Priluka Beach Near Stari Grad on Hvar – A Hidden Cove with Natural Shade and Clear Waters

Priluka Beach, also known as Vela Priluka Cove, is situated on the northern coast of Hvar Island, close to the settlements of Rudina and Stari Grad. This deeply recessed natural cove attracts visitors with its clear sea, a small beach at its end, and a more spacious flat area along the coast that offers natural shade. Its secluded location makes it particularly appealing to those who enjoy quiet coves without large tourist facilities.

Priluka opens towards the Hvar Channel and the island of Brač. Its shores are surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation, with rocky sections alternating with resting areas along the water. The cove is also popular among sailors exploring the northern coast of Hvar.

What is Priluka Beach Like?

The most distinctive feature of Priluka is its deeply recessed shape. Two rocky arms of the coast gradually converge towards the inner part of the cove, where a small natural beach is located.

The shoreline is predominantly rocky, with a smaller pebble beach at the bottom of the cove. The sea along the coast takes on bright blue and green hues, especially when calm and illuminated by sunlight.

Next to the beach, there is a relatively large flat area where visitors can relax in the shade. This is one of Priluka's main advantages compared to other small coves, where nearly all sunbathing spots are situated on rocks.

Above the cove, there is a secluded holiday home, but the coastal area retains its natural and tranquil character.

Swimming and Natural Shade

Priluka is particularly pleasant for swimming during calm weather. Due to its deeply recessed position, the inner part provides shelter from waves coming from multiple directions.

The most convenient entry into the sea is from the small pebble beach at the end of the cove. The rocky sections on the sides dominate the shoreline, so care should be taken when walking on uneven and slippery surfaces.

Near the beach, there is a shaded area suitable for resting between swims. This is especially beneficial during July and August when the exposed rocks can become very hot.

Priluka is a lovely choice for couples and lovers of natural beaches. Families with children can also enjoy the smaller pebble beach, but due to the distance from organised facilities and limited play space, it is more suitable for children accustomed to natural swimming spots.

How to Reach Priluka Beach?

Priluka is located on the northern side of Hvar Island, west of Žukova Cove.

From Stari Grad, head towards the settlement of Rudina, then continue towards the northern coast and the Kabal peninsula.

Access to this part of the island is not developed like a city promenade. In the Rudina area, there are unpaved and walking paths leading to natural coves, but careful selection of a passable trail is necessary for the final approach to Priluka.

Sports shoes are recommended for walking, especially due to the rocky terrain and Mediterranean vegetation along the way.

Another option is to arrive by boat. Priluka, due to its position and natural shelter, is an interesting destination during excursions along the northern coast of Hvar.

Parking at Priluka Beach

Priluka Cove does not have a designated public parking area immediately by the beach.

For those arriving by car, the most practical approach is to use permitted parking spaces in the Rudina area and then continue on foot along the appropriate path to the coast.

The access roads in this area are occasionally narrow and unpaved. Therefore, it is not advisable to attempt to drive directly to the beach without knowing the final part of the route.

For guests wishing to avoid such access, arriving by a smaller boat may be a simpler option.

Facilities at the Beach

Priluka is primarily a natural cove, without large hotel complexes or built beach infrastructure.

It is best to bring drinking water, food, a towel, and sun protection for your stay.

In the Priluka area, there is a possibility of seasonal rental of sun loungers and umbrellas, but availability should not be relied upon without prior confirmation.

Food and shopping options are easiest to find in Stari Grad, so it is advisable to stock up before heading to the beach.

Priluka Cove for Sailors

Priluka is also known as a natural anchorage on the northern coast of Hvar.

The deeply recessed cove provides shelter from winds coming from multiple directions. However, during a strong north wind and higher waves, conditions can be unfavourable, so it is essential to check the forecast before entering.

The seabed includes sandy, rocky, and grassy areas. For safe anchoring, it is necessary to choose an appropriate spot and pay attention to depth, turning space, and seabed protection.

The cove is not a marina or a developed port with municipal berths and connections.

What Else to Visit Nearby?

Not far from Priluka is Žukova Cove, known for its smooth stone slabs, a small pebble beach, and views of Brač Island.

Other smaller coves on the northern coast of Hvar include Mala Priluka, Mali Bok, and Crni Bok. Some of these are easier to explore by boat than on foot.

It is also worth visiting Rudina, a small settlement with traditional stone houses and a preserved rural atmosphere.

After swimming at Priluka, the excursion can continue to Stari Grad, where the most notable sights include the Tvrdalj of Petar Hektorović, the historic core, and the town waterfront.

When is the Best Time to Visit Priluka?

The most pleasant time for swimming is from June to September, when the sea is warm and the weather conditions are generally favourable.

During July and August, the small beach may be busier, especially when several boats anchor in the cove.

For the quietest experience, morning hours or periods outside the peak tourist season are recommended.

If arriving by boat, it is important to choose a day with lighter winds, as Priluka is part of the northern coast of Hvar, which can be exposed to strong winds.

Why is it Worth Visiting Priluka Beach?

Priluka is interesting due to its combination of a deeply recessed natural cove, clear waters, a small beach, and a more spacious shaded area along the coast.

Unlike the organised bathing spots in Stari Grad, there are no large tourist facilities here. It will appeal most to visitors who enjoy exploring lesser-known parts of the island and spending time by the sea in a natural setting.

It is particularly beautiful during calm summer days when one can enjoy swimming and relaxing in its sheltered inner part, far from the hustle and bustle of the town.

Useful Information

  • Name: Priluka Beach (Vela Priluka Cove).
  • Location: Northern coast of Hvar Island, Rudina area, near Stari Grad.
  • Type of Beach: Small natural beach with rocky sections.
  • Cove Appearance: Deeply recessed, with a beach at the end.
  • Sea: Clear, with blue and green hues.
  • Natural Shade: Larger flat area in shade along the inner part of the cove.
  • Entry into the Sea: Most practical from the small pebble beach at the bottom of the cove.
  • Suitable for Children: With adult supervision; no large family bathing facilities.
  • Access by Car: Via the Rudina area, with continuation on foot.
  • Parking: No designated parking area immediately by the beach.
  • Walking Access: Through natural paths; suitable footwear is recommended.
  • Access by Boat: Possible.
  • Anchoring: Natural anchorage, with weather and depth checks required.
  • Catering Facilities: No confirmed permanent catering offer at the beach.
  • Sun Loungers and Umbrellas: Seasonal rental options available.
  • Entry: Free access to the shoreline.
  • Best Time to Visit: June – September.
  • Nearby: Mala Priluka, Žukova Cove, Rudina, and Stari Grad.
  • Recommended for: Lovers of natural coves, couples, sailors, and guests seeking quieter swimming spots.