It’s no coincidence I chose Gradac, Croatia for today’s article. It is a beautiful, lesser known former fishing village on the beautiful Makarska Riviera.
I’ve visited this small coastal town twice while traveling to Dubrovnik and I definitely fell in love with it. I am sure you will too, so here’s everything you should know about it!
Getting there
The first time, I drove from Split along the D8 – the famous coastal road that hugs the Adriatic and passes through every village on the Makarska Riviera. The second time, I came from Hvar Island, taking the ferry from the Sucuraj village, at the island’s far eastern tip, to Drvenik on the mainland.
If you’re traveling between Dubrovnik and Hvar, this route is one of the most practical. The ferry crossing takes only about 30 minutes, and from Drvenik it’s just 10 km to Gradac.
If you’re hopping between Hvar and the mainland, the Jadrolinija Sucuraj–Drvenik car ferry (route 632) runs year-round. The crossing takes about 30–35 minutes, and you should make sure to arrive early if you visit during the summer.
If you prefer buses, Makarska–Gradac has frequent daily services (roughly 45–60 minutes, several departures). It’s better than renting a car, and you have plenty more options. Look at Bookaway for all of them.
Gornja Vala Beach – The Longest Beach on the Makarska Riviera
Most beaches along the 60 km Makarska Riviera are fine gravel – almost sandy – while many are white pebble beaches. Some, like Brela’s beaches, are a series of small private coves, with exceptions such as Punta Rata and Berulia Beach.
Few beaches here stretch longer than a few hundred meters. Gornja Vala is the exception – it’s the longest beach on the Makarska Riviera, divided into two separate bays.
Some sources claim it’s nearly 7 km long, although it’s more likely to be around 5 km. The village beach area is split into two parts:
- Gornja Vala (Upper Cove) – South of the marina. Parts of the beach/promenade hold Blue Flag status in season, which signals clean water, managed facilities, and accessible entries.
- Bosac Bay – Northwest of the marina.
- Naturist option: a small FKK area sits near Gradac if you prefer a quieter, clothing-optional spot (if you’re looking for more FKK spots, check out my articles about the best ones in South Croatia, as well as those in Central Dalmatia).
On the map below, you can see the marina is well-protected from all winds, making it ideal for smaller yachts inside the breakwater. Larger yachts can anchor in Bosac Bay.
Watch a video of the beach promenade, to get even more in the mood to travel here:
For me, this video is like therapy. If it’s the same for you, just imagine how good it will feel when you’re actually there!
Where to Stay
Gradac’s first hotel was built in 1919, but tourism really began to grow in the 1960s. While the economy traditionally relied on agriculture, wine production, olive growing, and fishing, tourism is now the main source of income.
Alongside private rentals (houses, villas, and apartments ) there are several hotels, all located right on the beachfront.
- In the city: Hotel Lukas (3★) – spectacular views, and still close to the beach.
- Gornja Vala Beach: Hotel Saudade (4★) – I stayed here during my last visit. It’s a bit more expensive, but extremely good, right on the beach.
Things to Do in Gradac
Gradac offers both water and land activities.
Water sports: diving (there are a couple of clubs in the town), jet-ski rentals, and boat trips.
Outdoor activities: cycling, hiking, and excursions to Biokovo Nature Park.
The Biokovo area has many marked hiking trails (up to 1,228 m near Ravna Vlaška.), and you can join guided tours for mountain hikes, rock climbing, or simply enjoy panoramic views from its many lookout points. The views are superb on clear days.
Bacina Lakes (near Ploce): Calm, warm lakes ideal for kayak/SUP, cycling the lakeside path, or a boat safari, offering a great break from summer crowds.
Neretva Delta: Wide, shallow estuary with steady winds. Popular for kitesurfing and bird-watching, and it can be combined for a day trip with Bacina Lakes.
If you want to check out the nearby attractions and you’re into island hopping (or visiting), I recommend reading my travel guide to Brac Island.
Wrapping up
Gradac still delivers what I come to the Makarska Riviera for: a long, easy beach, clear water, and quick escapes into nature. With simple access via Drvenik, a handful of beachfront hotels, it’s a stress-free base for a few lazy days or a full week on the coast.
If you want to read more about my finds in Croatia – some of which are usually off the beaten path and not as popular – I recommend reading about Groznjan or Ston on the Peljesac Peninsula.