Just a short boat ride from the elegant waterfront of Hvar Town lies a completely different world: pine-covered islands, hidden coves, turquoise water and seaside restaurants where lunch can easily stretch into the late afternoon.
The Pakleni Islands are Hvar's natural escape. Known locally as Pakleni otoci, this small archipelago sits directly opposite Hvar Town and offers one of the easiest island-hopping experiences on the Croatian coast.
You do not need to organise a complicated sailing itinerary to explore them. In summer, taxi boats connect Hvar with popular spots such as Palmižana, Jerolim and the bays around Marinkovac, while a private boat gives you the freedom to search for quieter coves of your own.
Whether you want a relaxed beach day, lunch beside the sea, a secluded swimming spot or an easy escape from the energy of Hvar Town, this guide covers everything you need to know about visiting the Pakleni Islands in Croatia,
What Are the Pakleni Islands?
The Pakleni Islands are a small archipelago located just southwest of Hvar Town, in central Dalmatia. The group includes around 21 islands, islets and reefs, with Sveti Klement, Marinkovac and Jerolim among the best-known destinations.
Despite the name sometimes being translated as "Hell Islands", the Croatian word Pakleni is traditionally associated with paklina, a type of pine resin historically used in wooden boatbuilding.
Today, the islands are famous for their Mediterranean vegetation, exceptionally clear water, and beautiful natural bays. Their greatest advantage is accessibility. Unlike remote Croatian islands requiring long ferry journeys, several popular destinations in the Pakleni archipelago can be reached from Hvar Town in approximately 10–20 minutes by boat.
This makes the Pakleni Islands in Croatia ideal for a half-day beach escape, a leisurely lunch by the sea, or a full day of island hopping.
How to Get to the Pakleni Islands from Hvar
The easiest way to explore the Pakleni Islands near Hvar is by taxi boat or private speedboat.
Taxi Boats from Hvar Town
During the summer season, shared taxi boats connect Hvar Town with popular destinations such as Jerolim, Mlini, Ždrilca and Palmižana.
These services are ideal for travellers who want to spend several hours at one beach without renting a boat.
Crossings to the nearest islands typically take about 10 to 15 minutes, while Palmižana generally requires approximately 20 minutes.
One local provider advertises summer shared departures approximately every 30 minutes between 9 AM and 6 PM, although this is not a universal timetable and actual services vary by operator.
How much do taxi boats cost?
Shared taxi boats are generally the more affordable option for couples and small groups. Exact fares vary by destination and season, so confirm the return-ticket price directly at Hvar harbour.
For private transfers, one local operator currently advertises short crossings from approximately €120 per boat. This is a starting price for a particular service, not a fixed rate across all operators.
Before departing, confirm the return schedule and whether your ticket includes round-trip transportation.
Private Boat Tours
For a more personalised experience, consider booking a private boat with a skipper. Instead of visiting only one beach, you can explore several islands, discover sheltered swimming spots and enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant.
A private excursion is particularly appealing for families, couples and groups seeking a more peaceful experience. For additional inspiration, explore My Luxoria's guide to the best private boat tours and island-hopping experiences in Croatia.
Palmižana: The Most Famous Pakleni Islands Destination
If you have only one day for the archipelago, Palmižana is the classic choice.
Palmižana is located on Sveti Klement, the largest island in the Pakleni group. The name is used for the area around the marina and is also commonly associated with nearby Vinogradišće Bay and its beach.
This distinction is useful when you arrive by boat.
ACI Marina Palmižana lies on the northern side of Sveti Klement. According to the Hvar Tourist Board, it is approximately 2.6 nautical miles, or 4.8 kilometres, from Hvar Town and provides 160 berths.
On the opposite, southern side of the island is Vinogradišće Bay, the place most visitors picture when they think of Palmižana Beach.
A short walk connects the marina side with the beach and restaurants on the other side.
Palmižana Beach and Vinogradišće Bay
Often referred to as Palmižana Beach, Vinogradišće Bay is one of the most recognisable swimming destinations in the Pakleni Islands.
