Rab Island in northern Croatia mixes soft sandy bays, family-friendly beaches, stone lanes, and easy holiday rhythms. It sits in the Kvarner Bay, between Krk and Pag. The island is compact, green, and sunny. Distances are short. Days can blend beach time, walks, and old town views without stress.
Use this guide to plan clear days on Rab Island. Choose your base, match the best beaches to your style, and decide whether to combine Rab with Krk or Pag.
Why Rab Island Feels Different
Many Croatian islands are rocky. Rab is famous for its sand. Around Lopar you find long sandy beaches with shallow water. Near Rab town you get pine forests and hidden coves. The island also has a striking medieval skyline with four bell towers.
Rab is a good choice if you want sandy family beaches, a walkable historic town with sea views, light hiking and cycling through shady forests, and simple transfers by ferry from the mainland or Krk. It suits couples, families, and relaxed road trips rather than high-energy nightlife.
Where to Stay on Rab Island
Rab Town: Historic Lanes and Easy Evenings
Rab town Croatia is the main settlement. It sits on a narrow peninsula, with sea on both sides. The old town has stone streets, churches, and the famous four bell towers. From the promenade you see the Kvarner Bay and the Velebit mountains.
Stay in Rab town if you want:
A car-free base with restaurants, bars, and a marina
Short walks to viewpoints and parks
Boat tours starting near your door
You will find small hotels, guesthouses, and many apartments. Palit, just north of the old town, works as an extension. From Palit you can walk into the medieval centre in 10–20 minutes.
Top Rated Stays in Rab town
- 🔍Arbiana Heritage Hotel — 9.4 (678 reviews)
Seafront heritage hotel inside Rab Old Town with Austro-Hungarian character, elegant rooms, and a pool. Best for couples and travellers who want historic charm and harbour views.
Neighborhood/landmark: Old Town waterfront, near the marina and the four bell towers.
Key facilities: outdoor pool, private parking (paid), Wi-Fi, restaurant, bar, family rooms, room service, excellent breakfast.
Why it stands out: prime Old Town location with refined historic style. - 🔍Imperial Heritage Hotel, Valamar Collection — 9.3 (269 reviews)
Grand hotel overlooking Rab’s Old Town, offering indoor and outdoor pools, full spa, and two restaurants with a gin and wine bar. Ideal for couples wanting wellness and comfort close to the centre.
Neighborhood/landmark: 5-minute walk from Rab centre, above the town park.
Key facilities: indoor and outdoor pools, spa, fitness centre, free parking, Wi-Fi, restaurants, bar, family rooms, excellent breakfast.
Why it stands out: best wellness choice near the centre with refined facilities. - 🔍Valamar Padova Hotel — 9.3 (368 reviews)
Modern, family-friendly seafront hotel in Prva Padova bay with multiple pools and a small sandy beach. Great for families and couples wanting resort comfort near Rab Town.
Neighborhood/landmark: Banjol / Prva Padova bay, a pleasant walk or short boat ride from the Old Town.
Key facilities: several pools, spa, beachfront location, family rooms, restaurants, bar, free parking, Wi-Fi, kids’ entertainment.
Why it stands out: top option for families with standout sea views and facilities. - 🔍Valamar Carolina Hotel & Villas — 9.2 (340 reviews)
Upscale hotel and villas set in a pine forest on Suha Punta peninsula, steps from a clear-water Blue Flag beach. Suits nature-lovers, couples, and guests seeking quiet coastal stays close to Rab Town.
Neighborhood/landmark: Suha Punta, about 5 km from Rab Town.
Key facilities: pools, beachfront access, spa, fitness centre, restaurants, bar, free parking, Wi-Fi.
Why it stands out: serene forest setting with excellent swimming spots. - 🔍M. DE DOMINISA 5 — 9.9 (38 reviews)
Large, stylish two-bedroom apartment with a spacious living room, full kitchen and balcony, a few minutes’ walk from Rab’s marina and Old Town streets. Guests highlight the elegant interior, harbour and Old Town views, and extremely helpful host. Best for couples or families wanting a premium, roomy base close to everything.
