Tucked into the heart of Croatia’s Zadar County, Island Pašman offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by crystal-clear waters, Mediterranean forests, and traditional Dalmatian charm. Known for having some of the cleanest sea in the Adriatic and a laid-back vibe, Pašman is ideal for nature lovers, beachgoers, and active travelers alike.
Top Reasons to Visit Island Pašman
Island Pašman, Croatia stands out for:
Pristine beaches
Affordable, family-friendly accommodation
A relaxed atmosphere even during peak summer
Unique events like the Škraping race in Tkon
Convenient access via ferry or bridge from the mainland
Whether hiking pine-covered hills or paddling through the turquoise Pašman Channel, the island offers a serene escape from the everyday.
Getting to Island Pašman from Zadar
By Ferry
Ferry Biograd ↔ Tkon: A 20-minute ride operated several times daily by Jadrolinija. Suitable for passengers with or without vehicles.
Ferry Zadar (Gaženica) ↔ Preko (Ugljan) + Drive over Ždrelac Bridge: A scenic alternative with easy onward travel to Pašman.
Reservations are generally not required for foot passengers.
Best Pašman Beaches
Matlovac Beach (Ždrelac)
Shallow waters, pine shade, and family-friendly amenities.
Barotul & Mrljane Beaches
Sandy seabeds and volleyball courts, ideal for families and groups.
Tratica & Lučina Coves
Quiet and perfect for paddleboarding and snorkeling.
Southern Wild Beaches
Accessible only by kayak or boat—rugged, undeveloped, and peaceful.
Activities on Pašman Island
Ugljan-Pašman Cycling Route
A 46 km trail linking the two islands via the Ždrelac Bridge. It passes fishing villages, olive groves, and offers scenic viewpoints.
Veliki Bokolj Hike
The highest peak at 274 m provides panoramic views of Kornati National Park, Lake Vrana, and the Velebit Mountains.
Galešnjak Island Tour
Visit the iconic heart-shaped island nearby via local boat operators.
Scuba Diving the Pašman Channel
High visibility and unique underwater features attract divers from across the region.
Cultural and Historical Highlights
Benedictine Monastery Ćokovac
Dating to 1059, it is the only active Benedictine monastery for men in Croatia and sits above Tkon.
Franciscan Monastery of St. Domnius (Kraj)
Built in 1392, featuring peaceful gardens and historic architecture.
Annual Events and Festivals
Škraping Race
Held each March in Tkon, this trekking event includes courses from 6 km to 45 km. The Island Products Fair takes place alongside the race.
Archipelago Trail Run
In October, a multi-stage trail run spans Pašman, Ugljan, and Dugi Otok.
Summer Cultural Events
The island hosts klapa music, seafood festivals, and beach games like picigin throughout the warmer months.
Where to Stay on Island Pašman
Top-rated stays in Tkon
1. 🔍Vila Rosa – ★ 10/10
Modern two-bedroom apartments with a shared pool, hot tub, and sea-view terraces. Guests highlight the peaceful setting, immaculate cleanliness, and welcoming hosts. Pet-friendly.
2. 🔍Apartments with Parking, Kraj (8502) – ★ 10/10
Comfortable, air-conditioned apartments near Tratica Beach. Each unit features a kitchen, balcony, and private parking. Ideal for travelers with cars exploring the island.
3. 🔍Amazing Sea View – Insel Pašman – ★ 9.8/10
One-bedroom apartment with a stunning balcony overlooking the sea and Biograd na Moru. Includes a full kitchen and warm hospitality with local produce as a welcome gift.
4. 🔍Sea House – ★ 9.8/10
Three-bedroom villa with large terraces and sea views. Close to the beach, known for cleanliness, affordability, and friendly multilingual hosts.
5. 🔍Holiday Home Marica – ★ 9.6/10
Charming two-bedroom stone house on the waterfront. Features include a furnished terrace, BBQ area, and walking distance to the ferry, shops, and restaurants.
Top-rated stays in Pašman Town, Mrljane & Barotul
1. 🔍Apartmani Natalija – Mrljane – ★ 9.7/10
Modern beachfront apartments just steps from a sandy beach. Each unit includes a sea-view balcony, full kitchen, and secure garage parking. Great for families with children. Guests praise the cleanliness and helpful host.
