Uvala Paklina near Stari Grad on Hvar – A Hidden Beach, Turquoise Waters and Pine Forest

Uvala Paklina is located on the northern shore of the Stari Grad Bay, west of the Arkada Hotel and the town's bathing areas in Stari Grad on Hvar Island. This small, deeply recessed cove is particularly appealing due to its clear turquoise waters, natural shoreline, and dense pine forest that descends almost to the water's edge. Although it is not far from the tourist zone, Paklina has a significantly quieter and more natural character compared to the organised town beaches.

At the bottom of the cove, there is a small pebble and rocky bathing area, while the sides are predominantly rocky. A small concrete jetty is also situated along one side of the shore. Paklina is a good choice for visitors who prefer smaller coves, natural shade, and swimming without extensive tourist facilities.

What is the Beach Like at Uvala Paklina?

Paklina is a relatively narrow cove, surrounded by slopes covered in pines and Mediterranean vegetation. Its most distinctive feature is the exceptionally beautiful colour of the sea, which ranges from light turquoise near the shore to darker blue shades further out into the cove.

At the innermost part, there is a small natural beach made up of pebbles and stones. The beach is not expansive, but it allows for easier access to the water compared to the surrounding rocky parts of the shore.

Along the edges of the cove, there are rocky surfaces where towels can also be placed. In some areas, the shoreline is uneven, so caution is advised when walking.

The seabed in the shallows alternates between rocky and lighter surfaces, while further out, there are patches covered in seagrass. When the sea is calm, the view through the water is particularly lovely.

Swimming and Natural Shade

Paklina is pleasant for swimming due to its sheltered position and natural surroundings.

The pines grow almost to the shore, providing shade in parts of the beach and along the edges of the cove. This makes it possible to find a more comfortable spot to relax even during the warmer summer days.

The central part of the bathing area does not offer much space, so on busier days, visitors should expect a limited number of spots for towels.

Entry into the water is most comfortable via the pebbly section. At the rocky edges, water shoes are advisable, especially due to the slippery rocks and uneven seabed.

For families with children, Paklina can be a lovely choice if they enjoy smaller natural bathing spots, but for children who need more space to play, the organised pebble beaches closer to Stari Grad are more practical.

A Small Cove Without Extensive Tourist Facilities

Unlike the Bonj, Helios, and other organised parts of Stari Grad Bay, Paklina has retained a simple natural appearance.

There are no large catering terraces, hotel sunbathing areas, or rows of sun loungers along the shore. Visitors come primarily for swimming, enjoying the shade of the pines, and a quieter environment.

At the beach itself, one should not expect readily available showers, sanitary facilities, or organised equipment rentals.

For a longer stay, it is best to bring enough drinking water, some food, and all necessary items for swimming. Catering and other tourist facilities are located closer to the hotel zone and Stari Grad.

How to Reach Uvala Paklina?

Paklina is situated west of the Helios tourist zone and the Arkada Hotel, on the northern side of Stari Grad Bay.

From Stari Grad, one can walk along the coastal path towards the Bonj and Helios bathing areas, then continue towards the Arkada Hotel and the more natural western part of the shore.

In the final section, access is less developed than at the town beaches, so suitable footwear is useful, especially if coming with children or carrying beach equipment.

The cove is also accessible by boat. Its small jetty and naturally sheltered position make it appealing for brief stops by smaller vessels, with appropriate caution.

Parking at Uvala Paklina

By car, one can reach the broader area of the tourist zone west of Stari Grad, but one should not expect a large organised car park immediately by the beach.

The most practical option is to use the permitted parking spaces in the area of the Arkada Hotel and surrounding roads, then continue on foot.

Some parking areas in the tourist zone are designated for hotel guests, so it is important to respect the posted signs.

During July and August, it is advisable to arrive early, especially if planning a longer stay.

Uvala Paklina as a Natural Anchorage

Paklina is also interesting for smaller boats navigating Stari Grad Bay.

The cove is naturally protected from most wind directions, although westerly winds can create waves. It is also partially exposed to the maestral, depending on its strength and direction.

The seabed is mostly sandy, with areas covered in seagrass, and nautical descriptions indicate depths of approximately 2 to 10 metres.

Paklina is not a classic marina or a developed port for accommodating a large number of boats. Nautical enthusiasts should use up-to-date nautical charts, be mindful of turning space, and avoid anchoring on seagrass meadows.

For swimmers, it is important not to stray towards boats entering or leaving the cove.

What Else to Visit Near Paklina?

Paklina is part of the western shore of Stari Grad Bay, which features several interesting swimming spots.

Immediately to the east is Uvala Vela Duboka, and further towards the town are the bathing areas of Ploče, Helios, and Bonj. These offer larger pebble areas or more organised sunbathing spots, making them practical alternatives if Paklina is busy.

Continuing the walk eastward leads to the historic core of Stari Grad. It is particularly worthwhile to visit Tvrdalj of Petar Hektorović, the old town quay, and the stone streets.

To the west, there are smaller natural coves leading towards the Kabal peninsula, which are interesting for visitors who enjoy exploring the quieter parts of the Hvar coast.

When is the Best Time to Visit Paklina?

The most pleasant period for swimming is from June to September, when the sea is warm enough for longer stays.

Due to the limited space on the small beach, it is especially nice to arrive early in the morning, before the larger number of bathers.

June and September are appealing due to the calmer atmosphere, while during July and August, the cove can be busier, especially among guests staying in the nearby tourist zone.

For the most enjoyable swimming experience, it is best to choose a day with calm seas, without strong westerly winds.

Why is it Worth Visiting Uvala Paklina?

Paklina is one of those small coves that particularly surprises visitors to Stari Grad. Although it is relatively close to the hotel zone and well-known bathing areas, it is surrounded by dense pine forest and has the feel of a secluded natural nook.

Its greatest advantages are the clear turquoise sea, small pebble beach, and natural shade. There is not much space or additional facilities, but this is precisely what makes it attractive to guests who seek simple swimming in nature.

If you are staying in Stari Grad and prefer small coves over large organised beaches, Paklina is a lovely spot for a few hours of relaxation by the sea.

Useful Information

• Name: Uvala Paklina (Paklina Beach).
• Location: Northern shore of Stari Grad Bay, west of the Arkada Hotel, Hvar Island.
• Type of Beach: Small natural pebble and rocky beach.
• Shore: Pebbles and stones at the bottom of the cove, rocky edges.
• Sea: Clear, with pronounced turquoise shades.
• Natural Shade: Pine forest immediately by the shore.
• Entry to the Sea: Easiest via the small pebble beach.
• Suitable for Children: Yes, with supervision; play space is limited by the size of the beach.
• Jetty: Small concrete jetty along the shore.
• Anchoring: Natural cove with sandy and partially grassy seabed; check local restrictions before anchoring.
• Wind Protection: Good shelter from most directions, more exposed to westerly winds.
• Catering Facilities: No permanent offerings immediately at the beach.
• Sun Loungers and Umbrellas: No organised rentals.
• Showers and Sanitary Facilities: No organised public facilities at the beach.
• Access: On foot along the coastal path from Stari Grad and the hotel zone or by boat.
• Car Access: To the broader area of the tourist zone, then on foot.
• Parking: Permitted spaces around the Arkada Hotel and tourist zone; no large car park immediately by the beach.
• Entry: Free.
• Best Time to Visit: June – September.
• Nearby: Uvala Vela Duboka, bathing areas Ploče, Helios, and Bonj, and Stari Grad.
• Recommended for: Lovers of smaller natural beaches, peaceful swimming, and staying in the shade of pines.