Pakostane Beach, Croatia
Beach character
The beach’s surface is primarily composed of small beige pebbles, though the seabed beneath features a mix of sand and larger boulders. Depth increases gradually, ensuring a safe environment for families and leisure seekers. Visitor reviews highlight the beach’s striking natural features, including three small islands visible from the shore. The area is noted for its cleanliness, with a 'Good' rating in official assessments. While the pebble surface may not appeal to all, reviewers frequently mention its softer texture compared to other pebble beaches in the region.Swimming and shore
The smooth depth increase of the seabed makes Pakostane Beach particularly welcoming for children and those who cannot swim. Snorkeling is a popular activity, with the mixed seabed offering opportunities to explore both sandy patches and rocky outcrops. Kayaking is readily available for rent, allowing visitors to explore the nearby islands and coastal inlets. The beach’s proximity to the open sea ensures clear visibility of the horizon, while the surrounding coves provide sheltered areas for calm swimming.Facilities and activities
While no formal amenities are listed in the beach’s authoritative features, visitor reviews confirm the availability of water-based rentals, including kayaks, boats, and other water entertainment options. These services are typically offered by local operators based near the shore. The beach itself lacks structured facilities such as showers, toilets, or parking, but its location near Pakoštane’s main road suggests nearby access to town services.Access and location
Pakostane Beach is accessible via Ulica kraljice Jelene, a primary road in Pakoštane. Its coordinates place it within easy reach of Zadar, approximately 25 kilometers to the northeast. The beach’s position along the Adriatic coast situates it within a region known for its sailing routes, with nearby anchorages and marinas catering to yacht charter guests. The surrounding area is part of the Zadar archipelago, which includes several islands and islets that contribute to the region’s maritime character.What visitors say
Reviewers consistently praise Pakostane Beach for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. One visitor noted the pebbles’ ‘soft’ texture compared to other pebble beaches, while another highlighted the ‘beautiful’ view of the three nearby islands. Multiple reviews mention the availability of kayaks and boats for rent, with one describing the beach as a ‘cool place hidden in plain sight.’ However, the beach is described as ‘packed’ during high season, reflecting its popularity among tourists.Practical tips
Consider bringing comfortable footwear for the pebble surface, and inquire locally about rental options for kayaks or boats. Arriving early in the day may help avoid the busiest times, especially during high season. The beach’s proximity to Zadar means nearby towns offer additional dining and services.Exploring the coast by yacht
For yacht charter guests, Pakostane Beach lies within the Zadar sailing area, a region known for its protected bays, clear waters, and proximity to cultural sites. Nearby marinas and anchorages support both motor and sailboat charters, with routes extending to the islands of Vis, Hvar, and Šolta. The beach itself is not a formal anchorage but serves as a scenic stop for those exploring the Adriatic coast.Nearby Islands and Coastal Exploration
Three small islands near Pakostane Beach are a notable feature, offering opportunities for kayaking and snorkeling. The surrounding coast includes the Zadar archipelago, which is popular with sailors and charter guests. These islands, while not formally named in the beach’s catalog, are frequently mentioned in visitor reviews as points of interest.Anchorages in the surrounding area
Anchorages in the surrounding area include Drage and Vrgada, providing nearby mooring options.
- Anchorage — drage — 1.7 NM from beach
- Anchorage — vrgada — 2.7 NM from beach
- Anchorage — vrgada — 2.8 NM from beach
- Anchorage — vrgada — 2.9 NM from beach
- Kranj — vrgada — 3.5 NM from beach
- Anchorage — drage — 3.5 NM from beach
- Sv. Katarina — sv katarina — sveta katarina — 3.6 NM from beach
- Anchorage — zizanj — 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 Crvena Luka jetty and Zaklopica buoy field, situated near Pakostane beach.
