Makarska Riviera: Meet the Sea An honest Beach Guide

If you’ve ever driven down the coastal highway towards the south of Croatia, you know the feeling. On your left, the brutal, towering limestone cliffs of the Biokovo mountain range shoot almost vertically into the sky. On your right, the Adriatic Sea sparkles in a blue so intense you'd think it was photoshopped. There is absolutely no doubt about it: the Makarska Riviera is one of the most spectacular stretches of coastline in Croatia.

But let’s be real for a second. Because it is incredibly beautiful, you’re rarely going to have the shoreline to yourself in July and August. Finding your perfect spot—whether that’s a lively city beach with inflatable water parks and pancake stands, or a hidden, quiet cove you have to hike through a pine forest to reach—takes a bit of local know-how.

Here is my highly personal guide to the best beaches in and around Makarska. No glossy marketing fluff, just the honest truth about how it actually feels on the ground.

If you are staying right in the town of Makarska, you simply can’t miss this one. The main city beach stretches for almost two kilometers along the northwestern side of the town.

1. The Vibe: This is where the action is. Music drifts from beachfront bars, kids splash around on giant inflatable water parks, and the smell of fresh crepes (palatschinken) and grilled corn on the cob fills the air.
2. Underfoot: Fine, light-colored pebbles that slope gently into the water. It’s incredibly easy to walk in without losing your footing right away.
3. The Shade-Saver: A dense belt of old pine trees runs along the entire length of the beach. This is a lifesaver because you can easily skip renting a beach umbrella—just shift your towel under the trees when the midday sun gets too intense.
4. My Advice: If you want entertainment, water sports, and convenience, this is your spot. If you want peace and quiet, either head down here very early in the morning (when the sea is like glass and the air is still cool) or keep walking.

Nugal is the polar opposite of the city beach, and in my opinion, one of the most visually stunning spots in all of Dalmatia. Tucked away between high cliffs, it lies within the Osejava Forest Park between Makarska and Tučepi.

1. The Journey is Part of the Adventure: You cannot drive here. It requires about a 30-minute hike through a shady pine forest. Sturdy shoes are a must—don't try walking these rocky, root-covered paths in cheap flip-flops.
2. The Reward: Eventually, the forest opens up to reveal a snow-white pebble beach framed by a massive, sheer cliff face. In winter and after heavy rains, a waterfall actually plunges down the cliffs right near the sea.
3. Good to Know: Nugal is traditionally an FKK (naturist/nudist) beach, though these days the front section is often used as "mixed." There is zero infrastructure here. No bars, no toilets, no sunbeds, and very little natural shade on the beach itself. Pack plenty of water and snacks.

If you start at the main city beach and just keep walking northwest (towards Krvavica), the landscape starts to change. The long, wide stretch of pebbles breaks up into smaller sections known as Cvitačka and Ramova.

1. The Setting: Here, the shoreline is divided by large rocks and stone formations, creating smaller, much more intimate pockets of beach. It’s much easier to find a little corner with a bit of privacy.
2. Dog Friendly: A designated section of Ramova beach is officially open to dogs. If you are traveling with your furry friend, this is hands-down the best spot near Makarska.
3. The Infrastructure: You'll find a few rustic beach bars here that feel a lot more laid-back and less over-produced than the flashy beach clubs closer to town.

If you have a car or don't mind taking a local bus, you should absolutely explore a few kilometers outside of Makarska proper.

1. Punta Rata in Brela (North of Makarska): This beach regularly lands on global "best beaches" lists. Its claim to fame is the "Brela Stone"—a tiny, pine-covered rock island sitting just off the shore in turquoise water. The beach itself features exceptionally round, smooth pebbles that make the water look almost surreally clear.

Velika Duba (South of Makarska): If you want to escape the crowds completely, head south towards Živogošće. Velika Duba is a wide, natural bay untouched by major hotel developments. It’s raw, peaceful, and feels like the Dalmatia of old.

Buy Water Shoes: No, they don't look cool. But the pebbles get incredibly hot in the afternoon sun, and anywhere there are rocky outcrops, you will find sea urchins. They cost a few Euros at any local souvenir stall and will literally save your vacation.

The Parking Situation: Parking right by the beaches in the summer is expensive and incredibly stressful. If your accommodation doesn't come with a central parking spot, your best bet is to use the paid, guarded lots up near the main road and walk the short distance down to the water.

The Afternoon Breeze (Maestral): Don't be surprised if the wind picks up around midday. That’s the Maestral, a thermal wind that reliably blows in from the sea almost every summer afternoon. It brings a very welcome cooling effect, though it can whip up some small waves—perfect for just floating around on an inflatable raft.