Lovišće Cove (Veli Porat) on Šćedro – the largest natural harbour of the island, turquoise bays and swimming in unspoiled nature

Lovišće Cove, also known as Veli Porat, is the largest and one of the most beautiful natural bays on the island of Šćedro, located south of Hvar, opposite Zaval. This deeply indented cove is renowned for its exceptionally clear waters, small pebble beaches, dense pine forests, and natural shelters that have provided safety for ships for centuries. Today, it is a popular destination for sailors and day-trippers seeking peace, swimming, and Dalmatian cuisine away from busy tourist spots.

The uniqueness of Veli Porat lies in its unusual shape. The large bay divides into several smaller, interconnected coves, each with its own character. Along the coast, there are small stone houses, seasonal taverns, and natural beaches, while the surrounding hills are covered with pines, olives, and Mediterranean scrub.

Although the names Lovišće and Veli Porat are often used interchangeably for the entire bay, Veli Porat refers to the larger natural harbour, while Lovišće is its western arm. This western section is considered one of the most sheltered spots for boats.

Veli Porat – a rugged bay with several small coves

Veli Porat is located on the northern shore of Šćedro, facing the southern coast of Hvar. Its entrance opens towards the Šćedranski Channel, and the interior branches into several smaller inlets.

Among these, Rake, Srida, Karkavac, and Lovišće stand out. From certain arms of the bay, there are lovely views towards the Hvar coast, while the inner parts are surrounded by green slopes and rocky headlands.

The coastline is predominantly rocky and stony, but at the bottom of some coves, there are small pebble beaches and natural entry points into the sea. In many areas, pines grow almost to the water's edge, providing pleasant shade.

The sea is particularly attractive due to its varying depths and types of seabed. In the shallower areas, turquoise shades prevail, while the central part of the bay is a darker blue. The seabed alternates between lighter patches and meadows of seagrass.

Although many sailboats and yachts frequent the bay during the summer, Veli Porat has retained its natural appearance, without large hotel complexes, paved roads, or conventional port infrastructure.

Lovišće – the tranquil western arm of Veli Porat

Lovišće is the western arm of the large natural harbour and one of its most well-known locations.

The cove is deeply set between green hills, and the coastline is indented, with several small spots suitable for swimming and relaxation.

It is particularly appealing to sailors as it offers good natural shelter. In the western arm, there are mooring buoys, and along the coast, smaller facilities and seasonal dining options can be seen.

Due to its location and proximity to land, the sea is often calmer than on the open coast of Šćedro. However, conditions depend on the direction and strength of the wind, so it is advisable to check the weather forecast before arriving by boat.

Lovišće is a good choice for visitors wishing to spend a few hours swimming, enjoy lunch by the sea, or spend the night on a boat in a natural setting.

Rake, Srida, and Karkavac – different faces of the same bay

In addition to Lovišće, it is worth exploring the other arms of Veli Porat.

Rake is located on the eastern side of the bay. This part of the coast is interesting due to its peaceful natural surroundings, rocky shores, and clear waters. The area also has historical significance as traces of ancient life have been preserved on Šćedro.

Srida is one of the central arms of Veli Porat, featuring small swimming spots, traditional stone structures, and seasonal dining options. The cove is particularly attractive when approached by a smaller boat, allowing exploration of the coastline between neighbouring headlands.

Karkavac is another distinctive cove within Veli Porat. It is known for its small pebble beach, clear waters, and proximity to taverns serving Dalmatian specialities during the summer.

The ruggedness of the bay allows for visiting several different swimming spots in one trip, without needing to travel to another part of the island.

Swimming in Veli Porat – small beaches and crystal-clear waters

Swimming is one of the main reasons to visit Veli Porat.

Unlike the large tourist beaches on Hvar, here you will mainly find smaller pebble beaches, rocky shores, and natural rocks by the sea.

In some places, entry into the water is very easy, while elsewhere, water shoes are necessary due to the stones and uneven seabed.

The sea is generally exceptionally clear, especially on calm, sunny days. The shallow areas along the coast are suitable for cooling off, and the edges of the coves are interesting for snorkelling enthusiasts.

