Velo Zaraće Beach on Hvar – A Pebbly Cove Surrounded by High Cliffs with Clear Waters and Coastal Restaurants

Velo Zaraće Beach is located on the southern coast of Hvar Island, beneath the small settlement of Zaraće, approximately 8 kilometres east of Hvar Town. It is situated in a deep cove surrounded by high rocky cliffs and is characterised by its pebbly shore, exceptionally clear waters, and a long rocky promontory that protects part of the cove from waves. Unlike the neighbouring Malo Zaraće Beach, Velo Zaraće has restaurants right by the shore, making it more convenient for visitors wishing to spend the entire day by the sea.

One of the beach's distinctive features is its location between steep cliffs that drop almost vertically into the sea. Along the shore, there are several stone houses and terraces, while steep slopes with Mediterranean vegetation rise in the background. During the summer, anchored sailboats and smaller vessels can be seen in the cove, and the water is particularly beautiful when calm, allowing for clear visibility of the rocks and pebbles beneath the surface.

Pebbly Beach, Rocky Bottom and Sea Access

Velo Zaraće features a natural shore made up of pebbles and stones of varying sizes. Some parts of the coastline are covered with larger rocks, and there are significant boulders along the edges that extend beneath the water's surface.

The easiest access to the sea is over the pebbly section of the beach. In certain areas, the bottom drops off relatively quickly, so Velo Zaraće does not have an extensive shallow area. Water shoes may be useful due to the larger pebbles and rocky bottom.

The water is very clear, and due to the light pebbles in the shallower parts of the cove, it takes on turquoise hues. Along the rocky edges, there are underwater rocks and a varied seabed that is particularly interesting for snorkelling.

In the outer part of the cove, there is also a secluded rock that some swimmers swim out to. While it is used for sunbathing and jumping into the water, it is advisable to check the depth and any underwater obstacles before entering the water.

High Cliffs, Natural Shade and Swimming Conditions

Velo Zaraće is surrounded by high rocky slopes and parts of the coastline covered with pine trees and Mediterranean vegetation. Natural shade can be found near some rocks and trees, but most of the shore remains exposed to the sun during the day.

For a longer stay at the beach, it is advisable to bring a sunshade, especially during July and August. Shaded areas are limited and can fill up quickly.

The cove faces east and southeast, and the long rocky promontory partially shelters it from the open sea. As a result, the water in the inner part can often be calm, but during the sirocco winds and stronger waves, swimming conditions can change significantly.

The most pleasant time to visit is during calm weather when the water is clear and access over the pebbly shore is easier.

Restaurant Gego and Dining Options by the Beach

One of the main advantages of Velo Zaraće compared to the neighbouring Malo Zaraće is the availability of lunch or refreshments right by the sea.

Adjacent to the beach is Gego, a well-known dining establishment in this cove, with a terrace close to the shore. It is a convenient spot for a break from swimming, a drink, or a meal without having to return to the main road.

In the Velo Zaraće area, there is also additional seasonal dining available, making this part of the coast livelier than the neighbouring Malo Zaraće.

Despite the restaurants, Velo Zaraće is not a large, developed tourist beach. The sunbathing area mainly consists of the natural shore and rocky surfaces, so it is best to bring your own towel and sun protection.

How to Get to Velo Zaraće Beach?

Velo Zaraće can be reached by car via the road connecting Hvar Town and Stari Grad. In the Zaraće area, a narrow asphalt road branches off that steeply descends towards the coast.

The turn towards the beaches leads to the lower part of the settlement, where the road splits towards two coves. Velo Zaraće is located on the eastern side, while Malo Zaraće is on the western side, across the rocky promontory.

The access road is asphalted but narrow, winding, and in some sections quite steep. Careful driving is necessary when passing other vehicles, especially during the summer season.

You can drive almost down to the beach, which is a significant advantage compared to some other well-known coves on Hvar, such as Dubovica and Lučišća, which require a longer walk down a steep path.

If you leave your car up by the main road, it is possible to continue on foot to the coast, but be prepared for about a ten-minute descent and a considerably more strenuous uphill return.

Velo Zaraće can also be accessed by boat, which is an interesting option for visitors exploring the southern coast of Hvar.

Parking at Velo Zaraće Beach

Parking is one of the important details to consider when planning a visit to Velo Zaraće. In the lower part of the settlement, there is a limited number of parking spaces, and part of the parking area is associated with nearby restaurants and other establishments.

During July and August, available spaces by the beach can fill up quickly. For restaurant guests, parking may be available near the establishment, but this does not mean that all such spaces are designated for other beach visitors.

Cars should be parked in permitted areas, without blocking the narrow roadway, access to houses, or spaces needed for turning vehicles.

For those not accustomed to very narrow and steep island roads, a simpler option is to park in a suitable spot along the main road and walk down. However, the uphill return during the hottest summer days can be tiring.

Velo Zaraće or Malo Zaraće – What’s the Difference?

Zaraće is unique in that two completely different coves are located in a small area, separated by a high and elongated rocky promontory.

Velo Zaraće is on the eastern side. It has a pebbly shore, dining establishments by the sea, and a somewhat livelier atmosphere. It is particularly suitable for visitors who wish to combine swimming with lunch or drinks on the terrace.

Malo Zaraće is on the western side of the promontory. It is characterised by large rock formations, a smaller beach, and natural shade provided by the rocks and surrounding pines. The cove has a calmer, more natural character and fewer facilities immediately by the beach.

Both beaches have very clear water and interesting rocky seabeds, but they are not interchangeable. For a full day stay with the option to visit a restaurant, Velo Zaraće is more practical, while Malo Zaraće is better suited for guests seeking a more natural bathing experience.

Who is Velo Zaraće Beach Recommended For?

Velo Zaraće is a good choice for couples, families with older children, and visitors who want a natural pebbly beach that is almost accessible by car.

Due to the restaurants by the sea, it is particularly convenient for a full day stay, while swimming enthusiasts will enjoy the clear waters and rocky parts of the cove.

For families with very young children, it is important to consider the larger pebbles and areas where the water deepens more quickly. The beach is suitable for swimming under adult supervision, but it does not have an extensive shallow area like some larger family beaches.

The main attraction of Velo Zaraće is the combination of the pebbly shore, high cliffs, clear waters, and the possibility to spend the entire day by the coast without needing to go elsewhere.

Useful Information

• Location: Zaraće, southern coast of Hvar Island, about 8 km east of Hvar Town.
• Type of Beach: Natural pebbly beach surrounded by high cliffs.
• Surface: Pebbles and stones of various sizes, with larger rocks along the edges.
• Seabed: Pebbly near the shore, rocky and stony at the edges of the cove.
• Sea Access: Over the pebbly shore; in some areas, the depth increases relatively quickly.
• Natural Shade: Limited, near pines and rocks.
• Wind: The cove is open to the eastern and southeastern sea; waves may occur during the sirocco.
• Car Access: Narrow and steep asphalt road from the main road Hvar – Stari Grad.
• Parking: Limited number of spaces in the lower part of Zaraće; part of the parking area belongs to restaurants and private establishments.
• Walking Access: Short from the lower part of the settlement; about a ten-minute descent from the main road.
• Boat Access: Possible while exploring the southern coast of Hvar.
• Dining: Restaurant Gego and other seasonal offerings by the coast.
• Showers and Toilets: Do not expect the infrastructure of a large developed beach; sanitary facilities depend on the dining establishments.
• Child-Friendly: Yes, under adult supervision, due to pebbles and areas where the water deepens more quickly.
• Snorkelling: Particularly interesting along the rocky edges and underwater rocks.
• Nearby: Malo Zaraće Beach, the settlement of Zaraće, and Dubovica Beach.
• Recommendation: During the peak season, arrive early due to limited parking and shaded areas.