Plaza Mali Zdrelac Beach, Croatia

Beach character

The beach's defining feature is its pebble composition, with smooth beige stones forming the shoreline. The sea floor is similarly composed of pebbles, and the depth increases gradually as one moves away from the shore. This characteristic, combined with the cove's natural curvature, creates a sheltered environment that remains relatively calm even during moderate winds. Visitor reviews consistently note the beach's tranquility, with one describing it as 'hidden from all the touristic mass.'

Swimming and shore

The pebbled shoreline requires some care when entering the water, though the gradual depth increase allows for safe wading. The beach's orientation within the cove provides natural protection from direct wave action, making it suitable for swimming despite its modest size. Visitors have reported spotting yachts and ships in the adjacent bay, suggesting the area's appeal to both leisure boaters and casual beachgoers.

Facilities and activities

No formal amenities or structures are listed for the beach itself. The absence of marked facilities means visitors should plan accordingly for basic needs. The beach's primary draw lies in its natural setting and the surrounding coastal environment. While no specific activities are documented, the area's connection to nearby sailing routes implies potential for water-based exploration.

Access and location

Situated in Ždrelac, a small settlement on the island of Ždrelac (part of the Zadar archipelago), the beach is accessible via local roads connecting to the mainland. Its coordinates (44.01412, 15.25654) place it within proximity to Zadar's maritime routes, though specific transportation details are not documented in the beach catalog. The surrounding region is known for its network of anchorages and marinas, which may be relevant for visitors arriving by boat.

Practical tips

Visitors should consider the pebbled shoreline when planning beach activities. The beach's size makes it ideal for small groups seeking privacy. Given its reputation for tranquility, arriving during shoulder seasons (May-June) may provide the most rewarding experience.

Regional Context

The Zadar archipelago, where Ždrelac is located, is part of Croatia's historic maritime region. The area's coastline features a mix of pebble beaches, rocky inlets, and sheltered bays, reflecting the geological character of the northern Dalmatian coast. Nearby settlements offer access to traditional Dalmatian culture, including historic sites in Zadar and the nearby island of Šolta.

Anchorages in the surrounding area

Anchorages in Kukljica, Ugljan, and Pasman lie near the beach.

• Anchorage — kukljica — ugljan — 0.7 NM from beach
• Anchorage — kukljica — ugljan — 0.8 NM from beach
• Anchorage — kali — ugljan — 2.7 NM from beach
• Čerenje — cerenje — pasman — 3.0 NM from beach
• Anchorage — iz mali — 4.7 NM from beach
• Anchorage — pasman — 4.7 NM from beach
• Anchorage — pasman — 5.1 NM from beach
• Anchorage — sit — 5.1 NM from beach

Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.

Mooring buoys in the surrounding area

• Mali Ždrelac — zdrelac — pasman — 0.0 NM from beach
• Buoy field — kukljica — ugljan — 0.3 NM from beach
• Jetty — zdrelac — pasman — 0.6 NM from beach
• Jetty — zdrelac — pasman — 1.4 NM from beach
• Buoy — kali — ugljan — 2.8 NM from beach

Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.

Marine fuel stations

Marine fuel stations in Sukosan, Preko, and Zadar serve the surrounding area.

• Fuel station — sukosan — 2.9 NM from beach
• Ina — preko — ugljan — 4.6 NM from beach
• Ina — zaglav — dugi otok — 6.2 NM from beach
• Ina — zadar — 6.3 NM from beach

Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.

Harbours in the surrounding area

Harbors in Ždrelac, Banj, and Sukosan are located close to the beach.

• Ždrelac — zdrelac — pasman — 1.0 NM from beach
• Banj — pasman — 1.9 NM from beach
• Sukošan — sukosan — 2.9 NM from beach
• Vela Lamjana — kali — ugljan — 3.0 NM from beach
• Dobropoljana — pasman — 3.3 NM from beach
• Bibinje — 3.5 NM from beach

Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.

Marinas in the surrounding area

Marinas in Kukljica, Sukosan, and Preko are situated near the beach.

• Kukljica — ugljan — 1.3 NM from beach
• Marina Dalmacija — sukosan — 3.1 NM from beach
• Marina Preko — ugljan — 5.0 NM from beach
• Olive Island Marina — sutomiscica — ugljan — 6.1 NM from beach
• Marina Zadar — 6.4 NM from beach

Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.

Restaurants near the beach

Restaurants in Kukljica and Sukosan offer dining options near the beach.

• Restaurant — kukljica — ugljan — 1.3 NM from beach
• Restaurant — kukljica — ugljan — 1.4 NM from beach
• Kontakt Udica — kukljica — ugljan — 1.4 NM from beach
• Restaurant — kukljica — ugljan — 1.4 NM from beach
• Gajeta — sukosan — 3.0 NM from beach
• Griblja — sukosan — 3.0 NM from beach
• Kod Guste — sukosan — 3.0 NM from beach

Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.

Navigation guides for the surrounding area

Navigation guides for Zdrelac, Banj, and Kali assist in exploring the area.

• Zdrelac (Uvala Sv. Luka) — 1.2 NM from beach
• Banj — 2.1 NM from beach
• Uvala Lamjana Vela — 2.5 NM from beach
• Uvala Lamjana Mala — 2.6 NM from beach
• Kali — 3.8 NM from beach

Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.

Yachts from nearby departure bases

Yachts based in Sukošan Marina Dalmacija depart near the beach.

Sailing yachts

• Bavaria Cruiser 45 (Kasela) — Sukošan Marina Dalmacija — 3.1 NM from departure base to beach
• Bavaria Cruiser 41 (PATRIZIA) — Sukošan Marina Dalmacija — 3.1 NM from departure base to beach
• Bavaria Cruiser 40 (Prima) — Sukošan Marina Dalmacija — 3.1 NM from departure base to beach

Catamarans

• Lagoon 450 (MUST HAVE ) — Sukošan Marina Dalmacija — 3.1 NM from departure base to beach
• Lagoon 51 (APOLON) — Sukošan Marina Dalmacija — 3.1 NM from departure base to beach
• Lagoon 42 (Zagi) — Sukošan Marina Dalmacija — 3.1 NM from departure base to beach

Motor yachts

• Focus Power 44 (GTX) — Sukošan Marina Dalmacija — 3.1 NM from departure base to beach
• Dominator 780S (Dalia) — Sukošan Marina Dalmacija — 3.1 NM from departure base to beach

Motor boats

• BWA Sport 22GT (BWA) — Sukošan Marina Dalmacija — 3.1 NM from departure base to beach
• Adria 1002 (Fjaka) — Sukošan Marina Dalmacija — 3.1 NM from departure base to beach

Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.