Neighborhood/landmark: Rab Old Town area, a short walk from the historic centre and Sveti Ivan Beach.
Key facilities: free parking (nearby), free Wi-Fi, fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher and washing machine, air conditioning, balcony/terrace, family rooms, non-smoking.
Why it stands out: one of the top-rated apartments in Rab Town, combining space, style and a prime location.
Lopar: Sandy Bays and Big Beach Days
Lopar Rab Island is the main sandy beach zone. It lies on the northern part of the island. The star is Paradise Beach, known locally as Rajska PlaĹľa. This long sandy arc has shallow water, lifeguards in summer, and full facilities.
Choose Lopar if you want:
Daily beach time without getting into a car
Gentle entry into the sea for children and older visitors
Large camping and resort-style options
Along the coast you will find more Lopar beach options. Some bays are family beaches with kiosks and pedal boats. Others are wilder coves reached by footpaths.
Top Rated Stays in Lopar
- 🔍San Marino Resort — 7.8 (1,498 reviews)
Large beachfront resort complex in Lopar, set along a long sandy stretch that includes the famous Paradise Beach. Rooms are simple but practical, with half-board dining, many sports facilities, and family-friendly entertainment. Best for families and groups who want an all-in-one holiday village right by the sand.
Neighborhood/landmark: holiday resort zone in Lopar, about 100 m from Paradise Beach (Rajska PlaĹľa).
Key facilities: beachfront, free parking, Wi-Fi in public areas, restaurant, bar, terrace, airport shuttle (paid), sports and tennis courts, entertainment, good buffet breakfast.
Why it stands out: classic Lopar choice directly behind Paradise Beach with a huge number of rooms and facilities for families. - 🔍Villa Forko — 9.5 (114 reviews)
Recently renovated homestay-villa a short walk from Rajska (Paradise) Beach, with modern apartments, a garden, and a relaxed terrace/bar area. Units come with full kitchens and comfy beds, plus a hot tub and sauna for unwinding after the beach. Best for couples, families, or small groups who want a stylish base close to the sea but away from big-resort crowds.
Neighborhood/landmark: central Lopar, about 350 m from the nearest beach and a few minutes’ walk from Rajska Beach.
Key facilities: free private parking, free Wi-Fi, terrace and balcony, hot tub, garden, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, air-conditioning, pet-friendly units.
Why it stands out: boutique-style villa with spa touches and an excellent location score near Paradise Beach. - 🔍Apartments Marina — 9.2 (102 reviews)
Well-kept 3-star apartments with sea views, balconies or terraces, and fully equipped kitchens, set in one of the best-rated parts of Lopar. Guests appreciate the cleanliness, friendly host, and easy access to Lopar’s sandy bays. Best for couples and families who like self-catering and want space plus a homely feel.
Neighborhood/landmark: Lopar 129, walking distance to Lopar Beach (around 14 minutes) and a short drive or longer walk to Crikvena and Tiha beaches.
Key facilities: apartments with kitchen, balcony or terrace, BBQ facilities, washing machine, free private parking, free Wi-Fi, family rooms, non-smoking.
Why it stands out: highly rated self-catering base with strong Wi-Fi, cleanliness, and value-for-money scores. - 🔍Apartmani Rajka Paparić — 9.8 (11 reviews)
Recently renovated apartments in a quiet street just a short stroll from Rajska Beach, with modern interiors, parquet floors, and well-equipped kitchens. The small complex feels personal and calm, ideal for families or couples who like a residential vibe close to the sand.
Neighborhood/landmark: Lopar 466, a short walk to Paradise Beach and convenient for LivaÄŤina and Lopar beaches.
Key facilities: apartments with kitchen, garden and terrace, washing machine, balcony, free private parking, free Wi-Fi, family rooms, air-conditioning.
Why it stands out: near-perfect review score with a 10.0 location rating in one of the best streets behind Paradise Beach. - 🔍Apartments Ljubica J — 9.3 (50 reviews)
Friendly apartment house with simple but very clean units, terraces, and garden views, only a few minutes’ walk from Rajska Beach. Kitchens are well equipped and the hosts are praised for their warmth and small touches. Best for couples and small families who want a peaceful, walk-to-beach base.
