Stara Novalja Beaches

Overview

Stara Novalja, nestled in a peaceful bay on the unique island of Pag, offers a relaxing contrast to the nearby bustle. Known primarily as a quiet haven, it's a popular choice for families seeking a serene beach holiday, distinct from the vibrant nightlife center of Novalja town just a short drive away. Many accommodations here sit conveniently close to the sea.

The coastline presents a variety of beach experiences. The most famous spot is the sandy expanse of Planjka (Trinćel), celebrated for its fine sand and shallow, warm waters ideal for children. However, you'll also find charming pebble coves and rocky shores offering clear waters perfect for swimming, such as parts of Jadra beach.

While Stara Novalja itself is tranquil, the world-renowned party destination of Zrce beach is easily accessible for those wanting to experience its famous clubs and festivals. For different vibes closer to the village, seek out the quieter atmosphere at Jadra or take a short trip to witness the stunning, moon-like landscape surrounding Ručica beach. Explore our full guide for even more beach discoveries around the area.

Beyond sunbathing and swimming, the clear Adriatic waters invite exploration, with diving being a popular activity. The unique rocky terrain of Pag island provides dramatic backdrops like that seen at Ručica, offering a different kind of coastal beauty compared to typical Mediterranean destinations.

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FAQ

Is Stara Novalja good for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Stara Novalja is frequently recommended as an ideal destination for families with children. It's known for being a quiet, peaceful place offering a relaxing vacation atmosphere, unlike the nearby party destination of Novalja town (especially Zrće beach). Its beaches, particularly Planjka (Trinćel), are often sandy and shallow, making them suitable and safe for kids.

Zrce

Planjka

What's the difference between Stara Novalja and Novalja for a beach holiday?

Stara Novalja is generally considered a quiet, peaceful bay village ideal for families and those seeking relaxation, offering accommodation often close to the sea. Novalja town, located about 5km south, is the tourist center of Pag island, known for its vibrant nightlife, especially at Zrće beach (often called the 'Croatian Ibiza'), attracting a younger crowd looking for parties and festivals. While Stara Novalja has calmer beaches like Planjka, Novalja provides easy access to the party scene at Zrće.

Zrce

Planjka

Are the beaches in Stara Novalja sandy?

Stara Novalja offers a mix of beach types. The most famous beach, Planjka (also called Trinćel), is known for being sandy and is often highlighted as one of the most beautiful natural sandy beaches on Pag. However, other beaches like Jadra have parts covered with fine stones or pebbles, and also rocky sections providing direct access to deeper water. There are also many smaller beaches and jetties along the coastline.

Planjka

Jadra

What is Planjka (Trinćel) beach like?

Planjka beach, often called Trinćel, is located along the southeast coast of the Stara Novalja bay. It's the largest and most well-known beach in Stara Novalja, covered with fine sand. It's considered very well-maintained, holding a Blue Flag award since 2004 for its cleanliness and facilities. The water is warm and shallow, making it extremely suitable for families with children. It offers various amenities, including food options and recreational facilities like slides and playgrounds.

Planjka

Is accommodation usually close to the beach in Stara Novalja?

Yes, a notable feature of Stara Novalja is that much of the accommodation, primarily private apartments and rooms in family houses, is located very close to the sea. Many properties are described as being right next to the sea or having direct beach access, sometimes with small private jetties or beaches in front.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

What is Jadra beach like?

Jadra beach is located near Stara Novalja, towards the exit of the bay near the old ferry dock. It features a mix of surfaces: some parts have fine stones or small pebbles with gradual entry into the sea, while other parts are rocky, offering direct access to deeper water suitable for jumping. It has facilities like sun lounger/umbrella rentals and water sports (SUPs, jet skis). Notably, Jadra beach is thematically divided into a main family section, a designated dog-friendly beach, and a designated nudist (FKK) beach area.

Jadra

Can you swim in Stara Novalja? What's the water like?

Yes, swimming is very popular in Stara Novalja. The sea is generally described as clear and clean. The climate is mild Mediterranean, allowing for a long bathing season typically running from May to October. Summer sea temperatures can reach around 25 degrees Celsius. Planjka beach offers warm, shallow waters, while Jadra beach provides access to deeper areas. Wave conditions are usually calm, suitable for swimming.

Planjka

Jadra

Is Stara Novalja quiet or is it a party place?

Stara Novalja is known as a quiet and peaceful tourist destination, preferred by families and those seeking relaxation. It is situated in a calm bay. While it offers restaurants and cafes, it does not have the large clubs and intense nightlife found at Zrće beach near Novalja town. However, its proximity to Novalja (about 5 km away) means visitors can easily access the party scene if they wish.

Zrce

People Also Ask

Are there nudist beaches in Stara Novalja?

Yes, there is a designated nudist (FKK - Freikörperkultur) section at Jadra beach in Stara Novalja. Some sources also mention that the western part of the Stara Novalja bay has small, unpopulated beaches accessible only by boat, which might be suitable for nudism.

Jadra

Can I bring my dog to the beach in Stara Novalja?

Yes, Jadra beach near Stara Novalja has a specifically designated area for dogs. This allows dog owners to enjoy the beach with their pets in a permitted zone.

Jadra

How do you get to the beaches in Stara Novalja?

Stara Novalja stretches along a bay, and many accommodations are located very close to the coastline, offering easy walking access to small beaches or jetties. The main beaches like Planjka (Trinćel) and Jadra are easily accessible within or near the village. Planjka is at the southeastern end of the bay, while Jadra is near the exit by the old ferry dock. You can reach them by walking, cycling, or car (parking is available, sometimes paid). Some smaller, more secluded coves might only be reachable by boat.

Planjka

Jadra

What activities can you do at the beaches besides swimming and sunbathing?

Besides swimming and sunbathing, Stara Novalja's beaches offer various activities. Planjka (Trinćel) beach has recreational facilities, often including playgrounds or water slides suitable for children. Jadra beach offers rentals for things like stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), boats, and jet skis, as well as adrenaline activities like tube or banana boat rides. The area is also known for diving, with several diving centers located in Stara Novalja.

Planjka

Jadra

Are there facilities like restaurants and showers at the beaches?

Yes, the main beaches in Stara Novalja are equipped with facilities. Planjka (Trinćel) beach has catering offers (restaurants/cafes) and various recreational facilities. Jadra beach also has amenities like changing rooms, showers, benches, and a beach restaurant. Planjka Trincel beach is noted for excellent infrastructure including restaurants, changing cabins, showers, and toilets.

Planjka

Jadra

Is Stara Novalja just about beaches, or is there anything else nearby?

While beaches are a major draw, Stara Novalja and the island of Pag offer more. The area has opportunities for walking and cycling, exploring olive groves, and seeing the unique 'moon-like' rocky landscapes. There are historical sites nearby, like remains of a Roman aqueduct and ancient walls. Stara Novalja is also known for diving due to its rich underwater world, including amphorae sites. You can also enjoy local gastronomy, including Pag cheese and lamb. The town of Novalja is close by for more amenities and access to Zrće beach nightlife.

Zrce