Baška Voda lies around 15 minutes’ drive from the resort of Makarska on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. This pretty beach resort is a fine place to enjoy the outdoor life, whether it’s mountain biking, water-skiing or volleyball on the beach.
Many visit the area for the beaches alone – you can rent a lounger and parasol at the pebble beaches which enjoy the shade of pine trees and stretch in both directions from the centre. You will find lots of cafés and beach bars, and good restaurants, around Baška Voda too – many with great views of the sea. The beach bars will sometimes host live DJs during summer. Not far from Baška Voda, Punta Rata beach at Brela is considered the jewel of the Makarska Riviera. Look out for the iconic Brela Stone, a small rock island which is the symbol of the area.
Baška Voda offers enough shops for your essentials, but for more amenities – and a bigger choice of nightlife – Makarska is the place to go. The centrepiece of the Old Town is Kačić square, with Mount Biokovo rising up behind. Here you will find several restaurants with terraces, the town’s main church and often entertainment events going on. The square is named in honour of a famed Croatian poet of the 18th century, Andrija Kačić Miošić, and a statue dedicated to him stands in the square.
Makarska’s nightlife is fairly lively in high season. The town has a number of clubs, one of which, Deep, enjoys a very special location – it’s in a cave. This split-level club includes an area where you can get away from the dancefloor and enjoy the spectacular sunset and sea view – something even non-clubbers can surely get on board with. Several other bars also make use of their fine locations and offer attractive outdoor areas. Many events take place in town too, including Makarska’s Jazz Festival and the eclectic Makarska Cultural Summer.
An invigorating walk in the mountains is a must in Makarska. Look out for some landmark sights along the way, such as the holy shrine of Vepric at the foot of the hills, and the Kotišina botanical gardens. A particular highlight is the impressive Biokovo Skywalk, a glass-bottomed, horseshoe-shaped viewing platform at more than 1200 metres up, which delivers the most incredible sea views in all directions.
The Region
Brela, a picturesque region on the Makarska Riviera in Croatia, is renowned for its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and natural beauty. It offers a blend of serene relaxation and outdoor adventures, making it a perfect destination for various types of travellers.
Brela is renowned for its stunning beaches, often hailed as some of Croatia's finest. Punta Rata Beach, a Blue Flag beach, is particularly notable for its fine pebbles and crystal-clear, turquoise waters, earning frequent spots on the world's best beaches. Equally enchanting is Podrače Beach, celebrated for its picturesque beauty. Beyond lounging on these beautiful shores, Brela offers a plethora of water sports. Enthusiasts can delve into snorkelling and scuba diving to uncover the vibrant underwater life. Meanwhile, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding provide fantastic ways to explore the scenic coastline and its secluded coves.
While Brela may not be a traditional sightseeing destination, it does offer a few noteworthy attractions. Among these is the Lady of Karmen Church, constructed in 1730, a quaint historical site worth visiting. Another iconic feature is the Kamen Brela, a picturesque small rock island just off the coast, regarded as a symbol of the town. One of the most enjoyable activities in Brela is taking a leisurely walk along the lungomare, the scenic seaside promenade. This charming pathway stretches for over 7 kilometres, winding through Brela and extending beyond, making it perfect for a pleasant stroll, cycling, or jogging while soaking in the coastal beauty.
Brela's culinary scene is a delight for food enthusiasts, with its restaurants and taverns offering lovely Dalmatian cuisine. The focus is on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, especially seafood, paired with the region's renowned olive oil and fine wines. Each meal becomes a memorable experience, especially when enjoyed with a stunning view of the sea at sunset.
Just inland from Brela, the imposing Biokovo Mountain dominates the landscape, home to the magnificent Biokovo Nature Park. This park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an array of hiking and biking trails that reward with breathtaking vistas of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding islands. A highlight within the park is the newly opened Skywalk - a glass-floored observation deck that juts out over the cliffs, providing a heart-pounding perspective of the stunning scenery below. For those craving more adventure, the nearby Cetina River area is perfect for adrenaline seekers. Zip-lining through its lush forests and dramatic gorges offers an exhilarating rush, while the local adventure parks cater to all ages with a variety of ropes courses and climbing opportunities.
The enchanting Brela region is a captivating blend of stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and a vibrant atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history lover, or simply seeking a tranquil seaside retreat, Brela caters to every type of traveller, making it an ideal destination for discovering the varied charms of the Dalmatian region.
