Famous for it’s tropical looking beaches and pastel-hued houses that adorn the Riva, Cres is one of the prettiest islands in Croatia as well as the second-largest one. Perfect for a family yacht charter vacation or those who’d like to experience the authentic atmosphere of this mesmerizing Mediterranean country, this island is still undisturbed by mass-tourism and is mainly visited by A-list yachties looking to enjoy their elite getaway without being bothered by paparazzis.
The unhurried tempo and nonchalant island have earned this Adriatic island the iconic motto - no stress on Cres. Chic, relaxed and full of peculiarities for the curious visitors, it only has 3000 friendly residents that mostly live on the main town, meaning there are numerous completely empty sunkissed beaches to have all to yourself during your next luxury yacht charter in Croatia.
The looks of Cres Town hasn’t changed much since medieval times, with numerous landmarks that bear witness of the glory this Mediterranean hotspot enjoyed in the height of its power.
The labyrinth of old streets with Venetian mansions adorned with blossoming bougainvillea flowers serves as a time capsule into times long gone by - culture vultures will be amazed by a visit to the striking Venetian tower that many consider one of the finest examples of renaissance architecture.
Yet, it’s the seductive nature that dazzles visitors the most - during your stay in this incredible Adriatic island, you’ll come across rare species that you’ll hardly find elsewhere.
For many, Cres is Croatia’s greatest surprise, since the enchanting island doesn’t get nearly enough recognition considering assets.
Hop on board your luxury yacht for charter and come with us to explore this marvelous Adriatic jewel.
Best beaches in Cres
When looking to soak in some warm Mediterranean sun rays and work on your bronzy tan, you’ll be spoiled with options. Cres has amazing beaches that will suit any preference, regardless of whether you prefer an organized swimming spot with restaurants and bars or would rather spend the day just listening to the soothing sounds of the waves, far from crowds.
Kovačine Beach
Perhaps the most popular beach in Cres, Kovačine beach is a gorgeous oasis with fine sand that is surrounded by fragrant pine and olive trees. The only downside is that it can get pretty busy during the peak summer season, but some areas still offer privacy. There are several hip bars here serving refreshments and delicious ice-cream, as well as a playground for little ones and an aquapark.
Fitness-loving guests can enjoy volleyball, parasailing or diving.
The lively beach is rewarded with the blue flag standard.
St. Ivan Beach
Located near the scenic Lubenice village, this beach offers sparkly, limpid seas and ravishing natural surroundings perfect for a day with a good book and splashing around with little ones. Popular among owners of luxury yachts, Sveti Ivan beach has wonderful contrasts that will impress even the most traveled visitors - fine gravel on one end, meters away - dramatic cliffs, and small multi bays to swim in far away from curious eyes.
Valun Beach
Reserved for those in the know, set in the picturesque fishing village of the same name, Valun Beach is a tranquil oasis that will enchant you with its natural beauty. Surrounded by a thick pine forest, it is ideal for those who want to enjoy the authentic Croatian atmosphere and recharge with delicious seafood in between swims.
Mali Bok
If you want to see a beach unlike any other, look no further than Mali Bok, a gorgeous electric blue beach located in the serene Olrec village, near the main town, where majestic rock formations create truly unique scenery. Thanks to its inaccessible location, you might even get to have the beach all to yourself and spend the day swimming and snorkeling in this virgin peace of paradise.
Žanja Beach
Also known as Blue Cave beach, Žanja is an enchanting beach whose main attraction is the sapphire hued grotto, some 20 meters in length, that equally fascinates divers and speleology enthusiasts. In the afternoon, sun rays enter the cave to create an intriguing effect and play of light, creating every shade of blue you can think of. The Blue Cave is located just at the edge of a small shingle beach with luscious greenery and completely translucent seas.
Things to see in Cres
During your holidays on board your amazing charter yacht in Cres, you will find more azure coves to moor at than you can count, but the land hides some very interesting spots that you shouldn't miss either. Inhabited since the Paleolithic era with a name older than classical antiquity, Cres was ruled by ancient Greeks and Romans, Byzantines and Venetians, Napoleon and Austria - each empire left a trace in this chic cosmopolitan island.
Lubenice
Surrounded by some of the island's best beaches, this charming village hides a settlement that is more than 4000 years old. The fortified prehistoric settlement bears witness to the rich history of Cres, and was populated throughout the middle ages and renaissance. The bronze and iron age core have been preserved to this day, while the two town gates are from the medieval times. Baroque details are just sugar on top - Lubenice has something from every epoch of human history.
Osor
The narrow channel that separates Cres from the neighbouring Lošinj hides a serene village of just 60 residents that once served as an important port since the Roman era. Adorned with superb sculptures by the most famous Croatian sculptor, Ivan Meštrović, Osor had a turbulent history and striking landmarks to explore during your yacht charter.
Lake Vrana
The deepest freshwater lake in Eastern Europe supplies the entire island of Cres, as well as its neighbour Lošinj. The unique phenomena of the lake, cryptodepression, means that the water level here is actually higher than the sea level, while the lakebed is below. The lake is brimming with life and rare fish species and the pristine environment has been proclaimed a Nature Park that will impress anyone with a flair for calm and magical scenery. Birdwatching is also one of the reasons to visit Lake Vrana - the ornithological reserve will give you the opportunity to spot one of 102 bird species that live here.
Things To Do In Cres
While nightlife is not the reason to visit this island in the Adriatic, Cres offers plenty of activities even on a rainy day (of which there are not many). Most are happy just spending long days on the beach, but if you want to see other things this magnetic island has to offer, here are our top suggestions.
Enjoy a wine tasting
The merciful climate and fruitful soil have made Cres heaven for wine production - you will find incredible wines made of autochthonous grape sorts that carry the fragrance of the sea and blossoming nature.
Birdwatching
It's not just the natural park in Vrana Lake that provides the opportunity to spot rare bird species. Pay close attention - at any time, you might spot the rare griffon vulture, found only in Sardinia, Crete and Cres. If you want to raise your odds, visit the Eco Center in Beli, especially if you are enjoying your charter holiday with kids - the center often organizes workshops for kids.
Best restaurants in Cres
Hedonists are in for a treat when their luxury yacht drops their anchor in Cres - due to a wonderful climate and eclectic historical heritage, this Croatian island has delicious specialties you're unlikely to find elsewhere. Make sure to try the fuži noodles, a regional pasta delicacy often covered in truffles that will serve as a filling reward for hours spent swimming and testing out the water toys your luxury yacht for charter is equipped with.
Melin Bistro
Outstanding quality and traditional atmosphere are what makes Melin Bistro one of the most highly regarded eateries in Cres island. Skip the menu and ask the friendly waiters to tell you about their most recent catch of fish - the sea bass here is simply beyond words, but whichever dish you order, you won't be wrong.
Na Moru
Dine next to the azure seas in one of the best fish restaurants of the region - Na Moru is located in the quiet village of Volun and offers spectacular seafood and fish to treat yourself after a long day on the beach. A hidden treasure with the best views of the sea, this restaurant is great for a family lunch and has sublime local wines to pair with your dish.
Grill & BBQ House Porta Bragadina
While Croatian fish is really delicious, after a week of eating only seafood many wish to have something different. That is where Porta Bragadina comes in - a restaurant located just on the riva of the main city, it has the finest cuts of meat prepared in an exceptional manner. The fiorentina steak is to die for, but vegetarians will find some options as well, including the delectable truffle pasta. Order a local beer - you will be surprised with how good they are, or play it safe and pair your meat with some full-bodied “plavac mali” red.