2. 🔍Villa Barotul – Barotul – ★ 9.5/10
Spacious three-bedroom villa with a private pool, garden, and panoramic sea views. Located in a quiet bay, only an 8-minute walk from the beach. Fully equipped kitchen and ideal for groups or families.
3. 🔍Apartment Roko – Barotul – ★ 9.8/10
Two-bedroom apartment just 10 meters from a shallow sandy beach. Features a large sea-view terrace, full kitchen with dishwasher, washing machine, and private parking. Warm and welcoming hosts.
4. 🔍Villa Naledi – Pašman Town – ★ 9.4/10
Stylish apartment with a shared pool and balcony overlooking the sea. Recently renovated, with modern décor and peaceful surroundings. Guests highlight the comfort and attentive management.
5. 🔍Apartmani Chiara – Mrljane – ★ 9.4/10
Comfortable one-bedroom apartment with a spacious sea-view terrace. Quiet location close to the beach and shops. Includes secure bike storage and friendly, highly-rated hosts.
Top-rated stays in Ždrelac
1. 🔍Apartment L&N – ★ 9.9/10
Modern two-bedroom apartment with a spacious sea-view balcony. Located right by the beach and a short walk to Mali Ždrelac Beach. Guests praise the new furnishings and welcoming hosts.
2. 🔍Apartmani Jelenić – ★ 9.6/10
One-bedroom apartment with panoramic sea views, a full kitchen, washing machine, and BBQ terrace. Just 8 minutes on foot to Matlovac Beach. Peaceful setting and ideal sunrise views.
3. 🔍Guesthouse Vila Ruzmarin – ★ 9.5/10
Cozy guesthouse surrounded by Mediterranean gardens. Features outdoor kitchens, friendly hosts, and homemade wine evenings. Walking distance to beaches, cafés, and shops.
4. 🔍Apartmani Pilon – ★ 9.4/10
Comfortable one-bedroom apartments just 20 meters from the sea. Each has a balcony, air-conditioning, and a well-equipped kitchenette. Peaceful area and bike-friendly hosts.
5. 🔍Sunset Apartmani – ★ 9.4/10
Modern studios near the shore, featuring large furnished terraces, sound insulation, and fast Wi-Fi. Guests love the cleanliness and hospitality.
What to Eat and Buy Locally
OPG Matulić (Pašman Village)
Known for quality olive oil, handmade cosmetics, and the award-winning “Pašmanero” hot sauce.
Dalmatian Cuisine
Sample dishes like grilled calamari, black risotto, and locally made rakija in authentic taverns.
Travel Tips
Ideal Visit Time: May–June or September for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
Connectivity: Reliable 4G; Wi-Fi available in most rentals and cafes
ATMs: Located in Tkon and Pašman Village
Getting Around: Rent a bike or car for the best flexibility; buses run but are infrequent
Visitor Information
Connection to Mainland: Pašman connects to Ugljan via the Ždrelac Bridge; Ugljan connects to Zadar by ferry.
Ferry Duration: Biograd to Tkon takes approximately 20 minutes.
Tour Options: Short boat trips to Galešnjak are offered from local harbors.
About Škraping: A springtime adventure race involving coastal trekking and scrambling.
Grocery Shopping: Small markets are in most towns; larger purchases are best made in Biograd.
FAQs about Island Pašman
Is Pašman connected to the mainland? Not directly. It’s linked to Ugljan by the Ždrelac Bridge, and Ugljan is connected to Zadar via ferry.
How long is the ferry from Biograd to Tkon? About 20 minutes.
Can I visit Galešnjak from Pašman? Yes, boat tours leave from Tkon and neighboring towns.
What is Škraping? A unique trekking race held annually in March. It combines trail running with cliff scrambling.
Are there supermarkets on the island? Yes, small grocery shops are available in major towns. For larger items, visit Biograd before boarding the ferry.
Plan Your Trip
With its clean seas, scenic landscapes, and welcoming local culture, Island Pašman in Zadar County is a peaceful escape perfect for travelers in search of authenticity and outdoor adventure.
Booking ahead is recommended, especially during major events or peak summer.
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