- Crvena Luka jetty — 1.3 NM from beach
- Zaklopica buoy field — pasman — 2.4 NM from beach
- Island Vrgada A — 2.6 NM from beach
- Island Vrgada B — 2.8 NM from beach
- Jetty — vrgada — 2.9 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Marine fuel stations
- Ina — biograd na moru — 3.4 NM from beach
- Flash — murter — 6.2 NM from beach
- Ina — murter — 6.3 NM from beach
- Ina — jezera — murter — 9.5 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Harbours in the surrounding area
- Pakoštane — pakostane — 0.2 NM from beach
- Hotel Haven Ilirija — biograd na moru — 3.2 NM from beach
- Biograd — biograd na moru — 3.3 NM from beach
- Tkon - ferry dock — pasman — 3.7 NM from beach
- Tkon — pasman — 3.8 NM from beach
- Sv. Filip and Jakov — sv filip and jakov — sveti filip i jakov — 4.7 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Marinas in the surrounding area
Marinas in the surrounding area include Drage Marina and Marina Šangulin in Biograd na Moru, providing nearby mooring options.
- Marina Drage — 1.7 NM from beach
- Marina Šangulin — marina sangulin — biograd na moru — 3.3 NM from beach
- Marina Kornati — biograd na moru — 3.4 NM from beach
- Dry dock marina Biograd — biograd na moru — 3.7 NM from beach
- Molum Marine Club — sveti filip i jakov — 4.7 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Restaurants near the beach
Restaurants near the beach include Restaurant More in Crvena Luka and Palma in Drage, offering dining options close to Pakostane.
- Restaurant More — crvena luka — 1.3 NM from beach
- Palma — drage — 1.8 NM from beach
- U Šime — u sime — biograd na moru — 2.3 NM from beach
- Konoba Zaklopica — pasman — 2.3 NM from beach
- Caping Park Soline — biograd na moru — 2.6 NM from beach
- Restaurant Orkula — biograd na moru — 2.8 NM from beach
- Meduza — biograd na moru — 2.9 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 Pakostane and Uvala Gnal, providing route information near the beach.
- Pakostane — 0.3 NM from beach
- Uvala Gnal — 2.2 NM from beach
- Otocic Arta Mala — 4.2 NM from beach
- Filip Jakov — 4.6 NM from beach
- Turanj — 5.2 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 at Drage Marina and Biograd Šangulin, offering sailing options close to Pakostane beach.
Sailing yachts
- Sun Odyssey 490 (Ela) — Drage Marina — 1.7 NM from departure base to beach
- Sun Odyssey 349 (Mia) — Drage Marina — 1.7 NM from departure base to beach
- Sun Odyssey 440 (Karla) — Drage Marina — 1.7 NM from departure base to beach
- Oceanis 51.1 (JUPITER) — Biograd Šangulin — 3.2 NM from departure base to beach
- Bavaria 38 Cruiser (CORI) — Biograd Šangulin — 3.2 NM from departure base to beach
Catamarans
- Elba 45 (SUN OFFICE) — Biograd Šangulin — 3.2 NM from departure base to beach
Motor yachts
- Elegance 60 Fly (Premium) — Drage Marina — 1.7 NM from departure base to beach
- Sealine F430 (Blue Lagoon II) — Biograd Šangulin — 3.2 NM from departure base to beach
Motor boats
- Ocqueteau Timonier 715 () — Drage Marina — 1.7 NM from departure base to beach
- Swift Trawler 41 (Eduard) — Biograd Šangulin — 3.2 NM from departure base to beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Frequently asked questions
Is Pakostane Beach suitable for families with young children?
Yes, the beach’s smooth depth increase makes it safe for children, and water activities like kayaking are available for rent.Are there facilities like showers or parking at the beach?
No formal amenities are listed, but nearby town services in Pakoštane are accessible via the main road.Nearby beaches
Reviews
beautiful sea view, lively nightlife
its a beach, what more can you expect sauvage antoine
It is not a sand beach but the pebbles are quite soft compared to other pebble beaches. It is beautiful thanks to the 3 small islandes near to the beach and you can easily rent kayaks, boat or anything there.
Cool place hidden in plain sight! I'll definitely be back! Zadar