Rab is an island in Croatia with a town of the same name, located just off the northern Croatian coast. The island is 22 kilometers long and has roughly 9,300 inhabitants.
Known as the “happy island”, Rab is also one of the greenest islands in the Adriatic, boasting a densely populated pine forest in the southwest. With one of the most diverse landscapes in the Kvarner region, Rab was actually declared as a Geopark back in 2008. As if this island could have any more good features, did you know Rab also has around 30 sandy beaches?
As you might have guessed, we are continuing our best beaches series with Rab. Here are our top 5.
Rajska plaža (Lopar): Located in the northeastern part of Rab we have Lopar, and in Lopar we have the largest and most popular sandy beach on Rab: Rajska plaža (Paradise beach). Rajska plaža extends over a length of 2 kilometers, and has been awarded a “Blue Flag” for water cleanliness, quality, and environmental safety. This beach even made it on CNN’s “Top 100 Beaches in the World” list! Rajska plaza has a shallow sea of about 1 kilometer, making it great for children and for families. Due to its popularity, you can expect there to be plenty of facilities and activities on the island to enjoy. Rajska plaža has everything from beach volleyball to water slides, parasailing, and after beach parties. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants to enjoy.
Image by lopar.com
Sahara (Lopar): Another beach located in Lopar worth a mention is Sahara beach, about a 30 minute walk from Rajska plaža on marked trails through nature. Sahara beach is a stunning sandy beach that is also one of the most popular nudists beach in the region. Accessible by car, Sahara is also a great place for adventuring, but not so great for activities. If you’re looking for something with water sports, Sahara is not the place for you. Here you can enjoy peace and quiet, and due to the lack of facilities, be sure to bring your own food and water. This sandy beach is surrounded by a few shrubs where you can find cover for when the sun gets too hot.
Image by apartmanilopar.com
Ciganka (Lopar): Also based in Lopar facing north we have Ciganka, which actually translates to the English word “gypsy”. One of the three clothing-optional sandy beaches in Lopar, Ciganka is known for its bizarre and unique sand pyramids and other natural formations on the beach. The color of the sea here is emerald green, and there is plenty of room for you to sunbathe on the rocky plateaus that surround the beach. You can reach Ciganka easily by foot or by car, and you’ll be sure to find parking in the nearby pine forest. A very isolated beach with a lack of facilities, make sure you prepare before your day here!
Image by rab-visit.com
Pudarica (Barbat): A beach made for the spectacular views of the Rab old town and even better sunsets, Pudarica beach is located in Barbat in the south of the island. Characterized by its fine sand granules and its crystal clear sea, Pudarica is easily reached by car (free parking) or by boat. Equipped with fast food, cafes, and toilets, Pudarica beach also has one of the most famous nightclubs on the island: Santos Beach Club (see on map). One of the best parts of Pudarica beach is the “blue lagoon”, located just two bays over from the main beach - be sure to explore the many hidden beaches and bays here!
Image by rab-visit.com
Kandarola (Frkanj): One of the oldest known nudist beaches in the world, we introduce you to Kandarola. Located on the Frkanj peninsula just a short taxi boat ride from the port of the old town of Rab or a short drive from Palit, Kandarola hosted guests such as King Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson. This beach is well equipped with restaurants, beach bars, lounge chairs and umbrella rentals, clean toilets, and showers. Another perk? Kandarola also reserves part of the beach for dogs!
Image by istriasun.com
To find out more about Rab, CLICK HERE.
