Kornati National Park
Explore a mesmerizing archipelago of over 80 islands, islets, and reefs, a unique karst landscape sculpted by the sea.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Kornati National Park
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a mesmerizing archipelago of over 80 islands, islets, and reefs, a unique karst landscape sculpted by the sea.
"This place is so much prettier irl, pictures can’t do it justice."
Book Boat Tours Wisely
Compare organized trips from Zadar; look for those with swimming stops & island exploration.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for hiking to viewpoints! Your feet will thank you.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Kornati Archipelago
Explore over 80 islands, islets, and reefs, a unique karst landscape sculpted by the sea. A true nautical paradise.
Lojena Beach
Island of Levrnaka
Discover the park's only sandy beach, offering crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for a refreshing dip.
Cliff Views
Hike to viewpoints for stunning panoramic vistas of the archipelago and the vast Adriatic Sea. Worth the effort!
Dolphin Sightings
Keep an eye out for playful dolphins that often frequent the waters around the islands. A magical encounter!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Boat Trip Essentials
Island Exploration Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Boat Tours Wisely
Compare organized trips from Zadar; look for those with swimming stops & island exploration.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for hiking to viewpoints! Your feet will thank you.
Pack Sun Protection
Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must for a day on the water. :sunwithface:
Bring Your Own Water
Stay hydrated, especially during hikes. Refills might be scarce. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Boat Tours Wisely
Compare organized trips from Zadar; look for those with swimming stops & island exploration.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for hiking to viewpoints! Your feet will thank you.
Pack Sun Protection
Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must for a day on the water. :sunwithface:
Bring Your Own Water
Stay hydrated, especially during hikes. Refills might be scarce. :droplet:
Camera Ready!
The scenery is incredible; pictures don't do it justice! :camerawithflash:
Snorkeling Gear
Explore the vibrant underwater world. Many tours offer stops for this. :fishingpoleand_fish:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking natural beauty of Kornati National Park, describing it as a 'masterpiece of nature' and a 'nautical paradise'. The clear blue waters, unique island formations, and opportunities for swimming and dolphin spotting are major highlights. However, some find organized tours can lead to overcrowded beaches, diminishing the sense of tranquility.
"If you are an ordinary tourist who came to this area for a while and have no boat of your own I recommend you to buy an organised trip for a whole day.  There are a lot of trips to choose from. Compare them before making a choice.
I had a full day trip with a modest breakfast, lunch and three breaks on the islands. Fantastic! Good relaxing views of islands and aquatic life (fish, dolphins and birds). A very rewarding day."
A A
"An amazing beautiful blue sea island 🏝️. I recommend to anyone visiting zarda , here you get the chance to swim in the salt lake and blue sea as well. Lots of dolphins 🐬 in the sea and you can only get here by a boat 🛥️. Beautiful"
Paris Diamond
"Beautiful views!!! 🤩
This place is so much prettier irl, pictures can’t do it justice.
You can hike approx 1 km and see the island from above or you can stay and enjoy the beach.
I wish I had brought some hiking shoes with me — my feet were killing me after the hike 😅 Totally worth it though!"
Cristina Iancu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to visit Kornati National Park is by joining an organized boat tour from Zadar or other coastal towns like Murter or Biograd na Moru. Some tours offer multi-day sailing trips, while others are full-day excursions. You can also rent a private boat if you have sailing experience.
No, Kornati National Park is an archipelago and cannot be reached by car. Access is exclusively by sea, primarily through organized boat tours or private vessels.
The most popular departure points for Kornati National Park tours are Zadar, Murter, and Biograd na Moru. Many tour operators offer various packages, so it's worth comparing them.
Yes, day trips to Kornati National Park are very common and highly recommended for visitors staying in Zadar or nearby. These tours typically include stops for swimming, sightseeing, and lunch.
For visitors without their own boat, organized day trips are the best option. They provide a comprehensive experience of the park's beauty, including its islands and waters.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, an entrance ticket is required to enter Kornati National Park. This fee is usually included in the price of organized boat tours. If you arrive by private boat, you'll need to purchase a ticket separately.
Ticket prices can vary depending on the season and the type of vessel. For organized tours, the entrance fee is typically bundled. For private boats, expect to pay a daily fee per person and per boat. Check the official Kornati National Park website for current pricing.
While there isn't a wide range of ticket options for individual visitors, organized tours often have different packages that might include meals or specific island stops. For private boaters, the fee is generally a standard daily rate.
If you're on an organized tour, your ticket will likely be included. If you're arriving by private boat, you can purchase tickets at the park's entrance points or through authorized agencies. Contacting the park directly or your tour operator is advisable.
The entrance fee grants you access to the park's natural beauty, including its unique islands, cliffs, and marine life. It contributes to the park's conservation efforts. Organized tours often add value with guided commentary and stops.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main activities include swimming in the clear waters, snorkeling, diving, sailing, and hiking to enjoy panoramic views. Many tours stop at Lojena beach, the park's only sandy beach. Keep an eye out for dolphins!
Absolutely! The crystal-clear waters of Kornati are perfect for swimming. Many boat tours include stops at secluded coves and the famous Lojena beach for swimming and sunbathing.
Yes, there are opportunities for hiking on some of the larger islands, offering spectacular views of the archipelago. Wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be rocky.
You might spot dolphins in the sea, and the park is home to various bird species. The underwater world is also rich with marine life, making it great for snorkeling and diving.
Some islands have restaurants and bars, particularly those that are popular stops for tours. However, it's wise to bring your own water and snacks, as facilities can be limited on smaller islets.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire archipelago offers stunning photographic opportunities. Focus on the dramatic cliffs, the unique island formations, the vibrant blue sea, and Lojena beach. Hiking to higher ground provides breathtaking panoramic shots.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape photography. Golden hour can create magical scenes over the islands.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the archipelago. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the sea and sky.
Drone usage in national parks often has restrictions. It's crucial to check the official Kornati National Park regulations regarding drone operation before your visit to avoid any issues.
Use foreground elements like a boat or a person to give a sense of scale. Shooting from a higher vantage point after a hike also helps convey the vastness of the park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
⛵ Sailors and Boaters
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Sailing and Boating in Kornati
When sailing through Kornati, you'll encounter dramatic cliffs, known as 'crowns' (krune), that plunge into the sea. These geological formations are a signature feature of the park. The waters are exceptionally clear, offering excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving. Many visitors report seeing abundant fish and even dolphins. The sheer number of islands means there are countless spots to drop anchor and enjoy a swim or a picnic.
For those new to sailing or looking for a guided experience, numerous tour operators provide day trips and multi-day excursions. These tours often include stops at key attractions like Lojena beach and opportunities for swimming and exploring. It's advisable to book these tours in advance, especially during the peak summer months, to ensure availability and compare different offerings.
Exploring Kornati's Unique Landscape
One of the most sought-after spots is Lojena Beach on the island of Levrnaka, notable for being the only sandy beach within the park. Its pristine waters and soft sand make it an idyllic place for relaxation and swimming. Beyond the beaches, visitors can embark on hikes to gain a different perspective of the archipelago. Trails lead to viewpoints offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the scattered islands against the vast blue expanse of the Adriatic.
While the islands are largely barren, the marine ecosystem is vibrant. The clear waters teem with fish, and the area is known for dolphin sightings. The geological formations, particularly the sheer cliffs known as 'crowns,' are a testament to the powerful natural forces at play. Exploring these natural wonders, whether by boat or on foot, offers an unforgettable encounter with Croatia's raw, untamed beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit