Maslinica Beach near Stari Grad on Hvar – Sandy Cove, Shallow Waters, and Peaceful Swimming in Nature

Maslinica Beach is located in the cove of the same name on the western side of the Stari Grad Bay, approximately two kilometres from the centre of Stari Grad on Hvar Island. It is one of the few sandy beaches in this part of the island, particularly appealing due to its shallow waters, green hills, and serene natural surroundings. The beach can be accessed by car, bicycle, or on foot along the coast, making it a suitable choice for families with children and visitors looking to escape the crowds of urban beaches.

Maslinica is situated at the end of a narrow, deeply recessed cove, not far from the Stari Grad ferry port. It is surrounded by pine trees, olive groves, and Mediterranean vegetation, with a few houses and a small access road along the shore. Unlike the well-maintained urban beaches such as Bonja and Lanterna, the focus here is on nature, sand, and relaxed swimming.

What is Maslinica Beach Like?

Maslinica is known as the only sandy beach in Stari Grad Bay. At the bottom of the cove, there is a natural sandy shore approximately 60 metres long, primarily composed of fine sand, with sections of gravel and stones.

The seabed along the coast is mostly sandy as well, allowing for a pleasant entry into the water. Due to the shallow coastal area, it is particularly attractive for families with young children and swimmers who prefer to wade into the water gradually.

On both sides of the sandy shore, the coastline continues with rocky areas, while the surrounding slopes are covered in Mediterranean greenery. The cove is sheltered by natural elevations, and its narrow shape gives it a more intimate character compared to open beaches.

On calm days, the water is clear, taking on greenish and turquoise hues in the shallows. In the deeper parts of the bay, the colour shifts to deep blue.

Is Maslinica Suitable for Children?

One of the main advantages of Maslinica is its shallow waters and sandy bottom.

Children can play along the shore, and the sand is more comfortable for walking and playing than the coarse gravel that predominates on many other beaches in Hvar.

Due to the relatively small area, adults can more easily keep an eye on children at the beach, but during the summer, it should be noted that the sandy shore can become crowded, especially during the hottest part of the day.

There is no organised childcare service at the beach, and younger swimmers should always be supervised in the water.

Maslinica is a good choice for families seeking a natural beach without extensive tourist facilities, while also valuing easy access by car and the possibility of parking nearby.

Swimming and Snorkelling

The sandy shallows are most appealing for relaxed swimming, while the rocky parts along the edges of the cove are more interesting for snorkelling enthusiasts.

At the points where the sand transitions to a rocky bottom, small fish, underwater rocks, and marine vegetation can be observed.

For the best visibility, it is advisable to visit when the sea is calm. After strong waves, sand and fine particles from the bottom can be stirred up, temporarily reducing water clarity.

The cove is relatively enclosed and provides good shelter from southern winds, but stronger winds from more open directions can still create waves here.

The most pleasant time for snorkelling is during the calm morning hours when there is usually less boat traffic on the water.

Natural Shade and Beach Facilities

Surrounding Maslinica are pine trees and other Mediterranean vegetation, but the majority of the sandy shore is exposed to the sun during the day.

For a longer stay, it is advisable to bring an umbrella, a mat, and sufficient drinking water.

Maslinica is not a typical urban beach with numerous commercial facilities. Visitors should not expect a constant supply of beach bars, organised rental of sun loungers, or other equipment.

Its greatest advantage lies in its simple natural environment, without large tourist establishments along the shore.

For guests wishing to spend the entire day at the beach, it is recommended to bring drinks and food or plan a trip to Stari Grad.

How to Get to Maslinica Beach?

There are several ways to reach Maslinica, and access is considerably easier than to many secluded coves on Hvar.

By Car, you can reach it via an access road from the direction of Stari Grad and the ferry port. The final part of the approach leads directly to the cove, where there is a small parking area.

On Foot, you can take a well-maintained path along the coast from Stari Grad. The walk is pleasant as it largely follows the shoreline of Stari Grad Bay.

By Bicycle, Maslinica is also accessible, which is convenient for guests staying in Stari Grad who wish to avoid driving.

The distance from the town centre is approximately two kilometres, and Maslinica is significantly closer to the ferry port.

Due to its proximity to the port, the beach may also be of interest to guests waiting for a ferry, but ample time should be allowed for returning and boarding.

