Explore Hvar: Dive into Underwater Wineries, Crystal-Clear Waters, and Enchanting Bioluminescent Caves!

The moment I arrived at Hvar’s vibrant dock, the bioluminescent caves, deep blue coves, and underwater wineries captivated me. “Approaching the island of Hvar by boat, one is immediately enchanted by the striking contrast between bright blue waters and lush greenery decorated with vineyards, olive orchards, and pine trees,” remarked Ante Lacman, proprietor of Lacman Family Winery on Hvar. “This breathtaking scenery is further enriched by a deep history and cultural richness.”

Situated in the Adriatic Sea, this Mediterranean isle is roughly an hour away from Split by ferry. You may devote most of your time enjoying the waters, and I certainly made an effort — skimming over bubbly waves by boat to reach the gin-colored lagoons of the Pakleni Islands, unearthing a private pebble beach at a family-run eatery, and waving at sunbathers scattered amidst rugged cliffs.

With nearly 300 sunny days annually, Hvar is also alive with outdoor festivities, including the yearly Summer Festival, which runs from June to September to honor Croatia’s musical legacy. Additionally, during summertime, the Lavender Festival in Velo Grablje celebrates the aromatic flower, offering workshops, vendors, and live performances. Historically, lavender was cultivated over almost 1,000 hectares of Hvar, contributing to nearly 10 percent of the world’s total lavender supply. The harvest season, typically starting in August, serves as an ideal opportunity to explore the local winemaking history. Vines in Hvar date back to 384 B.C., featuring local varieties such as the spicy red plavac mali, golden prč, and herbal bogdanuša.

For a different perspective on the island, tourists can cycle through historic settlements, engage in rock climbing across one of the 450 climbing routes, or ascend the iron steps along Hvar’s tallest peak. Locals are always eager to share recommendations and stories about their cherished island. “The essence of the Croatian spirit is contagious; we value laughter and friendship. My mother, at the age of 80, walks effortlessly for 22 kilometers daily. I warmly invite you to explore Croatia, immerse yourself in Hvar’s allure, and witness our lifestyle — it’s an experience you’ll find utterly enchanting,” shares Lacman.

Below, discover how to plan an unforgettable journey to Hvar.

Best Accommodations and Resorts

Palace Elisabeth

Palace Elisabeth is situated at the historical site of the 13th-century Duke’s Palace, offering 45 rooms and suites adorned with hand-painted murals by designer Oto Blaha. With views of Dalmatia’s most prominent square, guests can savor spectacular views of the Adriatic right from their in-suite balcony or while dining at San Marco, the hotel’s restaurant.

Maslina Resort

Secluded from the crowds of Hvar town, Maslina in Stari Grad presents a luxurious escape nestled on a hillside. Here, 53 rooms, suites, and villas are designed with Croatian oak and terra-cotta interiors. A two-level spa boasts an aqua thermal suite, a cold plunge pool, and both indoor and outdoor treatment areas.

Riva Marina

A mere steps from the town’s superyacht marina, the 50-room Riva Marina amalgamates over 100 years of history with contemporary, waterfront accommodations. Guests can observe the arrival of opulent yachts from their suites, take a leisurely walk along the bustling promenade, and set sail to the Pakleni Islands, famed for their hidden beaches and vibrant dining and bar scene.

Beach Bay

The sustainable-focused Beach Bay operates on solar energy andis Croatia’s inaugural hotel to participate in UNESCO’s tourism initiative, Sustainable Travel Pledge. This three-level boutique establishment boasts 33 rooms and underwent renovations in 2022. The closest beach, Bonj, is approximately a 20-minute walk away.

Villa Porta Maestro

Launched in late 2023, Villa Porta Maestra is a boutique accommodation transformed from a historic Roman villa, where over 100 archaeological artifacts were discovered and preserved in an on-site museum. The 22 rooms comprise a blend of standard accommodations and suites, equipped with walk-in showers and upscale decor.

Top Activities

Unwind at Beach Club Hvar.

