Best sandy beaches in Croatia

Around 90 percent of the Adriatic shoreline is pebble or rock. Sand is mainly found where rivers once met the sea — in shallow bays on islands like Rab, Pag and Mljet, and along a few stretches of the mainland such as the Neretva delta and the Omiš Riviera.

That rarity is exactly why the good sandy spots fill up early in July and August. If sand is a must for your trip, it is worth planning your beach day around it rather than hoping to stumble onto one.

Sandy beaches in Croatia are usually shallow for a long stretch, which makes them warm earlier in the season and ideal for small children. The trade-off: the water is often a little less crystal-clear than at pebble beaches, because sand clouds more easily.

Many sandy bays are also the most developed ones — expect beach bars, sunbed rentals and pedal boats at the popular spots, and almost nothing at the remote ones.

Sandy beaches are at their best in June and September: warm shallow water, but without the peak-season crowds. In high season, arrive before 10 in the morning to get a good spot, especially at famous sandy beaches like those on Rab.