Neighborhood/landmark: Lopar, around 6 minutes on foot to Rajska Beach, near Lopar’s marina and beachside restaurants.
Key facilities: apartments with kitchenette, terrace, BBQ facilities, pets allowed, free private parking on site, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, private bathrooms.
Why it stands out: top-rated location just behind Paradise Beach, with a homely feel and excellent cleanliness scores.
Barbat and Palit: Easy Access and Waterfront Stays
Barbat Rab stretches along the road from the ferry port towards the town. The area has small pebble beaches, boat ramps, and seafront apartments. It works well if you arrive with a car or a boat.
Palit, above Rab town, gives you easy access to shops, bakeries, and the harbour. Paths lead through KomrÄŤar park to shaded coves and small beaches. Palit is handy if you want a quieter stay but still walk into the old town.
Top Rated Stays in Barbat and Palit
- 🔍Martina — 9.9 (25 reviews)
New, modern apartments in Barbat, a short walk from Barbat Vela Riva Beach. Units are bright and fully equipped, with large sea-view terraces and contemporary interiors. Great for couples or small families wanting a quiet base close to the beach.
Neighborhood/landmark: Barbat 455, near Barbat Vela Riva Beach.
Key facilities: free parking, free Wi-Fi, kitchen, sea view, terrace/balcony, air conditioning, washing machine, pets allowed.
Why it stands out: exceptionally clean, newly built apartments with excellent host ratings. - 🔍Apartments Stengl — 9.6 (76 reviews)
A 4-star apartment complex in Barbat with a pool, hot tub and garden, just steps from Barbat Vela Riva Beach. Units are fully equipped for longer stays, with several layouts and sea-view options. Ideal for families and couples wanting comfort close to the beach.
Neighborhood/landmark: Barbat 407, next to Barbat Vela Riva Beach.
Key facilities: outdoor pool, hot tub, free parking, free Wi-Fi, restaurant, bar, BBQ area, family rooms.
Why it stands out: a small “mini-resort” feel with pool and jacuzzi right by the sea. - 🔍Apartments Villa Olga — 9.0 (57 reviews)
Relaxed apartment villa with a large outdoor pool and sea-view terraces, about five minutes from Barbat Vela Riva Beach. Units include full kitchens, balconies and plenty of space—good for families and groups.
Neighborhood/landmark: Barbat 282, quiet residential area between Rab Town and Mišnjak ferry road.
Key facilities: outdoor pool, free parking, free Wi-Fi, sea view, garden, BBQ, terraces, family rooms.
Why it stands out: spacious units with a big pool and strong location score. - 🔍Apartmani Neda — 10.0 (5 reviews)
Small, family-run house in Palit with one-bedroom apartments and sea-view balconies. Units are modern and bright, with kitchenettes and comfortable living areas—ideal for couples or small families wanting a quiet base near the water.
Neighborhood/landmark: Palit 195, above the bay, walking distance to the seafront and Rab Old Town side.
Key facilities: kitchen, sea view, garden, terrace, balcony, free Wi-Fi, free private parking, air conditioning, non-smoking rooms.
Why it stands out: perfect 10.0 score, with guests praising sea views, peaceful setting and exceptionally kind hosts. - 🔍Blue Arb Apartment Rab — 10.0 (14 reviews)
Large, design-led two-bedroom apartment with stylish décor and plenty of space. The living area opens to a balcony and garden terrace with seating and BBQ, and the fully equipped kitchen makes it ideal for longer stays and families.
Neighborhood/landmark: Palit 235, a short walk from the coastal path leading to Rab’s historic centre and beaches.
Key facilities: approx. 130 m² apartment, kitchen, garden, BBQ facilities, washing machine, terrace, balcony, free Wi-Fi, free private parking, family rooms, non-smoking.
Why it stands out: super-spacious, beautifully decorated apartment with flawless guest scores and a top location rating.
