Stara Beach – A Small Tranquil Cove Below Bogomolje
Stara Beach is located in the cove of the same name on the northern side of eastern Hvar, almost directly beneath 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 worth exploring this part of Hvar. It does not have a large, well-maintained beach, rows of sun loungers, or an intense tourist infrastructure. Instead, it offers a small cove, very clean waters, and a much calmer atmosphere compared to the more popular bathing spots on Hvar.
You can drive down to the cove from Bogomolje, but access from the main road includes a gravel section, so expect a slower journey. The distance from the village to the sea is approximately 2.5 kilometres.
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 fine pebbles and small 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 sea is calmer and the depth increases gradually compared to the open rocky sections of Hvar's coast. This makes Stara comfortable for families with children who can already enter the water independently.
However, it is a natural beach without a designated entry point, handrails, or lifeguard services.
Along the rocky sides, the seabed becomes more varied, making those areas more interesting for snorkelling, 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 distinctly 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 choose the side of the island accordingly.
How to Reach Stara Beach
From Bogomolje, a road leads down to the cove towards the northern coast.
The distance from the village is approximately 2.5 kilometres, and at least part of the access from the main road is unpaved. Accommodation facilities directly by the beach also indicate gravel access.
The road should not deter visitors from arriving by car, but it is advisable to 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 wise to be extra cautious of bumps.
Parking
The cove does not have a large, organised public car park by the beach.
There are private parking spaces near the houses intended for guests of the apartments, which should not be used without permission. For a day visit, cars should be parked in suitable places along the access road or in areas where they will not obstruct passage or access to the houses.
As the cove is small, space for vehicles is naturally limited.
Facilities by the Beach
Stara is not a developed 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 retains a very peaceful character.
The nearest shop is in Bogomolje, approximately 2.5 kilometres 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.
Arriving 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 metres, on a predominantly sandy bottom occasionally covered with seagrass. The anchor generally holds well.
There is no organised marina or commercial moorings in the cove, making it a natural anchorage.
Due to its 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 they offer different experiences.
Bristova is larger, has a local harbour, 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-up space around it, and the cove is better suited for guests who want a few quiet hours by the sea.
For everyday practical swimming, Bristova may be simpler, while Stara is more appealing when peace and a small natural cove are the priorities.
Stara and the Neighbouring 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.
Further west are Bristova, Vela Pogorila, and Mala Pogorila, making this entire stretch interesting for guests who wish to find a different swimming spot each day during their holiday.
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 kilometres on local roads to avoid larger crowds.
It is not ideal for those who require a restaurant on the beach, showers, sun loungers, and large parking facilities.
Its value lies precisely in the opposite – a small pebble beach, sandy seabed, clear waters, 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
Shoreline: Fine pebbles and small 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 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 organised public car park
Anchoring: Yes, approximately 2–5 m depth
Shelter: Good from southern winds
Best for: Calm swimming, small groups, families, and guests exploring the coves of Bogomolje
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