
Mlini and Zdrilca Bays Pakleni Islands
Tranquil pebble beaches with crystal-clear waters on the Pakleni Islands, perfect for swimming and relaxation.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better spots

Mlini and Zdrilca Bays Pakleni Islands
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better spots

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tranquil pebble beaches with crystal-clear waters on the Pakleni Islands, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
"Fantastic, low-key beach. If you're looking for a party beach, do not come here."

🚗 Water Taxi Logistics
Water taxis from Hvar Town cost ~€10 round trip. Confirm return times to avoid long waits!
☀️ Sunbed Rental
Rent a sunbed for ~€15 if you prefer comfort over towels. Arrive early for best selection.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal-Clear Waters
Mlini and Zdrilca Bays
Dive into incredibly clear, refreshing waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The shallow entry makes it accessible for all.

Tranquil Pebble Beach
Mlini and Zdrilca Bays
Relax on a serene pebble beach, ideal for a low-key day away from the hustle. Enjoy the natural beauty and calm atmosphere.

Open-Air Dining
Mlini and Zdrilca Bays
Savor local cuisine at a charming open-air restaurant, offering a delightful culinary experience with stunning bay views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
Getting There: Water Taxi Wisdom
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Water Taxi Logistics
Water taxis from Hvar Town cost ~€10 round trip. Confirm return times to avoid long waits!
☀️ Sunbed Rental
Rent a sunbed for ~€15 if you prefer comfort over towels. Arrive early for best selection.
🤫 Keep it Peaceful
These bays are for relaxation! Signs often request no loud music or excessive noise.
🤿 Snorkel Gear
Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the vibrant underwater world.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Water Taxi Logistics
Water taxis from Hvar Town cost ~€10 round trip. Confirm return times to avoid long waits!
☀️ Sunbed Rental
Rent a sunbed for ~€15 if you prefer comfort over towels. Arrive early for best selection.
🤫 Keep it Peaceful
These bays are for relaxation! Signs often request no loud music or excessive noise.
🤿 Snorkel Gear
Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the vibrant underwater world.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
While there's a restaurant, having your own water and snacks is always a good idea.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Mlini and Zdrilca Bays for their stunningly clear waters and tranquil, low-key atmosphere, making them perfect for relaxation and swimming. While the pebble beach and potential for crowds in peak season are noted drawbacks, the beauty and peacefulness of these bays are consistently highlighted as major positives.
"Fantastic, low-key beach. If you're looking for a party beach, do not come here. This one is more laid back and there are signs to not play music/be loud/etc. Water is perfect and relatively shallow. €15 to rent a sunbed (no umbrellas, however, when we were here). €10 to catch a water taxi from Hvar Town and back."
Jakub Szary
"The beach is easily accessible via water taxi from Hvar which costs 10€ per round trip. The water taxi does not drop you off on the beach, but in nearby bay and then there is a short 5 minute walk.
The beach has very beautiful clear water and is perfect for swimming. It also does not have a steep entrace into the sea, so it does not get deep right away.
It is very crowded in the season and very incomfortable to sit directly on the towel. There simply is not much space to match the high number of visitors so it will feel very packed.
There is some natural shade from trees and it is impossible to set a parasol due to the pebbles.
Alteratively, sun loungers are available to rent for 15€ a day which are more comfortable, though availability is limited as well."
Roxana P
"It was a good place but the water was very cold and the beach small. You can rent chair or lay under a tree. We took a taxi boat in Hvar for 10 euro each including the return. The taxi will bring you on the island between 10 and 1 pm and only take you back after 4 pm, so we found it a little long to wait until that moment. Maybe better to take a tour to see more of the islands and not just stay at this beach for the day."
Michael Boucher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by water taxi from Hvar Town harbor. These typically run every 15 minutes and cost around €10 for a round trip. Some reviews mention that the water taxi might drop you off at a nearby bay, requiring a short walk to Mlini or Zdrilca.
Yes, many boat tours from Hvar include stops at the Pakleni Islands, often visiting bays like Mlini and Zdrilca. This can be a great option if you want to see multiple islands in one day.
No, these bays are located on the Pakleni Islands and are not accessible by car. You must use a water taxi or join a boat tour.
Mlini and Zdrilca are adjacent bays on the Pakleni Islands, often visited together. They share similar characteristics of clear waters and pebble beaches, offering a tranquil escape.
Yes, it is possible to anchor a private boat in the bays, but be aware of potential storm conditions as experienced by some sailors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access the bays themselves. However, renting sunbeds on the beach incurs a cost, typically around €15 per day.
The bays are natural areas and are accessible throughout the day. The water taxi services and the open-air restaurant will have their own operating hours, which can vary seasonally.
It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a sunbed. While some beds might be available later, they can be limited.