Kampor and Supetarska Draga: Quiet Bays and Green Hills
Kampor lies near the western Kalifront peninsula. It feels more rural. Expect a mix of village life, apartments, and quiet beaches. Supetarska Draga Rab curves around a deep bay with marinas and moorings.
These areas suit:
Travellers who value peace over nightlife
Boaters and sailors looking for moorings
Longer stays with space for bikes and gear
You will need a car or bike to reach most beaches and the town.
Top Rated Stays in Kampor and Supetarska Draga
- 🔍Zlatni Zalaz, Apartments, Supetarska Draga — 9.7 (200 reviews)
Beachfront aparthotel in Supetarska Draga bay, a short walk from Kozica Beach and a quick drive to Paradise Beach and Livacina. Stylish rooms, studios, and apartments come with kitchen or kitchenette, air-conditioning, and many have sea-view terraces. Ideal for couples and families who want a relaxed, stay-put base with sunset views.
Neighborhood/landmark: Supetarska Draga bay, near Kozica Beach.
Key facilities: outdoor pool, beachfront, free parking, Wi-Fi, restaurant, bar, family rooms, airport shuttle, excellent breakfast.
Why it stands out: one of the highest-rated stays on Rab Island with resort comfort and big sea views. - 🔍Apartment Nana — 9.6 (40 reviews)
Spacious two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment overlooking Supetarska Draga bay, with a full kitchen, big terrace, and garden with BBQ. Good for families or two couples who want extra space and a quiet location near the sea.
Neighborhood/landmark: Supetarska Draga, walking distance to Dumići Beach.
Key facilities: garden, terrace and balcony, kitchen, BBQ, Wi-Fi, free parking, playground.
Why it stands out: large, well-equipped home-style apartment with excellent cleanliness and Wi-Fi ratings. - 🔍Apartmani Nada & Darko, Kampor, Rab, Hrvatska — 9.1 (37 reviews)
Apartment complex in 150 Kampor with garden and pool views. Units are spacious with well-equipped kitchens, private bathrooms, and terraces. Best for families and groups who want multiple units and on-site leisure.
Neighborhood/landmark: Kampor district, a short drive from Matovica Beach and Gavranišće/Gožinka beaches.
Key facilities: kitchen, air conditioning, washing machine, terrace, indoor and outdoor pools, free Wi-Fi, free private parking.
Why it stands out: full apartment complex with pools and large family-friendly layouts. - 🔍Apartments Villa Subic — 9.0 (46 reviews)
Four-star apartment villa at 293 Kampor with modern units and a relaxed pool area. Apartments include full kitchens, dining spaces and balconies—great for longer stays. Ideal for families and couples wanting a villa-with-pool setup.
Neighborhood/landmark: Kampor district, about 7 minutes’ walk from Mel Beach.
Key facilities: kitchen, outdoor pool, garden, BBQ, washing machine, free Wi-Fi, balcony, free private parking, air conditioning.
Why it stands out: polished apartments with a pool and garden close to Mel Beach. - 🔍Apartment Eufemija-Rab — 9.4 (22 reviews)
Large two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment at 124 Kampor with a home-style layout. Includes a full kitchen, balcony and garden access—ideal for families or two couples.
Neighborhood/landmark: Kampor district, about 2 km from Matovica Beach.
Key facilities: full apartment, kitchen, garden, terrace, balcony, pets allowed, free Wi-Fi, free private parking.
Why it stands out: very spacious private apartment with excellent value scores.
Camping and Beach Resorts
Camping and beach resorts are a major part of where to stay on Rab Island Croatia.
Rab camping is a big part of the island’s offer. Large campsites near Lopar and in the bays around Rab mix pitches, mobile homes, and glamping units.
San Marino Camping Resort in Lopar sits behind Paradise Beach. It is ideal for families who want everything on foot. Padova Premium Camping Resort Rab offers sea views across to Rab old town and easy boat access.
Smaller camps and simple plots appear along the coast near Barbat and Kampor. These suit road trips and guests who travel with their own equipment.
