Pakomina Beach – Small Pebble Cove with Seaside Restaurant near Gdinj

Pakomina Beach is located in the cove of the same name on the northern coast of eastern Hvar, approximately eight kilometers from Gdinj. The cove is small and very quiet, with only a few houses along the shore, a pebble beach at the end of the bay, and an open view towards the Makarska Riviera, Biokovo, and the island of Brač.

Pakomina offers an interesting combination not found in every secluded cove around Gdinj. It is far enough to maintain a Robinson Crusoe character, yet there is a Pakomina Restaurant by the sea, a family-run establishment known for its fish and seafood dishes, as well as a small beach bar.

This means that it is not necessary to bring everything for the entire day as in some completely empty coves. One can come for swimming, stay for a few hours on the beach, and combine the day with lunch right by the sea.

Pebble Beach in a Small Cove

The main beach is located at the end of Pakomina.

It is covered with smaller pebbles and stones, while the edges of the cove transition into rocks and stony areas.

The beach is not large, and the cove itself does not have many houses or a large number of accommodation facilities. Therefore, the entire area feels much more intimate than larger bathing spots on Hvar.

The houses are practically by the sea, and some properties have their own small sections of coastline and moorings for boats.

Gradual Entry into the Sea

Pakomina is also pleasant for families as the entry from the main shore is gradual.

Initially, one enters over smaller pebbles, without large rocks or a sudden drop into depth. The sea then gradually deepens.

This type of entry is particularly suitable for children who can enter the water independently and for guests who do not prefer rocky beaches.

However, Pakomina is not a long shallow lagoon, so usual supervision is necessary for very young children.

View towards Biokovo and the Makarska Riviera

The location on the northern side of Hvar gives Pakomina a completely different view compared to the southern Gdinj bays.

Across the Hvar Channel, one can see the Makarska Riviera and the Biokovo massif, while to the northwest, there is also a view towards Brač.

Especially early in the morning, when the sea is calm and the sun rises from the east, this open view gives the cove a very recognizable character.

Therefore, Pakomina is not only interesting as a bathing spot but also as one of those small coves where the landscape of the mainland across the channel becomes part of the overall experience.

Pakomina Restaurant a Few Steps from the Beach

One of the main features of the cove is the Pakomina Restaurant, a family-run restaurant located right by the sea.

The menu primarily focuses on fish and seafood, featuring grilled fish, seafood platters, octopus, black risotto, shellfish, and other simple Dalmatian dishes.

In such a restaurant, it makes the most sense to ask what fish is available that day and then choose based on the fresh offerings.

Pakomina Restaurant works particularly well in combination with the beach: a few hours of swimming, lunch by the sea, and continuing the relaxation without the need to drive back to Gdinj.

Small Beach Bar

Next to the restaurant, there is a small bar/café right on the beach.

This distinguishes Pakomina from Pobij, Veli Kučac, and several other small coves on the northern coast where there are no catering options directly at the bathing area.

One should not expect a large beach club with music, sun loungers, and sports facilities. Everything is adapted to the size of the cove and the small number of guests.

This is an advantage: it is possible to have a drink or go for lunch without Pakomina losing its tranquil character.

Only a Few Houses Along the Shore

There are only a few houses in the cove, some of which are arranged as apartments or holiday homes.

Some properties are located just ten to twenty meters from the beach.

Accommodation is mainly intended for guests who want to spend their holiday almost entirely by the sea. Some houses have solar systems, water tanks, and other elements characteristic of Robinson-style accommodation on eastern Hvar.

At the same time, Pakomina has internet access, parking, and moorings at some properties, so a Robinson-style holiday here does not have to mean a complete renunciation of basic comfort.

How to Reach Pakomina

The cove can be reached by car from Gdinj, descending from the main island road towards the northern coast.

Pakomina is approximately 8 kilometers by road from the village.

One can drive very close to the beach. The final part of access near some houses includes a short unpaved section, but it is not a multi-kilometer rough road like those leading to some southern coves.

A regular passenger car is usually sufficient.

However, on narrow local roads, it is always advisable to drive slowly and be aware that the condition of unpaved sections may change throughout the year.

Parking

There is space for cars in Pakomina near the houses, restaurant, and accommodation facilities.

Some properties have their own parking, so not all available spots should automatically be considered public parking for the beach.

There is no large organized city parking.

If coming just for swimming or to the restaurant, vehicles should be left in available spots that do not block private accesses and space needed for turning.

Arrival by Boat

Pakomina is also very accessible from the sea.

There are moorings for smaller boats next to some houses, and accommodation facilities offer them to their guests.

Pakomina Restaurant also welcomes guests arriving by boat, so the cove is often included in day trips and sailing along the northern coast of Hvar.

There is no classic marina or large public mooring.

For sailors, it is most interesting as a small place to stop, swim, and have lunch by the sea.

Northern Coast as an Alternative to Southern Gdinj Bays

Pakomina lies on the northern side of Hvar, while Veprinova, Rapak, Torac, Skozanje, Srhov Dolac, and Medvidina are located on the southern shore.

This difference is significant when the wind blows.

In the case of a southeast wind, the northern side can have much calmer seas, making Pakomina a good choice when the southern coves are choppy.

In strong bura and northern winds, the situation reverses, and it is worth considering going to the southern side.

Gdinj, due to its position between the two coasts, is an excellent base for such daily beach selection based on conditions.

Pakomina or Pobij?

Pakomina and Pobij are located on the same northern side of Hvar and both have beautiful pebble beaches.

Pobij is more focused on Robinson-style accommodation and tranquility, without a classic restaurant right by the beach.

Pakomina has a very similar natural character but also a significant practical advantage – a restaurant and a small bar by the sea.

If the goal is to spend the entire day at one beach and have lunch without needing to drive again, Pakomina is the more practical choice.

If one seeks minimal facilities and an even simpler atmosphere, Pobij has more of a Robinson character.

Who Will Enjoy Pakomina the Most?

Pakomina is particularly suitable for families, couples, guests who prefer smaller natural beaches, and sailors.

The gradual entry into the sea makes it pleasant for children, and the restaurant and bar facilitate a full day stay.

At the same time, the number of houses is small, and there is no large tourist infrastructure, so the feeling of a secluded Hvar cove has not been lost.

It is best described by this combination: a small pebble beach, a view of Biokovo, a few houses by the sea, and a family restaurant that allows for a full summer day in Pakomina.

Useful Information

Location: Pakomina Cove, northern coast of Hvar, Gdinj area

Distance from Gdinj: approximately 8 km by road

Type of beach: natural pebble beach

Coast: smaller pebbles and stones, rocky edges of the cove

Entry into the sea: gradual

Suitable for children: yes

Restaurant: Pakomina Restaurant by the sea

Bar/café: yes, by the beach

Accommodation: a few houses and apartments by the sea

Access: by car or boat

Final access: short unpaved section near some properties

Parking: available in the cove area, some spots belong to accommodations

Moorings for boats: available at some properties

Marina: none

View: Makarska Riviera, Biokovo, and Brač

Best for: families, all-day swimming, lunch by the sea, peaceful relaxation, and sailors