Sibenik might surprise you – not because of what it has, but because of what it lacks. Believe it or not, this charming Adriatic town has no true city beach close to the city center.
But worry not, I’ve explored the entire area and found the best beaches in Sibenik (and around it) that not only compensate for this, but might even make you glad Sibenik doesn’t have one of its own.
So let’s not waste any time and instead let’s see where you should go if you’re looking for amazing beach experiences, if you’re in the region this holiday season.
Solaris beaches in Sibenik
If you decide to visit Sibenik, the Solaris resort with its great beaches and turquoise waters will offer everything you need for a perfect stay in Croatia. It is my top recommendation, too!
The resort itself has been renovated recently and it really looks amazing as you can see in the attached photos.
The Solaris resort is located 6 kilometers away from Sibenik (towards Split) and it’s accessible via the A1 motorway – so you can easily visit if you’re located in the town or vice versa: you can quickly reach the town if you choose to stay at Solaris – which would be a really good choice, by the way!
Want to know more about this impressive resort? Then you should know that Solaris offer a whooping 4 kilometers of beaches thematically divided into five different parts:
- Solaris Sand Beach: Probably the closest thing you’ll find to those dreamy Adriatic postcards, it’s one of the few truly sandy beaches in the area. Ideal for families and sunbathing lovers.
- Solaris Club Beach: Perfect if you’re in the mood to party. Expect lively music, beach bars, and wild parties all summer.
- Solaris SPA Beach: For relaxation seekers, the newly opened Wellness & Spa Center here provides peace, quiet, and rejuvenating treatments.
- Solaris Family Beach: This beach area features the Kids Hotel Andrija and Solaris Beach Hotel Jakov, along with the first Aqua Park in the Adriatic region, making it perfect for families with young kids.
- Solaris camping beach – the best and most rewarded campsites in the region
Check prices for your dates on Booking.com.
The beaches at Solaris are accessible even if you’re not staying at the resort, but keep in mind there might be a small fees involved – for parking also.
Best Beaches in the Sibenik Town Area (Or Very Close By)
Usually, locals themselves and the tourists who stay in Sibenik must use city transportation, a car, or a boat to go to the nearest beach.
But it is a trouble worth going through because the views and the beaches themselves are priceless. These are my favorite options:
1. Banj (Crnica) town beach
Opened in 2012, Banj is now the unofficial “city beach” of Sibenik, located just one kilometer from the historical center. It’s an easy 10-15 minute walk, or you can reach it quickly by car or bicycle.
This pebble beach offers beautiful, postcard-worthy views of Sibenik’s charming old town and fortress (as you can see in the photo above).
Facilities here are solid too: showers, toilets, lifeguards, and even sports areas for basketball, volleyball, and water polo. There’s also a fitness park nearby if you prefer an active vacation.
It’s very popular among local people. It’s suitable for families, older and younger people.
Each evening, the young people meet in the bars and nightclubs close to the beach – so it’s lively and nice all around. You can never get bored here, but if you’re looking for something more secluded, this is obviously not the place for you.
But if you are looking for a great pebble beach near the city of Sibenik, this is the right beach for you. It offers a breathtaking view of the old part of the city.
2. Jadrija beach – Sibenik
Established way back in 1921, Jadrija is a beloved classic among locals and tourists alike. It’s located just outside Sibenik in a suburb of the same name. Reaching Jadrija is easy via local buses, ferries, or a quick 10-minute drive by car.
There are numerous “famous” beaches along the coast. Bacvice in Split, Kolovare beach of Zadar, Banje in Dubrovnik, Bonj of Hvar , to mention just a few (you can click the links to check them out). But Jadrija of Sibenik seems to have a special aura even to those not native to Sibenik.
It is probably because it is the last “classic” beach still standing and, despite its old age, it has the beauty to wow you as soon as you get there. Colorful beach cabins line the coast, adding to its unique character. The waters here are clear and inviting, and it’s ideal for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying a simple yet authentic Croatian beach experience.
3. St. Anthony Channel Beaches
After the opening of the Sibenik channel in 2013, the town has been enriched with two new beaches, both reachable by car or even on foot if you don’t mind walking a bit further.
Make sure you are properly hydrated if you give walking a try since the sun is unforgiving during the steamy summer months!
The first one is Skar Cove (pictured above) – a pebble beach with a view of St Nicholas Fortress, one of most important Sibenik sightseeing sites.
Being easily accessible by car, this beach has quickly entered on the list of the favorite beaches in Sibenik.
It doesn’t offer the beautiful sand that people usually associate with beaches and the seaside, but most of Croatia’s beaches don’t. This doesn’t make them less spectacular or enjoyable. Just give it a try!
Another beach I suggest is Minerska Bay beach, a beautiful, quiet beach on the promenade of St. Anthony.
The beach is easily reachable by car but you’ll need to walk to the beach as the parking place is located in front of Sibenik channel entrance ramp.
It’s not a long walk and the best part of this pebble beach is that it’s a bit more private than most.
It’s true, during the season, it might get crowded – just like most beaches, but it will never be that bad that you’ll feel people breathing up your back.
I personally love this beach for its character and personality – and especially the fact that it’s not as popular as the others.
4. Rezaliste Beach
This beach is located near the Brodarica settlement, which is 6 km away from Sibenik. It’s a small pebbled beach, recommended for families with children.
Lovers of active rest and sports will find different kinds of water-related sports and entertainment on the beach.
This is clearly not within walking distance, but you can get there easily by car. It is extremely popular and can get a bit crowded, but it’s also well maintained, clean and the water is absolutely amazing!
Insider Tips & Advice for Visiting These Sibenik Beaches
Best Season and Time of Day: Mid-June to early September offers ideal water temperatures (typically between 23-27°C / 73-80°F). Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon helps avoid peak crowds, especially at popular spots like Banj and Solaris – but expect crowds nevertheless, as this is peak season in Croatia.
Packing Advice: Almost all beaches near Sibenik are pebble or concrete platforms. Bringing sturdy water shoes or sandals is a must. Pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of drinking water – especially if visiting beaches without extensive amenities.
Beaches like Banj, Solaris, and Rezaliste have food options and plenty of shops nearby. For quieter spots like Minerska or Skar Cove, pack your own snacks and beverages.
Transportation Tips: Public buses regularly run from Sibenik center to Solaris and Brodarica (Rezaliste). Jadrija is easiest to access via a short, scenic boat ride directly from Sibenik’s waterfront – highly recommended for the experience itself.
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Wrapping up
In the end, you have a lot of choices when it comes to enjoying the sun, the water and the views in and around Sibenik.
Hopefully my list of the best beaches in the area is helpful and you’ll be able to enjoy them all.
And if there’s more than beaches that interest you, make sure to read my other article detailing the best things to do in Sibenik.