Murter Beaches

Overview

Welcome to Murter, a charming island in Dalmatia, Croatia, known for its beautiful coastline and relaxed atmosphere. Connected to the mainland by a bridge, Murter offers easy access and serves as a gateway to the stunning Kornati National Park. Visitors love the island for its variety of beaches, ranging from popular sandy bays to quieter pebble coves, all boasting the exceptionally clear waters typical of the Adriatic Sea.

Murter caters to different tastes. Slanica beach stands out as the island's most famous sandy spot, a favourite for families due to its shallow waters, though it can get quite busy. For breathtaking beauty and vibrant turquoise colours, head to Podvrške, a stunning pebble and rock beach. If you prefer a mix of clear water, pine shade, and local charm, Čigrađa cove is an excellent choice. For those seeking a more tranquil and natural setting, Kosirina Bay Beach offers a peaceful escape.

While Murter offers lively spots, especially around the main beaches, the island is generally better suited for families and visitors seeking a peaceful holiday rather than intense nightlife. Popular beaches can experience crowds, particularly in peak season, but exploring the coastline often reveals quieter spots. Discover more options and find your perfect Murter beach in our full guide.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Murter a good destination for a beach holiday?

Yes, Murter is very popular for beach holidays. The island offers a variety of beaches, from sandy bays ideal for families to quieter pebble and rock beaches, all with clear Adriatic waters. It provides a relaxed island atmosphere combined with good facilities and proximity to national parks like Kornati and Krka.

Are the beaches in Murter sandy or pebbly?

Murter offers a mix. Slanica beach is the most famous sandy beach, particularly popular with families. However, most beaches on Murter, like Podvrške and Čigrađa, are pebble, rocky, or have concrete platforms, which is typical for the Croatian coast. Even Slanica has pebble and rocky sections.

Slanica

Podvrške

Čigrađa

Is Murter better for families or young people looking for nightlife?

Murter is generally considered more suitable for families and those seeking a relaxed holiday rather than intense nightlife. While there are beach bars and restaurants, especially around Slanica and in Murter town, the vibe is more laid-back compared to major party destinations. Families appreciate the shallow waters at Slanica and the overall calmer atmosphere.

Slanica

What is the sea like for swimming around Murter?

The sea around Murter is known for being exceptionally clear and clean, typical of the Adriatic. Water temperatures are pleasant for swimming from late spring (May/June) to early autumn (September/October). The coast is mostly pebble or rock, meaning the water clarity is usually excellent.

Are there apartments or hotels right on the beach in Murter?

While direct beachfront hotels are rare, there are numerous apartments and holiday homes located very close to the beaches, often just a short walk away. Areas around Slanica, Podvrške, and Čigrađa offer accommodation with easy beach access. Some campsites, like Camping Slanica, are located directly by the beach.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Slanica

Podvrške

Čigrađa

Are Murter beaches very crowded?

Crowds vary significantly by beach and season. Slanica beach, being sandy and well-equipped, gets very crowded, especially in July and August. Beaches like Podvrške and Čigrađa can also be busy but generally offer more space. Exploring smaller coves or visiting outside peak season (June or September) offers a quieter experience.

Slanica

Podvrške

Čigrađa

Do I need water shoes for beaches in Murter?

It's highly recommended to bring or buy water shoes for most beaches in Murter. While Slanica has sandy parts, many areas are pebbly or rocky, both on the beach and in the water. Sea urchins can also be present in rocky areas, and water shoes offer protection.

Slanica

Is there natural shade on Murter beaches?

Some beaches offer natural shade from pine trees, particularly sections of Čigrađa and Podvrške. However, shade can be limited, especially during peak hours on popular beaches like Slanica. Bringing an umbrella or renting one is often advisable if you need guaranteed shade.

Čigrađa

Podvrške

Slanica

People Also Ask

Which beach is best for families with small children in Murter?

Slanica beach is widely considered the best for families with small children due to its sandy bottom and shallow, warm waters, making it easy for kids to play. It also has amenities like slides, cafes, and rentals. However, it gets very crowded.

Slanica

How do you get to the beaches on Murter island?

Most main beaches like Slanica, Čigrađa, and Podvrške are accessible by car, bike, or on foot from nearby towns (Murter, Betina). Some smaller coves might require walking along coastal paths or access by boat. The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge in Tisno, making car access easy.

Slanica

Čigrađa

Podvrške

Is parking available near the main beaches in Murter?

Yes, parking is generally available near the main beaches like Slanica, Podvrške, and Čigrađa, but it's often paid parking, especially during the high season (July/August). Parking areas can fill up quickly, particularly at Slanica, so arriving early is recommended.

Slanica

Podvrške

Čigrađa

Can you walk to beaches from Murter town or Betina?

Yes, you can walk to several beaches from Murter town and Betina. Luke beach is right in Murter town. Zdrače beach is between Murter town and Betina. Slanica is about a 15-20 minute walk from Murter town centre. Podvrške is also within walking distance from Murter town. Plitka Vala is closer to Betina.

Slanica

Podvrške

Are dogs allowed on Murter beaches?

There is a designated dog beach located between Murter town and Betina, near Zdrače beach. On other main beaches, especially during high season, dogs might not be officially allowed or welcomed, though rules can vary. It's best to look for specific signage or use the designated area.

Zdrače Beach

Are there nudist (FKK) beaches on Murter?

While Murter doesn't have large, officially designated FKK resorts like some other Croatian destinations, there are areas known for naturism. Parts of the coastline, particularly more secluded rocky coves away from the main beaches (e.g., further along the coast from Podvrške or Čigrađa), are sometimes used by naturists. Discretion is generally expected.

Podvrške

Čigrađa

Slanica vs Podvrške - which Murter beach is better?

It depends on your preferences. Slanica is sandy, shallow, and packed with amenities, making it great for families but very crowded. Podvrške is a pebble/rock beach known for its incredibly clear turquoise water and more natural, relaxed vibe, though it offers fewer facilities and can also get busy.

Slanica

Podvrške