Brizenica Bay , Stari Grad
Brizenica Bay lies along the rugged coastline of Stari Grad, a historic town on the island of Hvar. This narrow cove, framed by limestone cliffs and covered in beige pebbles, offers a tranquil alternative to busier beaches. While its natural beauty and seclusion make it a favorite for hikers and water sports enthusiasts, visitors should be prepared for its remote location and limited facilities.
Beach character
The beach's defining feature is its dramatic setting: a 20-meter-wide cove nestled between steep cliffs that provide natural shade. The sea floor consists of pebbles, with depth increasing gradually as you move offshore. The surrounding landscape is marked by wild vegetation and panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. Despite its modest size, the bay's isolation and scenic quality make it a destination for those seeking solitude and unspoiled coastal experiences.
Swimming and shore
The pebbled shore extends for approximately 10 meters along the cove's edge, with water depth increasing steadily beyond the beach. Snorkeling is popular here due to the clear waters and marine life visible near the shore. The bay's moderate depth and sheltered position make it suitable for swimming, though the pebbles may require caution for barefoot visitors. Surfing and stand-up paddleboarding are also practiced, taking advantage of the bay's natural contours and wave patterns.
Facilities and activities
No permanent facilities exist at Brizenica Bay. Visitor reviews note the absence of toilets, showers, or parking spaces, though gravel parking areas are occasionally available nearby. The beach's main appeal lies in its natural environment and water-based activities. SUP, surfing, and snorkeling are the primary pursuits, with the latter benefiting from the bay's clear waters and underwater topography. Hiking trails leading to the bay are marked, though the final approach involves navigating rocky terrain.
Access and location
Reaching Brizenica Bay requires a combination of road and coastal walking. The nearest road access point is in Stari Grad, approximately 5 kilometers away. Visitors must follow a marked trail for part of the journey before transitioning to a coastal path that involves walking over stones or using an adjacent road. The trek takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on fitness level and route choice. Parking is limited, with reviewers noting that gravel spaces are available but not guaranteed.
What visitors say
Visitors consistently highlight the bay's natural beauty and sense of seclusion, with multiple reviews describing it as a 'paradise' and 'favorite on the island.' One reviewer noted, 'Perfect spot... Quiet place, great for swimming and diving.' However, accessibility challenges are frequently mentioned, with one visitor stating, 'Not easy to get there, but once you get there you won't regret it.' Cleanliness is described as 'moderate,' with no facilities to support large crowds. The bay's appeal is strongest for hikers and those seeking solitude, though its remote nature may deter casual visitors.
Practical tips
Visitors should plan for the trek to the bay and bring water, as no refreshments are available on-site. Early morning visits may offer greater privacy, as noted by one reviewer who arrived at 09:00 and found the beach empty. Due to the lack of parking, arriving early is recommended. The pebbled shore may be uncomfortable for those unaccustomed to such surfaces, so water shoes are advisable for extended stays.
Exploring the coast by yacht
For yacht charter guests exploring the Hvar coastline, Brizenica Bay offers a secluded anchorage option within the broader sailing area of Stari Grad. The bay's sheltered position and proximity to the town make it a potential stop for those seeking to combine hiking with coastal cruising. Nearby marinas in Stari Grad provide docking facilities for yachts, with the town serving as a base for exploring the island's western coast. Sailors should note that the bay's shallow entry and pebbled shore require careful navigation, particularly during low tide.
Historical Context of Stari Grad
Stari Grad, meaning 'Old Town,' is one of Hvar's oldest settlements, with a history dating back to ancient Greek times. The town's medieval walls and Venetian-era architecture reflect its strategic importance as a maritime hub. Today, it remains a quiet alternative to the island's more touristic areas, with a population of around 2,000 residents. The bay's proximity to the town allows visitors to combine natural exploration with cultural sightseeing, including the Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Frequently asked questions
Is Brizenica Bay suitable for families with young children?
The pebbled shore and lack of facilities may make it less ideal for very young children. However, the bay's calm waters and scenic setting could appeal to older children and families comfortable with a more rugged beach experience.Can I anchor a yacht in Brizenica Bay?
While the bay offers a sheltered position, anchoring is not explicitly mentioned in the beach catalog. Yacht charter guests should consult local maritime charts and consider nearby marinas in Stari Grad for docking.Nearby beaches
Reviews
Perfect spot.Parking 50m from sea.Quiet place, great for swiming and diving.My favourite on island.Keep it clean when you visit🙏 mool labool
Perfect. Just not easy to get there, but then you will see the paradise
Beautiful bay with almost no people. A trip to it is a little bit difficult, but once you get there you won't regret it. There is no parking assured, but you can park on gravel spots. We went there at 09am this summer and we were alone on the beach.
Beautiful beach, not too hard to find. Last bit is a quite challenging trek. No toilets or showers or anything like that.
Beautiful bay which will be in several years exclusive hotel resort. Now it can be reached by car from Stari grad or walking by the sea which is nice but you need to be careful and you need at least 45 minutes to reach it so it is not for everyone. Pictures below are taken while walking by the sea from Stari grad. First part of the walk is marked trail but last part you need to walk on the stones or leave coast and use road above. Split-Dalmatia