Helios Beach in Stari Grad, Hvar – Well-maintained Beach, Sunbathing Areas and Swimming by the Pine Forest

Helios Beach is located on the northern shore of Stari Grad Bay, within the Helios tourist complex, not far from the centre of Stari Grad on Hvar Island. This well-maintained beach is characterised by concrete and stone sunbathing areas, easy access to the sea, and greenery surrounding the coastal area. It is particularly convenient for guests of nearby hotels and apartments, as well as for anyone wishing to spend a few hours by the sea without venturing to the more remote coves of Hvar.

Helios is situated west of the city beach Bonj, along the coastal promenade that connects Stari Grad with the tourist zone. Unlike Bonj, known for its pebbly shore, Helios has a more defined character as a sunbathing area with a rocky coastline. It is best suited for bathers who prefer to lay their towels on a flat surface, swim, and enjoy views of Stari Grad Bay.

What is Helios Beach Like?

Helios features a well-maintained section of coastline dominated by concrete sunbathing platforms, alongside natural rocky areas and smaller access points to the sea.

The shore is located beneath the Helios tourist complex, with pine trees and other Mediterranean vegetation growing in the background. This positioning provides a pleasant blend of a well-kept coastline and greenery.

In contrast to wide pebbly beaches, the emphasis here is on flat surfaces by the sea. This is particularly practical for adult bathers and guests who enjoy sunbathing on towels or loungers.

The water is clear during calm weather, with views extending across Stari Grad Bay towards its southern shore.

Helios is not a secluded natural cove, but rather a part of the tourist coastline of Stari Grad. Its main advantage is the ease of access and the ability to combine swimming with nearby dining and tourist facilities.

Swimming and Entering the Water

At Helios Beach, the most practical way to enter the water is via the designated parts of the shore and the steps provided.

Along certain sections of the coastline, there are natural rocks, so caution is advised when walking and entering the water due to slippery stones.

Since the beach is primarily designed for sunbathing and direct access to the sea, it is less suitable for small children who wish to play on a wide pebbly shore.

For such swimming experiences, the nearby Bonj may be a more practical choice.

Helios is particularly suited to guests who enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and a short break by the sea, without the need for additional beach activities.

Sunbathing Areas and Shade from Pines

One of the distinctive features of Helios is the combination of well-maintained sunbathing areas and the nearby pine forest.

The platforms by the sea are mostly exposed to the sun, making them suitable for sunbathing for much of the day. In the background, the pines create more pleasant conditions for walking and taking a break from the summer heat.

During the season, there is a rental service for loungers and umbrellas in the Helios tourist zone, but the availability of equipment at the beach itself may depend on how beach facilities are organised.

For a relaxed stay, it is advisable to bring a towel, water, and sun protection, especially if you plan to stay for several hours.

Dining Facilities Nearby

Helios Beach is located next to a tourist zone that includes hotels, apartment complexes, and seasonal dining facilities.

In the vicinity, it is possible to find a place for a drink or a meal, which is one of the practical advantages compared to more remote natural coves.

However, it is important to distinguish the public beach from hotel facilities. Some pools, restaurants, and additional services may be reserved for hotel guests or charged separately.

For visitors not staying in the tourist complex, the simplest option is to use the publicly accessible coastal area and dining establishments that welcome external guests.

How to Get to Helios Beach?

The beach is located on the northern side of Stari Grad Bay, west of Bonj.

From the centre of Stari Grad, you can walk along the coastal promenade leading to the Helios tourist complex. The path follows the sea and passes through one of the more pleasant parts of the town's coastline.

The walk from the centre of Stari Grad to the beach takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes, depending on your starting point.

Cycling is also a practical option, especially for guests staying in the town or nearby apartments.

You can also reach the tourist zone by car, but the final part of the journey to the beach is easiest to cover on foot.

Parking at Helios Beach

Unlike beaches in the historic centre, the Helios area has road access and parking spaces connected to the tourist complex.

This makes it easier to arrive by car, but not all parking spaces in the vicinity are intended for public use. Some parking spots may be reserved for guests of accommodation facilities.

