Dogs Beach - Rtina, Croatia
Beach character
The beach's terrain is marked by large boulders, which form the predominant surface along most of its length. These rocky formations extend beneath the water, creating a seabed covered in similarly sized stones. While this makes the beach less conventional for some visitors, it offers a unique environment for those seeking a more rugged coastal experience. The moderate depth increase ensures a gradual transition from shallow to deeper waters, avoiding abrupt changes that could pose risks to swimmers.Swimming and shore
Dogs Beach provides opportunities for diving and snorkeling, allowing visitors to explore the rocky underwater terrain. The presence of boulders creates natural habitats for marine life, making it an appealing spot for aquatic activities. However, the seabed composition may not be suitable for all swimmers, particularly those preferring sandy bottoms or shallow, calm waters.Facilities and activities
No specific amenities are listed for Dogs Beach, but its primary appeal lies in its dog-friendly policy and natural features. The beach supports activities such as diving and snorkeling, catering to adventurous visitors interested in exploring the rocky seabed and coastal ecosystems.Access and location
Located in Rtina, a small coastal settlement on the island of Šolta, Dogs Beach is accessible via local roads connecting to the broader Adriatic coast. Its coordinates (44.30709° N, 15.2783° E) place it within a region known for its scenic cliffs and traditional fishing villages. The beach's proximity to Šolta's historic sites and the wider Split-Dalmatia coastline offers visitors additional exploration opportunities.What visitors say
Reviewers consistently highlight Dogs Beach as the only spot in the area where swimming and sunbathing with dogs are permitted. Tomasz Michalczyk noted in 2020 that 'it is prohibited everywhere else,' while Flavio Alessandro emphasized its status as 'a rare gem' in 2023. Both visitors praised the beach's unique accessibility for pet owners, though they acknowledged the rocky terrain as a distinguishing feature.Practical tips
Visitors with dogs should bring necessary supplies, as the beach's dog-friendly policy is a key attraction. The rocky terrain may require caution when entering or exiting the water, and swimmers should be mindful of the boulder-strewn seabed.Exploring the coast by yacht
For sailors and yacht charter guests exploring the Adriatic, Dogs Beach lies within a sailing area characterized by dramatic coastal landscapes and sheltered bays. While the beach itself is not a marina or anchorage, its proximity to Šolta's waters makes it a potential stop for those navigating the region's cliffs and islands. Charterers may consider nearby harbors in Rtina or Supetar for docking options.Dog-Friendly Policy and Visitor Notes
Dogs Beach stands out as an exception to Croatia's general restrictions on pets in public swimming areas. This policy aligns with the settlement's character as a quieter, less commercialized coastal community. Visitors should note that while dogs are permitted, the beach's natural features may require additional care when managing pets near the water's edge.Anchorages in the surrounding area
Anchorages near Dogs Beach include locations in Rtina and nearby areas such as Vlasici and Ljubac.
- Anchorage — rtina — 1.3 NM from beach
- Anchorage — rtina — 1.7 NM from beach
- Anchorage — vlasici — pag — 2.7 NM from beach
- Anchorage — ljubac — 3.2 NM from beach
- Anchorage — vrsi — 3.2 NM from beach
- Anchorage — tribanj — 3.3 NM from beach
- Anchorage — ljubac — 3.5 NM from beach
- Anchorage — smokvica — 3.8 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Mooring buoys in the surrounding area
Mooring buoys in the surrounding area include jetty in Ljubac and other points like Šibuljina Point.
- Jetty — ljubac — 2.9 NM from beach
- Šibuljina Point — sibuljina point — 3.2 NM from beach
- Vir — 8.3 NM from beach
- Punta Skala — petrcane — 8.9 NM from beach
- Jetty — zadar — 11.1 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Marine fuel stations
- Ina — zadar — 11.6 NM from beach
- Ina — preko — ugljan — 14.3 NM from beach
- Fuel station — sukosan — 15.3 NM from beach
- Ina — zaglav — dugi otok — 22.2 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Harbours in the surrounding area
Harbours near Dogs Beach include Miškovići in Pag, Ražanac, and ports in Nin and Starigrad Paklenica.
- Miškovići — miskovici — pag — 2.8 NM from beach
- Ražanac — razanac — 3.3 NM from beach
- Mulo — nin — 4.1 NM from beach
- Nin — 5.6 NM from beach
- Starigrad Paklenica — 6.9 NM from beach
- Privlaka — 7.4 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Marinas in the surrounding area
Marinas in the surrounding area include those in Zadar, Ugljan, and other coastal locations like Vitrenjak Zadar.
- Marina Borik — zadar — 11.0 NM from beach
- Vitrenjak Zadar — 11.1 NM from beach
- Marina Zadar — 11.5 NM from beach
- Olive Island Marina — sutomiscica — ugljan — 13.5 NM from beach
- Marina Preko — ugljan — 14.1 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Navigation guides for the surrounding area
- KrusCica and Uvala KrusCica Duboka — 3.1 NM from beach
- VELESITSKI KANAL (S) — 3.5 NM from beach
- OTOK PAG — 7.0 NM from beach
- Starigrad-Paklenica {Velebitski Kanai) — 7.1 NM from beach
- Privlaka — 7.2 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Yachts from nearby departure bases
Sailing yachts
- Bavaria Cruiser 37 (JULIA) — Zadar Marina Borik — 11.0 NM from departure base to beach
- Dufour 560 (Anatoli) — Zadar Marina Borik — 11.0 NM from departure base to beach
Catamarans
- Leopard 50 (Solaia) — Zadar Marina Borik — 11.0 NM from departure base to beach
- Sunreef 60 (SINATA) — Zadar Marina Borik — 11.0 NM from departure base to beach
Motor yachts
- Ferretti 780 (TESORO) — Zadar Marina Borik — 11.0 NM from departure base to beach
Motor boats
- Merry Fisher 895 — Povljana Marina — 7.9 NM from departure base to beach
- Rancraft RS Cinque.5 — Zadar Diklo Port — 9.9 NM from departure base to beach
- Rancraft RM21 (Dugi otok) — Zadar Diklo Port — 9.9 NM from departure base to beach
- Rancraft RM19 (Daycruiser) — Zadar Diklo Port — 9.9 NM from departure base to beach
- Antares 36 (Setemana) — Zadar Marina Borik — 11.0 NM from departure base to beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Dogs Beach the only dog-friendly beach in the area?
Local regulations in the region typically prohibit pets in public swimming zones, but Dogs Beach maintains an exception due to its remote location and the community's tolerance for pet-friendly access.Nearby beaches
Reviews
The only place in the area where you can swim and sunbathe with your dog. Unfortunately, it is prohibited everywhere
The beach is a rare gem in the vicinity where you can bask in the sun and take a refreshing dip with your furry friend. Regrettably, this activity is prohibited in all other areas. Zadar