Gajac II Beach: A Leisure Seeker's Paradise in Croatia
Beach character
The beach's defining characteristic is its multi-cove structure, with a pebble-covered shore that transitions to pebbles on the sea floor. Depth increases gradually, creating a moderate gradient suitable for various swimmers. The beach's 'leisure seeker' designation aligns with its relaxed atmosphere, though visitors should note the high crowd index during peak seasons. The presence of small, eatable rocks near the shore has been noted by some visitors, requiring parental vigilance for young children.Swimming and shore
Swimming conditions at Gajac II are generally favorable, with moderate depth progression allowing for both shallow wading and deeper swimming. The pebble-covered shore provides a stable base for entering the water, though the texture may be less comfortable for those preferring sandy beaches. Visitor reports confirm the beach's suitability for children, with specific mention of a 'deeper sandy, soft slab rock part' accessible without difficulty for toddlers. However, the presence of tiny, potentially ingestible rocks near the shore has been observed by some visitors.Facilities and activities
No formal amenities are listed for Gajac II Beach, but visitor accounts highlight the availability of ice cream vendors (despite the product's rapid melting in heat). Water entertainment activities are explicitly noted in the beach's structured activities list, though specific types of water sports are not detailed. Parking is described as sufficient and free in reviews, though some visitors noted cars parking closer to the beach than necessary.Access and location
Gajac II Beach is located in the village of Gajac, approximately 25 km southeast of Zadar. Its coastal position makes it accessible via road networks connecting to the Zadar region, with visitor reports confirming easy access and parking. The beach's proximity to Zadar's sailing infrastructure creates natural connections for yacht charter guests exploring the eastern Adriatic coast, though it is not itself a marina or anchorage.What visitors say
Visitors have consistently praised the beach's accessibility and family-friendly aspects. Volodia Kotylo noted the beach's suitability for young children, highlighting the 'deeper sandy, soft slab rock part' that accommodates toddlers. Marina Savic emphasized the beach's 'easy access' and 'beautiful sea' views of Zadar. Both reviewers mentioned ample free parking, though some noted vehicles parking closer to the shore than ideal. The ice cream vendor received mixed reactions, with one visitor describing it as 'tasting like milk' while acknowledging its rapid melting in the heat.
Practical tips
Bring sturdy footwear for navigating the pebble shore, and keep a close watch on young children near the tiny rocks near the water's edge. Ice cream is available but melts quickly in the heat. Arrive early to secure parking spots, as some visitors reported cars parking closer to the beach than necessary during peak hours.
Exploring the coast by yacht
As part of the Zadar region's coastal network, Gajac II Beach sits within a sailing area that includes the popular marina at Zadar and nearby anchorages along the eastern Adriatic. While not a formal docking point itself, its proximity to Zadar's maritime infrastructure makes it a convenient reference point for yacht charter guests exploring the region. The beach's location offers a natural vantage point for observing sailing activity in the area.Regional Context
The Gajac area is part of the Zadar County, known for its historical significance and coastal tourism. The beach's proximity to Zadar allows visitors to combine beach time with cultural attractions in the city, including the Roman amphitheater and coastal promenades. The surrounding coastline features a mix of pebble and sandy beaches, with Gajac II representing one of the more accessible options in the region.
Anchorages in the surrounding area
Anchorages in the surrounding area include Mandre and Novalja on Pag, offering nearby options for mooring.
- Anchorage — mandre — pag — 0.9 NM from beach
- Straško — novalja — pag — 1.3 NM from beach
- Anchorage — novalja — pag — 1.5 NM from beach
- Anchorage — mandre — pag — 1.7 NM from beach
- Anchorage — mandre — pag — 1.7 NM from beach
- Anchorage — stara novalja — pag — 2.9 NM from beach
- Anchorage — novalja — pag — 3.0 NM from beach
- Anchorage — skrda — 3.5 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Mooring buoys in the surrounding area
- Buoy field — novalja — pag — 2.2 NM from beach
- Jetty — zubovici — pag — 3.3 NM from beach
- Jetty — zubovici — pag — 3.5 NM from beach
- Drljanda — stara novalja — pag — 4.8 NM from beach
- Jetty — simuni — pag — 4.9 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Marine fuel stations
Marine fuel stations are located in Rab and Mali Losinj, situated in different regions from the beach.