Yes, many visitors note that these bays are intended to be low-key and peaceful. Signs often indicate that loud music is not permitted to maintain a tranquil atmosphere.
A round-trip water taxi from Hvar Town to Mlini and Zdrilca Bays typically costs around €10 per person.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
The main activities include swimming, snorkeling in the clear waters, sunbathing on the pebble beach, and enjoying a meal at the open-air restaurant. It's a great spot for a relaxed day.
While the water is clear and refreshing, some visitors have noted it can be quite cold, even in the summer months.
Both Mlini and Zdrilca are pebble beaches. This means you'll want to wear water shoes for comfort, and sitting directly on a towel can be less comfortable than on a sandy beach.
The water entry is relatively shallow, which can be good for families. However, the pebble beach might be less ideal for very young children to play on compared to sand.
Umbrellas are generally not available. Shade is provided by natural trees, and sunbeds may offer some shade, but it's wise to bring your own sun protection.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is an open-air restaurant in the bays that serves local food. It's a popular spot for lunch or drinks.
The restaurant typically offers seafood and other local Croatian dishes. It's known for being a good local spot.
Compared to some of the more exclusive beach clubs, the restaurant in Mlini and Zdrilca Bays is often considered reasonably priced, especially for its location.
While there's a restaurant, it's always a good idea to bring some water and snacks, especially if you plan to spend the entire day there.
Yes, there is a bar associated with the restaurant, offering drinks to enjoy by the bay.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning turquoise waters, the pebble beach, and the surrounding lush greenery. The open-air restaurant also offers picturesque views.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the colors of the water and landscape. Morning light is also lovely and less crowded.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check local advisories before flying a drone in protected natural areas like the Pakleni Islands.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive bay views. Waterproof camera gear or a protective case is useful for water activities.
The contrast between the clear blue water and the white pebbles is a signature shot. The view from the water taxi approaching the bays is also very scenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there's a restaurant, it's wise to bring snacks and plenty of water, especially for younger children. The water taxis are generally accommodating, but confirm return times to ensure a smooth departure. For a more structured family outing, a boat tour that includes stops at various islands might offer more activities and amenities suitable for children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and drinks can also help cut down on expenses, as restaurant prices can add up. Look for deals on boat tours if you want to explore multiple islands without the cost of a private charter. The natural beauty of these bays is free to enjoy, making them an excellent choice for experiencing the Pakleni Islands on a budget.
couples seeking tranquility
Enjoy a leisurely swim in the crystal-clear waters, perhaps with some snorkeling to explore the underwater world. Sharing a meal at the open-air restaurant with bay views provides a romantic setting. The gentle lapping of waves and the natural beauty create a serene backdrop for a romantic day out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Pakleni Islands
Many visitors opt for a boat tour or rent a small boat to explore the various bays and beaches scattered across the Pakleni Islands. This allows for flexibility to discover hidden spots and enjoy swimming and snorkeling in different locations. Some popular stops include Palmižana, which has a botanical garden and several restaurants, and Jerolim, known for its nudist-friendly beaches.
When planning your island hopping, consider the type of experience you're looking for. If you desire tranquility and natural beauty, Mlini and Zdrilca are excellent choices. For a more vibrant scene with music and amenities, explore other islands like Stipanska. Regardless of your choice, the Pakleni Islands promise breathtaking scenery and crystal-clear Adriatic waters.
The Charm of Pebble Beaches
While beautiful, pebble beaches can be less comfortable for lounging directly on a towel. Many visitors opt to rent sun loungers, which are available for a fee (around €15). These provide a more comfortable base for a day of relaxation. Alternatively, finding a spot under the natural shade of the trees can offer respite from the sun.
For those planning to visit, it's recommended to wear water shoes to protect your feet from the pebbles, especially when entering and exiting the water. Despite the unique terrain, the stunning natural beauty and the pristine condition of the water make these pebble beaches a worthwhile experience.
Water Taxi vs. Boat Tours
Organized boat tours offer a more comprehensive experience. These tours often include stops at multiple Pakleni Islands, allowing you to see more than just Mlini and Zdrilca. They can also provide more flexibility in terms of timing and may include amenities like snorkeling gear or even lunch. Some tours might even offer cliff jumping opportunities, which is a popular activity for adventurous travelers.
The choice between the two depends on your priorities. If you want a simple, cost-effective trip to a specific bay, a water taxi is ideal. If you're looking for an adventure that covers more ground and offers a guided experience, a boat tour is likely the better option.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit