Oključna Beach – a tranquil cove on the northern side of Vis Island

Oključna Beach is located in a cove of the same name on the sparsely populated northern side of Vis Island, beneath a small settlement called Oključna. Unlike the more well-known beaches on Vis that attract large crowds during the summer, the main feature here is its seclusion. At the bottom of this deeply recessed and well-protected cove, there is a pebbled shore, a few old fishermen's houses, and very little other development, giving Oključna the appearance of a small island cove that has not been adapted for mass tourism.

The beach is predominantly pebbly, with rocky and concreted sections near the houses and a small jetty. The sea, due to its location in a sheltered cove, is generally calm and very clear, and entry from the main pebbled area is easier than from the rocky edges. The beach itself is not large, but its distance from the main island towns usually attracts those who value peace and natural surroundings over developed amenities.

To reach Oključna, take the main road Vis – Komiža which branches off towards the settlement of the same name. The settlement can be accessed by car – local tourist sources indicate it is approximately 6 km from Vis and 13 km from Komiža – but the road from the settlement to the cove is gravel. This final stretch is narrow and in places poorly maintained, so Oključna may not be the best choice for drivers who prefer not to navigate island gravel roads or have very low vehicles. Local sources describe the gravel road as suitable for off-road vehicles.

At the beach itself, there is no large, organised parking area like those found at more popular Vis beaches. The final approach passes through a small settlement and towards the cove, so vehicles should be parked where there is enough space without obstructing access to local houses and other vehicles. For this reason, arriving by boat is actually one of the most pleasant ways to visit Oključna. The cove is well sheltered from southern winds and the bora, with nautical sources indicating depths of approximately 5–15 metres. Care should be taken when anchoring to avoid local fishing lines.

Oključna is primarily a natural, unregulated beach. Visitors should not expect beach bars, sunbed rentals, water sports, or other amenities typical of urban beaches. For a longer stay, it is advisable to bring sufficient water, food, and anything else needed for the day. Shade should also be considered carefully – while the surrounding vegetation and houses may provide some shelter, the main pebbled area of the beach is not a classic beach under dense pine trees.

It is also of interest to underwater enthusiasts. Oključna cove is used as a diving location, and at approximately 14 metres deep, there is a section of the wing of an American B-24 bomber from World War II. This is not something that an ordinary swimmer would see from the surface, but it is an intriguing feature of the cove and one of the reasons divers visit Oključna.

Oključna is a good choice for those who are already familiar with the main beaches of Vis and wish to explore a quieter, more secluded part of the island. Getting there requires a bit more effort than visiting the beaches along the tarmacked road, but this challenging access helps maintain its tranquillity. If arriving by car, it is wise to prepare for the gravel; if there is an option to come by a smaller boat, the cove can be experienced in a much simpler way.