments with stunning views over the Adriatic Sea.
That’s a wrap!
No matter where you choose to explore or what you choose to do on Brac, one thing is for sure — you won't be disappointed. The Dalmatian way of life is something special. You really should experience it at once in your life — especially during the months of June, July, August, or September. Perhaps this European summer? I might see you there!
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