This small coastal town on Croatia's Pelješac Peninsula has clear beaches, vineyards, and a 15th-century Franciscan monastery overlooking the Adriatic Sea.
Orebić sits on Croatia's Pelješac peninsula, where sandy Trstenica Beach stretches along the waterfront and 19th-century sea captain mansions line the harbor. You can hike up Mount Saint Elijah's 961-meter peak, visit local wineries producing Plavac Mali wines, or explore a 15th-century Franciscan monastery. A 15-minute ferry connects you to Korčula island throughout the day.
Getting to Orebić
You can reach Orebić by car from Dubrovnik (2.5 hours) or Split (4 hours) via the Adriatic Highway. Buses run four times daily between Dubrovnik and Orebić. Passenger ferries cross to Korčula town every hour during summer and every two hours in winter.
Beaches and Swimming
Trstenica beach stretches 1.5 kilometers along the town's waterfront, with sand rather than the common limestone pebbles found on most Croatian beaches. The sea floor slopes gently, reaching 1.5 meters in depth about 50 meters from shore. West of the town center, small pebble coves nestle between pine trees near the Franciscan monastery.
Wine Country
Plavac Mali grape vines grow on the hillsides around Orebić. In the Dingač wine region, accessible through a 400-meter tunnel, you'll see some of Europe's steepest vineyard terraces. Visit local winemakers' cellars between June and October, with most welcoming visitors from 10 AM to 6 PM for tastings and tours.
Maritime Museum and Sea Captain Houses
The Maritime Museum chronicles Orebić's 1800s seafaring period through navigation instruments, ship manifests, and merchant vessel models. Walk along the waterfront to see the former captains' homes built between 1800 and 1900, with their characteristic limestone walls and Mediterranean gardens filled with palm trees.
Franciscan Monastery and Mount Saint Elijah
The Franciscan monastery includes a church from 1486 and Gothic-arched cloisters. Four marked paths start at the monastery and lead to Mount Saint Elijah's summit. The main trail covers 4.5 kilometers and climbs 961 meters. Look for stone distance markers every 500 meters, and stop at several viewpoints overlooking the Adriatic Sea.
Day Trips from Orebić
Take a ferry to Korčula town - boats run from 6 AM to midnight in summer, making it easy to explore the medieval streets. From June to September, catch one of two daily catamarans to Mljet island's national park (45-minute journey). By car, you can drive 45 minutes to Ston to walk the 5.5-kilometer defensive wall and see the active oyster farms.