Parking at Maslinica Beach

One of the practical advantages of Maslinica is the ability to drive almost to the beach.

There is a small parking area nearby, which includes designated spaces for disabled persons.

As capacity is limited, the parking area can fill up quickly during July and August, especially in the middle of the day.

The easiest way to find a spot is to arrive in the morning, before the peak influx of bathers.

From the parking area, it is only a short walk along the access path to the beach. However, the sandy beach and surrounding terrain are not equally suitable for individuals with reduced mobility in all areas.

Water Quality at Maslinica Cove

Maslinica is one of the official locations where water quality for swimming is monitored in the Stari Grad area.

According to monitoring results for the 2025 season, the water at this location received an excellent overall quality rating.

This is an additional advantage for visitors seeking a quieter bathing spot close to the town.

As it is a more enclosed cove with a sandy bottom, the appearance of the water can change after heavy rainfall or strong winds. For the most pleasant swimming experience, it is advisable to choose stable weather and calm seas.

What Else to Visit Near Maslinica?

Maslinica serves as a good starting point for exploring Stari Grad, one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic.

Stari Grad is just a few kilometres away and is known for its stone streets, historic core, traditional taverns, and waterfront promenade.

Among the most important landmarks are Tvrdalj of Petar Hektorović, a former summer residence of the renowned Croatian poet, and Stari Grad Plain, a cultural landscape protected by UNESCO.

For those wishing to visit additional beaches, the town features Bonj Beach and Lanterna Beach, while numerous smaller natural coves stretch along the Kabal peninsula.

Maslinica is particularly convenient for guests who want to split their day between swimming and sightseeing without a long drive across the island.

When is the Best Time to Visit Maslinica?

The most pleasant period for swimming is from June to September, when the sea is warm enough and the summer days are long.

During July and August, the beach can be busier, especially due to its sandy shore and shallow waters that attract families.

If you prefer more tranquillity, it is best to visit in the morning or choose June and September, when there are usually fewer tourists in Hvar compared to the peak season.

As the beach is surrounded by green hills, it is also lovely to visit in spring when the surrounding nature is particularly lush, although the sea is cooler for swimming at that time.

Why Visit Maslinica Beach?

Maslinica is special due to its rare combination of sandy shore, shallow waters, and natural surroundings just a few kilometres from Stari Grad.

While many beaches in Hvar have rocky or pebbly shores, here you can enjoy sand and a gradual entry into the water. This makes it particularly suitable for families with children, as well as for anyone who prefers a more peaceful swimming experience.

Another advantage is the easy access by car, bicycle, or on foot, along with parking in close proximity.

If you are staying in Stari Grad and looking for a natural sandy beach without the need for a long drive or boat trip, Maslinica is one of the best swimming spots in the area.

Useful Information

• Name: Maslinica Beach (Kupalište Maslinica).
• Location: Maslinica Cove, western side of Stari Grad Bay, Hvar Island.
• Nearest Town: Stari Grad.
• Distance from Centre: Approximately 2 km.
• Type of Beach: Natural sandy beach, with sections of gravel and stones.
• Length of Sandy Area: Approximately 60 m.
• Seabed: Mostly sandy in the shallows, rocky along the edges of the cove.
• Entry into the Water: Gradual, with a shallow coastal area.
• Suitable for Children: Yes, due to the sand and shallow waters, with adult supervision.
• Natural Shade: Greenery and pines along the edges of the cove; the central part of the beach is mostly sunny.
• Snorkelling: Interesting along the rocky edges.
• Water Quality: Excellent overall rating for the 2025 season.
• Access by Car: Possible via access road to the cove.
• Access on Foot: Via a well-maintained path along the coast from Stari Grad.
• Access by Bicycle: Possible.
• Parking: Small parking area immediately by the beach.
• Accessibility: Designated parking spaces for disabled persons near the beach.
• Catering Options: It is best to prepare food and drinks before arrival.
• Sun Loungers and Umbrellas: Do not expect organised rentals.
• Beach Entry: Free.
• Best Time to Visit: June – September.
• Nearby: Stari Grad, Stari Grad ferry port, Bonj and Lanterna beaches, and Kabal peninsula.
• Recommended for: Families with children, lovers of sandy beaches, peaceful swimming, and natural coves.