For visitors not staying in hotels, it is best to use designated public parking areas and then continue on foot to the coast.

During the peak tourist season, parking may be limited, so for guests staying in Stari Grad, walking along the coast is often a simpler option.

Helios or Bonj – Which Beach to Choose?

Although they are relatively close to each other, Helios and Bonj offer different swimming experiences.

Bonj is known for its pebbly beach, well-equipped facilities for families, and accessible entry to the sea for individuals with disabilities. It is particularly practical for parents with children who want more space to play by the shore.

Helios is more suited to guests who prefer well-maintained sunbathing areas, direct access to the sea, and proximity to tourist facilities.

If you are staying in the Helios complex, the beach is conveniently close and practical for daily swimming. If you prefer a classic pebbly beach, Bonj is the more suitable choice.

Both beaches are connected by the coastal promenade, making them easily visitable during a stay in Stari Grad.

What Else to Visit Near Helios?

The nearest well-known beach is Bonj, located east of Helios, featuring a well-maintained pebbly beach and accompanying facilities.

Continuing the walk eastward leads to the historic core of Stari Grad, known for its stone streets, waterfront, and numerous cultural landmarks.

It is particularly worth visiting the Tvrdalj of Petar Hektorović, a Renaissance summer residence with a characteristic fish pond.

On the opposite side of Stari Grad Bay lies the Lanterna Beach, also known for its well-maintained sunbathing areas and pines by the sea.

For visitors wishing to explore more natural parts of the coastline, there are also smaller beaches west of the hotel zone, towards the Kabal peninsula.

When is the Best Time to Visit Helios?

The most pleasant period for swimming is from June to September, when the sea is warm and most seasonal facilities in the tourist complex are available.

During July and August, the beach may be busier due to the proximity of hotels and apartments.

For a quieter swimming experience, the morning hours are recommended, while late afternoons are pleasant for relaxing by the sea and strolling along the coast.

Outside the summer season, Helios is also interesting as part of the coastal promenade connecting Stari Grad with the surrounding green areas.

Why is it Worth Visiting Helios Beach?

Helios Beach is a good choice for guests seeking easy access to the sea and well-maintained sunbathing areas, without the need to travel to distant beaches.

Its main advantages are its location next to the tourist complex, the pine forest in the background, proximity to dining facilities, and the option to walk from Stari Grad.

For families who prefer pebbles, Bonj may be a better option, while Helios will particularly suit adult bathers and guests who enjoy sunbathing on a flat shore.

If you are staying in Stari Grad or the Helios complex, this is a practical spot for daily swimming and relaxation by the sea.

Useful Information

  • Name: Helios Beach (Plaža Helios).
  • Location: Helios Complex, northern shore of Stari Grad Bay, Stari Grad, Hvar Island.
  • Type of Beach: Well-maintained beach with concrete sunbathing areas and rocky coastline.
  • Entry to the Sea: Via designated parts of the shore and steps.
  • Sea Floor: Predominantly rocky along the shore.
  • Suitable for Children: More suitable for children who can already swim; for the youngest, the nearby Bonj is more practical.
  • Sunbathing Areas: Well-maintained concrete platforms.
  • Natural Shade: Pines in close proximity to the beach.
  • Loungers and Umbrellas: Seasonal availability in the tourist zone.
  • Dining Facilities: Hotels and seasonal dining options in the vicinity.
  • Access on Foot: Coastal promenade from Stari Grad, approximately 15–20 minutes.
  • Access by Bicycle: Possible.
  • Access by Car: Via road to the Helios tourist zone.
  • Parking: Parking spaces in the tourist zone; some may be reserved for hotel guests.
  • Entry: Publicly accessible beach.
  • Best Time to Visit: June – September.
  • Nearby: Bonj Beach, Stari Grad, Lanterna Beach, and Helios tourist complex.
  • Recommended for: Adult bathers, couples, guests of nearby hotels, and visitors who enjoy well-maintained sunbathing areas.