Stiniva, Secluded beach in Vis Island, Croatia
Stiniva is a beach on Vis Island, Croatia, enclosed by two tall limestone cliffs that form a V-shaped entrance. The cove narrows to just a few meters at the waterline before opening into a larger pebble-covered area.
The beach remained isolated until 1995 when Vis Island was a restricted military zone during Yugoslav times. Once these restrictions ended, the cove opened to the public.
The nearby town of Komiza keeps fishing traditions alive, with locals working the waters as their families have for generations. Visitors can see this way of life in the small harbors and fishing boats around the bay.
The beach can be reached by a steep 20-minute hike from Zuzec village or by boat from Vis and Komiza ports. Good walking shoes and drinking water are recommended for the hike, while boats offer a faster and less tiring way to arrive.
The beach gained recognition as one of Europe's finest in 2016 and is marked by a natural stone arch at its entrance. This arch creates a striking frame for photographs and is particularly dramatic at sunset.
GPS coordinates: 43.01844,16.17104
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:43
Europe's most secluded beaches offer access to natural coastal environments that remain undeveloped due to their distance from major tourist centers. These locations span from the volcanic black sands of Iceland's southern shores to the pink-tinted beaches of southwestern Crete, formed from crushed seashells. Many require hiking through nature reserves or boat transfers to reach. Protected coastlines feature distinct geological characteristics: limestone cliffs eroded into natural arches along Portugal's Algarve, basalt columns rising from Norwegian fjords, and serpentine rock formations containing high magnesium content in Cornwall. The beaches exist within varied ecosystems, from Mediterranean scrubland surrounding Sicilian coves to Arctic conditions where granite mountains shelter narrow sand stretches in the Lofoten archipelago. These sites attract visitors seeking alternatives to developed resort areas. Access methods range from tidal passages through stone arches in Galicia, where water levels determine entry times, to unpaved tracks crossing the Desert of Agriates in Corsica. Several beaches change appearance based on natural forces: the Croatian peninsula of Zlatni Rat shifts its contours according to wind and wave patterns, while shallow lagoons in Greece allow wading between mainland and offshore islands. The locations provide opportunities for activities including snorkeling among underwater rock formations, observing seabird colonies nesting in coastal cliffs, and exploring cave systems revealed during low tide periods.
The Croatian coastline features numerous beaches, from small coves to long stretches of sand and pebbles. This selection includes family beaches with shallow waters, remote pebble beaches between cliffs, and sandy beaches near historic towns. Many locations offer clear water for swimming and snorkeling.
The Croatian beaches range from sandy expanses to pebble coves along the Adriatic coast and islands. Some beaches provide sports facilities and restaurants, while others remain in their natural state. The water is clear, and the Mediterranean climate allows for swimming from spring to autumn. Many beaches offer access to historical sites and local restaurants.
Blue Grotto
12.9 km
Tito’s Cave
4.6 km
Mount Hum
4.8 km
Franciscan Monastery and Church of Our Lady of Mercy, Hvar
27.7 km
Podselje
971 m
Žena Glava
3.1 km
Biševo, Komiža
13.9 km
Stončica Lighthouse
9 km
Rukavac
3.1 km
Podhumlje
4.1 km
Milna
4.9 km
Borovik, Komiža
3.7 km
Pokonji Dol Lighthouse
27.6 km
Marinje Zemlje
971 m
Podstražje
3.7 km
Host Lighthouse
7 km
Former Dominican Monastery and St. Mark's Church, Hvar
27.8 km
Stella Maris Church
27.6 km
Convento di San Niccolò
6.6 km
Dobri Otok
21.5 km
Borovac, Hvar
24.8 km
Duboka
2.5 km
Church of the Annunciation
27.8 km
Stambedar
22.2 km
Crkva sv. Mihovila u Komiži
5.7 km
Borovac, Sveti Klement
21.7 km
Travna (wyspa)
21.2 km
Fort George
6.5 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes