The Elaphiti Islands provide an ideal escape from the busy streets of Dubrovnik, giving you a more authentic Croatian experience. With pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests, all three islands are a paradise for nature lovers.
Before my recent trip to Dubrovnik, I had never heard about the Elaphiti Islands. But I’m so glad I found a great deal on an all-inclusive resort on Koločep, so we set aside 3 days to explore the islands. Was it worth it? Yes definitely!
Each island in the archipelago has its unique charm. Koločep boasts car-free serenity, Lopud is known for its sandy beaches, and Šipan for its charming harbor and olive groves.
So let’s take a closer look at how to get there from Dubrovnik and the top things to do. Get ready to experience laid-back island life that will capture your heart.
Article overview
Overview of the Elaphiti Islands
The Elaphiti Islands are a small archipelago located northwest of Dubrovnik, Croatia in the Adriatic Sea. There are 13 islands in total, with the three largest being Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan. All are easily accessible by ferry from Dubrovnik’s main port.
Koločep, the southernmost of the main islands, is known for its sandy beach and hiking paths. There are two main villages, Gornje Celo and Donje Celo.
Lopud sits in the middle of the three. It is very popular with tourists, thanks to its sandy Šunj beach and historic monastery.
Šipan, the largest and northernmost of the main Elaphiti Islands, feels like a hidden gem. Bosting olive groves, vineyards, and charming fishing villages, it served as a summer retreat for Dubrovnik’s elite families.
The best time to visit
For the best weather, I recommend visiting the Elaphiti Islands in the shoulder season between May/June and September/October. During these months, temperatures are warm and pleasant, and there are fewer people around.
The peak season is July and August; while it gets busy, it is much calmer than Dubrovnik. Everything is also more expensive, but at the same time, all tourist facilities are fully operational. Try to visit on a weekday during the summer months.
I visited in late October, and there was one day of light rain and one sunny day. The temperatures were in the low 20s (Celsius), perfect for hiking and a refreshing swim afterward.
How do I go to the Elaphiti Islands?
Getting to the Elaphiti Islands was very easy. Ferries from Dubrovnik’s main port, Gruž, run several times a day. We took bus no. 10 from our apartment close to the Old Town, which is included in the Dubrovnik Pass. It stops just outside Pile Gate, opposite the square.
Jadrolinija is the main Croatian ferry company, you can check the current timetable and buy tickets here. Since we visited outside the main season, we just went to the office across the road from the harbor.
A one-way ticket costs €3.20 per adult and 1.60 € for children. We didn’t buy a return ticket because the price was the same, so we wanted to see whether or not we liked it there.
It was not very clear which ferry was ours, because it didn’t have a name that I could see. But there were many people around to ask. It left on time and the journey took around 30 minutes to Kolocep. We got a seat on the top deck and enjoyed the views. The ferry then continued to Lopud.
Another ferry connects Dubrovnik with Lopud and Sipan. It takes around an hour to reach Lopud and to Suđurađ 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Join a guided tour
If you’re limited on time and want to visit all the islands, I highly recommend a guided tour. Many tour operators in Dubrovnik offer cruises as well as private charters to the Elaphiti Islands.
🛥 It doesn’t get much better than this private tour for up to 12 people, including round-trip transfers from your Dubrovnik hotel. You can choose between a 4 and 8-hour charter. You’ll visit quiet coves or popular sandy beaches, hang out on board, or go snorkeling, all on your own schedule.
⛴ Or for a more affordable option, check out this highly-rated full-day Elaphite Islands cruise with lunch and drinks. Get picked up at your hotel and board the boat to Lopud where you will enjoy several hours of free time. After lunch onboard the boat, continue to the scenic harbor at Sipan for a quick shore excursion. Finish the day on Kolocep Island.
Top things to do Elaphiti Islands
I wanted to visit the Elaphiti Islands to relax in nature after a busy week of exploring. We hiked, saw old churches, went swimming and enjoyed time in the sun. Here are some of the top things to do in the Elaphiti Islands.
Historic sites
On Lopud Island, I recommend visiting the Franciscan Monastery, a beautiful compound dating back to the 15th century. The ruins of the 16th-century Rector’s Palace is also worth stopping by, it offers insight into the island’s past governance.
