Breezy beaches, lively nightlife and historical treasures – holidays to Makarska mix adventure with R&R.

Vacay on a beach bay

Pebbly beaches? Check. Stop-in-your-tracks views? Check. Mountain biking and sea kayaking? Check, check. Makarska getaways mix Croatia's show-stopping scenery with activities that spill off the promenade for holiday chill with a splash of thrill.

Adventure seekers welcome

During the day, adrenaline-pumping watersports take over the waves. The fun doesn't stop when the sun goes down, either. A long stretch of restaurants on the waterfront makes Makarska a hotspot for foodies and cocktail-lovers. After dinner, beach bars turn up the tunes so you can dance all the way into morning.

Culture fix, incoming

Ancient sights from Makarska’s past are sprinkled throughout town, like photo-worthy Medieval churches and a Baroque palace. Get a sense of time standing still at the unfinished Svetiste Vepric sanctuary – just be respectful to any visiting pilgrims. There's even more old-school culture in Split, just over an hour's drive away along the Dalmatian Coast.

Conquer the peak

Makarska's natural harbour sits cosily on a bay between woodlands, so it's a big draw for nature lovers. An hour inland by car, Biokovo Nature Park's home to Croatia's second-highest mountain, Mount Biokovo – take on the climb for epic views of the coastline. An hour's ferry ride away is the island of Brac, home to the famed Zlatni Rat Beach.

At a Glance

  • Boogie until dawn in seafront bars
  • Make a splash with watersports
  • Mosey around Medieval churches