Top Rated Stays in Camping and Beach Resorts
- 🔍Valamar Camping San Marino — 8.6 (288 reviews)
Beachfront camping resort set directly on the long sandy Paradise Beach in Lopar. Modern mobile homes offer furnished terraces, full kitchens and two bathrooms, creating an easy self-contained stay. Best for families, beach lovers and active travellers who want a full holiday complex with dining and sports on-site.
Neighborhood/landmark: Lopar, right on Paradise Beach (Rajska plaĹľa).
Key facilities: beachfront, free parking, Wi-Fi, restaurants, bar, kids’ club, sports centre, breakfast buffet.
Why it stands out: the classic Rab Island camping choice on its most famous sandy beach. - 🔍Valamar Camping Padova — 8.5 (122 reviews)
Beachfront camping resort in Banjol, across the bay from Rab Town. Mobile homes sit under pines along a sandy beach, with a grocery store, restaurant and children’s playground inside the camp. Ideal for those wanting a camping vibe with quick access to Rab’s old town.
Neighborhood/landmark: Banjol / Padova Bay, about 20 minutes’ walk from Rab Old Town.
Key facilities: beachfront, pool, kitchens in units, sea views, garden, pet-friendly, free Wi-Fi, free parking, family-friendly setting.
Why it stands out: best option for a sandy beach campsite close to Rab’s historic centre. - 🔍Lando Resort — 8.9 (238 reviews)
Stylish beachfront resort in Kampor with two outdoor pools, modern air-conditioned apartments and spacious sea-view terraces. Each unit includes a kitchen and two bathrooms, making it great for families and small groups.
Neighborhood/landmark: Kampor Bay, a short drive from Rab Town.
Key facilities: two outdoor pools, beachfront access, free parking, free Wi-Fi, kitchens, BBQ area, garden, terraces.
Why it stands out: combines apartment comfort with resort-style pools and beach access. - 🔍Guesthouse Raffaello — 9.4 (105 reviews)
Family-run beachfront guesthouse in Kampor with a sea-view pool, private beach area and a lush garden. Rooms and apartments have balconies, air-conditioning and modern bathrooms; the on-site restaurant serves Croatian dishes in a relaxed setting.
Neighborhood/landmark: Kampor waterfront, near Mel Beach.
Key facilities: outdoor pool, private beach area, restaurant, bar, breakfast, free parking, fast Wi-Fi, playground, hot tub, games room.
Why it stands out: a compact mini-resort that blends comfort, dining and beach access. - 🔍Luxury Suites Bellevue — 9.4 (138 reviews)
Elegant hilltop property in Lopar with a pool, sun terrace and on-site restaurant, set a short walk above Paradise Beach. Rooms and suites are bright and modern, many with sea-view balconies—ideal for couples and families wanting hotel-style comfort near the sand.
Neighborhood/landmark: Lopar, a few minutes’ walk above Paradise Beach.
Key facilities: outdoor pool, spa and wellness access, free parking, free Wi-Fi, family rooms, restaurant, bar, terrace.
Why it stands out: pool-and-comfort stay near one of Croatia’s best family beaches.
Best Beaches on Rab Island
Rab Island beaches range from long sandy bays and quiet family coves to rocky snorkelling spots and historic naturist strands, so it is easy to match a beach to your style.
Paradise Beach and the Sandy Bays of Lopar
Paradise Beach Rab is the best-known sandy beach on the island. It is long, wide, and shallow. Families can wade far out before the water gets deep. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas. There are cafés, showers, and sports zones.
Close by you find more sandy beaches. LivaÄŤina is a lively option with bars and music. Other Lopar beach favourites such as Sahara, Ciganka, and Stolac feel more natural. Some are clothing-optional. Access can involve short walks through low vegetation.
Lopar is the core if you want sandy beaches Rab Island style. It is easy to spend several days just moving from bay to bay.
Kalifront Peninsula, Suha Punta, and Forest Coves
On the western side of the island, the Kalifront peninsula feels wild and green. The Dundo forest covers much of the area. Holm oaks and pines give shade even on hot days.
Suha Punta offers rocky and pebble beaches with clear water. Small platforms and coves make it easy to enter the sea. These spots suit swimmers, snorkelers, and guests who prefer deeper water.
