This calm Dalmatian village has a 14th-century stone harbor and a 3-kilometer pebble beach. Local fishermen sell fresh catch daily at the waterfront market.
Sukošan, a coastal village 12 kilometers south of Zadar, sits along a 5-kilometer stretch of clear Adriatic waters. You'll find local fishermen selling their catch at the harbor, families swimming at Djecji Raj beach, and sailors preparing their vessels at Marina Dalmacija. Walk through stone-paved alleys to discover the 11th-century Church of St. Kasijan, or spot the ruins of a 15th-century archbishop's villa built on its own small island in the bay.
Getting to Sukošan
You can reach Sukošan via the A1 highway, taking the Zadar 2 exit. The nearest airport is Zemunik, located 12 kilometers away with a 15-minute drive to the village. Buses run every hour along the coastal road between Zadar and Sukošan, stopping on the main road.
Beaches Along the Coast
Djecji Raj (Children's Paradise) extends along the main bay, where fine pebbles meet shallow water. The gradual depth makes it ideal for families with small children. Several coves line the coast, each with freshwater showers, wooden changing cabins, and restrooms. You'll find small cafes selling drinks and ice cream near most beach entrances.
Marina Dalmacija and Nautical Tourism
Marina Dalmacija accommodates 1,200 boats in water and 500 on land, making it Croatia's largest marina. Its private beach sets it apart from other Adriatic marinas. Many sailors start their journey to the Kornati archipelago from here, and you can rent boats or join sailing excursions at the marina office.
Walking the Old Town
Stone houses line the narrow alleys of the village center. As you walk along the waterfront promenade, you'll pass restaurants serving grilled fish and seafood pasta while fishing boats bob in the harbor. Small squares between buildings serve as meeting points where locals gather in the evening.
Local Traditions and Events
During the feast of St. Kasijan on August 13th, the village comes alive with folk music and dancing. The carnival season brings out the "luzari" - masked performers in traditional costumes who dance through the streets. Throughout summer, "Nights of Sukošan" fills the squares with live music and food stalls every Friday evening.
Historical Buildings and Churches
The 11th-century Parish Church of St. Kasijan contains stone carvings with interlaced patterns (pleter) typical of early Croatian churches. A smaller 17th-century church stands in the graveyard, decorated with similar stone patterns. Walk to Cape Bribircina to see the remaining walls of a medieval fortress, or take photos of the ruined archbishop's summer villa on its artificial island.
Day Trips from Sukošan
Five national parks lie within driving distance. You can reach the Kornati islands by boat for swimming and snorkeling, drive 45 minutes to climb in Paklenica's canyon, or spend a day exploring Plitvice Lakes' wooden walkways and waterfalls. Closer options include hiking in Velebit mountain range or birdwatching at Vrana Lake, both within 30 minutes by car.
