Šešula Cove – A Tranquil Spot for Swimming and Mooring near Maslinica

Šešula Cove is located on the southern side of Maslinica, just a fifteen-minute walk from the centre of the village. It is not a typical beach with a large pebbly shore, but rather a deeply recessed natural cove featuring clear waters, rocky swimming areas, small jetties, and numerous boats that anchor off the coast during the summer.

We prefer to visit Šešula when we want to escape the promenade and the main swimming spots in Maslinica, without straying too far from the village. The cove is surrounded by pine trees and dense Mediterranean vegetation, giving the area a more tranquil and secluded feel than one might expect given its proximity to the settlement.

Šešula is particularly well-known among sailors. Due to its deeply recessed position, it is well protected from most winds, including the bora and sirocco, making it a popular spot for a significant number of yachts and motorboats during the season. The Šolta Tourist Board describes it as one of the more important nautical locations on the island due to its natural protection.

Swimming in Šešula Cove

There is no large, organised beach in Šešula. Swimming occurs from smaller rocky and concreted sections of the coast, alongside restaurants, jetties, and natural rocks. In some places, there are small pebbly extensions where one can lay down a towel, but space is limited.

The water is generally very clean and calm, especially when there is no heavy boat traffic. The water near the shore is clear, taking on green and turquoise hues, while it quickly becomes deeper towards the middle of the cove.

Entry into the water is not equally straightforward everywhere. The natural parts of the coast can be rocky and slippery, so water shoes are advisable. Families with small children should choose their swimming spots carefully, as Šešula does not have a long shallow entry like those found at typical pebbly beaches.

While swimming, one should be mindful of boats, ropes, and auxiliary vessels that transport guests between anchored boats and restaurants. It is most pleasant to swim along the edges of the cove, but not immediately next to the moored boats and their ropes.

Natural Shade and Atmosphere

Pine trees and Mediterranean vegetation provide shade in certain areas along the coast, but not everywhere and not throughout the day. On the open rocks and small plateaus, the sun can be quite strong, so good sun protection is necessary for longer stays.

The atmosphere changes depending on the time of day. In the morning, Šešula is quieter and more suitable for swimming, while in the afternoon and evening, it becomes livelier with the arrival of boats and guests at the restaurants.

Although the cove is naturally secluded, one should not expect complete solitude during July and August. Šešula is well-known among sailors and can be full of anchored vessels during the peak season.

Restaurants in Šešula Cove

There are two well-known seasonal restaurants in the cove – Konoba Šešula and Restoran Šišmiš. Both are situated right by the sea, and a large portion of their guests arrive by boat. The Šolta Tourist Board officially lists both restaurants at this location.

The menu is based on Dalmatian and Mediterranean cuisine, featuring fresh fish, seafood, grilled dishes, and meals prepared to order. During the peak season, it is advisable to reserve a table, especially for dinner.

The restaurants have their own mooring spots or buoys for guests, but arrangements for mooring should be made in advance. A free buoy in the cove does not necessarily mean it is public or available without reservation. For example, Konoba Šešula offers assistance with mooring for restaurant guests.

Getting to Šešula from Maslinica

One can reach Šešula from Maslinica on foot, by bicycle, or by car. From the centre of the village, expect approximately a fifteen-minute walk, depending on the starting point and pace.

The path leads to the southern side of Maslinica through a quieter part of the settlement, and then towards the cove. The walk is not long, but returning in the peak summer heat can be tiring as there is no complete shade along the route.

It is possible to drive to the area of the cove, but access is narrow and parking space is limited. Care should be taken to drive slowly as there is not much room for passing or turning at the final part of the road.

I would not recommend descending with a larger van or camper without first checking access and making arrangements with the restaurant.

Parking

Šešula does not have a large, organised public car park. Cars are left in available widenings and along the access road, where they do not obstruct local traffic or restaurant guests.

During the peak season, closer spots can be occupied, especially in the evening when guests arrive for dinner. It is often easier to leave the car further away and walk the last part.

Parking is not permitted at turning points, near private property entrances, or in areas needed for deliveries and access to the restaurants.

Arriving by Boat and Mooring

Šešula is primarily known as a safe cove for boats. Its indented shape and deep recess provide good protection, which is why it is often chosen by sailors looking to spend the night away from the marina.

In the cove, one can anchor on their own anchor or use a mooring connected to the restaurants, depending on availability. Before entering, it is advisable to check the depth, the position of other vessels, and the forecast, and during the peak season, to contact the restaurant where one plans to dine in advance.

Although the cove is protected, with a large number of boats, the space for manoeuvring becomes limited. The anchor should be set so that the vessel has enough room to turn and does not cross the chains and ropes of other boats.

From Maslinica, one can also reach Šešula by kayak or a smaller rented vessel. This is a good way to explore the coastline, but one should not approach larger anchored boats or pass between vessels and their moorings.

Facilities and Preparation for Arrival

The cove has seasonal restaurants, but lacks the typical infrastructure of an organised public beach. For swimming, it is advisable to bring water, a towel, sun protection, and water shoes.

Outside of restaurant operating hours or outside the tourist season, one should not expect to purchase food and drinks. It is best to check the current opening hours before arrival.

The Best Time to Visit

For a peaceful swimming experience, it is best to arrive in the morning, before a larger number of boats reach the cove. At this time, the water is calmer, the shore quieter, and it is easier to find a spot for a towel.

In the evening, Šešula is most pleasant for dinner. The sun is no longer strong, and the view of the boats and the wooded sides of the cove creates a special island atmosphere.

June and September offer the best balance of warm waters and fewer visitors. In July and August, the cove is livelier, especially during lunch and dinner times.

Who Will Enjoy Šešula

Šešula Cove is a good choice for visitors who appreciate a natural rocky coastline, calm waters, swimming away from the main beaches, and dining right by the sea.

It will particularly appeal to sailors as it offers a sheltered mooring and restaurants with mooring options. It is also suitable for guests staying in Maslinica who wish for a short walk to a quieter cove.

However, it may be less suitable for those seeking a large pebbly beach, easy access for small children, or ample space for all-day lounging.

Thus, Šešula is best regarded as a natural cove for swimming, mooring, and dining by the sea, rather than a classic organised beach. The combination of sheltered waters, wooded shores, boats, and two restaurants makes it one of the most recognisable spots in the vicinity of Maslinica.