With nearly a century of coastal history, the secluded Beach Club Hvar provides luxurious sunbeds on floating decks extending over the water, garden cabanas, and opulent seaside terraces. Established in 1927 and located on the island’s oldest public beach, it’s a favored location for sunbathers and wedding celebrations.

Discover the beaches.

With over 15 beaches, Hvar boasts some of the clearest swimming waters in Europe. A water taxi or small private vessel from Hvar town can take you to the Pakleni Islands in about half an hour. “In Hvar, it’s all about the sea — whether it’s a speedboat trip to nearby islands off the coast, uncovering hidden beaches and coves, or navigating through the Hvar canal. It’s an experience to treasure,” states Ana Stambuk, head of concierge at Palace Elisabeth.

Stroll through Hvar.

Hvar town is lively, characterized by breathtaking architecture and cultural gems. Don’t miss St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the remarkable 16th-century Fortica Fortress, which provides stunning views of the town and surrounding islands. As dusk approaches, take a leisurely walk along Hvar’s port, grab a gelato, and observe the lively atmosphere as day transitions into night.

Savor wines with roots in ancient times.

With over 2,700 hours of sunshine annually and ample fertile land, it’s no surprise that Hvar is a renowned wine hub. Nowadays, tourists can sample grapes cultivated in the very vineyards that the ancient Greeks farmed back in 384 B.C. Matijević is a quaint, family-owned vineyard producing varieties such as the red plavac mali. At the celebrated Zlatan Otok, visitors can explore the stone wine cellar beneath the sea for tastings. As part of the Waves and Wines adventure, you’ll travel to Hvar’s picturesque southern coastline to visit a winery accessible only by boat. In an ancient limestone cavern by the sea, a private tasting awaits that showcases the island’s wines from the Cliffbase wine cellar.

Investigate bioluminescent caves and historic shipwrecks.

Discover the island via sea with a snorkeling expedition from Suncani Hvar Hotels. A sailboat or speedboat will transport you to ancient shipwrecks and the Pakleni Islands, including the shimmering emerald Stiniva cove.

Top Dining Establishments

San Marco

Nestled on a private terrace at Palace Elisabeth,

San Marco provides Mediterranean cuisine utilizing fresh, local produce (consider: beet and goat cheese risotto). Patrons can also savor wines crafted from indigenous Croatian grapes, accompanied by breathtaking vistas of the Adriatic’s superyacht marina and the lively town beneath.

Val Marina

Located along the waterfront at Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel, Val Marina’s offerings pay homage to Hvar’s UNESCO-recognized Mediterranean diet, focusing on local produce. Menu items feature fresh tuna steak drizzled with olive oil and a codfish fillet paired with butter beans. The resort’s exclusive terrace also boasts impressive sights of the harbor and the city’s illuminations.

Mediterraneo

A family-operated establishment for over 70 years, Mediterraneo offers local Mediterranean classics such as Grdobina (monkfish, parmesan, and tomato) alongside Croatian wines. The spacious outdoor patio, adorned with lush floral decor, provides an idyllic setting for lunchtime dining.

Alavia

Nestled on the historic route connecting Hvar with Stari Grad in Velo Grablje, Alavia emphasizes seasonal ingredients to create comforting dishes like cucumber soup and parmesan pasta. The relaxed outdoor atmosphere features sweeping views of the Dalmatian Coast.

How to Get There

Airlines including United and Delta operate several flights each week from New Jersey (EWR) and New York (JFK) to Dubrovnik (DBV). Upon arrival at the airport, a 45-minute taxi journey will take you to Dubrovnik’s ferry terminal, Port Gruž. The state-operated ferry, Jadrolinija, offers a daily high-speed catamaran service that takes approximately 3.5 hours to reach Hvar town. Meanwhile, Krilo is a private ferry alternative that requires about 3.25 hours to arrive at Hvar town. Travelers landing in Split can also take the Jadrolinija ferry to reach Hvar in just over an hour.

How to Get Around

The most efficient method to travel from mainland Croatia to Hvar is via a high-speed catamaran, operating regularly from locations like Split and Dubrovnik. Hvar town is pedestrian-friendly, and reaching other regions of the island is best done by taxi or rental car, obtainable from firms such as Dino.