Zadar County is one of the most diverse and beautiful coastal regions in Croatia – and an ideal destination for anyone seeking the perfect beach on the Adriatic Sea. Here, you’ll find it all: from wild rocky headlands scented with pine and salt, to hidden pebble coves known only to locals, and well-maintained family beaches with gentle entrances and all-day amenities.
The Zadar Riviera stands out for its natural richness, crystal-clear sea, and variety of beach experiences – all within reach of historic towns, authentic gastronomy, and untouched landscapes. Whether you’re traveling with children, as a couple, or solo, the beaches of Zadar County offer a truly authentic Mediterranean experience – just the way it used to be.
The Most Beautiful Beaches in Zadar County Worth Visiting
Zadar County is full of diverse beaches – from lively urban spots to island paradises and peaceful hideaways. Here are just a few that are worth discovering:
• Borik Beach (Zadar)
Located just minutes from Zadar’s historic old town, Borik Beach is one of the most visited and vibrant beaches in the region. It offers everything you need for a fun summer day: water sports, a kids’ aqua park, beach bars, equipment rentals, and plenty of natural shade from pine trees. With its organized facilities and lively vibe, it’s the perfect choice for active beachgoers – especially couples and families with older children.
• Sakarun Beach (Dugi Otok)
Often called one of Croatia’s most stunning beaches, Sakarun lies on the northwest coast of Dugi Otok. It’s famous for its white sand, turquoise water, and Caribbean-like feel. Surrounded by dense pine forest, the beach is spacious and serene, with shallow water stretching far from the shore – ideal for floating and long walks in the sea. While most often accessed by boat, Sakarun is also reachable via daily excursions and public ferries from Zadar.
• Queen’s Beach (Nin)
At the foot of the historic town of Nin, you’ll find one of Croatia’s longest and most unique sandy beaches – Queen’s Beach. According to legend, it was the favorite bathing spot of the wife of Croatia’s first king, Tomislav. The beach is exceptionally suitable for families, thanks to its long, shallow shore, soft sand, and warm, calm waters. It’s also home to natural healing mud, used for decades in local wellness rituals. Many visitors combine swimming with an impromptu “spa” experience – straight from nature.
• Ričina Beach (Vrsi)
If you’re looking for peace and authenticity far from the crowds, Ričina Beach is a hidden gem. Located near the village of Vrsi, this beach remains under the radar, offering rare moments of silence, natural shade, and pristine sea. Its mix of pebbles and rocky terraces gives it a rustic, yet relaxing charm. Ideal for nature lovers seeking quiet connection with the surroundings – and the sight of boats gliding by while crickets sing in the pine trees is simply magical.
And while each of these beaches has its own unique charm, there is one place that offers the best of all worlds: the beach at Hotel Pinija in Petrčane.
Beach at Hotel Pinija in Petrčane – Natural Harmony and Pure Relaxation
Among all these stunning locations, the beach at Hotel Pinija holds a special place. This well-kept yet nature-preserving beach offers everything guests value most: peace, safety, comfort, and a Mediterranean atmosphere. Located just 12 km from Zadar’s old town, this beach feels like a true escape from everyday life, without the need for long travel. Nestled within a pine forest and surrounded by natural rocks and pebbles, it offers a rare combination of secluded privacy and hotel-level comfort.
No crowds, no noise – just the sound of waves, the scent of pine, and the view of the open sea.
What makes this beach especially popular with families is its safety. With a gradual entry into the sea, calm water, no strong currents, and a clean seabed, it’s perfect for young children, seniors, and anyone who simply wants to enjoy the sea worry-free. Sun loungers, showers, changing cabins, and easy access for people with reduced mobility confirm that this is one of the top choices for those who want a comfortable and secure beach experience with hotel-level service.
Mediterranean Nature That Soothes
The beach is surrounded by a naturally calming Mediterranean landscape. Shaded entirely by pines, the area remains pleasantly cool even on the hottest days of summer. The air is filled with the aroma of rosemary, immortelle, and lavender, creating a sensory experience that guests often remember as vividly as the sea views. This natural synergy of plants, sea air, and light makes it the perfect place for mental and physical regeneration – with no exaggeration.
The Most Beautiful Sunsets on the Adriatic
One of the highlights of any stay in Petrčane is the sunset experience. From the beach at Hotel Pinija, the view opens toward Ugljan island, and each sunset is like a painting – warm colors, shimmering reflections on the water, and a peaceful atmosphere that stays in your memory for years. For many guests, this becomes a daily ritual: a glass of wine, soft music, and the sun slowly dipping below the horizon.
Why Choose Hotel Pinija and This Beach?
- Well-maintained, private, and safe beach directly next to the hotel
- Crystal-clear sea and natural shade from pine trees
- Ideal for families with children
- Close to Zadar but far from the city noise
- Authentic Mediterranean surroundings and tranquility
- Unforgettable sunsets and true Dalmatian charm
If you’re dreaming of a peaceful and safe beach in Croatia, where nature, relaxation, and local culture come together – the beach at Hotel Pinija in Petrčane may just be the perfect discovery. Here, summer lingers longer, days are filled with serenity, and each morning and evening begins and ends with the sound of the waves and the scent of pine.
Welcome to your corner of the Mediterranean.
Book your perfect family holiday now: reservations@hotel-pinija.hr
See you at Hotel Pinija!