Paths lead through the forest to a string of small bays. Here you often find a mix of rocks, shingle, and short sandy sections. Bring water and simple shoes. Many visitors come by bike from Rab town or Kampor.
Other Beaches and Sunset Spots
Barbat has several short beaches with views towards Pag. Pudarica Beach, further south, is a favourite for sunsets. From here you see the open sea and the silhouette of the mountains.
Around Supetarska Draga and Kampor you find family beaches with gentle entry. The atmosphere is quiet and local. In peak season you still feel removed from the buzz of the main resorts.
Nudist Beaches on Rab Island
Rab has a long naturist history. Kandarola beach, sometimes called English Beach, is one of the oldest nudist beaches in the Adriatic. You reach it by boat from Rab town or by paths through the peninsula.
Several sandy coves near Lopar also have nudist sections. Rules can change, so check current guidance before you go. Always follow local signs and respect other visitors’ privacy.
Things to Do on Rab Island Beyond the Beach
Explore Rab Old Town and the Four Bell Towers
Rab old town is small but full of detail. Three parallel streets run along the peninsula. Stepped lanes link them. You move between churches, stone houses, and open squares.
The skyline is marked by the four bell towers. They belong to the cathedral of St Mary, St John, St Andrew, and the Church of St Justine. You can climb some towers in season for wide views.
Plan time to:
Walk the length of the old town at sunset
Climb at least one tower for photos
Visit the small museums and churches
Sit on the seafront promenade with an ice cream or drink
At night, lights reflect on the water and the harbour feels calm.
Walk, Hike, and Cycle Through Forest and Hills
Rab island hiking is gentle but rewarding. A popular goal is Kamenjak, the highest point on the island. From here you see the Kvarner Bay and the Velebit range on the mainland.
The Kalifront peninsula and Dundo forest are ideal for easy walks and bike rides. Trails are mostly unpaved but not too steep. You can combine a loop through the woods with a swim in one of the bays.
Rab island cycling works well in cooler months and early mornings in summer. The main road can be busy, so many cyclists prefer forest routes and side roads.
Boat Trips and Day Trips from Rab
Several boat tours run from Rab town and Lopar. Common themes include:
Coastal cruises with swimming stops
Trips to Goli Otok, a stark island once used as a prison
Excursions to neighbouring islands in the Kvarner Bay
A Goli Otok boat trip from Rab brings stark views and recent history. Check the style of tour before booking. Some focus on history, others on swimming and views.
Rab island snorkeling and diving are best around rocky coves and headlands. The water is clear and calm on most summer days. Local centres offer guided dives and equipment rental.
Taste Rab Cake and Local Food
Rab cake, or rapska torta, is the island’s signature dessert. It is a spiral of almond, citrus, and fragrant dough. The recipe dates back centuries and was once served only to bishops and nobles.
Today you can buy Rab cake in many bakeries and souvenir shops. Some places run short tastings or workshops. It travels well, so it also makes a good gift.
Rab restaurants serve a mix of seafood, grilled meat, and pasta. Look for simple konobas with daily fish, squid, or lamb. In the old town, terraces overlook the marina or the sea.
Rab bars cluster around the harbour and promenade. The scene is relaxed. Expect cocktails, local wine, and long summer evenings rather than loud clubs. Rab nightlife is more about seaside walks and drinks than big parties.
Events and Festivals on Rab Island
The highlight of the events calendar is Rabska Fjera, held every year from 25 to 27 July. This Rab medieval festival transforms the old town into a stage. Locals dress in costumes, show old crafts, and join parades.
Rab knight games include traditional crossbow contests and displays. Stalls sell local food and souvenirs. The atmosphere is busy but friendly. If you visit then, book stays early.
Beyond Rabska Fjera, smaller events appear in summer. Think open-air concerts, fishermen’s nights, and local fairs. Check the programme once your dates are fixed.
How to Get to Rab Island and Move Around
Rab is easy to reach from the Croatian mainland and from Krk.
The Stinica–Mišnjak ferry links the mainland to Rab all year. The crossing takes around 15 minutes.
