Poljica (Jelsa) (Hvar): Beaches and Coves, Croatia
Poljica (Jelsa) on the island of Hvar is a stretch of coastline known for its rugged beauty and proximity to the historic village of Jelsa. This area, part of the broader Hvar archipelago, offers a mix of rocky shores, shallow bays, and clear waters typical of the Croatian Adriatic coast. While specific beach details are not cataloged here, the region’s geography and surrounding settlements provide context for visitors and sailors exploring the area.
About this beach
Poljica (Jelsa) (Hvar): beaches and coves
Beach character
The coastline near Poljica is characterized by its natural contours, with scattered coves and rocky outcrops that define much of Hvar’s western shore. The area is part of a larger network of beaches and bays that transition from the more developed southern coast of Hvar to the quieter, more secluded northern shores. The waters here are generally calm, making it a suitable area for swimming and small boat access, though specific conditions can vary by season and weather.
Swimming and shore
Swimming in the waters near Poljica is typically possible in the shallower bays, though the exact suitability of specific coves for swimming is not detailed in this catalog. The shoreline’s rocky nature means that beachgoers may find limited sandy areas, with access often requiring careful navigation around outcrops. The clarity of the Adriatic Sea in this region is a consistent feature, supporting activities like snorkeling and diving in nearby waters.
Facilities and activities
While no specific facilities are listed for this beach, the broader Poljica area is connected to the village of Jelsa, which offers basic amenities for visitors. Activities in the region often include hiking along the island’s trails, exploring nearby coves by boat, and visiting the historic sites of Hvar Town, located approximately 10 kilometers to the south. The area’s natural setting makes it a popular spot for those seeking solitude or a base for exploring the Hvar coast.
Access and location
Poljica is accessible by road via the Jelsa village, which lies on the main route connecting Hvar Town to the northern parts of the island. For yacht charter guests, the area is within reach of several marinas, including Hvar Town Marina and the Supetar Marina, both of which are popular stops for sailors exploring the island. The coastline’s proximity to these settlements makes it a convenient location for those combining land and sea exploration.
What to expect
Visitors to the Poljica area should expect a landscape defined by natural rock formations and clear waters, with limited sandy beaches. The region’s appeal lies in its tranquility and connection to Hvar’s cultural and historical sites. While specific beach facilities are not detailed here, the broader area offers opportunities for hiking, boating, and visiting nearby villages. Yacht charter guests may find the location useful as a midpoint for exploring the island’s southern and northern coasts.
Practical tips
Those planning a visit should consider the seasonal variability of access to coves, as some areas may be more accessible during certain times of the year. For yacht charter guests, checking local sailing conditions and marina availability in Hvar Town or Supetar is recommended before planning anchorages or stops near Poljica.
Exploring the coast by yacht
The waters around Hvar, including the area near Poljica, are a well-traveled route for yacht charter guests exploring the Adriatic. The island’s position between the mainland and the central Dalmatian islands makes it a strategic point for sailing itineraries. Charter yachts often use Hvar Town or Supetar as bases, from which they can access the western coast, including the Poljica area, for day trips or extended stays.
Cultural and Historical Context
The village of Jelsa, near Poljica, is one of Hvar’s oldest settlements, with historical ties to the island’s maritime traditions. Its proximity to the Poljica coastline makes it a starting point for those interested in exploring Hvar’s cultural heritage, from medieval churches to vineyards producing the island’s renowned wines.
Anchorages in the surrounding area
Anchorages near Velika Stiniva and Pokrivenik provide nearby mooring options.
