Pakleni Islands: Your Guide to Hvar's Stunning Archipelago
Our day trip to the Pakleni islands was one of our favourites on Hvar.
Here’s our guide to the stunning Pakleni Islands, including where to swim, where to eat, and the best day tours.
UPDATED - MAY 2024
“This looks perfect”, I said, gliding our boat into a delightfully deserted lagoon off Sveti Klement, the largest of the many islands that make up the Pakleni Islands archipelago off Hvar.
"I think we’ve just found paradise!”, Mim shouted back, a wide smile on her face.
The lagoon was picture-perfect; the bright blue water was crystal-clear, the bay surrounded by green Mediterranean pine, complete with the sweet summer sound of humming cicadas.
“We have!”, I shouted back, before diving headfirst into the cool Mediterranean waters.
The Pakleni Islands (Paklinksi Islands) are a stunning chain of wooded isles that sit just off Hvar town on Croatia’s uber-famous Hvar Island. Pakleni Otco literally translates to hell islands, but the Pakleni islands are anything but hell.
Complete with picturesque coves, hidden beaches, stunning restaurants and its fair share of FKK beaches (nudist), they’ve long been a beacon for travellers who’ve enjoyed them as part of a day trip from Hvar (psst, we also have a guide to the best day trips from Hvar; read it here)
Unsurprising, then, that our day exploring the Pakleni Islands ended up being our absolute favourite thing to do on Hvar Island.
Setting off early, we hired a 5hp Pesara boat and before long were navigating the narrow Hvar strait, putting our newly acquired seafaring skills to the test. After a slightly terrifying (and humorous) 30 minute ride, we arrived at our first bay, turquoise and achingly clear, for our first swim.
That swim set the tone for the rest of the day; we'd find ourselves a beautiful, quiet bay, drop our anchor and jump straight off the bow into the clear blue waters, before relaxing in the beautiful mediterranean sun.
It was paradise, and a day dreams are made of.
Whether its hiring your own boat, or joining a day tour from Hvar, visiting the Pakleni islands is one of the best day trips from Hvar, and one which we recommend to all visitors to this island paradise.
We’ve put together this detailed guide to the Pakleni Islands to help you get the most out of your day to this ridiculously beautiful archipelago.
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PAKLENI ISLANDS
SNAPSHOT
WHERE | Off Hvar Island, Croatia
WHAT TO SEE & DO| Swim in secret coves, explore Sveti Klement island, lunch at The Fishermans House
BEST WAY TO GET THERE | By rental boat (recommended), speed boat, or tour
BEST TOURS | This Pakleni Islands half day yacht trip
BEYOND THE PAKLENI ISLANDS | EXPLORING MORE OF HVAR ISLAND
After spending six weeks living on the island of Hvar, and got to know it pretty darn well.
Not only is it one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever visited, there’s also an incredible amount of things to do on Hvar Island and in Hvar town, as well as a huge selection of amazing beaches to choose from.
Below is a selection of our top posts from the island, which should have all the information you need to have an incredible holiday, including where to stay, what to eat and places to visit.
HVAR ISLAND | 18 incredible things to see and do in Hvar Island during your stay
HVAR TOWN | The best things to see and do in Hvar Town (including where to stay and eat!)
STARI GRAD, HVAR | 11 amazing things to do in Stari Grad, Hvar Island’s beautiful rustic gem
HVAR ACCOMMODATION | The best places to stay on Hvar Island
HVAR PHOTOS | 42 incredible photos of Hvar island that will inspire you to visit!
HOW TO VISIT THE PAKLENI ISLANDS
WHERE ARE THE PAKLENI ISLANDS (PAKLINSKI ISLANDS)?
The Pakleni islands (otherwise known as the Paklinski Islands) are located south of Hvar Island.
Hvar itself is located in the Adriatic sea, off Croatia's famous Dalmatian coast. It's surrounded by a number of islands including Brac, Korcula and Vis, and is around an hour’s boat ride from Split. The island is the longest and sunniest in Croatia and has around 11,000 inhabitants.
The Pakleni Islands are a short boat ride from either of Hvar town’s main harbours.
BEST TIME TO VISIT THE PAKLENI ISLANDS
We're massive fans of visiting Hvar Island (and the Pakleni Islands) during the shoulder seasons (April - early June, Sept - Oct).
