Pakomina Beach – A Small Pebble Cove with a Seaside Restaurant near Gdinj

Pakomina Beach is located in the cove of the same name on the northern coast of eastern Hvar, approximately eight kilometres 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 that not every secluded cove around Gdinj possesses. It is sufficiently remote to maintain a Robinson Crusoe-like character, yet there is a Pakomina Restaurant by the sea, a family-run establishment known for its fish and seafood, as well as a small beach bar.

This means it is not necessary to bring everything for the entire day as one might in completely deserted coves. Visitors can come for a swim, spend a few hours on the beach, and combine their 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 finer pebbles and small stones, while the edges of the cove transition into rocky and stony areas.

The beach is not large, and the cove itself has few houses and a limited number of accommodation options. As a result, 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 beach is gradual.

Initially, one enters over finer pebbles, without large rocks or a steep drop into the depths. The sea then gradually deepens.

This type of entry is particularly suitable for children who can enter the water independently, as well as for guests who prefer not to swim from rocky beaches.

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

Views towards Biokovo and the Makarska Riviera

Situated on the northern side of Hvar, Pakomina offers 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 are also views 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 distinctive character.

Thus, Pakomina is not only appealing as a swimming destination 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 Just Steps from the Beach

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

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

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 for a return drive to Gdinj.

A Small Beach Bar

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

This sets Pakomina apart from Pobij, Veli Kučac, and several other small coves on the northern coast where there are no catering options 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 precisely the advantage: it is possible to have a drink or go for lunch without Pakomina losing its tranquil character.

Just a Few Houses Along the Shore

The cove has only a few houses, some of which are arranged as apartments or holiday homes.

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

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

At the same time, Pakomina offers internet access, parking, and moorings at certain properties, so a Robinson-style holiday here does not have to mean a complete lack of basic comforts.

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 kilometres from the village by road.

One can drive very close to the beach. The final part of the access at certain houses includes a short gravel section, but it is not a multi-kilometre rough track like those leading to some southern coves.

A regular 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

In Pakomina, there is space for cars near the houses, restaurant, and accommodation facilities.

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

There is no large, organised municipal car park.

If visiting just for swimming or dining, vehicles should be left in available spots that do not block private access or turning space.

Arriving by Boat

Pakomina is also very accessible from the sea.

There are moorings for smaller boats next to some houses, and accommodation providers 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 stop for swimming and lunch by the sea.

The Northern Coast as an Alternative to the 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 picks up.

In 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 north winds, the situation reverses, and it may be worth considering a trip to the southern side.

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

Pakomina or Pobij?

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

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

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

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

If one desires fewer facilities and an even simpler atmosphere, Pobij has a more Robinson-like 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’s 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, views towards Biokovo, a few houses by the sea, and a family restaurant that allows for an entire summer day to be spent in Pakomina without any hassle.

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: finer pebbles and small 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 gravel section at certain properties

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

Moorings for boats: available at certain properties

Marina: none

View: Makarska Riviera, Biokovo, and Brač

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