In some parts of the coast, pines provide natural shade, but one should not expect every swimming spot to have sufficient shade throughout the day.

Swimming is particularly pleasant in the morning, before the arrival of larger groups of excursion boats, or later in the afternoon when some visitors return to Hvar.

Snorkelling

Veli Porat is one of the more interesting areas of Šćedro for exploring the underwater world.

Along the rocky edges of the coves, various species of small fish, underwater rocks, and seagrass meadows can be seen.

The most interesting parts are where the shallow rocky bottom slopes down towards deeper waters, creating changes in colour and underwater landscape.

For snorkelling, it is best to choose calm waters and areas away from buoys, anchored boats, and navigation routes.

As Veli Porat is a popular anchorage, special attention should be paid to the traffic of smaller boats transporting guests between vessels and the shore.

Restaurants and local cuisine in Veli Porat

One of the features of Veli Porat is the opportunity to have lunch in small seasonal taverns, despite the remote location of Šćedro.

Dining establishments are scattered along the various arms of the bay, particularly in the areas of Srida, Karkavac, and Lovišće.

The menu typically includes traditional Dalmatian dishes, fresh fish, seafood, vegetables, and olive oil.

Dining on terraces right by the sea, with views of the boats and surrounding green hills, is particularly pleasant.

Restaurants are mainly seasonal, and the offerings may depend on the daily availability of ingredients. For larger groups or sailors, it is advisable to check the possibility of reservations in advance.

There are no conventional shops or developed supply centres in Veli Porat, so it is wise to bring enough drinking water and other necessities for a full day trip.

Lovišće as a natural anchorage for sailboats and yachts

Veli Porat is one of the most important natural anchorages on the island of Šćedro.

Its indented arms allow boats to find sheltered positions depending on the weather conditions. For centuries, the bay has been significant for sailors navigating between the Dalmatian islands.

Today, the area of Lovišće features organised anchorage with mooring buoys. The number and availability of berths depend on the current organisation of the anchorage and usage conditions.

Unlike a conventional marina, there is no developed infrastructure such as a reception, power and water connections at each berth, or a fuel station.

Sailors come primarily for the natural shelter, clear waters, and the opportunity to have lunch in one of the taverns.

Upon arrival, attention should be paid to other vessels, depth, seabed configuration, and weather conditions. Special caution is required during strong winds and tramontana, when certain parts of the bay may be exposed to wind and waves.

Anchoring outside of organised berths should comply with local regulations, and special care should be taken to protect the seabed and seagrass meadows.

How to reach Veli Porat on Šćedro?

Access to Veli Porat is only possible by sea or on foot from other parts of the island of Šćedro.

The simplest way to explore the various arms independently is by arriving in your own boat or via a private boat trip from Zaval, Ivan Dolac, or other locations on the southern coast of Hvar.

For visitors without their own vessel, there is also seasonal boat transport from Zaval to Šćedro. Boats transport passengers to the Porat area, and the journey takes approximately half an hour, depending on the vessel and sea conditions.

During the season, transport usually operates in the morning and afternoon, but the schedule should be checked before departure.

Access by car to Šćedro is not possible, as the island has no road connection to Hvar or a conventional network of roads.

Walking trails from Veli Porat

Šćedro is crisscrossed by old walking paths connecting its coves, former settlements, and historical landmarks.

From the area of Veli Porat, it is possible to continue into the interior of the island, as well as to other parts of the northern coast.

The trails pass through pine forests, scrub, and former agricultural land. In some areas, dry stone walls and remnants of old stone structures are visible.

As much of the path is rocky and uneven, sturdy shoes and sufficient water are necessary for walking.

During the summer, it is particularly advisable to avoid walking during the hottest hours, as some sections of the trail lack sufficient shade.

Šćedro – an island that has preserved its tranquillity

Veli Porat is part of one of the most peaceful island areas near Hvar.

Šćedro is approximately 6.5 kilometres long, and its coastline is extremely indented. The island is covered with Mediterranean forest and scrub, while numerous small coves and headlands line the shore.

