🇭🇷 Croatia Vis Island | Hidden Gem of the Adriatic

#croatianislands Summer may be long gone, but I still can’t forget this island escape, so here’s my detailed guide for anyone looking for an off-the-beaten-path paradise. Vis Island, home to the legendary Stiniva Beach, often called the most beautiful beach in Europe and even said to be part of the inspiration for the Ghibli film Porco Rosso. After visiting, I can only say — it’s 100% worth the hype. 🚢 How to Get to Vis Island Vis is a must for island-hopping lovers. Your journey starts from Split Port, one of Croatia’s most popular ports for exploring the islands. • You can take either a passenger ferry or a car ferry • Highly recommend bringing your own car to the island — it’s the easiest and most enjoyable way to explore • ⚠️ Buy ferry tickets in advance, especially if you’re bringing a car — car spaces sell out quickly during peak season • No car? No worries. You can rent a bike, scooter, or car directly at the port. Scooters with small engines are available even without a motorcycle license, but carrying two people uphill can be tough 🚗 Driving around the island takes about 40 minutes 🚶 Walking is not recommended — distances are long and terrain is rough 🌊 Stiniva Beach | The Highlight of Vis This was the #1 reason I came to Vis, and it didn’t disappoint. • Best way: Drive to the small car park near the beach access trail • Walking from the port takes 2 hours — not ideal • The hike down takes 30 minutes — the path is steep and rocky, some parts require using both hands and feet • ⚠️ What to wear: sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes, long pants if possible, and water shoes • The beach itself is rocky — barefoot is not recommended, and there are occasional jellyfish sightings (I didn’t encounter any) There’s even a small bar by the beach — nothing better than a cold beer after the climb! 🚤 Alternative: Boat Tours from the Port If you don’t want to hike, there are boat tours from the port that take you around the island. Some stop right outside Stiniva Beach, where you can swim into the cove — super convenient. 🐠 Other Things to Do on Vis 🏡 Explore the small town on the island’s west side It’s known for diving experiences — you can explore WWII shipwrecks and plane wrecks underwater. Unfortunately, I didn’t have time for this, but it’s on my list for next time. 🏍 ATV Adventures around the island A fun, adventurous way to discover hidden corners of the island, beaches, and viewpoints. ☀️ Final Thoughts | Why Vis Island is Special Vis is the kind of place where Europeans stay for an entire week — sunbathing, driving along quiet coastal roads, swimming in hidden bays, and enjoying life at a slower pace. If you’ve already done the busy Greek islands and crave somewhere quieter, more authentic, and just as beautiful — Vis Island is the answer. #travel #staycation #seascapes