Makarska Travel Guide
Beaches, old town, day trips and the best time to visit

Makarska sits between the Adriatic Sea and Biokovo Nature Park, which rises above town all the way to Sv. Jure at 1,762 m. That combination is exactly why Makarska ranks so well for summer trips: you get beach time, old-town walks, boat trips, and mountain viewpoints in one destination.

For first-time visitors, the main reasons to stay here are simple: a long pebbled waterfront beach, a compact and walkable old town, easy access to island and mainland excursions, and apartment stays that let you choose between a family base, a pool-and-jacuzzi setup, or a couples-focused sea-view stay.

Best beaches in Makarska

The classic answer for Makarska beaches starts with the main town beach and its westward continuation under the pines. It is the easiest choice for families because it is close to cafes, shade, and the center. If you want a quieter rhythm, look west toward Biloševac and Cvitačka, which are commonly listed by the local tourist board as relaxed beach options outside the busiest central stretch.

Nugal is the beach most often mentioned by travelers looking for a more natural setting. It is best approached on foot or by boat, so it feels more tucked away than the main promenade beaches. If your priority is easy family logistics, Apartment Klarisa and Apartment Robert are the more practical fits. If you want old-town evenings and a more romantic sea-view base, Apartment Black Pearl fits that trip better.

Best things to do in Makarska

If you are searching things to do in Makarska, start with the essentials: the Riva promenade, the old town, and a slow walk through Kačić Square toward the Church of St. Mark. This is the part of town that works best in the early evening, when the harbor, cafes, and stone streets all come together in a compact area.

For culture, head to the Franciscan Monastery and Malacological Museum. The museum is one of the best-known small attractions in town and is especially useful on a windy or half-cloudy day when you want a short indoor stop between beach time and dinner. For scenery, Biokovo Nature Park is the headline trip above Makarska, with Skywalk Biokovo at 1,228 m and mountain viewpoints that completely change how you see the coast.

Want to stay close to both the old town and your own private outdoor space afterward? Apartment Robert is the best all-round fit, while Apartment Black Pearl is the strongest choice for couples building the trip around old-town walks and sea-view evenings.

Day trips from Makarska

Day trips from Makarska are one of the biggest reasons this town works so well for longer stays. The easiest options are Biokovo, Omis and the Cetina canyon, and island outings toward Brac and Hvar. If you prefer a low-effort excursion day, Split also works well as a culture-heavy trip focused on Diocletian's Palace and the old center.

Boat and ferry plans should always be checked against the current Jadrolinija schedule because timetables can change. Road trips are also worth checking on the official HAK traffic site before you head toward Biokovo or Omis. If you want help deciding whether to prioritize islands, nature, or town visits, use the contact page and we can point you toward the best fit for your stay length.

Best time to visit Makarska

The best time to visit Makarska depends on what kind of stay you want. In practice, June and September are the best all-round months for many visitors because the weather is still beach-friendly, the sea is comfortable, and the town usually feels less intense than peak season. July and August are best if your priority is the fullest beach atmosphere, nightlife, and classic high-summer energy.

If your plan is more about scenic walks, old-town evenings, and Biokovo rather than daily beach time, late spring and early autumn can be excellent. Couples planning an anniversary or sea-view stay usually get the most balanced experience in shoulder season, while families often prefer the predictability of the main summer period. That split is one reason Black Pearl works well for couples and Klarisa or Robert work well for family-style summer trips.

How to get around Makarska

You do not necessarily need a car for central Makarska if you stay in a good location. The waterfront, old town, restaurants, and the main beach zone are manageable on foot, especially for shorter stays. A car becomes more useful if you want the freedom to explore multiple beaches, drive into Biokovo Nature Park, or take several mainland day trips.

For mountain visits, always check official road and park guidance before driving up. For ferries and catamarans, check Jadrolinija before the day of travel. If you want the simplest stay with the fewest logistics, choose the apartment that matches your trip style and ask us directly through the contact page about parking, arrival, and local recommendations.

FAQ