Not only are the days still long and the sea warm, but the crowds are smaller and more manageable, making the island extremely pleasant. What's more, the prices of food and drinks are cheaper during the shoulder period.
The Pakleni islands themselves are one of the main tourist attractions on Hvar, so expect to see a lot of day-trippers visiting the islands.
If you’re hiring your own boat, which we totally recommend, you’ll have the opportunity to leave early and arrive to the various coves and beaches before the throngs of tourists.
It also provides you the opportunity to escape to hidden coves should the crowds get too much.
HOW TO GET TO THE PAKLENI ISLANDS
HIRE A BOAT TO THE PAKLENI ISLANDS
We hired a Pesara boat (5hp) for the day and it was the best decision we ever made. We could control when and where we wanted to drop anchor and didn’t have to deal with other tourists or passengers.
Previously, you didn’t need to obtain a boat licence to pilot the Pasara boats, however, this has recently changed - a boating license is now required (can be national or in digital format). You will also get a lesson from your vendor, which we definitely recommend you listen to, as it takes a while to get used to the steering and engine.
You can also hire an ice box to store food and drinks, as well as snorkelling gear.
THE DETAILS
Cost | 400 kuna for a 5hp Pasara boat
Book | We used Hvar Boats, which provides good quality boats at a competitive price
Tips | Pack your own lunch, water, beers and sunscreen. Make sure you take back all your litter and dispose of in the bins in town. Don't get drunk, whatever you do!
TIPS FOR RENTING A BOAT FROM HVAR TO THE PAKLENI ISLANDS
If you’ve chosen to hire you’re own boat, good decision!
But there are a few things you should know before jumping aboard and sprinting across to the Pakleni islands:
BOATING LICENSE | As we mentioned above, a boating licence is now required to hire a boat in Croatia. It can be a card or digital format, but it must be valid.
INSURANCE | It's important to note that, while the boat is insured, the propeller and anchor are not, so you'll be liable for any damage (which is easy on the rocks).
SAFETY | If you’ve never piloted a boat, make sure you get a lesson before heading out into the open sea.
Keep an eye out for large ferries and boats operating in the area - it's the main route from Split to Hvar and Korcula, and the ferries are deceptively fast. Don’t try to take them on, just slow down and wait for the ferry/larger boat to pass.
Whoever is piloting the boat, we recommend they stay sober. Not to be party poopers, but in the afternoon the waves can get prettttty choppy, and it’s just not worth having an accident if you’ve had a few too many.
RESPECT OTHERS | We had a few instances of people coming into bays and being general nuisances - playing loud music, shouting, and being idiots.
We’re all for fun, but if you’re going to party it up a little, find your own bay and don’t disrupt others. On the other hand, if the bay is rocking, jump on in!
PACK FOR THE DAY | Some of the boats come with a cooler box, so bring your own food, drinks and fruit. Unless of course, you want to eat at one of the amazing restaurants…
DON’T LITTER | Don’t even think about throwing your litter overboard. And if you see any rubbish floating in the sea or nestled in coves, pick it up and take it with you - leave this environment better than you found it.
More Pakleni Islands boat hire tips:
Check life jackets are provided, just in case
Does the boat have an oar? Make sure it does, just in case
See if you can get a boat with stairs at the back - it’s far easier to get back onto the boat
HVAR TO PAKLINSKI ISLANDS TAXI BOAT
Taxi boats are commonplace on the islands of Croatia, which can get you from A to B quickly and affordably.
A taxi boat service operates between Hvar Town (the port near Hvar main square) and the Pakleni Islands regularly throughout the summer season.
Transfers only take 15 minutes and can drop you at any of the major islands in the archipelago, including Jerolim, Marinkovac or Sveti Klement, or to Stipanska (Carpe Diem club), or Mlini beach.
THE DETAILS
Cost | 60 kuna return to Pakleni Islands
BOOK | You can book directly with any of the taxi operators in Hvar harbour
KAYAKING THE PAKLINSKI ISLANDS
Something we wish we did on Hvar Island joined a sea kayaking tour of the Pakleni Islands.
Not only does it allow you to discover hidden coves and beaches, but you also have a guide to talking you through the Island’s history.
The half-day tour also stops at one of the beautiful restaurants, before heading back to Hvar.
