Stiniva, Secluded beach in Vis Island, Croatia
The beach resides between two tall limestone cliffs that create a V-shaped entrance, narrowing to a width of 4 meters at the waterline.
The isolation of Stiniva Beach remained preserved until 1995 as the island of Vis served as a restricted military installation during Yugoslav times.
The neighboring town of Komiza maintains centuries-old fishing traditions, with local fishermen sharing stories of the cove's past maritime significance.
Visitors can reach Stiniva Beach through a steep 20-minute hike from Zuzec village or by taking a boat from the ports of Vis and Komiza.
The beach earned recognition as Europe's finest beach in 2016, featuring a natural stone arch that frames the entrance to its pebbled shoreline.
GPS coordinates: 43.01844,16.17104
Latest update: March 3, 2025 12:22
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.
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