Sumartin on Brač | A Fishing Village, Beautiful Beaches and the Gateway to Eastern Brač

Sumartin is the easternmost and youngest settlement on the island of Brač, located in a deep, naturally protected bay facing the Makarska Riviera. Thanks to its crystal-clear sea, numerous pebble beaches, long maritime tradition, and ferry connection to Makarska, Sumartin is one of the key transport and tourist centres in the eastern part of the island. The combination of an authentic fishing village, unspoiled nature, and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for family holidays, active tourism, and exploring Brač.

Unlike most places on Brač, Sumartin has a well-known story about its origins. It was founded in 1645 by residents of the Makarska Riviera who fled from Ottoman conquests and found a safe refuge in this protected bay. The settlement is named after the Church and Monastery of St. Martin, which still represent one of its most significant cultural and historical landmarks.

A Place for Sailors, Fishermen, and Shipbuilders

For centuries, maritime activities have been the foundation of life in Sumartin. The locals were known as fishermen, captains, and shipbuilders, and it is home to one of the oldest active shipyards on the Adriatic, where traditional techniques for building and restoring wooden boats are still practised today. This centuries-old maritime tradition is still evident in the harbour filled with fishing boats and yachts, representing an important part of the village's identity.

A notable figure in the recent history of Sumartin is Mario Puratić, a world-renowned inventor born in Sumartin, whose revolutionary winch for hauling fishing nets (Power Block) has forever changed modern fishing and is used on fishing vessels worldwide.

Crystal-Clear Sea and Some of the Most Beautiful Beaches on Brač

Sumartin is surrounded by numerous natural coves and pebble beaches that attract those seeking a peaceful retreat. Among the most well-known are Rasotica, Radonja, Spilice, Studena, Zvirje, Baywatch, Kartolina, and Jezero, each offering exceptionally clear waters and stunning natural surroundings.

The waters around Sumartin are renowned for their remarkable clarity, calm swimming conditions, and a rugged coastline with numerous smaller coves ideal for diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, and boat exploration.

Cultural Heritage and Landmarks

The most important landmark in the village is the Franciscan Monastery and Church of St. Martin, after which Sumartin is named. The monastery has served as a spiritual and cultural centre for centuries and houses a valuable collection of artworks, old books, and historical documents that testify to the rich history of eastern Brač.

A stroll along the promenade and through the stone streets reveals traditional Dalmatian houses, a small fishing harbour, and a tranquil atmosphere that is increasingly hard to find in larger tourist centres.

A Paradise for Nautical Enthusiasts

Due to its deep and well-protected harbour, Sumartin is one of the most popular nautical destinations on the eastern coast of Brač. Many sailors use it as a safe haven while navigating between Brač, Hvar, and the Makarska Riviera, while the surrounding coves are perfect for anchoring and swimming.

Cuisine that Preserves the Flavours of Brač

Sumartin is known for its excellent family-run restaurants and taverns where fresh Adriatic fish, octopus under the bell, squid, Brač lamb, homemade pasta, local cheeses, olive oil, and top-quality Brač wines are prepared. Thanks to its long fishing tradition, fish specialities are one of the hallmarks of the village.

Along the waterfront, there are numerous cafés and patisseries where you can enjoy views of the ferry port and fishing boats, while the relaxed atmosphere of Sumartin offers a true experience of Mediterranean life.

An Excellent Starting Point for Exploring Brač

One of Sumartin's greatest advantages is its excellent transport connections. The regular ferry service to Makarska makes it one of the main entry points to Brač, and its good road position makes it easy to explore the entire island.

Nearby are Selca, Povlja, Novo Selo, and Pučišća, while a pleasant drive through the island's interior will take you to Bol, Zlatni Rat, Vidova Gora, and other well-known attractions.

Why Visit Sumartin?

Unlike larger tourist centres, Sumartin has retained the authentic character of a Dalmatian fishing village. There are no bustling promenades or large hotel complexes, just a quiet harbour, welcoming hosts, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxed pace of life that has defined the daily lives of its residents for centuries.

If you are looking for a place to combine a holiday on beautiful beaches, cultural heritage exploration, top-notch cuisine, and an authentic island atmosphere, Sumartin is one of the best choices on Brač. Its rich maritime history, natural beauty, and location at the eastern tip of the island make it an unmissable destination for anyone wishing to experience the true charm of Brač.