Ugljan Island is one of the easiest island escapes near Zadar. It feels close, simple, and very useful for different trip styles. You can come for a beach day, stay for a slow island base, or combine it with Pašman.
The island works well for families, couples, and travelers without a packed plan. It has sandy and pebbly beaches, village promenades, olive groves, and easy viewpoints. It also has short ferry rides, which makes planning much easier.
If you want a Croatian island with simple logistics and real local character, Ugljan is a strong pick.
Why visit Ugljan Island Croatia
Ugljan sits just across from Zadar. That makes it one of the most practical islands for a quick escape. You do not need a long transfer to feel like you have left the city behind.
Ugljan is also more flexible than many island trips. It works as:
a day trip from Zadar
a beach-focused short break
a quieter base near the mainland
a family holiday with easy swimming spots
a couples trip with village walks and sunset views
a budget-friendly island stay outside the biggest resort hubs
The island is not about one huge headline sight. Its appeal comes from the full mix. You get beaches, fishing villages, simple hikes, olive-grove scenery, and easy access to nearby islands.
That is also why Ugljan is worth visiting. It suits travelers who want an easy day trip from Zadar, a calmer island base, or a family-friendly beach break without complicated logistics.
How to get to Ugljan from Zadar
Getting to Ugljan from Zadar is straightforward. That is one of the island’s biggest advantages.
There are two main options:
passenger boat from central Zadar to Preko
vehicle ferry from Zadar Gaženica to Preko
The passenger boat is the easiest option for a day trip or a stay without a car. The Gaženica ferry is the better choice if you want to move around the island more freely.
Preko is the main arrival point for most visitors. From there, it is easy to walk the seafront, reach nearby beaches, or continue to other villages.
Ugljan is also linked to Pašman by the Ždrelac Bridge. That makes a longer island itinerary very easy by car or bike. You can stay on Ugljan and add Pašman without another ferry.
If you are planning in summer, check current ferry times before travel. Schedules are frequent, but seasonal timing still matters.
Best things to do in Ugljan
Explore Preko
Preko is the busiest and most practical base on the island. It has the main ferry arrival, a pleasant seafront, swimming spots, and easy access to small-island views.
This is the best place to start if you are visiting Ugljan without a car. It also suits first-time visitors who want everything simple.
In Preko, focus on:
a walk along the waterfront
a swim at Jaz beach
a coffee with a view of Galevac
an evening promenade after the ferry crowds thin out
Visit Galevac from Preko
Galevac, also called Školjić, is the tiny islet just off Preko. It is one of the most memorable details on the island.
The islet sits only a short boat ride from shore and gives Preko its postcard look. It is known for its Franciscan complex, quiet greenery, and calm atmosphere. This is a good stop for a short outing, a scenic photo break, or a gentle add-on to a beach day.
Hike or drive toward St Michael fortress
St Michael fortress is one of the main viewpoints on Ugljan. It stands above Preko and opens wide views over the Zadar archipelago.
This medieval fort is one of the best things to do on the island if you want more than beach time. The reward is the panorama. You can reach it on foot, by bike, or by car.
This stop suits:
couples who want a scenic outing
active travelers
photographers
anyone doing a one-day island itinerary
See the Roman ruins in Muline
Muline adds an older layer to the island story. It is known for Roman remains linked to the island’s long olive-oil tradition.
This stop works well if you want to break up a beach day. It also pairs naturally with nearby coves and quieter swimming spots.
Visit the Monastery of St Jerome
The Monastery of St Jerome in Ugljan village adds a more peaceful cultural stop. It stands by Mostir and is one of the island’s best-known heritage sights.
The complex dates to the 15th century and is also used for summer cultural events. This area feels calmer than Preko and suits travelers who want a slower base, easier beach time, and less movement.
Best beaches in Ugljan
Ugljan beaches are one of the main reasons to come. The island has a good mix of sandy, pebbly, and paved bathing spots. Some are central and easy. Others feel quieter and more hidden.