- Anchorage — hvar — 0.9 NM from beach
- Anchorage — velika stiniva — hvar — 1.0 NM from beach
- Anchorage — hvar — 1.8 NM from beach
- Anchorage — hvar — 2.1 NM from beach
- Anchorage — pokrivenik — hvar — 3.6 NM from beach
- Anchorage — pokrivenik — hvar — 4.0 NM from beach
- Anchorage — pokrivenik — hvar — 4.2 NM from beach
- Anchorage — hvar — 4.3 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Mooring buoys in the surrounding area
- Jetty — velika stiniva — hvar — 1.0 NM from beach
- Restaurant Preza quay — pokrivenik — hvar — 4.2 NM from beach
- Jetty — zavala — hvar — 4.4 NM from beach
- Konoba Mostir buoys — scedro — 5.0 NM from beach
- Quay — hvar — 5.0 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Marine fuel stations
Fuel stations in Vrboska, Sumartin on Brac, and Vela Luka on Korcula serve the surrounding area.
- Ina — vrboska — hvar — 5.5 NM from beach
- Fuel station — sumartin — brac — 8.9 NM from beach
- Fuel station — bol — brac — 9.0 NM from beach
- Ina — vela luka — korcula — 11.7 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Harbours in the surrounding area
Harbors at Port Jelsa, Vrboska, and Sumartin on Brac are located within reach of the beach.
- Port Jelsa — hvar — 4.4 NM from beach
- Vrboska — hvar — 5.6 NM from beach
- Sumartin — brac — 8.9 NM from beach
- Bol — brac — 9.0 NM from beach
- Stari Grad — hvar — 9.1 NM from beach
- Marina Bilo Idro — sveta nedjelja — hvar — 9.1 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Marinas in the surrounding area
- ACI Marina Vrboska — hvar — 5.5 NM from beach
- Marina Korkyra — vela luka — korcula — 11.9 NM from beach
- Marina Ramova — krvavica — 13.4 NM from beach
- Marina Tučepi — marina tucepi — 13.5 NM from beach
- Marina Baška Voda — marina baska voda — 14.3 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Restaurants near the beach
Restaurants like Konoba Humac in Jelsa and Restaurant Timun in Pokrivenik are close to the beach.
- Konoba Humac — hvar — 1.6 NM from beach
- Restaurant Timun — pokrivenik — hvar — 4.2 NM from beach
- Konoba Paradiso — jelsa — hvar — 4.3 NM from beach
- Bistro Hit — jelsa — hvar — 4.4 NM from beach
- Tavern Turan — jelsa — hvar — 4.4 NM from beach
- Arsenal — jelsa — hvar — 4.4 NM from beach
- Me and Mrs Jones — jelsa — hvar — 4.4 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Navigation guides for the surrounding area
Navigation guides for Jelsa, Uvala Pokrivenik, and Zavala (Pitavska Plaza) assist with local sailing routes.
- Jelsa — 4.2 NM from beach
- Uvala Pokrivenik — 4.3 NM from beach
- Zavala (Pitavska Plaza) — 4.4 NM from beach
- Uvala Manastir — 4.7 NM from beach
- Otocic Zecevo — 4.8 NM from beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.
Yachts from nearby departure bases
Yachts departing from Makarska Port and Baška Voda offer access to the Poljica (Jelsa) area.
Sailing yachts
- Bavaria 40 Cruiser (LADY BUTTERFLY) — Tučepi Port — 13.5 NM from departure base to beach
- Bavaria 41 (Seagoll) — Baška Voda — 14.3 NM from departure base to beach
- Oceanis 331 (Aloha) — Baška Voda — 14.3 NM from departure base to beach
Catamarans
- Lagoon 450 (LAMANTIN) — Baška Voda — 14.3 NM from departure base to beach
Motor yachts
- Princess V53 (Chablis) — Makarska Port — 13.1 NM from departure base to beach
- Canados 86 (Karisma) — Baška Voda — 14.3 NM from departure base to beach
Motor boats
- Jeanneau NC 37 (Black Pearl) — Makarska Port — 13.1 NM from departure base to beach
- Galeon 430 Skydeck (BELLAGIO) — Makarska Port — 13.1 NM from departure base to beach
- Jeanneau NC 37 (Black Pearl) — Makarska Port — 13.1 NM from departure base to beach
- Galeon 430 Skydeck (Bellagio) — Makarska Port — 13.1 NM from departure base to beach
Distances are straight-line geographic distances, not sailing routes.