Kandarola Beach, Rab: A Wild and Beautiful Cove in Croatia
13 photos
Beach character
Kandarola Beach spans approximately 60 meters in length and 10 meters in width, forming a narrow cove that curves between rocky outcrops. The shoreline is composed of white pebbles, creating a textured contrast against the deep blue sea. The beach is flanked by pine forests that provide natural shade, while the backdrop features rugged mountain terrain. The sea floor slopes gently with pebbles, and water depth increases moderately, making it suitable for snorkeling without excessive wading. The area’s natural setting, with minimal human intervention, preserves its raw, unspoiled character.Swimming and shore
The pebbly shore of Kandarola Beach requires some effort to navigate, but the clear waters make it rewarding for snorkeling. Visitors have reported exceptional visibility, with vibrant marine life visible just beneath the surface. The beach’s moderate depth gradient allows for safe exploration, though the lack of designated swimming areas means visitors should exercise caution. The beach is particularly noted for its naturist-friendly atmosphere, with some reviews highlighting its reputation as a nudist destination. During peak season, the crowd index rises significantly, though the spacious cove helps accommodate visitors without feeling overcrowded.Facilities and activities
Kandarola Beach lacks formal amenities such as showers, restrooms, or lifeguard services. However, it is explicitly recommended for camping travelers, with a designated wild camping area noted in the beach’s audience profile. Snorkeling is the primary activity, supported by the beach’s clear waters and underwater topography. No rental equipment or guided tours are listed, so visitors are advised to bring their own gear. The absence of infrastructure aligns with its status as a remote, nature-focused destination.Access and location
Located near the KAMPOR 68 B,E,F,G Apartments in Rab, Kandarola Beach is accessible via local roads that wind through the island’s interior. Rab itself is part of the Adriatic coast, a region renowned for its sailing routes and yacht charter opportunities. The beach’s proximity to the mainland and other islands makes it a convenient stop for sailors exploring the northern Dalmatian coast. Nearby, the town of Rab offers basic services, while the broader area includes historical sites and other beaches with varying levels of development.What visitors say
Reviewers consistently praise Kandarola Beach for its natural beauty and tranquility. Barbara Guerra noted the 'wild and very beautiful stone beach' with 'crystal clear water,' while Anita Luis described the 'nice smell' of the sea and its clarity. Petr Dluhoš highlighted its status as a 'naturist/nudist beach,' and Azra Šarić called it 'super' with a reference to the Primorje-Gorski Kotar region. Despite its remote nature, the beach is described as accessible and rewarding for those seeking an unspoiled coastal experience.Practical tips
Visitors should bring their own camping supplies, as no facilities are available on-site. Sunscreen and water are essential due to the exposed pebble shore and direct sunlight. Those planning to snorkel should carry their own equipment, as rentals are not listed. The beach’s naturist designation means visitors should be prepared for a relaxed, clothing-optional environment. Arriving early can help avoid the busiest times during peak season.Exploring the coast by yacht
Rab’s coastline, including Kandarola Beach, is a popular route for yacht charters in the Adriatic. The area’s sheltered bays and clear waters make it ideal for sailing, with nearby marinas in Rab Town and Supetar offering docking options. Euro-Agent’s yacht charter services can help visitors plan itineraries that include Kandarola and other scenic anchorages along the northern Dalmatian coast. Sailors may find the beach’s proximity to the mainland useful for short excursions or refueling stops.Naturist Community and Cultural Notes
Kandarola Beach is explicitly noted as a naturist/nudist destination in its audience profile. This designation is reinforced by visitor reviews, which describe it as a welcoming space for those comfortable with a clothing-optional environment. While this may not appeal to all, it contributes to the beach’s unique identity and attracts a specific demographic seeking a more liberated coastal experience.Anchorages in the surrounding area
Anchorages near Kandarola beach include Rab and Suha Punta, offering nearby mooring options.
- Anchorage — rab — 0.2 NM from beach
- Anchorage — suha punta — rab — 0.2 NM from beach
- Anchorage — rab — 0.4 NM from beach
- Anchorage — rab — 0.4 NM from beach
- Anchorage — suha punta — rab — 0.5 NM from beach
- Anchorage — suha punta — rab — 0.8 NM from beach
- Anchorage — rab — 1.0 NM from beach
- Anchorage — rab — 1.2 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Mooring buoys in the surrounding area
- Jetty — rab — 0.5 NM from beach
- Jetty — rab — 0.5 NM from beach
- Jetty — rab — 0.6 NM from beach
- Buoy field — suha punta — rab — 0.8 NM from beach
- Buoy field — rab — 0.9 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Marine fuel stations
Fuel stations in Rab and nearby areas supply marine fuel options within a short distance of Kandarola beach.
