Zrće Beach

Zrće is the best-known party beach in Croatia and one of the most famous in the Mediterranean, set on the island of Pag, about two kilometres from the town of Novalja. It is a long stretch of pebbles and small stones in a shallow bay, with clear water and a gentle slope into the sea, backed by a continuous row of beach bars, clubs and restaurants. During the summer season it becomes an open-air entertainment district, but in the early morning and off-peak months it is a simple pebble beach where families and swimmers can find space.

The beach's reputation was built over the last two decades by a handful of large venues. Clubs such as Papaya, Aquarius, Noa and Kalypso operate on or just behind the shore, offering daytime pool and beach parties that run into evening programmes with international DJs. Zrće has also hosted large music festivals in past seasons, including Hideout, Sonus and Barrakud, which brought electronic music fans from across Europe. Because lineups, venues and festival names change from year to year, check what is on before you plan your trip, and bear in mind that the main season runs from late spring to early autumn, with peak activity in July and August.

Pag itself is a strikingly bare island, with a rocky, almost lunar landscape shaped by the Bura wind and salt spray. The contrast between this austere scenery and the busy beach is part of the experience. The island is also famous for its sheep's milk cheese, its lamb and its salt pans, which are worth tasting and seeing if you want a break from the music. Novalja, the nearby town, offers more restaurants, shops and accommodation, and it has Roman remains, including an aqueduct.

Getting there is straightforward, since shuttle buses and taxis run between Novalja and the beach, often late into the night in season, and the road can be walked in about half an hour. Many people stay in Novalja and travel out for the day or night. The beach is equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, showers and water sports, including jet-skis and boat excursions, and some operators offer bungee jumping and other activities.

Be realistic about what to expect. It is loud, crowded and aimed at young adults, and prices in the clubs are not low. Keep valuables safe, drink water, and plan your return transport in advance. For quieter swimming on Pag, there are calmer beaches elsewhere on the island, including Ručica, near Novalja.