Stara Beach – A Small Quiet Cove Below Bogomolje
Stara Beach is located in the cove of the same name on the northern side of eastern Hvar, almost directly below Bogomolje. It is one of the smaller coves in the area, featuring a few houses and apartments by the sea, a small beach at the end of the cove, and a view across the Hvar Channel towards the Makarska Riviera.
Stara is a good example of why it is worthwhile to explore this part of Hvar. It does not have a large organized beach, rows of sun loungers, or intense tourist infrastructure. Instead, it offers a small cove, very clean water, and a much quieter atmosphere than the more well-known bathing spots on Hvar.
Access to the cove can be made by car from Bogomolje, but the route from the main road includes a gravel section, so expect slower driving. The distance from the village to the sea is approximately 2.5 kilometers.
A Small Beach at the End of the Cove
The beach is located at the very end of the narrow cove.
The shoreline is predominantly small pebbles and stones, while natural rocks begin along the sides. The beach is not large, giving the entire area a more intimate feel compared to Bristova or larger beaches on the island.
The seabed in the cove is largely sandy, occasionally covered with marine vegetation. This is why the water in the inner part of the cove takes on lighter turquoise tones during calm weather.
Stara is therefore well-suited for swimmers who prefer a sandier bottom, but one should not expect a large classic sandy beach on land.
Entry into the Water
Entry into the water from the main beach is straightforward.
In the inner part of the cove, the water is calmer and the depth increases gradually compared to the open rocky parts of the Hvar coast. This makes Stara comfortable for families with children who can enter the water independently.
However, it is a natural beach without a designated entry point, handrails, or lifeguard services.
Along the side rocks, the seabed becomes more varied, making those areas more interesting for snorkeling, while the central part of the cove is more pleasant for traditional swimming.
View Towards the Mainland
Stara faces north, towards the Hvar Channel and the Dalmatian mainland.
On clear days, the outlines of the Makarska Riviera and Biokovo are clearly visible across the sea. This gives the beach a completely different feel compared to the coves on the southern side of Bogomolje, which look towards Pelješac and the open sea.
It is particularly beautiful early in the morning when the sea is often completely calm, and the mountains on the mainland are clearly visible.
Protected from the South
Due to its location on the northern side of Hvar, Stara Cove is well protected from southern winds.
This is a practical alternative when the south wind raises the sea on the southern side of the island. On such days, the northern coves of Bogomolje can have significantly calmer conditions.
On the other hand, strong bora winds and winds from the north can make Stara much less pleasant for swimming and anchoring.
Therefore, it is advisable to check the wind direction before heading to eastern Hvar and then choose which side of the island to visit.
How to Reach Stara Beach
From Bogomolje, the road descends towards the northern coast.
The distance from the village is approximately 2.5 kilometers, and at least part of the approach from the main road is gravel. Accommodation facilities directly by the beach also indicate gravel access.
The road is not a reason to avoid visiting with a regular car, but one should drive slowly. The condition of the surface on such local roads can change after winter, rain, or heavy summer traffic.
With a low car, it is always advisable to be extra cautious of uneven surfaces.
Parking
The cove does not have a large organized public parking area by the beach.
There are private parking spaces near the houses designated for guests of the apartments, which should not be used without permission. For a day visit, cars should be parked in a suitable location along the access road or in an area where they will not obstruct passage and access to the houses.
Since the cove is small, space for vehicles is naturally limited.
Facilities Near the Beach
Stara is not an organized tourist bathing area.
Do not expect public showers, toilets, sunbed rentals, or a large beach bar. There are a few houses and tourist accommodations by the sea, but the entire cove still retains a very quiet character.
The nearest shop is in Bogomolje, approximately 2.5 kilometers from the cove, so for a longer stay, it is advisable to bring enough water and food.
For a day at the beach, it is also useful to have sun protection as natural shade is not evenly available across the entire beach.
Arrival by Boat and Anchoring
Stara Cove is also very suitable for arrival by smaller vessels.
Anchoring is possible at a depth of approximately 2 to 5 meters, on a predominantly sandy bottom occasionally covered with seagrass. The anchor generally holds well.
There are no organized marinas or commercial moorings in the cove, making it a natural anchorage.
Due to good protection from southern winds, it can be very pleasant for a day spent on a boat, but during bora winds, a more sheltered location should be sought.
Stara or Bristova?
Both coves are located on the northern side of Bogomolje but offer different experiences.
Bristova is larger, has a local harbor, and a simpler access character. There are more houses and boats, giving it the feel of a small coastal settlement.
Stara is smaller and more intimate. The beach is more compact, there is less built space around it, and the cove is more suitable for guests who want a few quiet hours by the sea.
For everyday practical swimming, Bristova may be simpler, while Stara is more interesting when peace and a small natural cove are prioritized.
Stara and Neighboring Gačice
Immediately east of Stara are the Vele Gačice, another small northern cove of Bogomolje.
The two coves are close enough to be easily connected by sea, and Stara serves as a good starting point for exploring this part of the coast by kayak, SUP, or small boat.
To the west are Bristova, Vela Pogorila, and Mala Pogorila, making this entire stretch interesting for guests who want to find a different swimming spot each day during their stay.
Who Will Enjoy Stara Beach the Most?
Stara is the best choice for guests who do not seek many facilities.
It will suit couples, families who enjoy small natural beaches, guests staying in Bogomolje, and anyone willing to travel a few kilometers on local roads to avoid larger crowds.
It is not ideal for those who require a beach restaurant, showers, sun loungers, and large parking.
Its value lies precisely in the opposite – a small pebble beach, sandy seabed, clear water, and tranquility with a view towards the Dalmatian mainland.
Useful Information
Location: Stara Cove, Bogomolje, northern coast of Hvar
Type of Beach: Natural small pebble beach
Shore: Small pebbles and stones, rocks along the edges
Seabed: Predominantly sandy, occasionally with marine vegetation
Entry into the Water: Easy from the main beach
Depth: Gradually increases in the inner part of the cove
Natural Shade: Limited
Facilities: No classic organized beach infrastructure
Distance from Bogomolje: Approximately 2.5 km
Access: By car via local road and gravel or by boat
Parking: Limited, without a large organized public parking area
Anchoring: Yes, approximately 2–5 m depth
Shelter: Good from southern winds
Best for: Quiet swimming, small groups, families, and guests exploring the coves of Bogomolje
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