This small harbor town on Brač island has stone houses, a palm-lined promenade, and clean waters. Visitors can explore Roman ruins, cycle through olive groves, or join the annual extreme sports festival.
Sutivan, a small harbor town on Croatia's Brač island, invites you to explore its stone houses, palm-lined promenade, and clean waters. Stroll along pebble beaches, visit the 16th-century Church of St. John, or cycle through olive groves and vineyards. Discover Roman-era ruins, relax in waterfront cafes, or join the annual "Vanka regule" extreme sports festival for an exciting experience.
Location and Getting There
Sutivan sits on the northwest coast of Brač island in Croatia's Split-Dalmatia County. The town is about 8 kilometers west of Supetar, where ferries arrive from Split on the mainland. To reach Sutivan, take a 50-minute ferry from Split to Supetar, then a short bus ride or taxi to Sutivan. The town's location just 13 km across the water from Split makes it convenient for day trips or longer stays.
Beaches and Swimming
Sutivan has several beaches along its 4-kilometer coastline. The main town beach, Bunta (also called Sutivan Beach), is a fine pebble beach near the harbor with clear, shallow water. For a quieter spot, walk about 2 kilometers east to Likva Beach, accessible via a coastal path from the harbor. Families often prefer Majakovac Beach, about 800 meters from the port, for its calm waters. On the western edge of town, you'll find the secluded Justitija beach and a clothing-optional area at Nudist Beach Erot, both surrounded by fragrant pine forests.
Cycling and Hiking
Sutivan has become a popular destination for cyclists, with many marked trails winding through the surrounding countryside. Rent bikes in town and explore routes that take you past olive groves, vineyards, and along the coast. If you prefer hiking, you'll find plenty of trails to enjoy the Mediterranean landscape and sea views. Each May, the town hosts the "Vanka regule" extreme sports festival, which includes competitions in activities like football and bowling, drawing participants from around the world.
Accommodation and Dining
Sutivan offers a range of places to stay, from apartments and holiday homes to the Hotel Lemongarden, an adults-only property that's highly rated on the island. For meals, try one of the waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood and local specialties. Many eateries use locally grown produce, giving you a taste of authentic Dalmatian cuisine.
Historical Landmarks
The town's history dates back to Roman times, with some structures built during Emperor Diocletian's reign. While only ruins remain of the 6th-century Byzantine basilica, the 16th-century Church of St. John (Crkva Svetog Ivana) stands nearby. The church sits on a small hill, making it visible from much of the town. In the old part of the cemetery, visit catacombs built in 1913, designed with skylights and reflecting the social awareness of the time. As you walk through town, look for examples of traditional pebble stone paving called "kongul" on some streets.
