Plaza Sveti Blaz III Beach - Stara Gavza, Cres, Croatia

Beach character

The beach's defining feature is its pebble composition, which creates a textured shoreline that contrasts with the smooth Adriatic waters. The mountainous terrain to the north provides natural shelter, though the cove's orientation means it receives direct sunlight for much of the day. The moderate depth increase makes it suitable for confident swimmers, with clearer water visibility in shallower areas. The absence of artificial amenities means the beach retains its natural character, appealing to those seeking solitude and connection with the landscape.

Swimming and shore

Swimming conditions are generally good, with the pebble beach offering stable footing for entering and exiting the water. The moderate depth increase means swimmers should exercise caution when venturing beyond the shallows. The beach's orientation creates a natural current along the cove's length, which may affect swimming comfort. The surrounding mountains provide some wind protection, though afternoon breezes can occasionally pick up. The pebble surface is suitable for walking but may be uncomfortable for those with sensitive feet.

Facilities and activities

No permanent facilities are available at Plaza Sveti Blaz III. The beach's remote location means there are no lifeguards, changing rooms, or sunbeds. The nearest village of Stara Gavza is approximately 3 kilometers away, with basic services available there. The beach's natural setting makes it ideal for solitary relaxation, though the lack of infrastructure means it's not suited for families with young children. The surrounding mountains offer hiking opportunities, with trails accessible from the village.

Access and location

Reaching the beach requires a short walk from the main road near Stara Gavza, with no dedicated parking available. The beach is located in a rural area of Cres Island, which is accessible by ferry from the mainland town of Rijeka. The island's road network is limited, with most travel to the northern coast requiring a boat transfer. The beach's isolation means it's best suited for visitors with private transportation or those staying in local accommodations.

Practical tips

Bring sturdy footwear for the pebble beach, as the surface can be uneven. Sun protection is essential due to the lack of natural shade. Visitors should be aware of the beach's remote location and plan accordingly for access. The absence of lifeguards means swimmers should exercise caution, particularly in the deeper areas. The beach is best visited during early morning or late afternoon to avoid the strongest sunlight.

Cres Island Context

Cres Island, where Plaza Sveti Blaz III is located, is one of the largest islands in the northern Adriatic. The island's coastline is characterized by a mix of pebble beaches, cliffs, and sheltered coves. The lack of major roads on the island means most exploration is done by foot or boat. The village of Stara Gavza, near the beach, is one of the island's few inhabited settlements, with a history dating back to the medieval period. The island's natural beauty and limited infrastructure make it a destination for those seeking an authentic Adriatic experience.

Anchorages in the surrounding area

Anchorages near Cres, including those in Krk and Beli.

• Anchorage — krk — 4.1 NM from beach
• Anchorage — krk — 4.2 NM from beach
• Anchorage — pinezici — krk — 4.6 NM from beach
• Anchorage — beli — cres — 4.7 NM from beach
• Anchorage — pinezici — krk — 4.8 NM from beach
• Anchorage — pinezici — krk — 4.9 NM from beach
• Camp Glavotok — krk — 5.1 NM from beach
• Anchorage — cres — 5.5 NM from beach

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

Mooring buoys in the surrounding area

Mooring buoys in Pinezici and Krk, close to Cres.

• Jetty — pinezici — krk — 4.6 NM from beach
• Jetty — pinezici — krk — 4.6 NM from beach
• Buoy field — pinezici — krk — 4.9 NM from beach
• Jetty — pinezici — krk — 4.9 NM from beach
• Camp Glavotok — krk — 5.2 NM from beach

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

Marine fuel stations

Marine fuel stations on Cres and Krk, near the beach.

• Fuel station — cres — 4.7 NM from beach
• Ina — cres — 5.2 NM from beach
• OMV — krk — 5.8 NM from beach
• Ina — krk — 8.9 NM from beach

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

Harbours in the surrounding area

Harbours on Cres, including Cres Harbour and Beli, as well as Smokovac Bay.

• Club Harbour — krk — 4.2 NM from beach
• Cres harbour — 4.7 NM from beach
• Smokovac Bay — merag — cres — 4.7 NM from beach
• Beli — cres — 4.7 NM from beach
• Glavotok — krk — 4.8 NM from beach
• Cres Boatyard Marina — 4.8 NM from beach

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

Marinas in the surrounding area

Marinas on Cres, such as ACI Marina Cres, and larger marinas in Krk like Marina Punat.

• ACI Marina Cres — 5.4 NM from beach
• Marina Punat — krk — 11.2 NM from beach
• Omišalj Docks — omisalj — krk — 13.5 NM from beach
• Šilo — silo — krk — 14.9 NM from beach
• ACI Marina Opatija — 17.4 NM from beach

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

Restaurants near the beach

Restaurants located on Cres and in Beli, offering dining options near the beach.

• Restaurant — cres — 4.6 NM from beach
• Restaurant — cres — 4.6 NM from beach
• Al Buon Gusto — cres — 4.6 NM from beach
• Caruso — cres — 4.6 NM from beach
• Gostionica Belona — cres — 4.7 NM from beach
• Restaurant — cres — 4.7 NM from beach
• Restaurant — beli — cres — 4.8 NM from beach

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

Navigation guides for the surrounding area

Navigation guides for areas around Cres, including Luka Torkul and Uvala Vala Jana.

• Luka Torkul — 3.9 NM from beach
• Uvala Vala Jana — 4.3 NM from beach
• Cres — 4.9 NM from beach
• Uvala Sv. Fuska — 5.1 NM from beach
• Uvala Cavlena — 6.4 NM from beach

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

Yachts from nearby departure bases

Yachts departing from bases near Cres, including Malinska, Rabac Port, and Krk Marina Punat.

Sailing yachts

• Sun Odyssey 29.2 (Mirabai) — Malinska Hotel Malin port — 8.7 NM from departure base to beach
• Bavaria 30 Cruiser (Ana) — Rabac Port — 9.1 NM from departure base to beach
• Elan 333 (Brina) — Rabac Port — 9.1 NM from departure base to beach
• Elan Impression 40 (Silente) — Rabac Port — 9.1 NM from departure base to beach
• Bavaria C38 (MOYA) — Krk Marina Punat — 11.2 NM from departure base to beach
• Bavaria 34 (Theia) — Krk Marina Punat — 11.2 NM from departure base to beach

Catamarans

• Athena 38 (SWAN) — Krk Marina Punat — 11.2 NM from departure base to beach
• Nautitech 46 Fly (STEFANY) — Krk Marina Punat — 11.2 NM from departure base to beach

Motor yachts

• Sunseeker 64 (MARITA) — Krk Marina Punat — 11.2 NM from departure base to beach

Motor boats

• Beneteau Flyer 8 SUNdeck — Krk Marina Punat — 11.2 NM from departure base to beach

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