For families, focus on shallow and simple beaches like Jaz, Mostir, and Sabuša. For quieter swims, look toward Južna Luka and parts of the coast near Muline. If you are staying without a car, the easiest picks are the beaches close to Preko and Ugljan village.
Jaz beach Preko
Jaz beach is the best-known beach in Preko. It is a strong pick for families because of the shallow water and easy access.
It suits:
families with small children
day trippers from Zadar
travelers without a car
anyone who wants beach time close to cafés and services
If you want a simple no-stress beach day, start here.
Mostir beach Ugljan
Mostir beach in Ugljan village is one of the top family beaches on the island. It is a central sandy beach and easy to combine with a village stay.
This is a smart choice for travelers who want:
shallow water
a central location
a quieter base than Preko
easy beach access without driving much
Južna Luka beach Ugljan
Južna Luka near Muline is one of the better picks for a more natural beach setting. It feels more tucked away and less urban than the central village beaches.
It is a good option for travelers who prefer:
a quieter cove
a more relaxed beach mood
pine shade nearby
a beach stop away from the main ferry area
Kali beaches
Kali has several useful beach options, especially if you want a more local village feel. The village is known for fishing culture, and the coastline has a nice mix of everyday public beaches.
Good picks include:
Batalaža for a calm bay feel
Mul for easy village access
Tratica for easy public swimming
Mala Lamjana for a more spacious outing
Mala Lamjana stands out for families and drivers. It is one of the better beach choices if you want a little more room and a break from the busiest spots.
Kukljica beaches
Kukljica is often one of the best areas to stay on Ugljan if beach time is the priority. It sits at the southeastern end of the island and feels good for longer, slower days.
The best-known beach here is Sabuša. It is popular with families thanks to shallow water and a sandy bottom. Kukljica also gives you easy access to other coves in a greener setting.
Where to stay on Ugljan
Choosing the right village matters. Ugljan is not huge, but each base has a different feel.
For most first-time visitors, Preko is the easiest choice. Pick Kukljica for a more beach-led stay, Ugljan village for a calmer rhythm, and Kali for local character plus seafood focus.
Preko
Preko is the best base for most first-time visitors. It is the easiest choice if you are coming without a car.
Stay here if you want:
the easiest ferry logistics
walkable beach time
cafés and evening atmosphere
a day-trip-friendly base
Best Places to Stay in Preko
- 🔍Good Life
Review score & number of reviews: 9.8 · 79 reviews
Short description: Beachfront apartment stay in Preko with sea views and a more stylish, boutique-like feel. It offers a sun terrace, bar, hot tub, balcony, and free Wi-Fi, so it suits couples or small families who want a beach-first stay with a few extra comfort features.
Neighborhood / landmark: Near Preko Beach
Key facilities: Beachfront, hot tub, sun terrace, bar, balcony, free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: It has one of the highest visible review scores among well-reviewed stays in Preko. - 🔍DUNATOVI DVORI Heritage Hotel
Review score & number of reviews: 9.4 · 401 reviews
Short description: Heritage-style hotel in Preko, just steps from Preko Beach. It features a seasonal outdoor pool, garden, terrace, free Wi-Fi, free private parking, and a highly rated breakfast, making it a strong all-round choice for couples and travelers who prefer a polished hotel stay over an apartment.
Neighborhood / landmark: Preko Beach
Key facilities: Breakfast, seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, free Wi-Fi, garden, terrace
Why it stands out: It combines a very strong review score with one of the highest review counts in Preko. - 🔍Hotel Preko Ugljan Island, Curio Collection By Hilton
Review score & number of reviews: 9.3 · 185 reviews
Short description: Modern 4-star beachfront hotel in Preko with a more upscale, full-service feel than most island stays. It offers a restaurant, bar, garden, spa and wellness centre, indoor swimming pool, sauna, fitness room, and free Wi-Fi, so it is best for travelers who want hotel comforts and wellness facilities on Ugljan.