There are no large tourist resorts, shopping centres, or busy roads on Šćedro. In some coves, traditional houses and seasonal restaurants can be found, but the island has retained a distinctly natural appearance.

Two historical settlements are particularly interesting: Mostir, near the eponymous cove, and Nastane, in the interior of the island.

In the area of Mostir, there are remains of a former Dominican monastery and church buildings, which represent the most important cultural and historical landmarks of Šćedro.

A trip to Veli Porat can therefore also be combined with learning about the island's history, not just swimming and dining.

What else to visit on the island of Šćedro?

Alongside Veli Porat, several other natural and historical locations are particularly worth highlighting.

Mostir Cove is located further east on the northern shore and is known for its natural anchorage, small beaches, and the remains of a Dominican monastery.

Tufera Cove is situated on the western part of the island and is appealing to those who prefer quieter natural swimming spots.

On the southern shore of Šćedro, Čarnjeni and Borova stand out, coves facing the Korčula Channel.

In the interior lies Nastane, an old settlement with stone houses and traces of former island life.

For visiting multiple coves in one day, the most practical means is by boat, while historical sites can be explored using walking trails.

When is the best time to visit Veli Porat?

The most pleasant period for swimming in Veli Porat is from June to September, when the sea is warm enough and most seasonal amenities are available.

During July and August, the bay may see more sailboats, yachts, and excursion boats, especially in calm weather.

For visitors seeking more tranquillity, June and September are particularly appealing, while spring or early autumn is more comfortable for walking in the interior of Šćedro.

When organising a boat trip, it is always important to consider the weather conditions. Although Veli Porat is naturally sheltered, no part of the bay is equally safe in all winds.

Why is it worth visiting Lovišće Cove and Veli Porat?

Veli Porat is one of the most beautiful natural harbours near the island of Hvar, with its greatest asset being the indented coastline featuring several interconnected coves.

In a relatively small area, there are small pebble beaches, rocky headlands, pine forests, traditional taverns, and sheltered spots for boats.

It is particularly attractive to sailors due to the mooring options and natural shelter, while it offers day-trippers the chance to swim in clear waters and enjoy the peace of Šćedro.

The uniqueness of this place lies not in a large number of tourist facilities, but in the fact that it has preserved its natural appearance and simple island way of life.

If during your stay on Hvar you wish to visit a place where you can spend an entire day swimming, dining by the sea, and exploring small coves, Veli Porat is one of the best choices on Šćedro.

Useful information

• Location: Northern coast of the island of Šćedro, south of Hvar.
• Name: Veli Porat (Veli porat), a large natural harbour with its western arm being Lovišće.
• Type of location: Rugged natural cove, swimming area, and nautical anchorage.
• Main arms of the bay: Rake, Srida, Karkavac, and Lovišće.
• Coastline: Rocky and stony sections with smaller pebble beaches.
• Sea: Exceptionally clear, with turquoise shallows and deeper blue areas.
• Natural shade: Pines and Mediterranean vegetation in some coastal areas.
• Swimming: Possible in several smaller coves, with a choice of spots away from boat traffic.
• Snorkelling: Interesting along rocky edges and underwater rocks.
• Anchorage: Organised mooring buoys in the area of Lovišće and other sheltered arms.
• Marina: No conventional marina with complete infrastructure.
• Winds: Good natural shelter, especially during the sirocco; caution is needed during strong bora and tramontana.
• Restaurants: Several seasonal taverns along various arms of the bay.
• Shop: No conventional shop for supplies.
• Arrival by boat: By own vessel, private excursion, or seasonal transport from Zaval.
• Travel from Zaval: Approximately 30 minutes by boat, depending on the vessel and weather conditions.
• Car access: Not possible.
• Parking: No parking on the island; cars are left on Hvar before boarding the boat.
• Walking trails: Connect parts of Šćedro, coves, and old settlements.
• Best time to visit: June – September for swimming, spring and early autumn for walking.
• Nearby: Mostir and Tufera coves, the old settlement of Nastane, and the remains of the Dominican monastery.
• Recommended for: Sailors, day-trippers, lovers of natural coves, and peaceful relaxation by the sea.