Šipan Island boasts the impressive Skočibuha Castle, built in the 16th century it’s a prime example of Renaissance architecture in the region. Also, check out one of the oldest churches on the island, St. Peter on Velji Vrh dated to 1275. This is also the best sunset viewpoint.
On Koločep, don’t miss the pre-Romanesque Church of St. Nicholas. Its unique design and historical significance make it a must-see for my fellow history buffs. It is so cute!
Beaches and nature
Šunj Beach on Lopud Island is my top pick for sunbathing and swimming. Its shallow, sandy shore and crystal-clear waters are perfect for families. It is also a great place to anker for a few hours if you arrive by boat. I would say it is one of the highlights of the Elaphiti Islands and one of the best sandy beaches in Croatia.
Šipan Island holds a Guinness World Record for having the highest number of olive trees in comparison to its size. I love hiking through olive groves and vineyards. The lush Mediterranean vegetation offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting various species in these natural habitats.
Koločep’s Blue Cave is a must, included in many of the day trips to the island. Accessible only by boat, its luminous blue waters create a magical atmosphere.
I also enjoyed swimming off the sandy beach in Gornje Celo and hiking along towering cliffs and narrow paths winding through local villages. Some locals sold olive oil, marmalade and snacks along the way.
Recreational activities
Kayaking is an excellent way to explore the coastlines of these islands. I recommend renting a kayak to discover hidden beaches and coves. Many local operators also offer guided tours for beginners.
Or if you’d rather explore the underwater world, this area is perfect for snorkeling. Croatia is known for its clear waters, which provide excellent visibility for observing colorful fish and underwater rock formations. Even without snorkeling gear, I saw many different types of fish and a lot of sea urchins, so be careful.
Cycling is also very popular in Šipan. I suggest renting a bike to explore the island’s charming villages and scenic countryside. Or if you have your own, you can bring it on the ferry.
Accommodation and dining
When researching I found everything from luxury resorts and family-run guesthouses, and restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Dalmatian dishes. If you have the time, it is well worth it to stay a night or two on one of the islands.
Hotels and resorts
As mentioned above, I decided to stay at TUI BLUE Kalamota Island Resort on Koločep. Typically I would never stay at an all-inclusive, but since this was outside the season with only one other restaurant open, it was a treat. It is a typical charter hotel, but we got a beautiful seaview room at the food was surprisingly good.
You can read my full review of Kalamota Island Resort here.
I also loved the look of Kalamota Beach House (below). Their outside restaurant lounge space is absolutely beautiful, I wish I had a photo on a sunny day. The rooms are newly refurbished with gorgeous ocean views. So if you’re looking for a more boutique experience, this is the place for you.
On Lopud Island Lafodia Sea Resort, a modern 4-star hotel with stunning sea views, is a great choice. Its spacious rooms and infinity pool provided a luxurious base for exploring. For a more intimate experience, I recommend Villa Vilina on Lopud, a charming boutique hotel with a restaurant serving local specialties.
Šipan Island also has a few great options, I found Hotel Šipan to be beautiful with its beachfront location and traditional stone architecture.
Keep in mind that most hotels on the Elaphiti Islands are only open from May through October.
Local cuisine and restaurants
Fresh seafood dominates the menus across the Elaphiti Islands. Savor grilled fish, octopus salad, and black risotto at konobas (traditional taverns) like Obala on Lopud and Tri Sestre on Šipan.
For fine dining, I recommend La Villa right by the ocean on Lopud. Their melanzani and homemade pasta were exceptional. On Koločep, Villa Ruža is one of the best, serving the freshest food with breathtaking sunset views.
Local wines, especially the crisp white Pošip, pair perfectly with seafood dishes. I also tried rakija, a strong fruit brandy popular throughout Croatia and the Balkans.
Many restaurants source ingredients from local gardens and fishing boats, ensuring fresh, seasonal meals. Vegetarian options are available but can be limited.
So are the Elaphiti Islands worth visiting?
Yes, they are undoubtedly worth visiting if you want a unique and authentic Croatian island experience.
Even though I visited in October, Dubrovnik was very busy, so the Elaphiti Islands felt like a vacation from our Dubrovnik trip. But don’t expect a lively nightlife here.
The tranquil atmosphere, combined with the stunning landscapes and warm hospitality of the locals, makes these islands a true gem.
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