Gornja Vala Beach

At the southern end of the Makarska Riviera, Drvenik is a small, authentic village, and Gornja Vala is its longest beach. It is a classic family beach: shaded, easy and close to everything you need.

Gornja Vala is a pebbly beach with natural pine shade that gives welcome relief from the summer heat. Like the rest of Drvenik's coast, it looks out over clear, turquoise water, with the island of Hvar across the channel.

Drvenik is calmer than the bigger resorts even in July and August. Mornings are especially peaceful, and June and September are ideal for a quiet stay.

Cafés and restaurants are close to the beach. There is a children's playground and a good choice of equipment for summer activities, and one part of the beach has a ramp for guests with disabilities.

From Gornja Vala, a light 5 to 10-minute walk towards Zaostrog brings you to Lučica, a small and intimate pebble cove. Donja Vala, Drvenik's other main beach, lies around the headland by the ferry port, and Duba and Vira bays are reachable by car or boat. Drvenik's ferry to Sućuraj on Hvar makes an easy island day trip.

Drvenik has a kilometre-long seaside promenade, so you can walk between beaches. Car parks are listed in the quick facts. Bring water shoes for the pebbles.

There is no Makarska Exklusiv home right next to Gornja Vala Beach. The closest are VillaSvilla and Villa Adriatic Beachfront, about a 25-minute drive away, and a good base if you plan to explore the southern Riviera by car.

Long, shaded and family-friendly, Gornja Vala is the relaxed southern Riviera at its best, with an island ferry just around the corner.