Rato's beach , Jelsa
Beach character
The beach's defining feature is its compact cove shape, which creates a natural shelter from open-sea swells. The concrete surface extends across the shore, with the sea floor beneath the water transitioning abruptly to deeper waters. This topography makes it a unique location for both swimmers and boaters, though the sharp depth increase near the shore necessitates caution when anchoring or mooring.Swimming and shore
The beach's shallow, concrete shoreline is suitable for swimming, with visitor reviews consistently noting the clarity of the water. While no formal lifeguard services or swim platforms are listed, the beach's sheltered nature and moderate crowd levels (rated as 'Moderate' in high season) make it a practical spot for water activities. SUP and surfing are explicitly noted as available activities, suggesting the beach's suitability for light wave action.Facilities and activities
No formal beach amenities are listed in the catalog, but visitor accounts highlight the presence of three nearby restaurants. The beach's primary appeal lies in its nautical context: mooring is permitted at a rate of €3 per meter plus a €15 garbage collection fee. Anchoring is explicitly prohibited, requiring visitors to use the designated mooring facilities.Access and location
Rato's Beach is situated within Jelsa, a town on the island of Hvar known for its medieval architecture and yacht-friendly harbors. The beach's coordinates (43.09175°N, 16.69603°E) place it near the eastern coast of Hvar, within reach of the island's main marinas and the broader Adriatic sailing routes. Visitor reviews mention the need to reserve mooring spots in advance, particularly during peak seasons.What visitors say
Reviewers consistently praise the beach's scenic quality, with one describing it as 'absolutely stunning' and another calling it 'enchanting' for sailboat exploration. The mooring facilities receive particular attention, with multiple visitors noting the €3/meter rate and the requirement to reserve spots ahead of time. The beach's three nearby restaurants are mentioned as both a convenience and a limitation, with one reviewer noting the absence of draught beer options.
Several accounts emphasize the need for pre-booking, particularly during high season, and highlight the attentive service of the on-site attendant who assists with boat positioning. The prohibition on anchoring is a recurring point of note, with reviewers suggesting that the mooring system is the primary means of access for boaters.
Practical tips
Boaters should plan to reserve mooring spots in advance, especially during peak season. The €3/meter fee plus €15 garbage collection charge applies. Anchoring is not permitted, so using the designated mooring buoys is essential. The beach's three nearby restaurants offer dining options but do not serve draught beer.
Exploring the coast by yacht
For yacht charter guests, Rato's Beach offers a convenient stopover point within the Hvar sailing area. The beach's mooring facilities provide access to Jelsa's infrastructure while maintaining proximity to the open sea. Given its location on Hvar, charter guests may combine visits here with exploration of the island's main harbors, nearby anchorages, and the broader Adriatic coast. The beach's restrictions on anchoring align with local regulations aimed at preserving coastal ecosystems and managing visitor density.
Best Time to Visit
While the beach is accessible year-round, visitor reviews suggest that the moderate crowd levels during high season make it a practical choice for those seeking a balance between tranquility and accessibility. The beach's cleanliness rating (Good) and the availability of mooring facilities further support its appeal during peak months.
Frequently asked questions
Is anchoring allowed at Rato's Beach?
Anchoring is explicitly prohibited at Rato's Beach. Boaters must use the designated mooring facilities, which require advance reservations during peak seasons.What are the mooring costs?
Mooring at Rato's Beach costs €3 per meter, with an additional flat fee of €15 for garbage collection.Are there dining options nearby?
There are three restaurants located near Rato's Beach, though they do not serve draught beer.Nearby beaches
Reviews
What an absolutely stunning and enchanting destination to explore with your sailboat.
The mooring facilities are excellent, priced at 3 euros per meter. There are only three restaurants available, which is a bit limited. Unfortunately, they don't serve draught beer. However, the water is stunningly clear. It's important to note that anchoring is not allowed.
The cove is absolutely stunning, with enough space to accommodate approximately 25 boats. It is advisable to make a reservation ahead of time. The attendant is extremely helpful and assists in positioning the boats, which is necessary since most boats are anchored parallel to the shoreline with one line at the back and one at the front. The cost is 3 euros per meter, along with a flat fee of 15 euros, which covers the collection of one bag of garbage.
The bay is absolutely stunning, with buoys dotting the water and restaurants lining the shore.
If we had the option, we would definitely give this gorgeous bay more stars! The location is absolutely stunning, and it offers a very peaceful atmosphere with some fantastic restaurants. Split-Dalmatia