Neighborhood / landmark: Preko waterfront / beachfront
Key facilities: Restaurant, bar, garden, spa and wellness centre, indoor swimming pool, sauna, fitness room, free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: It is one of the clearest upscale hotel options in Preko for travelers who want more than a basic seaside apartment. - 🔍Vile Dalmacija
Review score & number of reviews: 9.3 · 342 reviews
Short description: Well-reviewed apartment-style stay in Preko, around 50 m from a sandy beach. It offers a seasonal outdoor pool, sea views, and free Wi-Fi, so it works especially well for families and couples who want a relaxed beach holiday with more space than a hotel room.
Neighborhood / landmark: Near the sandy beach
Key facilities: Seasonal outdoor pool, sea views, free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: It pairs a high review count with a beach-close setup and pool, which is a strong combination in Preko. - 🔍Studios Kranjcec
Review score & number of reviews: 9.3 · 163 reviews
Short description: Practical apartment stay in Preko, around 600 m from Jaz Beach. It offers balconies, garden or mountain views, free bikes, a garden, sun terrace, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, making it a good fit for travelers who want value, flexibility, and a quieter apartment base.
Neighborhood / landmark: Near Jaz Beach
Key facilities: Free bikes, garden, sun terrace, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: It offers one of the better value-for-review-count combinations among Preko apartments.
Ugljan village
Ugljan village is a better fit for travelers who want a calmer base. It has a slower rhythm and works well for beach days plus short local walks.
Stay here if you want:
a quieter village feel
easy access to Mostir beach
a more relaxed pace
a lower-key island stay
Best Places to Stay in Ugljan village
- 🔍Mobile Homes at Camping Ugljan Resort
Review score & number of reviews: 9.4 · 291 reviews
Short description: Beachfront-style mobile homes in Ugljan with a relaxed resort setup, seasonal outdoor pool, garden, terrace, and bar. This is a strong choice for families and longer summer stays that want more outdoor space than a standard apartment.
Neighborhood / landmark: Near Čeprljanda Beach and Ćinta Beach
Key facilities: Beachfront access, seasonal outdoor swimming pool, garden, terrace, bar, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: It has one of the biggest review counts in Ugljan village while still keeping a strong score. - 🔍Agava
Review score & number of reviews: 9.7 · 52 reviews
Short description: Beachfront apartment stay in Ugljan with sea views, terraces or balconies, garden space, and fully equipped kitchens. It suits couples and small families who want a quieter self-catering base with a more polished feel.
Neighborhood / landmark: Near Južna Luka Beach
Key facilities: Beachfront location, sea views, terrace, balcony, garden, family rooms, air conditioning, kitchen, barbecue, free private parking, free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: It combines a very high score with a solid review count for a small apartment stay in Ugljan. - 🔍Apartments KUS Ugljan
Review score & number of reviews: 9.6 · 49 reviews
Short description: Well-rated apartment stay close to the sea, with sea views, terrace or balcony, air conditioning, and fully equipped kitchens. It works best for couples and families who want a self-catering stay very close to the beach.
Neighborhood / landmark: Near Tratica Beach and Čeprljanda Beach
Key facilities: Beachfront or near-beach setting, sea views, terrace, balcony or patio, air conditioning, kitchen, free private parking, free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: It is one of the strongest apartment picks in Ugljan for travelers who want beach access plus dependable review volume. - 🔍Hotel Stari Dvor
Review score & number of reviews: 9.2 · 73 reviews
Short description: Small seaside hotel in Ugljan, about 50 m from the Adriatic and a small marina, with a restaurant, outdoor pool, and balconies with sea or park views. It is best for couples and travelers who prefer a classic hotel setup over an apartment.
Neighborhood / landmark: Near the Adriatic seafront and small marina
Key facilities: Restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, air-conditioned rooms, balcony, free parking
Why it stands out: It is one of the clearest hotel-style options in Ugljan village, with more services than most local apartment stays. - 🔍Apartmani Loli
Review score & number of reviews: 9.1 · 32 reviews
Short description: Comfortable apartment stay in Ugljan with a garden, sun terrace, kitchens, balconies, and family-friendly layouts. It suits families or longer stays that want walkable beach access and more home-style space.
