Paradise Beach (Rajska Plaža)

Rajska Plaža, the beach known in English by a name meaning heavenly, lies in Lopar, on a small peninsula at the northern tip of Rab Island, and it is among the best-known sandy beaches on the Croatian coast. Sand is rare in this country, where most beaches are pebble or rock, and Lopar's long, gentle sandy shores are an exception, which explains why families return year after year. The beach is about two kilometres long, and the sand is fine and golden, with pine woods and Mediterranean scrub behind it.

The main attraction for families is the water. The sea floor slopes very gradually, so that a child or non-swimmer can walk a long way out, often a hundred metres or more, with water that barely reaches the knees. The shallows warm quickly in the sun, which makes them comfortable for small children, and the clear water is a pleasure for swimmers of all ages. Lifeguards, sunbeds and parasols are available in season, and cafés and restaurants along the shore serve fish, pizza, ice cream and cool drinks. Many sections of the beach carry quality awards, and it is a popular place for beach volleyball, football and water sports, including paddleboards, kayaks and pedal boats.

Lopar's other beaches give a choice of atmosphere. Suha Punta Beach is a quieter stretch, and the FKK Kandarola Beach is a naturist beach, well known because a story says that King Edward VIII of Britain and Wallis Simpson swam there without costumes during their visit in 1936, which helped to make the naturist movement acceptable on the island. Rab as a whole is a green island with a beautiful old town of four bell towers, and boats link Lopar with the town of Rab and with the mainland.

Practical points are worth knowing. In July and August, the beach is busy and car parks fill up early, so arrive in the morning or visit in June or September, when the sea is warm and crowds are smaller. The wind can bring waves on some days, particularly when the bura blows, and shade is limited in places, so bring a hat and sun cream. The beach is reached by road from the town of Rab.

Rajska Plaža suits families with young children, couples and anyone who enjoys a long walk along the sand. It offers a classic beach day by the Adriatic Sea.