This coastal town between the Adriatic Sea and Biokovo mountains has pebble beaches, a 3,000-specimen shell museum, and a glass skywalk platform 1,762 meters above sea level.
Makarska, a coastal town in Croatia, sits between the Adriatic Sea and the Biokovo mountains. You can sunbathe on pebble beaches, hike mountain trails, or stroll through narrow stone streets in the Old Town. Visit St. Mark's Church with its distinctive bell tower, or enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes along the harbor promenade. From Makarska, you can easily take boat trips to nearby islands like Brač and Hvar.
Beaches along the coast
Makarska's coastline stretches for several kilometers, with various beaches to choose from. The main town beach, a long curve of pebbles, has calm, shallow waters where you can swim with your children. For more privacy, take a boat or walk the coastal path to Nugal Beach. This clothing-optional beach is surrounded by high cliffs. If you're looking for action, try water sports like jet-skiing or parasailing at several beach clubs along the shore.
Discovering Biokovo Nature Park
The Biokovo mountain range rises above Makarska, offering hiking opportunities and scenic views. You can climb the park's highest peak, Sveti Jure (Saint George), which reaches 1,762 meters. On clear days, you might see as far as Italy from the top. For an easier option, drive up to the Biokovo Skywalk, a horseshoe-shaped glass platform extending from the mountainside. As you walk on the transparent floor, you'll see the Adriatic far below. The park also has several educational trails where you can learn about local plants and animals.
Walking through the Old Town
Start your tour of Makarska's historic center at Kačić Square, where you'll see the baroque St. Mark's Church with its bell tower. Nearby, visit the Franciscan monastery, which houses a shell museum with over 3,000 specimens from around the world. As you walk the narrow streets, look for the Napoleon monument, which commemorates the brief French rule in the early 19th century. Finish your walk at the harbor, where you can watch fishing boats or have a coffee at one of the waterfront cafes.
Tasting local dishes
Makarska's cuisine features fresh seafood from the Adriatic. You can try black risotto made with cuttlefish ink, or order grilled fish caught that morning. If you prefer meat, ask for peka - meat and vegetables slow-cooked under a bell-shaped lid covered with hot coals. Drink local wines from the nearby Pelješac peninsula, known for its red varieties. For a quick bite, visit a local bakery for burek, a flaky pastry filled with cheese or meat.
Taking boat trips to nearby islands
From Makarska's harbor, you can visit several Adriatic islands. Take a ferry to Brač and see Zlatni Rat beach, a triangular spit of pebbles that changes shape with the currents. On Hvar, you can walk through lavender fields or enjoy the nightlife. For a quieter day, go to Šolta, where you can explore olive groves and swim in small coves. Many tour operators in Makarska offer guided island-hopping trips if you want a planned itinerary.
Choosing when to visit Makarska
The best time to visit Makarska depends on what you want to do. July and August are the busiest months, with warm temperatures for beach activities but also more tourists. In June and September, you'll find good weather and fewer people. If you want to hike or do other outdoor activities, consider visiting in May or October when it's cooler. Winter in Makarska is mild, but many tourist facilities close down, giving you a chance to see the town as locals do.
