Sakarun

Sakarun (or Saharun) is arguably one of the most famous and breathtaking beaches in Croatia, situated on the northwestern coast of Dugi Otok. Often described as the "Caribbean of the Adriatic," this stunning bay is renowned for its incredibly vivid turquoise water and the soft, white sand that covers the shallow seabed. The striking contrast between the crystal-clear azure sea, the bright white shoreline, and the lush, dark green pine forest that surrounds the bay creates a truly mesmerizing and highly photogenic landscape that captivates every visitor.

The bay itself is approximately 800 meters long, providing an expansive area for relaxation. While the immediate shoreline mostly consists of smooth, white pebbles and some rocky parts, the moment you step into the water, the ground transitions into fine, silky white sand. It is exactly this shallow, sandy seabed that reflects the sunlight and creates the unbelievable spectrum of colors in the water, shifting between deep blue, vibrant turquoise, and emerald green throughout the day.

Bordering the beach is a dense Mediterranean pine forest, offering refreshing natural shade during the hot summer days. This pristine natural setting, combined with the fragrant scent of pine trees and the salty sea breeze, provides the perfect atmosphere for complete relaxation. Even though Sakarun has become popular, the surrounding nature preserves its wild and romantic appeal, making it a true Adriatic paradise.

Practical info

Beach typemixed

WaterThe water is crystal clear, perfectly calm, and extremely shallow, featuring a soft white sandy bottom that stretches far out.

Getting thereAccessible by car via a paved road, by boat, or by taking a small tourist train from the nearby village of Božava.

ParkingThere is a spacious paid parking lot under the pine trees, located just a short walk from the beach.

EntranceEntrance to the beach is completely free, though you will need to pay for parking and sunbed rentals.

LifeguardThere are typically no official lifeguards on duty, so swimming is at your own risk.

ShadeThe dense pine forest directly behind the beach provides abundant, natural, and cooling shade all day long.

Best timeSeptember and early June are perfect for avoiding the large summer crowds while still enjoying warm sea temperatures.

NearbyThe village of Božava is nearby, and the imposing Veli Rat lighthouse is just a short 15-minute drive away.

Family-friendly & For kids

It is incredibly family-friendly due to the warm, shallow water, sandy seabed, and the dense pine forest providing excellent natural shade.

Children love the shallow sandy areas extending far into the sea, which are perfect for safe splashing, wading, and building sandcastles.

Food & drink

Beach Bars on Sakarun — They offer simple fast food, refreshing cocktails, and ice cream directly on the beach.
Konobas in Božava — Visit nearby Božava for authentic Dalmatian seafood and grilled fresh fish dishes.
Veli Rat Taverns — Enjoy traditional peka (meat or octopus baked under a bell) in the nearby village of Veli Rat.

Facilities

Beach bar
Sunbed rental
Parasol rental
Toilets
Changing cabins
Mooring buoys

Events nearby

Saljske užance (Sali Festivity) First weekend of August (3 days) · annual
Dugi Otok's biggest traditional festival, held for over 50 years in the village of Sali. Fisherman's Night opens it with fish-stew and tuna/sardine cooking contests, followed by folk customs, port illumination, and the famous 'Tovareča mužika' (donkey music) parade ending with the performers swimming in Sali harbour. Source
Summer Mul Blues Jam Festival August (one day) · annual
A relaxed open-air blues festival on the waterfront ('mul') of Sali on Dugi Otok, billed as the largest of the small Dalmatian blues festivals. It reached its 10th edition in August 2025 with several performers across a single evening. Source
Days of Herbs from Dugi Otok Late May (about one week) · annual
Island-wide event presenting Dugi Otok's traditional knowledge and uses of wild and aromatic herbs, with tastings and demonstrations of local herbal practices. Source
Festival mora i soli (Sea and Salt Festival) Late June · annual
A celebration of Dugi Otok's centuries-old (995-year) fishing and salt tradition, presenting the island's maritime heritage with local food and customs. Source
Dugi Otok Moto Tour Late September · annual
An organised motorcycling tour along Dugi Otok's panoramic island roads, drawing riders to explore the long island's scenic routes over a long weekend. Source
Village Patron Saint Festivities (Fešte) Throughout summer (various dates per village) · annual
Each of Dugi Otok's villages, including Božava and Veli Rat near Sakarun, holds its own patron-saint festivity during summer, with traditional music, local dishes and entertainment in the village square and harbour. Source

Tips

Arrive before 9 AM during July and August to secure a parking spot.
Bring plenty of cash as card payments at the beach bars and parking are often not accepted.
Pack snorkeling gear to explore the clear waters and spot fish.
Seaweed occasionally washes ashore after storms; it's natural but good to know.

FAQ

Is Sakarun a completely sandy beach?

The seabed is covered in fine white sand, but the shore itself consists of a mix of smooth white pebbles, stones, and some sandy patches.

Can I reach the beach without a car?

Yes, if you stay in Božava, there is a small tourist train that runs directly to the beach during the summer season.

Are there restaurants on the beach?

There are only simple beach bars offering fast food and drinks. For a proper sit-down meal, you need to visit the nearby villages.

Is the water warm?

Because the bay is very shallow, the water warms up quickly and is usually warmer than the open sea around the island.

Places nearby

Božava 3 km
Dragove 5 km
Savar 14 km
Ist 18 km
Dugi Otok 18 km
Ugljan 18 km
Veli Iž 21 km
Lukoran 23 km
Petrčane 24 km
Privlaka 25 km

Beaches nearby

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