Neighborhood / landmark: About a 5-minute walk from Ugljan Beach, with Mostir Beach and Tratica Beach also nearby
Key facilities: Free parking, free Wi-Fi, non-smoking rooms, family rooms, kitchen, garden, BBQ facilities, terrace, balcony, pet friendly
Why it stands out: It is a reliable self-catering option with good beach access and a stronger review base than many smaller Ugljan listings.
Kali
Kali suits travelers who like everyday local atmosphere. It feels more rooted in fishing life than classic tourism. That gives it character.
Stay in Kali if you want:
local food and seafood focus
useful public beaches
a lived-in village atmosphere
a base between Preko and Kukljica
Best Places to Stay in Kali
- 🔍Apartman KALI
Review score & number of reviews: 9.8 · 146 reviews
Short description: Well-reviewed apartment stay in Kali with a practical, comfortable setup and strong value for the score-to-review-count ratio. It offers city and garden views, a garden, patio, barbecue facilities, and free Wi-Fi, making it a good fit for couples, families, and longer self-catering stays.
Neighborhood / landmark: Near Batalaža Beach
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi, garden, patio or terrace, barbecue facilities, free private parking
Why it stands out: It combines one of the best scores in Kali with one of the strongest review counts. - 🔍Zadar Kali Booking Franov Residence on island Ugljan with the pool, BBQ and beautiful sea-view!
Review score & number of reviews: 9.5 · 121 reviews
Short description: Apartment-style stay in Kali with a pool-focused setup and elevated sea-view feel. It offers pool views, balconies or terraces, barbecue facilities, and a location close to both the centre and the beach, so it works especially well for couples and families who want a scenic base with outdoor amenities.
Neighborhood / landmark: About 500 m from central Kali and around 200 m from the nearest beach
Key facilities: Swimming pool, BBQ area, balcony, terrace, sea views, free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: It is one of the strongest higher-end apartment picks in Kali if views and pool time matter more than being right in the centre. - 🔍Apartments Amare
Review score & number of reviews: 10 · 42 reviews
Short description: Beachfront-style apartment stay in Kali with sea views and a more polished self-catering feel. It offers direct beachfront or near-beach access, terrace space, air conditioning, and fully equipped kitchens, making it a strong choice for couples and small families.
Neighborhood / landmark: Near Lamjana Beach
Key facilities: Beachfront or near-beach setting, sea views, terrace, patio or balcony, air conditioning, kitchen
Why it stands out: It has the only perfect visible score among the better-reviewed Kali stays with a meaningful number of reviews. - 🔍Villa Dinastija
Review score & number of reviews: 9.1 · 224 reviews
Short description: Established apartment-style stay in Kali with panoramic sea views and an outdoor pool. It offers furnished balconies or terraces, air-conditioned units, and free private parking, so it suits travelers who value proven popularity, views, and a pool over chasing the very highest score.
Neighborhood / landmark: About 200 m from the nearest beach
Key facilities: Outdoor swimming pool, panoramic sea views, furnished balcony or terrace, air conditioning, free private parking
Why it stands out: It has one of the largest review counts in Kali, which gives it strong social proof. - 🔍Hotel Kali
Review score & number of reviews: 9.8 · 15 reviews
Short description: Small upscale hotel in Kali, a short walk from Petra Dundova Beach, with a more full-service feel than most local apartments. It offers a seasonal outdoor pool, fitness centre, terrace, restaurant, sea views, and private parking, so it is best for travelers who prefer a hotel setup with on-site services.
Neighborhood / landmark: Near Petra Dundova Beach
Key facilities: Seasonal outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, terrace, restaurant, sea views, private parking
Why it stands out: It is the clearest hotel-style pick in Kali for travelers who want more than a standard apartment.
Kukljica
Kukljica is one of the best choices for beach-led holidays. It works well for families and couples who want a scenic base with swimming close by.