The beach is partly pebbly and partly sandy, making it particularly attractive for families. It can be reached directly by boat into Vinogradišće Bay or on foot from ACI Marina Palmižana.
But Palmižana Beach is not really about spending the entire day on a towel.
The appeal is the combination of swimming, Mediterranean vegetation and excellent food within walking distance of the water.
Come in the morning for a swim, explore the paths around Sveti Klement and then settle into a long lunch.
Restaurants in the Palmižana area include established names such as Zori and Toto's, both listed by the official Hvar Tourist Board.
In July and August, restaurant reservations are sensible, especially if you are travelling with a larger group or arriving by private boat.
Jerolim Island: Close to Hvar, but a World Away
Jerolim Island is one of the easiest escapes from Hvar Town.
Its rocky coastline, Mediterranean vegetation and transparent water create an excellent setting for swimming and snorkelling.
Because it lies close to the harbour, you can reach it quickly by taxi boat and still feel separated from the busy streets and waterfront of Hvar.
Jerolim is particularly well known for its natural coastline, clear water and long association with naturist bathing. If you search for Jerolim Croatia or Jerolim Island Croatia, you will often find it mentioned among the country's established naturist destinations.
That does not mean every visitor comes specifically for naturism. The island also appeals to travellers looking for swimming, snorkelling and a relatively simple half-day trip from Hvar.
Compared with Palmižana, Jerolim can feel less like a complete "day resort" and more like a straightforward island escape.
Marinkovac: Bays, Swimming and Lunch by the Sea
Marinkovac sits between Jerolim and Sveti Klement and offers another side of the Pakleni Islands Hvar experience.
The coastline here combines small bays, exceptionally clear water and places to stop for food, making Marinkovac particularly good for travellers who want to alternate between swimming and lunch rather than spend the whole day on one beach.
Marinkovac is also associated with some of the archipelago's livelier summer venues, so the atmosphere can vary significantly depending on the bay you choose.
This is where having your own boat becomes especially useful: you can explore the coastline and choose a stop according to the mood you want rather than committing to a single destination before departure.
Two names worth remembering are Mlini and Ždrilca.
Mlini Beach
Mlini is known for its clear water, pebble shoreline and beautiful natural surroundings.
The bay is particularly appealing for swimming and snorkelling, with nearby facilities making it convenient for spending several hours beside the sea.
Arriving early is recommended during the busiest summer months.
Ždrilca Bay
Ždrilca is another attractive swimming destination on Marinkovac.
Its sheltered setting and Mediterranean scenery make it a popular stop for taxi boats and private excursions.
The area also offers opportunities to enjoy traditional Dalmatian cuisine near the water.
Which Pakleni Island Should You Choose?
There is no single "best" island because the experience changes considerably from one bay to another.
Choose Palmižana if you want the most complete day out, with swimming, walking, marina facilities and a strong restaurant scene.
Choose Jerolim Island if proximity to Hvar and a more natural swimming experience are the priorities.
Choose Marinkovac if you want to explore several bays, combine swimming with a seaside lunch or mix relaxed beach time with a livelier summer atmosphere.
And if you rent a private boat, you do not really need to choose.
Start at Jerolim while the morning is quiet, continue towards Marinkovac for a swim and then head to Palmižana for lunch before slowly cruising back towards Hvar.
The Best Time to Visit the Pakleni Islands
The Pakleni Islands are most popular between June and September.
June and September are particularly attractive for visitors seeking a quieter atmosphere, pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
July and August offer the liveliest experience, with more frequent seasonal boat services and beach facilities operating at full capacity.
However, popular destinations such as Palmižana and Mlini can become busy.
If you're visiting during peak season, depart from Hvar early in the morning and consider exploring less crowded bays by private boat.
Weather conditions are also important. Wind and waves can affect boat departures, swimming conditions, and access to particular coves.
What to Bring for a Day on the Pakleni Islands
You do not need much, but it helps to prepare for a full day outside.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water. Water shoes can be useful because many Croatian beaches and swimming entrances are pebble or rock rather than sand.