The Valbiska–Lopar ferry connects Krk and Rab. It is useful for a Rab and Krk island itinerary.
If you come from Rijeka or other northern cities, you can drive down the coast road to the ferry port. Buses also connect Rijeka with Rab via the ferry.
Once on the island:
The main road runs from Mišnjak to Rab town, then to Lopar
Local buses link the main villages and beaches
Taxis and boat taxis fill gaps for late returns from beaches or events
A car is helpful if you want to explore many bays and villages. Without a car, base in Rab town, Palit, or Lopar and use buses and boats.
Rab Island Weather and the Best Time to Visit
Rab has a mild Mediterranean climate. Summers are warm and sunny. Winters are cooler but still gentle compared with inland areas.
Summer days often sit in the mid-to-high 20s Celsius. The sea warms enough for long swims. Breezes bring relief in the afternoon.
June and September are ideal for balanced trips
July and August bring peak heat and the fullest programme of events
Spring and autumn suit walkers and cyclists who do not need daily swims
Rab island in June offers long days, warm water, and fewer crowds. Rab island in September feels calmer, with warm sea and softer light.
Simple Rab Island Itineraries
For a short break, focus on Rab town and nearby coves. With four or five days you can add Lopar’s sandy bays and the Kalifront forest. For a full week, combine Rab with another Kvarner island such as Krk or Pag.
Long Weekend: Rab Town and Nearby Coves
Day 1: Arrive, settle in Rab town, sunset walk under the four bell towers
Day 2: Explore the old town, climb a tower, swim in KomrÄŤar park coves
Day 3: Boat trip with swimming stops, evening drinks on the promenade
This suits couples and short breaks without a car.
One Week: Rab Plus Another Kvarner Island
For a week, combine Rab and Krk or Pag.
Rab and Krk island itinerary
3–4 nights on Rab (Rab town or Lopar)
Ferry from Lopar to Valbiska on Krk
3–4 nights on Krk in Baška, Krk town, or Malinska
Rab and Pag island itinerary
3–4 nights on Rab for sandy and forest beaches
Drive or bus via the mainland and bridge to Pag
3–4 nights on Pag for long open bays and lunar landscapes
These loops work well for road trips and island-hopping holidays.
Is Rab Island Right for You?
Choose Rab if you like:
Sandy beaches, shallow water, and child-friendly swimming
A compact medieval town instead of a big resort strip
Forest walks, gentle hikes, and easy bike rides
Evenings with views and drinks rather than loud clubs
Pick another island if you want big city nightlife or very long hikes. For most travellers, Rab is a soft and happy base with enough variety for a week.
FAQs
Is Rab Island worth visiting?
Yes. Rab combines sandy beaches, a pretty old town, and green peninsulas. The mix of easy swims, walks, and simple food suits many visitors.
Are there sandy beaches on Rab Island?
Yes. Lopar and Paradise Beach are famous for soft sand and shallow water. Several other sandy coves sit nearby. A few smaller sandy spots also appear around the island.
Do I need a car on Rab Island?
A car is useful but not essential. Without one, base in Rab town, Palit, or Lopar. You can then use buses, taxis, and boats to reach beaches and trails.
Is Rab good for families?
Rab is excellent for families. Sandy family beaches Rab Island style, calm water, and short driving times keep days simple. Many camps and resorts have playgrounds and kid-friendly services.
Are there nudist beaches on Rab?
Yes. Kandarola and some Lopar bays have naturist sections. Always follow current local rules and signage.
What is the best time to visit Rab?
June and September balance warm sea and smaller crowds. July and August are ideal if you want hot weather, busy beaches, and the full events calendar.
Plan Your Rab Island Holiday
Pick your base first. Decide between Rab town lanes, Lopar’s sandy bays, or a quiet village by the forest. Choose one or two hero experiences, such as a Goli Otok boat trip, a Kamenjak hike, or a Rabska Fjera night. Keep time free for slow swims and simple meals.
With a clear plan, Rab Island becomes an easy, happy place to unwind and explore at your own pace.
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!