THE DETAILS
Cost | From €52 per person
BOOK | Book this sea kayaking tour of the Pakleni Islands here
READ | For more day tour options on Hvar, check out our guide to Hvar’s best day trips to, from, and on the island here
INCREDIBLE TOURS TO THE PAKLENI ISLANDS
If you’d prefer to relax the day away and enjoy a boat or sailing tour of the Pakleni Island archipelago, we’ve provided an overview of the best tours below.
PAKLENI ISLAND HALF-DAY SAILING TOUR
This sailing adventure through the stunning Pakleni Islands archipelago is the best way to see the Islands if you have a short time on Hvar.
As you glide through the turquoise waters of the Adriatic, soak up the sun relaxing on the deck, manoeuvre the yacht yourself or simply take in the majestic scenery. You'll have plenty of time for swimming, snorkelling, or even trying your hand at paddleboarding and kayaking.
For all beach bums and adventure lovers, this is one of the Hvar tours that should be a top priority next time you're visiting Croatia.
BOOK | Set sail on this Pakleni Islands half day yacht trip
HVAR ROMANTIC SUNSET SAILING TOUR
In our humble opinion, the Pakleni Islands look best during sunset, draped in a golden glow as the sun sets for the day and this sunset sailing trip is the best way to see the islands in all their golden glory.
Relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun before taking a dip in the crystal blue sea. And, the very best bit at the end - admire a breathtaking sunset with a glass of fine wine in the intimate setting of a small group.
BOOK | This romantic Hvar Sunset Sailing Tour
HVAR BLUE AND GREEN CAVE DAY TOUR
This tour is the best option if you want to include a visit to the Pakleni Islands along with one of the most popular Hvar day tours, the Blue & Green Cave day trip.
This speedboat tour visits the Green Cave well-known for its gorgeous emerald colour as well as the memorable Blue Cave on the island of Bisevo. Don't forget to take your camera and capture the light effects created by the sun reflecting into the cave's silvery-blue colour.
Have a cocktail before arriving at the final stop - the Pakleni Islands. The archipelago’s most popular bays are lovely spots for an authentic seafood lunch with a view.
For those who want to include a visit to the enigmatic island of Vis (and the movie set of Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again), this tour makes the better option.
BOOK | The Blue & Green Cave day trip or this tour that includes Vis Island too
SPLIT FULL-DAY HVAR & PAKLENI ISLANDS CATAMARAN TOUR
This Hvar and Pakleni Islands catamaran trip makes for a fun day out with a group of friends. Take a dip off the shores of Brac Island and dive into the shimmering water of the Pakleni Islands’ secluded bays.
Between all that swimming and snorkelling, hop on a guided tour of the historical centre of Hvar with enough time to buy souvenirs and wander on your own.
Just bring your bathing suit and sunscreen because everything else is provided: delicious lunch, fine wine, unlimited water, homemade cakes, fresh fruit, and of course, music.
BOOK | Enjoy this full-day Hvar and Pakleni islands catamaran tour
THINGS TO DO ON THE PAKLENI ISLANDS
SWIM IN THE PAKLENI ISLANDS ’ CLEAR BLUE WATERS
The crystal-clear waters surrounding the Pakleni islands are perfect for a dip… or ten.
There are many hidden coves around the archipelago which provide the ideal spot to spend a few hours enjoying the Adriatic. If you’ve packed your snorkel and mask, it’s also a great opportunity to explore underwater life.
Some of our favourite bays and beaches included:
The two large bays on Sveti Klement after Vinogradisce Bay (unfortunately they don't have a name)
Zdrilca beach, located on Marinkovac Island
Mlini beach, located on Marinkovac Island
READ | Explore all of Hvar’s best beaches with this post!
STOP FOR LUNCH AT MLINI BEACH
While there are a few wonderful places to eat delicious local fare on the Pakleni Islands (Dionis, on Sveti Klement, for instance), Mamato bar on Marinkovac, is our pick of the bunch.
Located right on the beach and nestled amongst the trees, Mamato bar overlooks arguably the most beautiful bay on the Pakleni Islands.
While the food might not be the best on the islands (it’s still bloody awesome), the views and vibe are second to none, and it’s the perfect place to while the afternoon away with a few beers or cocktails, before heading back to Hvar Island.