Snorkelling equipment is also worth packing. Much of the pleasure of the Pakleni Islands Croatia comes from simply jumping into the clear water away from Hvar's busier beaches.
If you plan to eat at one of the popular restaurants, make a reservation and leave enough time between lunch and your return taxi boat.
And always confirm the final boat back to Hvar rather than assuming departures continue late into the evening.
Where to Eat on the Pakleni Islands
Lunch is an important part of a Pakleni Islands day.
This is not necessarily the place to rush through a sandwich before heading to the next attraction. The better approach is to choose a bay, swim for a few hours and turn lunch into part of the experience.
Palmižana has the greatest concentration of well-known restaurants. Zori and Toto's are among the establishments officially listed by the Hvar Tourist Board, while The FisherMan's House is located elsewhere on Sveti Klement. On Marinkovac, Tri Grede offers another option for seafood and Mediterranean dishes.
Expect seafood, fresh fish, Mediterranean dishes, local olive oil and Croatian wines to feature heavily.
During peak summer, booking ahead is strongly recommended.
Staying on Hvar: The Best Base for the Pakleni Islands
One of the biggest advantages of the Pakleni Islands on Hvar is that you do not need to change accommodation to experience them.
Stay on Hvar and treat the archipelago as your private playground across the water.
This gives you the best of both worlds: mornings exploring coves by boat and evenings back on Hvar for dinner, drinks or a quiet night at your villa.
My Luxoria's collection of Hvar luxury villas includes properties close to the sea as well as villas with boat-mooring options, particularly useful if you plan to spend several days exploring the Pakleni Islands and the surrounding Adriatic.
Villa Katina – For a Holiday Built Around the Sea
Villa Katina is an excellent option for travellers who want the sea to be central to their Hvar holiday. The villa is located directly by the beach and offers an impressive sea view, heated pool and jacuzzi. Most importantly for a boating holiday, it also has a boat mooring.
The property includes additional equipment such as kayaks and SUP boards, making it particularly suitable for guests who want to spend much of their holiday on or beside the water. With your own or rented boat available, a trip to the Pakleni otoci no longer has to be a single organised excursion. You can build different bays and swimming stops into several days of your holiday.
Villa Oaza – Mediterranean Character with Boat Options
Another interesting choice is Villa Oaza, a renovated stone property combining traditional Hvar character with modern comforts. The villa accommodates up to 12 guests and includes a heated pool, jacuzzi, and outdoor areas. Boat rental and boat mooring can be arranged upon request, making it a practical base for groups planning days on the water. A private chef and other concierge services are also available on request, so after a day exploring Palmižana and Marinkovac, you can return to the villa and continue the evening without heading back out.
Villa Perka – A Family-Friendly Hvar Escape
Families can also consider Villa Perka. The property is close to the sea and combines a saltwater pool with family-oriented facilities such as a children's playground and trampoline. Boat mooring can be arranged upon request for an additional charge. That combination works particularly well for a longer stay: dedicate one day to the Pakleni Islands, another to Hvar's beaches and villages, and leave plenty of time for relaxed days at the villa. For a broader overview of island holidays in the country, explore My Luxoria's Croatian Islands: Ultimate Travel Guide.
Why a Villa and Boat Make Such a Good Combination on Hvar
Hvar is one of those destinations where having access to a boat genuinely changes the holiday.
Roads can take you to beautiful beaches and villages around the island, but the sea opens an entirely different map.
The Pakleni Islands are the most obvious example.
With a private boat, you are no longer tied to taxi-boat timetables or a single beach. You can leave when you want, look for a quiet bay, stop for lunch on Sveti Klement and return to your villa as the afternoon light begins to soften.
My Luxoria offers a dedicated selection of villas with boat mooring in Croatia, and boat rentals and skipper services can also be arranged for selected stays.
For travellers who value privacy and flexibility, this is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Hvar.
Practical Tips Before Visiting the Pakleni Islands
A little preparation can make your island escape considerably more enjoyable.
Check boat schedules: Seasonal taxi-boat services vary, so confirm the last return departure before leaving Hvar.
Bring water shoes: Many beaches have rocky or pebbly entrances.