- Ina — rab — 15.1 NM from beach
- Ina — mali losinj — 18.7 NM from beach
- Adria Oil — mali losinj — 19.1 NM from beach
- Tifon — nerezine — losinj — 23.2 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Harbours in the surrounding area
Harbours in the surrounding area include Novalja and Zigljen on Pag, situated near the beach.
- Novalja — pag — 2.0 NM from beach
- Žigljen — zigljen — pag — 3.9 NM from beach
- Stara Novalja — pag — 4.3 NM from beach
- Prizna — 5.4 NM from beach
- Karlobag — 7.3 NM from beach
- Pag — 8.1 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Marinas in the surrounding area
- ACI Marina Šimuni — simuni — pag — 4.1 NM from beach
- ACI Marina Rab — 15.0 NM from beach
- ACI Marina Supetarska Draga — rab — 18.2 NM from beach
- Y/C Marina Mali Lošinj — mali losinj — 18.8 NM from beach
- Marina Lošinj — mali losinj — 19.0 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Restaurants near the beach
Restaurants near the beach are located in Novalja on Pag, offering nearby dining options.
- Margarita — novalja — pag — 1.4 NM from beach
- Restaurant — novalja — pag — 1.5 NM from beach
- Konoba Grill Matulo — novalja — pag — 1.6 NM from beach
- Restaurant — novalja — pag — 1.6 NM from beach
- Konoba Reful — novalja — pag — 1.7 NM from beach
- La Tortilla — novalja — pag — 1.7 NM from beach
- Restaurant — novalja — pag — 1.7 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Navigation guides for the surrounding area
Navigation guides for the surrounding area include Caska and Novalja on Pag, providing essential route information.
- Caska — 1.6 NM from beach
- Novalja — 1.8 NM from beach
- Uvala Prizna — 5.5 NM from beach
- Uvala Jakisnica — 8.6 NM from beach
- Luka Olib — 10.1 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Yachts from nearby departure bases
Yachts from nearby departure bases include those based in Novalja and Šimuni on Pag, offering access to the area.
Sailing yachts
- First 45 (Egeria) — Šimuni Kolan ACI Marina — 4.0 NM from departure base to beach
- Dufour 360 Grand (Vanila) — Mali Lošinj — 18.8 NM from departure base to beach
- Bavaria 46 Cruiser (DEA) — Mali Lošinj — 18.8 NM from departure base to beach
Motor yachts
- Absolute 50 Fly (Acrobat) — Rab ACI Marina — 15.0 NM from departure base to beach
Motor boats
- Balt 818 Titanium (Valentina) — Novalja — 2.0 NM from departure base to beach
- Balt 818 Titanium (Valentina 2) — Novalja — 2.0 NM from departure base to beach
- BWA Sport 22GT (BWA ) — Pag City Port — 8.2 NM from departure base to beach
- Merry Fisher 895 — Povljana Marina — 13.8 NM from departure base to beach
- Galeon Galia 630 (Kali) — Mali Lošinj — 18.8 NM from departure base to beach
- Merry Fisher 795 (Posejdon) — Mali Lošinj — 18.8 NM from departure base to beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Frequently asked questions
Is Gajac II Beach suitable for young children?
Yes, with some considerations. Visitor reports confirm the beach has areas with deeper, softer rock surfaces suitable for toddlers. However, parents should be cautious of tiny, potentially ingestible rocks near the shore.Are there parking facilities at the beach?
Yes, visitors report ample free parking available, though some cars park closer to the beach than necessary during peak hours.What water activities are available?
The beach is explicitly listed as offering 'water entertainment' activities, though specific types of water sports are not detailed in the catalog.Nearby beaches
Reviews
I liked it. The sea entrance is good for my 3 y.o., an infant has been carried to the deeper sandy, soft slab rock part without problems too. Although some shade is available, but maybe 4 trees in vicinity of the beach. Others couple of trees further were used by SUP holders :) There are tiny rocks that your little one can try to eat, but you can position her to the shore with bigger rocks that are not eatable 😊 Parking has enough places and free, also some cars went closer which is not necessary. Ice cream 🍦 tastes like milk (which is good), 2 💶 although melts super fast, but what can you do in such a heat 🤷♂️.
Nice beach. Easy access. Easy parking. Beautiful sea Zadar