- Ina — rab — 1.0 NM from beach
- Tifon — nerezine — losinj — 15.5 NM from beach
- Flash — krk — 17.4 NM from beach
- Ina — krk — 17.4 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Harbours in the surrounding area
- Veli Žal — suha punta — rab — 0.8 NM from beach
- Hafen Rab — 1.0 NM from beach
- Pičuljan dock — barbat — rab — 2.8 NM from beach
- San Marino — lopar — rab — 3.9 NM from beach
- Tovarnele — pag — 4.0 NM from beach
- Melna — goli otok — 5.8 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Marinas in the surrounding area
Marinas like ACI Marina Rab and ACI Marina Supetarska Draga are located in proximity to Kandarola beach.
- ACI Marina Rab — 1.0 NM from beach
- ACI Marina Supetarska Draga — rab — 2.7 NM from beach
- Marina Nerezine — losinj — 15.8 NM from beach
- Marina Punat — krk — 16.9 NM from beach
- Y/C Marina Mali Lošinj — mali losinj — 17.6 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Restaurants near the beach
Restaurants in Rab, including Frkanj and Ristorante Ana, are situated near Kandarola beach.
- Frkanj — rab — 0.3 NM from beach
- Ristorante Ana — rab — 0.9 NM from beach
- Konoba Rab — 0.9 NM from beach
- Labirint — rab — 1.0 NM from beach
- Paradiso — rab — 1.0 NM from beach
- Tapas Bar Kampanel — rab — 1.0 NM from beach
- Santa Maria — rab — 1.0 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Navigation guides for the surrounding area
Navigation guides for Uvala Sv. Fumija and Rab provide route information relevant to Kandarola beach.
- Uvala Sv. Fumija — 0.5 NM from beach
- Rab — 1.2 NM from beach
- Uvala Sv. Kristofor and the nearby inlets — 1.5 NM from beach
- Supetarska Draga — 3.2 NM from beach
- Uvala Sv. Mara — 3.2 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Yachts from nearby departure bases
Yachts based at Rab ACI Marina and Krk Punat port operate in the vicinity of Kandarola beach.
Sailing yachts
- Salona 45 (Nati) — Krk Punat port — 16.5 NM from departure base to beach
- First 25.7 (Petra) — Krk Punat port — 16.5 NM from departure base to beach
- Hanse 455 (Gabriel I) — Krk Marina Punat — 16.9 NM from departure base to beach
Catamarans
- Lagoon 380 (Xenia) — Krk Punat port — 16.5 NM from departure base to beach
- Lagoon 40 (Sunset) — Krk Marina Punat — 16.9 NM from departure base to beach
Motor yachts
- Absolute 50 Fly (Acrobat) — Rab ACI Marina — 1.0 NM from departure base to beach
- Galeon 500 Fly (Barbara) — Krk Marina Punat — 16.9 NM from departure base to beach
Motor boats
- Balt 818 Titanium (Valentina 2) — Novalja — 13.6 NM from departure base to beach
- Balt 818 Titanium (Valentina) — Novalja — 13.6 NM from departure base to beach
- Motor boat (PAOLA) — Krk Marina Punat — 16.9 NM from departure base to beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kandarola Beach suitable for families with children?
The beach’s pebbly shore and naturist designation may make it less ideal for families with young children. Visitors should consider these factors before planning a trip.Are there any nearby restaurants or services?
The closest services are in Rab Town, a short drive away. The beach itself lacks on-site amenities.Nearby beaches
Kandarola II beach
KAMPOR 68 B,E,F,G Apartments, Rab
0.3 km
Tara beach
475 Palit 2 kat, Rab
0.3 km
Kandarola III beach
KAMPOR 68 B,E,F,G Apartments, Rab
0.4 km
Frkanj beach
KAMPOR 68 B,E,F,G Apartments, Rab
0.6 km
Gavranić jug, Kampor (Rab) Beach
Gavranić jug
0.8 km
Suha Punta Beach
77b Kampor, Kampor
0.8 km
Matovica beach
77b Kampor, Kampor
0.9 km
Macolići, Palit (Rab) Beach
Macolići
0.9 km
Reviews
Barbara Guerra
Wild and very beautiful stone beach and pine forest around where you can relax in the shade! Crystal clear water!!!! Don't miss it!!!!
Anita Luis
Frkanj is so beautiful and smells nice, sea is chrystal clear.
Petr Dluhoš
Naturist/nudist beach Kandarola is very nice place
Azra Šarić
Super 😚😎 Primorje-Gorski Kotar