Reserve restaurants: Popular waterfront restaurants can fill quickly in July and August.
Check the wind forecast: Sea conditions influence which bays are most comfortable for swimming.
Bring essentials: Sunscreen, drinking water, sunglasses and a hat are particularly important on quieter beaches.
Consider a private skipper: A knowledgeable local skipper can help you find sheltered coves and avoid the busiest swimming spots.
If you have more than one day on Hvar, consider combining your Pakleni Islands excursion with exploring Hvar Town, Stari Grad and the island's vineyards.
For additional ideas, read our guide to the enchanting Croatian island of Hvar.
Discover Hvar Beyond the Pakleni Islands
The archipelago deserves at least one full day, but it is only one part of Hvar.
Spend another morning exploring Hvar Town and its fortress, visit Stari Grad and the UNESCO-listed Stari Grad Plain, drive through the island's wine country, or discover quieter beaches such as Dubovica.
If you are still deciding which Croatian island suits your holiday, the My Luxoria Journal offers guides to destinations throughout the Adriatic, while our collection of luxury villas in Croatia makes it easy to combine Hvar with another coastal destination.
But when the summer crowds fill Hvar's stone streets, remember that your escape is always visible just across the water.
A ten-minute boat ride can be enough to exchange the town for pine trees, turquoise coves and lunch with your feet almost touching the Adriatic.
That is the magic of the Pakleni Islands.
Explore My Luxoria's luxury villas on Hvar and discover your perfect Adriatic retreat.
FAQ: Visiting the Pakleni Islands from Hvar
Where are the Pakleni Islands?
The Pakleni Islands, or Pakleni otoci, are a small archipelago directly off the southwestern coast of Hvar. They are visible from Hvar Town and can be reached by boat in just a few minutes.
How long is the boat ride from Hvar to the Pakleni Islands?
The closest destinations are approximately 10–15 minutes from Hvar Town by taxi boat. Travel time depends on your exact destination, boat, and sea conditions.
How do I get from Hvar to Palmižana?
During summer, taxi boats connect Hvar Town with Palmižana. You can also visit by private boat or rented speedboat. ACI Marina Palmižana is on the northern side of Sveti Klement, while Vinogradišće and the beach area are reached by a short walk across the island.
Is Palmižana Beach sandy?
Palmižana Beach, officially associated with Vinogradišće Bay, is partly pebble and partly sandy. The Hvar Tourist Board notes that this makes it particularly popular with families.
Is Palmižana worth visiting?
Yes. Palmižana combines clear water, Mediterranean vegetation, beach time and some of the best-known restaurants in the Pakleni Islands, making it particularly suitable for a full-day excursion.
What is Jerolim Island known for?
Jerolim Island is known for clear water, natural surroundings and its long tradition as a naturist destination. Its proximity to Hvar Town also makes it convenient for a half-day swimming trip.
Is Jerolim Croatia only for naturists?
Jerolim is strongly associated with naturist tourism, but visitors also come for swimming, snorkelling and the island's natural coastline. Check the character and rules of the particular beach area you plan to visit.
What can you do on Marinkovac?
Marinkovac is popular for swimming, beach time, restaurants and several bays, including the Mlini and Ždrilca area. Parts of the island also have a livelier summer atmosphere.
Can you eat on the Pakleni Islands?
Yes. Several restaurants operate across the archipelago, particularly around Palmižana and Sveti Klement, with additional options on Marinkovac. Reservations are advisable in July and August.
Do I need a private boat to explore the Pakleni Islands?
No. Taxi boats from Hvar are sufficient if you want to spend the day at one main destination. A private boat is better if you want to visit several islands and coves on the same day or prefer greater privacy and flexibility.
What is the best time to visit the Pakleni Islands?
June and September offer an attractive balance of warm weather and fewer peak-season crowds. July and August provide the liveliest atmosphere and the widest range of seasonal services, but popular beaches and restaurants can be busy.
Where should I stay to explore the Pakleni Islands?
Hvar is the most practical base. My Luxoria offers a selection of luxury villas on Hvar, with boat-mooring options available depending on the property.
