Paklina Cove near Stari Grad on Hvar – A Hidden Beach, Turquoise Waters, and Pine Forest

Paklina Cove is located on the northern shore of Stari Grad Bay, west of the Arkada Hotel and the city beaches in Stari Grad on the island of Hvar. This small, deeply recessed cove is particularly appealing due to its clear turquoise waters, natural shoreline, and dense pine forest that descends almost to the water's edge. Although it is not far from the tourist zone, Paklina has a significantly quieter and more natural character than the organized city beaches.

At the bottom of the cove, there is a small pebble and rocky bathing area, while the sides are predominantly rocky. A small concrete pier is also located along one side of the shore. Paklina is a good choice for visitors who prefer smaller coves, natural shade, and swimming without extensive tourist facilities.

What is the Beach Like at Paklina Cove?

Paklina is a relatively narrow cove, surrounded by slopes covered with pines and Mediterranean vegetation. Its most distinctive feature is the exceptionally beautiful color of the sea, which changes from light turquoise near the shore to darker blue shades towards the mouth of the cove.

In the innermost part, there is a small natural beach made up of pebbles and stones. The beach is not spacious, but it allows for easier access to the water compared to the surrounding rocky parts of the shore.

Along the edges of the cove, there are rocky surfaces where towels can also be placed. In some areas, the shore is uneven, so caution is advised when walking.

The seabed in the shallows alternates between rocky and lighter surfaces, while further out, there are areas covered with seagrass. When the sea is calm, the view through the water is particularly beautiful.

Swimming and Natural Shade

Paklina is pleasant for swimming due to its sheltered position and natural surroundings.

Pines grow almost to the shore and provide shade in parts of the beach and along the edges of the cove. Therefore, it is possible to find a more comfortable spot to relax even during the warmer summer days.

The central part of the bathing area does not have much space, so on busier days, visitors should expect a limited number of spots for towels.

The most comfortable entry into the water is over the pebbly section. At the rocky edges, water shoes are advisable, especially due to slippery rocks and uneven bottoms.

For families with children, Paklina can be a nice choice if they prefer smaller natural bathing areas, but for children who need more space to play, organized pebble beaches closer to Stari Grad are more practical.

A Small Cove Without Major Tourist Facilities

Unlike the Bonj, Helios, and other organized parts of Stari Grad Bay, Paklina has retained its simple natural appearance.

There are no large dining terraces, hotel sunbathing areas, or rows of sun loungers along the shore. Visitors come primarily for swimming, staying in the shade of the pines, and enjoying a quieter environment.

At the beach itself, do not expect constantly available showers, sanitary facilities, or organized equipment rentals.

For a longer stay, it is best to bring enough drinking water, some food, and everything needed for swimming. Hospitality and other tourist facilities are located closer to the hotel zone and Stari Grad.

How to Get to Paklina Cove?

Paklina is located west of the Helios tourist zone and the Arkada Hotel, on the northern side of Stari Grad Bay.

From Stari Grad, one can walk along the coastal path towards the Bonj and Helios beaches, then continue towards the Arkada Hotel and the more natural western part of the shore.

In the final part, access is less developed than at the city beaches, so suitable footwear is useful, especially if coming with children or carrying beach equipment.

The cove is also accessible by boat. Its small pier and naturally sheltered position make it interesting for short stops by smaller vessels, with appropriate caution.

Parking at Paklina Cove

By car, one can reach the wider area of the tourist zone west of Stari Grad, but do not expect a large organized parking lot right next to the beach.

The most practical option is to use the permitted parking spaces in the area of the Arkada Hotel and surrounding roads, and then continue on foot.

Some parking areas in the tourist zone are designated for hotel guests, so it is important to respect the posted signs.

During July and August, it is advisable to arrive early, especially if planning a longer stay.

Paklina as a Natural Anchorage

Paklina is also interesting for smaller boats navigating Stari Grad Bay.

The cove is naturally protected from most wind directions, while westerly winds can create waves. It is also partially exposed to the maestral, depending on its strength and direction.

The seabed is mostly sandy, with areas covered in seagrass, and nautical descriptions indicate depths ranging from approximately 2 to 10 meters.

Paklina is not a classic marina or a developed port for accommodating a large number of boats. Nautical visitors should use updated nautical charts, be mindful of turning space, and avoid anchoring on seagrass meadows.

For bathers, it is important not to stray towards boats entering or leaving the cove.

What Else to Visit Near Paklina?

Paklina is part of the western shore of Stari Grad Bay, where several interesting swimming spots can be found.

Immediately to the east is Vela Duboka Cove, and further towards the town are the beaches Ploče, Helios, and Bonj. These offer larger pebble areas or more organized sunbathing spots, making them a practical alternative if Paklina is crowded.

Continuing the walk eastward leads to the historic core of Stari Grad. It is particularly worthwhile to visit Tvrdalj of Petar Hektorović, the old town quay, and the stone streets.

To the west, smaller natural coves continue towards the Kabal peninsula, which are interesting for visitors who enjoy exploring quieter parts of the Hvar coast.

When is the Best Time to Visit Paklina?

The most pleasant period for swimming is from June to September, when the sea is warm enough for longer stays.

Due to the limited space on the small beach, it is especially nice to arrive early in the morning, before the larger number of bathers.

June and September are attractive due to the calmer atmosphere, while during July and August, the cove can be busier, especially among guests staying in the nearby tourist zone.

For the most pleasant swimming experience, it is best to choose a day with calm seas, without pronounced westerly winds.

Why is it Worth Visiting Paklina Cove?

Paklina is one of those small coves that particularly surprises visitors to Stari Grad. Although it is relatively close to the hotel zone and well-known beaches, it is surrounded by dense pine forest and has the feel of a secluded natural spot.

Its greatest advantages are the clear turquoise sea, small pebble beach, and natural shade. There is not much space or additional facilities, but this is precisely what attracts guests who seek simple swimming in nature.

If you are staying in Stari Grad and prefer small coves over large organized beaches, Paklina is a nice place for a few hours of relaxation by the sea.

Useful Information

• Name: Paklina Cove (Paklina Beach).
• Location: Northern shore of Stari Grad Bay, west of the Arkada Hotel, Hvar Island.
• Type of Beach: Small natural pebble and rocky beach.
• Shore: Pebbles and stones at the bottom of the cove, rocky edges.
• Sea: Clear, with pronounced turquoise shades.
• Natural Shade: Pine forest immediately by the shore.
• Entry into the Sea: Easiest over a small pebbly beach.
• Suitable for Children: Yes, with supervision; play area is limited by the size of the beach.
• Pier: Small concrete pier along the shore.
• Anchoring: Natural cove with sandy and partially grassy bottom; check local restrictions before anchoring.
• Wind Protection: Good shelter from most directions, more exposed to westerly winds.
• Hospitality Facilities: No permanent offerings directly at the beach.
• Sun Loungers and Umbrellas: No organized rentals.
• Showers and Sanitary Facilities: No organized public facilities at the beach.
• Access: On foot along the coastal path from Stari Grad and the hotel zone or by boat.
• Car Access: To the wider area of the tourist zone, then on foot.
• Parking: Permitted spaces in the vicinity of the Arkada Hotel and tourist zone; no large parking lot directly at the beach.
• Entry: Free.
• Best Time to Visit: June – September.
• Nearby: Vela Duboka Cove, beaches Ploče, Helios, and Bonj, and Stari Grad.
• Recommended for: Lovers of smaller natural beaches, peaceful swimming, and staying in the shade of pines.