While the most famous Croatian beaches will once again be packed with towels, umbrellas and colorful inflatables, there are still locations on the Adriatic that will bypass mass tourism and where you can find a vacation without crowds.
The 2025 tourist season in Croatia is slowly taking shape. According to announcements from the tourism sector, another dynamic summer awaits us — with record numbers of arrivals, but also an increasingly pronounced need for authentic, more peaceful experiences.
Top destinations - crowds are already in sight
As in previous years, the biggest crowds are expected in the well-known tourist meccas. The biggest tourist magnets are certainly Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, Trogir and Rovinj, which are already recording strong bookings.
Judging by current reservations, beaches like Bačvice, Zlatni Rat in Bol, Punta Rata beach in Brela and the city beach in Makarska will hardly be able to be called "places for a peaceful vacation."
The crowds are coming – here's where it will be the most crowded
As in previous years, the highest concentration of tourists is expected in:
- Dubrovnik – especially the old town and the city beach Banje.
- Split and Omiš – city beaches, Žnjan, Bačvice and beaches along the Cetina River.
- Makarska Riviera – Brela, Tučepi and Makarska center.
- Hvar and the Golden War on Bol (Brač) – these locations are already almost sold out during peak season.
- Rovinj and I deny it – Istria remains the strongest region for family and camping tourism.
If crowds are not a problem for you and you want to experience the energy of our most visited places - be sure to book in time, because accommodation in attractive locations is already highly booked.
Of particular note is the growing trend of cruise tourism, which means that the old towns, especially Dubrovnik and Split, will receive thousands of day-trippers from ships almost every day. This will certainly put an additional strain on the already attractive locations that see masses of tourists throughout the season.
Domestic tourists are increasingly seeking peace and authenticity
It is interesting to note that an increasing number of domestic and foreign guests are deliberately avoiding the most popular destinations. Tired of crowds and high prices, they are turning to smaller places where you can still experience the "real" Croatia - without filters.
Where to spend your summer vacation if you want a vacation without crowds?
If you are among those who want a stress-free summer, consider going on vacation in June or September, and in terms of location, try the following destinations:
1. The island of Cres and Lošinj – incredible nature and crystal clear sea
- Recommendation: Private apartments in Martinšćica, Baldarin naturist camp for a special peaceful atmosphere or family hotels in Veli Lošinj.
- Tip: Avoid the high season (late July and August) – June and early September are ideal for a peaceful holiday on the Adriatic.
///True paradise on earth: We bring you a list of the 7 most beautiful beaches of Lošinj
///Wild, hidden and beautiful: 7 beaches on the island of Cres where you will rest your soul
2. Eastern Istria – Labin or smaller villages in the interior
- Recommendation: Holiday homes with swimming pools in the vicinity of Kršan and Nedešćine, boutique villas with sea views from the old town of Labin.
- Tip: Ideal for a combination of seaside and rural atmosphere. You have the sea and beaches, but also the charm and calmer atmosphere of a smaller place.
3. Pelješac – close to Dubrovnik, but far from the crowds
- Recommendation: Private accommodation or family hotels in Trpanj, Janjina or Kučište. Campsites in Viganj are great for windsurfers.
- Tip: Peljesac is now much more accessible and the crossing of the imposing Pelješac Bridge is certainly an attraction.
4. Dugi otok – wild beauty and silence
- Recommendation: Accommodation in Sali or Veli Rat, but also explore Robinson Crusoe tourism in bays like Telašćica.
- Tip: Long Island hides numerous beaches, such as the most famous Sakarun - visit them in the morning or later in the afternoon, and definitely try to avoid mass day trips.
5. Hinterland of Dalmatia and Lika – an increasingly popular escape from the heat
- Recommendation: Holiday homes in Imotska krajina, Gorski kotar (Fužine, Mrkopalj) and lici (Gračac, Lovinac) with private pools and peaceful surroundings in idyllic nature.
- Tip: Combine a vacation in the mountains with a day trip to the sea - this is something you can rarely experience. Accommodation away from the crowds and summer crowds, and during the day you can stay on the most attractive Croatian beaches.
6. The islands of Pašman and Ugljan – so close, yet far enough away
- Recommendation: Private apartments by the beach in the towns Mrljane, Ždrelac and Kali, small campsites or houses by the sea with no neighbors nearby.
- Tip: There is still affordable accommodation available, especially if you book directly with the host, which is definitely the best recommendation.
Customize your vacation!
The season of 2025 will be a season of contrasts - on the one hand, mass tourism and crowds, and on the other, an increasing demand for calmer, sustainable tourism. Croatia offers both options - you choose what suits you best.
If you want to have the perfect stress-free vacation, planning is key: book early, choose off-peak dates, and don't be afraid to stray from the beaten path. Somewhere, beyond those familiar postcard scenes, your perfect spot in the sun awaits.
For all those who haven't yet decided where to spend their summer, maybe it's time to step out of the usual vacation rut and look for your own hidden cove — while such oases are still possible.
