Zaton Beaches

Overview

Zaton, nestled on the Dalmatian coast near Šibenik and Nin, is a well-loved destination for beach holidays in Croatia. It's particularly known for being family-friendly, offering a welcoming atmosphere for visitors of all ages. The coastline here presents a mix of beach types, from lively resort areas with sand and pebbles to smaller, more typical Dalmatian coves, ensuring variety for beachgoers exploring the region.

The heart of Zaton's beach life is the expansive beach at Zaton Holiday Resort. This Blue Flag beach is praised for its clean, shallow waters and combination of sandy and fine pebble areas, making it ideal for children. While it offers convenience and lots of activities, it can get busy during peak season. For a change of scenery with stunning historical views, Banj beach near Šibenik offers a unique perspective of the city's famous cathedral.

Beyond Zaton itself, the area serves as a great base for exploring other renowned coastal spots. A popular day trip takes visitors to the sandy shores of Slanica beach on Murter island. For an unforgettable experience, boat tours depart for the breathtaking Kornati Islands Beaches, offering swimming in pristine, protected waters. Nearby Nin also boasts the famous long, sandy stretch of Queen's Beach (Ninska Laguna), known for its shallow lagoon.

While the main resort beach is the most well-known, Zaton village also has smaller waterfront areas with pebble shores and concrete platforms, often providing a quieter experience. The sea throughout the area is known for its clarity and pleasant swimming temperatures during the warmer months. For a comprehensive look at all the swimming spots in and around Zaton, explore our full list of beaches.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Zaton a good place for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Zaton, particularly the Zaton Holiday Resort area, is widely considered an excellent destination for family beach holidays. The main beach features shallow, calm waters, sandy and fine pebble areas ideal for children, numerous playgrounds, water parks, and family-oriented activities and entertainment. The infrastructure is well-developed to cater to families.

Zaton Holiday Resort

What are the beaches in Zaton like? Sand or pebbles?

The main beach at Zaton Holiday Resort is quite long and diverse. It features sections with sand, fine pebbles, and paved areas. The seabed is mostly sandy, contributing to the clear turquoise water appearance, and the entry into the water is gradual and shallow in many parts. Outside the resort, in the Zaton village area, you'll find smaller, mostly pebble and concrete slab beaches typical for the Dalmatian coast.

Zaton Holiday Resort

Can I use the beach at Zaton Holiday Resort if I'm not staying there? Is there an entrance fee?

Access to the Zaton Holiday Resort beach for non-guests is generally possible, but typically requires payment of a daily entrance fee, especially during the high season. The fee covers access to the beach and some of the resort's facilities. Prices and policies can vary, so it's advisable to check locally.

Zaton Holiday Resort

What facilities are available at the main Zaton beach?

The main beach within the Zaton Holiday Resort is very well-equipped. Facilities typically include showers, changing cabins, toilets, lifeguards, sunbed and umbrella rentals, numerous cafes, bars, restaurants, shops, playgrounds, climbing nets, and various sports facilities including watersports rentals.

Zaton Holiday Resort

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

Zaton Holiday Resort offers various accommodation options, including apartments and mobile homes, many of which are located very close to the beach, providing direct or near-direct access. While not typically large hotels, the resort's layout prioritizes easy beach access for its guests. In Zaton village, some private apartments might be located near the waterfront.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Zaton Holiday Resort

Is the sea water clean and warm enough for swimming in Zaton?

Yes, the sea water in Zaton is known for its cleanliness and clarity, and the main resort beach regularly earns the Blue Flag award, certifying high water quality and environmental standards. Water temperatures are pleasant for swimming from late spring (May/June) through early autumn (September/October), typically ranging from 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F) in the summer months.

Zaton Holiday Resort

Are there sea urchins in Zaton? Should I wear water shoes?

Sea urchins can be found in rocky areas along the Croatian coast, including potentially in parts of Zaton, especially on natural, less maintained stretches. While the main sandy/pebbly resort beach areas are generally clear, wearing water shoes is often recommended as a precaution, particularly for children or if exploring rockier sections or venturing further from the main swimming zones.

Is there natural shade on the beaches in Zaton?

Parts of the main beach in Zaton, particularly towards the back, are lined with mature pine trees that provide natural shade. However, shade directly by the water can be limited, especially during peak hours. Renting an umbrella or bringing your own is a good option if you need guaranteed shade.

People Also Ask

Are Zaton beaches good for toddlers and small children?

Yes, the main beach at Zaton Holiday Resort is particularly well-suited for toddlers and small children. It offers extensive shallow areas with sandy bottoms, calm waters protected within a bay, playgrounds directly on or near the beach, and fine pebbles that are easier on small feet than larger stones.

Zaton Holiday Resort

Can you rent sunbeds and umbrellas at Zaton beach?

Yes, sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent at the main beach within Zaton Holiday Resort. There are typically multiple rental points along the beach. Prices vary depending on the season and specific location on the beach.

Zaton Holiday Resort

Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Zaton?

On the main beach within the Zaton Holiday Resort, dogs are generally not permitted in the main swimming areas during high season to maintain hygiene and safety standards. However, the resort usually designates a specific area or beach section where dogs are allowed. It's best to check the resort's current policy or look for signage indicating designated dog-friendly zones. Smaller, more natural coves outside the resort might be more lenient, but always check local regulations.

Zaton Holiday Resort

How crowded does Zaton beach get?

The main beach at Zaton Holiday Resort can get very crowded, especially during the peak summer months of July and August, due to its popularity with resort guests and day visitors. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (June or September) or arriving earlier in the day.

Zaton Holiday Resort

Are there any quieter beaches near Zaton, outside the main resort?

Yes, besides the large resort beach, the village of Zaton itself has smaller beaches and swimming spots along its waterfront, often featuring pebbles or concrete platforms. These tend to be quieter than the main resort beach. Exploring the coastline towards Šibenik or Nin might also reveal smaller, more secluded coves, though they may have fewer facilities.

What kind of activities can you do at Zaton beach?

Zaton's main beach offers a wide array of activities. Watersports are popular, including pedal boats, kayaks, jet skis, parasailing, and banana boat rides. There are also inflatable water parks, beach volleyball courts, playgrounds, mini-golf nearby, and organized entertainment programs often run by the resort.

Is parking available near Zaton beach?

For guests staying at Zaton Holiday Resort, parking is typically included within the resort grounds. For day visitors aiming for the main resort beach, there is usually paid parking available near the entrance. Parking availability and cost can vary, especially during peak season. Parking near the smaller village beaches might be more limited.