Paradise Beach
Paradise Beach, locally known as Rajska Plaža, is the most famous and longest beach in Lopar on the island of Rab. Stretching for nearly two kilometers along the calm Adriatic coast, it is a stunning expanse of fine, golden sand—a rarity in Croatia, where pebble and rocky beaches dominate. The crystal-clear water extends incredibly shallowly into the sea, allowing waders to walk for hundreds of meters before the water even reaches their waists. This unique topography creates an exceptionally warm bathing environment, often reaching pleasant temperatures early in the summer season.
The surrounding scenery is picturesque, backed by lush green pine forests that provide a natural contrast to the bright sand. From the shore, visitors can enjoy a beautiful view of a small, uninhabited islet just across the bay, which adventurous swimmers and pedal boaters often explore. The vibrant, bustling atmosphere makes it a central hub of summer activity, filled with the joyful sounds of families, beach games, and water sports.
Awarded the prestigious Blue Flag for its high water quality and well-maintained facilities, Paradise Beach is a prime destination for those seeking a safe seaside experience. The promenade is lined with cafes, ice cream parlors, and restaurants, ensuring every amenity is within arm's reach. Whether lounging under a parasol, building sandcastles, or enjoying a game of picigin in the shallows, this vibrant coast truly lives up to its paradisiacal name.
Practical info
Family-friendly & For kids
This is the ultimate family beach in Croatia, as the extremely shallow water and soft sand provide a safe and relaxing environment for both parents and children.
Children can splash safely in the knee-deep water, build sandcastles, and enjoy the large aquapark with water slides.
Food & drink
- Ćevapčići — Popular grilled meat dish available at fast-food stalls directly on the promenade.
- Fresh Seafood — Locally caught fish and squid served in traditional konobas just behind the beach.
- Gelato / Ice Cream — Sold at numerous stands along the beach path, perfect for cooling down.
Facilities
- Restaurant
- Cafe
- Sunbed
- Shower
- Toilet
- Pedal boat
- Water slide
- Lifeguard
Events nearby
- Sand Sculpture Festival (Festival pješčanih skulptura) Summer (opens early May, main competition late June / early July, closes late September) · annual
Paradise Beach itself turns into an open-air atelier where artists build large original sand sculptures inspired by animals, legends and cartoons. The 2026 main event runs 30 June to 3 July with the winners announced on Paradise Beach, and the sculptures stay on display through the summer until the closing on World Tourism Day. Source - Rapska fjera (Rab Medieval Summer Fair) Annually 25-27 July (feast days of St James, St Anne and St Christopher) · annual
Croatia's oldest and largest medieval summer festival, in the historic old town of Rab about 10 km from Lopar. The streets fill with craft workshops, period costumes, traditional food and the famous crossbow (samostrijel) knights' tournament. A worthwhile evening trip for any beach visitor staying in Lopar. Source - Stokaljfest (Octopus / Fish Festival) Early June (evening) · annual
Lopar fishing festival dedicated to octopus and local seafood, with traditional dishes, local wine and live music. Part of the village's wider fishermen's heritage celebrations through the summer. Source - Pumidofest (Lopar Tomato Festival) Mid-July (evening) · annual
Gastro festival celebrating the locally grown Lopar tomato, with tomato-based specialities, a music programme and entertainment in the village centre, a short walk from Paradise Beach. Source - Lopar Night – Return to the Roots (Loparska noc) Early-to-mid August (evening) · annual
A folklore spectacle presenting Lopar's old customs, crafts and tools with traditional cuisine and the tanac and pojka dances of the San Marino cultural association, culminating in a procession honouring Saint Marinus. Source - Rab Music Evenings (Rapske glazbene veceri) Throughout the summer (June-August), 12-14 concerts · annual
A summer series of classical and opera concerts by renowned Croatian and international musicians, held at venues on the island of Rab near Lopar. The 2026 programme includes an Opera Regoc evening (25 June) and the Zagreb Quartet (31 July). Source - Rab Paradiso Trail Late September · annual
An annual trekking and trail race on the island of Rab, drawing runners to the scenic coastal and inland trails. A good late-season draw for active beach visitors. Source - Mala Gospa – Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Annually 8 September · annual
Lopar's traditional religious feast day with holy masses, pilgrimages, local cuisine, five-a-side football and boccie tournaments, and an evening fiesta with folklore performances and Croatian singers. Source
Tips
- Bring plenty of sun protection as the midday sun is very strong.
- Try playing the local ball game 'picigin' in the shallows.
- Wade out to the small uninhabited islet opposite the beach.
- Rent your sunbeds early in the morning as they sell out quickly.
FAQ
Is the beach really entirely sandy?
Do I need water shoes?
Is the water deep enough for swimming?
Are dogs allowed on the beach?
Places nearby
- Lopar (Rab) 1 km
- Supetarska Draga 3 km
- Kampor 4 km
- Mundanije 6 km
- Rab 7 km
- Banjol 9 km
- Barbat na Rabu 11 km
- Klada 13 km
- Lun 15 km
- Stara Baška 16 km
Beaches nearby
- Sahara Beach 2 km
- Zrće 34 km
- Maestral Beach 38 km
- Čikat 39 km
- Crni molo 40 km
- Ručica Beach 42 km