Each time I look at Zlatni Rat beach from Vidova Gora, the imposing peak on Brac Island, I almost cannot believe my eyes when I see what a masterpiece I am looking at.
The setting is sublime, with the mountain dominating the background over the Golden Horn beach, with the bluest and clearest water on your left and right, the waves suavely crashing against the white pebbles, and the gentle breeze tickling your senses. It’s nothing short of a feast for the eyes and soul.
This is Zlatni Rat, Croatia’s most spectacular golden pebble beach, and one of those must see spots in the country. And I am here today to tell you everything about it!
What to Expect from Zlatni Rat
Also known as the Golden Horn or Cape, the beach sits just in front of Bol town and stretches over 500 meters (about 546 yards) into the sea.
Its unique shape looks like a white tongue stretching into the Adriatic sea, and it actually changes shape and position depending on the wind and currents.
A quick warning: I’ve seen many visitors arrive expecting soft white sand based on the impression they get from the plethora of photos of this beach. But in reality, it’s a pebble beach, just like so many in the country.
However, these are smooth, white pebbles. You still need water shoes, especially if you are bringing kids. Walking on the stones barefoot can get uncomfortable after a while, no matter how smooth they are.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Zlatni rat is before 10 AM. The earlier you can get here, the better, because it gets crowded quickly, especially during the peak season (from June to late August).
If you want even more privacy, you can visit in September when the crowds are mostly gone, but the sea remains warm enough for swimming. And the view is the same: incredible!
Getting to Golden Horn Beach (aka Zlatni Rat)
This beach is located on the southern part of Brac island, just opposite Hvar and a few miles from Jelsa town. Getting here requires a bit of planning, depending on how you travel.
If you’re not already there, booking a tour or activity is the best option. Here are my recommendations – different ones, based on different starting points (like Split, the coast and more):
If you want more of DIY approach, you basically need to reach Bol if you don’t book a direct ferry from your location (or using one of the activities above). Here is how to do it:
Traveling from Split to Bol
Bol town only has catamaran connections with Split, the unofficial capital of Dalmatia. If you are traveling by car, you have to take the ferry line from Split to Supetar. From there, you can drive the 35 km across the island to reach Bol.
The sailing to Bol takes only one hour from Split.
For foot passengers, catamaran fast-speed boats are your best option. During the high season, there are several daily connections operated by two main shipping companies: Jadrolinija and Krilo. In the winter period, connections drop a lot.
From Bol Town to the Beach
Zlatni Rat is only two kilometers from Bol town. To reach the beach from the port, you can take a water taxi, which is a fun way to arrive. But you can also walk – this is what I usually do when in the area as I enjoy this walk a lot.
The path goes right along the coast, completely shaded under heavy pine trees, and takes around 30 minutes at a leisurely pace.
If you don’t feel like walking or taking a boat, you can also hop on the popular tourist street train. It runs directly from the center of Bol to the beach and takes about 15 minutes.
Zlatni Rat Facilities: Rentals, Food, & Drink
You won’t be left stranded without basic amenities once you get to the beach, as it is equipped with public showers, toilets, and changing cubicles.
There are also lifeguards on duty, and you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, though I warn you that prices are really high during peak season.
If you want to save some money and also avoid the sun, you can retreat into the natural shade provided by the pine forest lining the center of the horn. The view from there is spectacular, too!
Where to Eat and Drink
Since becoming so popular among tourists, food and drink options have increased – although not by a lot. But usually at the limit of the pine forest, you will find fast-food kiosks selling quick bites and cold drinks.
For something more special, you can do what I do when I’m up for a treat: grab a drink at the Auro Cocktail Bar which is right on the beach.
Zlatni Rat Water Sports
If you want active holidays full of sports, recreation, and energetic crowds, Bol is the place to be. It is an internationally famous destination and generally the most beautiful place to go surfing on the Adriatic, among the best windsurfing destinations in Croatia.
Windsurfing & The Maestral Wind
In the channel between Hvar and Brač, a specific thermal wind called the ‘maestral’ blows every afternoon almost without exception. It is stronger on this side of the coast than anywhere else.
The morning brings a lighter ‘levante’ wind, which is ideal for learning and practicing. Because of these reliable winds, you will find many surfing schools along this part of the coast.
Only the very tip of the beach is completely free for surfers, while the main swimming areas are protected from the open sea with safety nets.
Scuba Diving & Beach Volleyball
The water sports scene goes beyond just surfing. The beach hosts many international races and cups. You can also sign up for the SSI scuba diving school or join a game of beach volleyball in the shaded areas.
Accommodation Near Zlatni Rat Beach
If you are looking for a place to stay somewhere between this beach and the old Bol village, the Bluesun hotel chain is the best choice and my #1 recommendation. Here are the main options:
Bluesun Hotel Elaphusa
As I said, my top recommendation is the four-star Bluesun Hotel Elaphusa. It is well known for being an excellent wellness and spa hotel in the region.
It has an ideal beachfront location, as well as great facilities on offer. It is extremely family-friendly and covers pretty much everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Check prices for your dates here.
Bluesun Hotel Borak
The second option is another nearby property, Bluesun Hotel Borak. It is a solid alternative if you want to stay in the same great location but in a different, but equally appreciated (and slightly more budget-friendly) resort.
Check prices for your dates here.
Preserving the Golden Horn
The shape-shifting nature of the Zlatni Rat beach is part of its magic, but it has been under some serious environmental pressure lately. There is actually a petition called “Save Zlatni Rat” which tries to reduce tourism to the area.
According to this petition, heavy boat anchoring and mass tourism have been altering the beach’s iconic shape faster than natural winds would. Because of this, there are now stricter calls for anchoring rules.
While it’s not clear if these actually go in effect, when you visit, follow the designated swimming and boating zones so this natural wonder stays intact for decades to come – this is how you show respect for the people in the area and also to this little natural wonder.
Wrapping up
I hope my guide helps you look past the Instagram filters and plan a trip that works for you, with realistic expectations.
Just remember my golden rules: bring water shoes, respect the local preservation efforts, and get there early to claim your spot on the horn. It really is a masterpiece, and I know you will love it as much as I do!