Things To Do
in Dugi otok

Dugi otok is a picturesque island located in the Zadar Archipelago of Croatia, known for its stunning natural landscapes and tranquil beaches. The island stretches approximately 45 kilometers long and features a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Dugi otok is home to several charming villages, including the beautiful town of Sali, which serves as the island's administrative center.

Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities, from hiking to swimming in crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Island
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Sakarun Beach, known for its white sand and turquoise waters. Relax on the beach or take a dip in the sea.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby village of Božava for lunch at a local konoba (tavern) and then explore the charming streets and visit the Church of St. Mary.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant in Sali, followed by a peaceful walk along the waterfront to admire the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike on the Telašćica Nature Park trails, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the cliffs and the surrounding sea.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Saltworks in the park and learn about the traditional salt harvesting process, followed by a picnic lunch.

evening
:

Return to Sali for dinner at a local restaurant and experience traditional Dalmatian music during the evening festivities.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15-30
🍕Pizza$7-12
Coffee$2-4
🍦Ice Cream$2-5
🚕Taxi ride (within town)$10-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes.
  • Rich cultural heritage and delicious local cuisine.
  • Less crowded compared to other popular Croatian destinations.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Some areas may have fewer amenities and services.
  • Seasonal closures of some businesses during winter months.
  • "Dobar dan" - Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Gdje je...?" - Where is...?
  • "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Molim" - Please

Places to Visit in Dugi otok

Visit one of these nice places.

Sakarun Beach

Famous for its stunning white sands and azure waters, perfect for beach photography.

Telašćica Nature Park

Offers breathtaking views of cliffs and the sea, ideal for landscape photography.

Cape Strunac

A scenic viewpoint where you can capture stunning sunsets over the Adriatic.

Culinary Guide

Food in Dugi otok

Dugi otok offers a delightful culinary experience with its fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Croatian dishes that reflect the island's rich heritage.

Dugi otok Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pašticada

A slow-cooked beef dish marinated in wine and spices, served with gnocchi.

Must-Try!

Grilled Sardines

Freshly caught sardines grilled to perfection, a staple in local cuisine.

Peka

A traditional dish of meat and vegetables cooked under a bell-like lid, giving it a unique flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sali Market

A local market where fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood are sold, perfect for picking up ingredients for a picnic.

Climate Guide

Weather

Dugi otok features a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures generally range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). The island experiences the most rainfall in late autumn and winter, making spring and early autumn the most pleasant times to visit.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common, and it's polite to greet locals with a 'Dobar dan' (Good day).

Dress Code

When dining at nicer restaurants, casual smart attire is recommended.

Respect for Nature

Visitors are encouraged to respect nature and dispose of waste properly when enjoying outdoor spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Dugi otok is considered a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. Basic safety precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being cautious while swimming in unfamiliar waters are recommended. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and locals are generally helpful and friendly.

Tipping in Dugi otok

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming nature make it a great time for hiking and outdoor activities.

Summer

Peak tourist season with warm weather, perfect for beach activities, but expect larger crowds.

Autumn

Pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists, ideal for exploring the island's natural beauty.

Winter

Cool and quiet, with some local businesses closed, but a peaceful time for solitude and reflection.

Nightlife Guide

Dugi otok at Night

Dugi otok offers a relaxed nightlife scene, primarily centered around seaside taverns and bars. Live music often accompanies dinner at local restaurants, especially during the summer months. For those looking for a lively atmosphere, the town of Sali hosts seasonal events and festivals that bring both locals and tourists together for a fun evening.

Hiking in Dugi otok

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Telašćica Nature Park Trails

A series of well-marked trails offering stunning views of the cliffs and diverse flora and fauna.

Sali to Božava Trail

A scenic coastal trail that connects the two villages, ideal for a leisurely walk with beautiful sea views.

Airports

How to reach Dugi otok by plane.

Zadar Airport

Located approximately 70 km from Dugi otok, Zadar Airport serves both domestic and international flights. Ferries from Zadar can take you to the island.

Getting Around

Walkability

Dugi otok is generally walkable, especially in the towns of Sali and Božava where most amenities are within a short distance. However, some hiking trails may require more robust footwear, and certain areas might be less accessible due to steep terrain.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The island is primarily inhabited by Croatians, many of whom are involved in fishing, tourism, and agriculture.

Tourists

During the summer months, Dugi otok attracts visitors from various countries, drawn by its natural beauty and recreational activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

A popular sport among locals, with several amateur teams and leagues on the island.

Water Sports

Activities such as sailing, kayaking, and snorkeling are widely enjoyed, thanks to the island's beautiful coastline.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic on Dugi otok is generally light, with most visitors relying on bicycles, scooters, or walking to get around. Public transport consists of a limited bus service connecting major towns, but renting a car or scooter is recommended for exploring the island more thoroughly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Dugi otok.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian meals; however, it's advisable to ask about meat or fish preparations.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options may be limited, fresh seafood and salads are generally safe choices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services are available on Dugi otok, with basic medical care provided at local clinics in Sali. For more serious medical issues, patients may need to travel to Zadar on the mainland. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Croatia

Read more in our Croatia 2025 Travel Guide.

Croatia Travel Guide