Stay here if you want:
beach time first
a slower multi-day stay
a greener setting
easy access toward Pašman side trips
Best Places to Stay in Kukljica
- 🔍Penthouse Apartments Dora Kukljica
Review score & number of reviews: 10 · 20 reviews
Short description: Recently renovated apartment stay in Kukljica, about 500 m from Zelena Punta Beach, with a polished modern feel. It offers a hot tub, spa facilities, air-conditioned accommodation, barbecue facilities, allergy-free rooms, and free Wi-Fi, so it suits couples and small families who want a more upgraded self-catering stay.
Neighborhood / landmark: Near Zelena Punta Beach
Key facilities: Hot tub, spa facilities, air conditioning, barbecue facilities, free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: It has one of the highest visible scores among Kukljica stays with a meaningful review base. - 🔍Apartments Nensi
Review score & number of reviews: 9.6 · 28 reviews
Short description: Beachfront apartment stay in Kukljica with sea views and an easy walk into town. It offers direct beach access, terrace or balcony space, air-conditioned units, and a hot tub, making it a strong pick for couples or families who want a sea-first base.
Neighborhood / landmark: Kukljica waterfront, about a 10-minute walk from Zelena Punta Beach
Key facilities: Beachfront setting, sea views, terrace or balcony, hot tub, air conditioning
Why it stands out: It is one of the clearest sea-view apartment options in Kukljica with strong current reviews. - 🔍Apartman Sipina 1
Review score & number of reviews: 10 · 23 reviews
Short description: Two-bedroom apartment in Kukljica with sea views and a home-style setup, around a 16-minute walk from V. Sabuša Beach and Zelena Punta Beach. It offers a garden, terrace, barbecue area, fully equipped kitchen, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and free private parking, so it works especially well for families or longer stays.
Neighborhood / landmark: Near V. Sabuša Beach and Zelena Punta Beach
Key facilities: Garden, terrace, barbecue facilities, fully equipped kitchen, free private parking, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning
Why it stands out: It pairs a perfect visible score with a larger review count than many ultra-high-rated Kukljica apartments. - 🔍Apartments Lonić
Review score & number of reviews: 8.9 · 57 reviews
Short description: Comfortable apartment stay in Ždrelašćica Bay on the southeast side of Ugljan, about 300 m from the bridge to Pašman. It offers a sun terrace, garden, free Wi-Fi, and a location close to the beach, centre, shops, and restaurants, so it suits families and couples who want practical logistics rather than a luxury setup.
Neighborhood / landmark: Ždrelašćica Bay, near the bridge toward Pašman
Key facilities: Sun terrace, garden, free Wi-Fi
Why it stands out: It has one of the strongest review counts among the better-rated apartment stays in Kukljica. - 🔍Zelena Punta Resort
Review score & number of reviews: 8.3 · 267 reviews
Short description: Resort-style apartment complex in Kukljica, surrounded by pine trees and about a 5-minute walk from the nearest rocky beach with sandy bays. It offers balconies, air conditioning, and a more activity-based setup with tennis, mini golf, and bike or kayak options, so it suits families and travelers who want an active seaside holiday rather than a boutique apartment.
Neighborhood / landmark: About 200 m from the beach and about 700 m from central Kukljica
Key facilities: Beach access, balcony, air conditioning, tennis, mini golf
Why it stands out: It has by far the biggest visible review count among Kukljica stays and offers the most classic resort setup.
Ugljan itinerary ideas
Ugljan Island itinerary for 1 day
If you only have one day, keep it simple. Do not try to see everything.
A smart one-day plan looks like this:
arrive in Preko from Zadar
coffee and short waterfront walk
beach time at Jaz or transfer to another nearby beach
quick visit to Galevac area
lunch in Preko or Kali
late afternoon viewpoint stop at St Michael fortress
return to Zadar in the evening
This gives you beach time, scenery, and a feel for the island.
Ugljan Island itinerary for 2 days
Two days gives you a much better rhythm. You can spread out the island and avoid rushing.
