Bušino, Kolan (Pag) Beach, Croatia
About this beach
Bušino, Kolan (Pag)
Beach: Bušino
Location: Kolan (Pag)
Characteristics and facilities
Gravel
460 m
Restaurant / snack bar
Caffe bar / Drinks stand
Beach character
Bušino Beach is defined by its gravel composition, a feature common to Pag’s shores where limestone bedrock emerges through the sand. The beach’s length provides ample space for walking or leisurely strolls along the shoreline. While not ideal for swimming due to the coarse texture, the area is well-suited for sunbathing and enjoying the unobstructed views of the Adriatic. The surrounding cliffs and sparse vegetation emphasize the island’s natural, untamed character.Swimming and shore
Swimming conditions at Bušino are limited by the gravel substrate, which can make the water feel colder and less inviting than sandy beaches. However, the shore’s accessibility and proximity to the sea make it a good spot for wading or exploring tide pools. The beach’s position on Pag’s northern coast means it benefits from consistent wave action, though the rocky outcrops nearby may create sheltered pockets during calmer conditions.Facilities and activities
The beach is equipped with a restaurant, snack bar, and caffe bar, offering meals and drinks for visitors. These facilities cater to both casual diners and those seeking light refreshments. While no structured activities are listed, the beach’s proximity to Pag’s inland trails and the island’s cultural sites—such as the ancient Roman ruins of Imota—provides opportunities for combining coastal relaxation with historical exploration.Access and location
Bušino Beach is located in Kolan, a small settlement on Pag Island, which lies approximately 25 kilometers northeast of Zadar. The beach is accessible via local roads that connect Pag’s coastal villages. Pag itself is a car-free island, with visitors relying on bicycles or public transport to navigate its interior. The nearest major marina is in Zadar, about 40 kilometers south, though smaller anchorages along Pag’s coast are available for yachts exploring the area.What to expect
Expect a rugged, gravelly shoreline at Bušino Beach, with no artificial amenities beyond the on-site restaurant, snack bar, and caffe bar. The beach’s natural setting means it lacks paved parking or shaded seating areas, though the open landscape offers panoramic views of the Adriatic. The facilities are basic but functional, ideal for visitors seeking a quiet spot to enjoy meals or drinks while taking in the island’s coastal scenery.Practical tips
Arrive early to secure a spot near the restaurant and caffe bar, especially during peak summer months. The gravel shore may be uncomfortable for prolonged sunbathing, so consider bringing a mat or towel. For a broader perspective of Pag’s coastline, combine a visit with hikes to the island’s inland trails or trips to nearby archaeological sites.Exploring the coast by yacht
Pag Island’s coastline, including Bušino Beach, lies within a popular sailing region of the Adriatic. Yachts exploring the area often anchor near Pag’s sheltered bays or use marinas in Zadar for provisioning. The island’s proximity to the mainland and its relatively calm waters make it a common stop for charter boats traveling between the northern and central Dalmatian coasts. Sailors should note that Bušino’s gravel shore is not suitable for landing but offers a scenic vantage point from a distance.Pag Island’s Coastal Character
Pag’s coastline is shaped by millennia of erosion, resulting in its signature gravel and rocky shores. This geological feature defines the island’s beaches, which contrast with the sandy stretches of neighboring islands. The lack of sand is due to the island’s limestone bedrock, which resists wave action and exposes gravel and stone. This environment supports unique ecosystems, including the endemic Pag goat, which thrives on the island’s rugged terrain.Anchorages in the surrounding area
Anchorages in Mandre and Novalja on Pag are nearby, offering convenient mooring options.
- Anchorage — mandre — pag — 2.1 NM from beach
- Anchorage — mandre — pag — 2.2 NM from beach
- Anchorage — mandre — pag — 2.6 NM from beach
- Anchorage — novalja — pag — 2.8 NM from beach
- Anchorage — cesarica — 3.9 NM from beach
- Anchorage — cesarica — 4.0 NM from beach
- Anchorage — cesarica — 4.0 NM from beach
- Straško — novalja — pag — 4.1 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Mooring buoys in the surrounding area
- Jetty — zubovici — pag — 0.9 NM from beach
- Jetty — zubovici — pag — 1.0 NM from beach
- Jetty — simuni — pag — 3.0 NM from beach
- Buoy field — novalja — pag — 4.7 NM from beach
- Drljanda — stara novalja — pag — 6.7 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Marine fuel stations
- Ina — rab — 17.1 NM from beach
- Ina — mali losinj — 21.5 NM from beach
- Adria Oil — mali losinj — 21.8 NM from beach
- Tifon — nerezine — losinj — 26.1 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Harbours in the surrounding area
- Žigljen — zigljen — pag — 4.2 NM from beach
- Novalja — pag — 4.6 NM from beach
- Karlobag — 4.7 NM from beach
- Prizna — 5.4 NM from beach
- Pag — 5.5 NM from beach
- Stara Novalja — pag — 6.3 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Marinas in the surrounding area
ACI Marina Šimuni is a nearby marina, while others are located further afield in Rab and Mali Losinj.
- ACI Marina Šimuni — simuni — pag — 2.5 NM from beach
- ACI Marina Rab — 17.1 NM from beach
- ACI Marina Supetarska Draga — rab — 20.2 NM from beach
- Y/C Marina Mali Lošinj — mali losinj — 21.6 NM from beach
- Marina Lošinj — mali losinj — 21.8 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Restaurants near the beach
Restaurants in Simuni and Novalja provide dining options close to the beach.
- Maestral — simuni — pag — 2.4 NM from beach
- Bistro Šimuni — simuni — pag — 2.5 NM from beach
- Ribarska Koliba Šimuni — simuni — pag — 2.5 NM from beach
- Didova Kuča — simuni — pag — 2.6 NM from beach
- Pizzeria Villa Olea — simuni — pag — 2.7 NM from beach
- Margarita — novalja — pag — 3.9 NM from beach
- Restaurant — novalja — pag — 4.0 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Navigation guides for the surrounding area
Navigation guides for Caska, Novalja, and other nearby areas assist in planning routes around the beach.
- Caska — 2.7 NM from beach
- Novalja — 4.2 NM from beach
- Uvala Prizna — 5.4 NM from beach
- Uvala Bliznica — 7.8 NM from beach
- Uvala Jakisnica — 11.0 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Yachts from nearby departure bases
Yachts departing from Šimuni, Novalja, and other bases offer access to the beach from multiple locations.
Sailing yachts
- First 45 (Egeria) — Šimuni Kolan ACI Marina — 2.4 NM from departure base to beach
- Dufour 360 Grand (Vanila) — Mali Lošinj — 21.6 NM from departure base to beach
- Sunsail 38 (Islanders) — Mali Lošinj — 21.6 NM from departure base to beach
Motor yachts
- Absolute 50 Fly (Acrobat) — Rab ACI Marina — 17.1 NM from departure base to beach
Motor boats
- Balt 818 Titanium (Valentina) — Novalja — 4.4 NM from departure base to beach
- Balt 818 Titanium (Valentina 2) — Novalja — 4.4 NM from departure base to beach
- BWA Sport 22GT (BWA ) — Pag City Port — 5.6 NM from departure base to beach
- Merry Fisher 895 — Povljana Marina — 11.5 NM from departure base to beach
- Galeon Galia 700 — Mali Lošinj — 21.6 NM from departure base to beach
- Merry Fisher 895 (Zablace) — Mali Lošinj — 21.6 NM from departure base to beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.