THE DETAILS
Where | Mamato Bar
Opening hours | 11:30am - 12am
SUNSET DRINKS AT CARPE DIEM BEACH CLUB
Hvar’s most exclusive beach club is located on the island of Marinkovac, a ten-minute boat ride from Hvar town.
Set amongst the Mediterranean pine and rocky coves, expect relaxed afternoons sipping cocktails to chilled trop-house, before watching the golden sunset.
Then, at midnight join the throngs from Carpe Diem Bar as the party ramps up for the evening, with world-class DJs pumping tunes till sunrise.
Carpe Diem is pretty exclusive and very expensive, so just be prepared.
THE DETAILS
Where | Carpe Diem Beach Club
Opening hours | Day club: 10 am - 7 pm, Nightclub: 12:30 am - 5 am
Cost | Cocktails start from £8
GET NUDE AT THE WORLD’S #1 NUDIST BEACH, JEROLIM ISLAND
Naturist, nudist, or just wanting to try something a little different?
Head to Jerolim Island in the Pakleni Islands, which is home to one of the most famous FKK beaches in the world.
Jerolim island itself is a beautiful little island, covered in low-lying pine, sheltered bays and coves, perfect for swimming, and a little restaurant which welcomes naturists.
There are also many places to shade yourself should the searing sun prove too much.
WHICH PAKLENI ISLAND SHOULD YOU VISIT?
While the Pakleni Islands are made up of 14 islands, there are three main islands which you should visit as part of a day trip.
SVETI KLEMENT
The largest and most popular island, Svent Klement is where you’ll find the best coves for dropping anchor and swimming.
Palmizana beach is the beating hub of the island, and where most restaurants and bars are. It’s busy here, so we suggest heading further afield if you want your own slice of sea.
We suggest stopping by the gorgeous Fisherman’s House restaurant, which serves excellent seafood (the tuna.. omg) straight from the surrounding sea, as well as vegetables and wine from the surrounding land. It’s a homely, thoroughly authentic experience and one of the best restaurants in Hvar.
The quiet bays on the southern side of the Island are best, and where we spent most of our day diving straight off our boat into the sea.
MARINKOVAC ISLAND
The second largest Island in the Pakleni Island archipelago, Marinkovac is home to one of Europe’s most popular day clubs, Carpe Diem. It’s here that most of the debauchery happens, hosting epic parties that last until the early hours.
It’s also home to Mlini and Zdrilica beaches, which are wonderfully laidback and chill and have some of the clearest water you’ve ever seen.
JEROLIM ISLAND
The Island closest to Hvar, Jerolim is one of the most popular naturist beaches in Europe.
It’s pretty, sparsely populated, and perfect for getting your nude on. There’s also another exceptional restaurant located here - Festina Lente Hvar, which serves a fresh, modern Mediterranean fair. It’s the perfect place to satiate your hunger.
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR CROATIA
If you can't afford travel insurance, you really can't afford to travel. As the current global situation has taught many people, things can go wrong anywhere in the world - and insurance is often the only way of mitigating any issues with minimal expense or stress for you.
Here are our recommendations, based on 8+ years of full-time travel:
FOR TRAVELLERS | HeyMondo - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out-of-pocket fees. *Get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here.
FOR DIGITAL NOMADS | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.
CAR INSURANCE | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy
READ | Our ultimate guide to travel insurance
PLAN YOUR CROATIA TRAVELS WITH THESE GUIDES
We have a heap of essential reading before you travel to the paradise island of Hvar:
HVAR GUIDES | The best things to see and do in Hvar Town, Read this before you travel to Hvar island, 11 amazing things to do in Stari Grad, Hvar, How to visit pretty Vrboska, Our guide to the stunning Pakleni Islands, Our complete guide to Hvar’s best beaches
HVAR ACCOMMODATION | The best places to stay on Hvar Island, and the best Airbnbs on the island too
HVAR DAY TRIPS | The best day trips to, from, and on Hvar
HVAR PHOTOS | 42 incredible photos of Hvar island that will inspire you to visit!
HOW TO GET AROUND | How to get from Hvar to Stari Grad, how to get from Split to Hvar
DUBROVNIK | 10 Essential things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. REALLY IMPORTANT. Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and your friends travel more consciously around the globe
ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials
HEADING TO CROATIA? YOU’LL LOVE THESE GUIDES TOO!
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