Day one:
base in Preko or Ugljan village
explore Preko and Galevac
swim at Jaz or Mostir
sunset viewpoint or easy village dinner
Day two:
head toward Kali and Kukljica
stop at Mala Lamjana or Sabuša
add Muline and Južna Luka if you want a quieter cove
continue across Ždrelac Bridge toward Pašman if you have a car
Check stays on Ugljan if you want enough time to enjoy the beaches without a rushed ferry return.
Ugljan with kids, couples, and budget travelers
Ugljan with kids
Ugljan works very well for families. The strongest points are easy ferry access, several shallow beaches, and villages where daily logistics stay simple.
Best family picks:
Preko for no-car convenience
Mostir for easy central swimming
Sabuša for family beach time
Mala Lamjana for a relaxed outing by car
Ugljan Island for couples
Couples usually do best with a slower base and a mix of beach and viewpoint time. Ugljan village and Kukljica are often the best fit.
Good couple-friendly ideas:
sunset at St Michael fortress
long evening walk by the sea
quiet swim away from the ferry zone
seafood dinner in a smaller village setting
Ugljan on a budget
Ugljan can be a smart budget choice. It is often easier to manage than a longer island transfer. You can also stay outside the most in-demand mainland spots.
Budget tips:
use the passenger ferry for a day trip
stay outside peak dates if possible
choose apartments over full-service stays
base yourself where you can walk to the beach
keep one day for village walks, not only paid outings
Food and local culture on Ugljan Island
Food on Ugljan leans into what the island already is. Expect seafood, simple grilled dishes, olive oil, and konoba-style meals.
Kali is especially tied to fishing identity. That makes it one of the best places to look for a more local meal. In summer, village events also bring out more of the island atmosphere.
Look for:
grilled fish
tuna and other blue fish dishes
olive oil
local wine
simple desserts and bakery stops in village centres
Final thoughts on Ugljan Island Croatia
Ugljan Island is not complicated. That is its strength.
It gives you beaches, villages, views, and easy logistics in one trip. You can visit for a day from Zadar. You can also stay longer and use it as a calm island base.
For first-timers and no-car trips, Preko is the easiest start. For quieter beach days, Ugljan village is a strong fit. For a more beach-led stay, Kukljica often works best. For local character and seafood, Kali adds something different.
If you want an island that feels real, practical, and easy to enjoy, Ugljan deserves a spot on your list.
FAQs
Is Ugljan Island worth visiting? Yes, especially if you want an easy island trip from Zadar. It combines beaches, village life, viewpoints, and simple ferry access.
How do you get to Ugljan from Zadar? You can take a passenger boat from central Zadar to Preko or a car ferry from Gaženica to Preko. Both are practical for short trips.
Can you visit Ugljan as a day trip from Zadar? Yes. Ugljan is one of the easiest island day trips from Zadar because the crossing is short and Preko is easy to use as a base.
What are the best beaches in Ugljan? Top picks include Jaz in Preko, Mostir in Ugljan village, Južna Luka near Muline, Sabuša in Kukljica, and Mala Lamjana near Kali.
Where should you stay on Ugljan Island? Preko is best for first-timers and no-car trips. Ugljan village suits quieter stays, while Kukljica is strong for beach-focused holidays.
Is Ugljan good for families with kids? Yes. Several beaches have shallow water, and the ferry access is simple. Preko, Mostir, and Sabuša are especially family-friendly.
Can you visit Ugljan without a car? Yes. Preko works well without a car, especially for day trips and short stays. For wider beach-hopping, a car can still be useful.
What is there to do in Preko? You can swim at Jaz beach, walk the waterfront, look across to Galevac, and head up toward St Michael fortress for island views.
How many days do you need on Ugljan Island? One day is enough for a first look. Two or three days is better if you want to enjoy different beaches and villages without rushing.
Can you combine Ugljan and Pašman in one trip? Yes. The islands are linked by the Ždrelac Bridge, so they combine very well if you are traveling by car or bike.
Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links. This means that we get a small commission from any purchase you make, at no additional cost to you!
