6 Best Islands Near Dubrovnik (Plus Stunning Coastal Spots)
Think Dubrovnik is stunning? Wait until you hop on a boat and explore the islands just beyond its walls!
When it comes to seaside beauty, Dubrovnik seriously delivers. Sure, we’ve been to other medieval walled cities but none really compare to Dubrovnik.
With the crystal-clear waters that surround the city, beaches for lounging, and restaurants with amazing views, it’s the perfect place to soak up the Adriatic atmosphere.
But Croatia isn’t just about Dubrovnik and if you want the full Croatia experience, consider visiting some of the islands near Dubrovnik.
We made time for them, and honestly, we’re so glad we did. It was a whole other side of Croatia, not better, just different, you know?
If you’re planning a trip to Dubrovnik and want to visit some of the nearby islands, we’re going to tell you the best options, how to get to them and things to do once you get there!
Long Story Short
- 🏝️ Closest island: Lokrum Island – just 10 minutes by ferry, perfect for a half-day trip with swimming spots and the famous botanical gardens.
- 🌞 Best beaches: Lopud Island & Koločep Island – known for sandy coves, turquoise bays, and car-free relaxation.
- 🌿 Top for nature lovers: Mljet National Park – hike, kayak, and explore saltwater lakes on Croatia’s greenest island.
- 🏰 Cultural charm: Korčula & Šipan – discover medieval streets, vineyards, and laid-back village life.
- 🌅 Bonus coastal gems: Cavtat & Trsteno Arboretum – serene seaside towns just outside Dubrovnik’s Old Town bustle.
Pro Tip: Base yourself in Dubrovnik and explore these islands on easy day trips or short overnight stays
Top Island Destinations Near Dubrovnik
A great way to enjoy the islands is to use Dubrovnik as a base for day trips. With the convenient and frequent ferry service and multiple tour options, getting to the islands is easy.
Whether you’re looking for a quick half-day trip or a full-day island-hopping experience, there’s an option for everyone.
1. Lokrum (Closest + Easiest Day Trip)
Lokrum is by-far the easiest island to get to from Dubrovnik. A passenger ferry runs regularly from Dubrovnik’s Old Port to Lokrum during summer.
The ride takes about 10-15 minutes, and tickets can be purchased on-site near the harbor. Pricing is around 30 EUR per adult round-trip and children 5 to 18 are around 5 EUR. This includes admission to the nature reserve.
There’s more to see on this car-free island than you might expect and while many visitors only stay for a few hours, it’s easy to fill an entire day here.
Top Things to do on Lokrum
Lokrum is a perfect escape from Dubrovnik’s busy Old Town especially if you’re visiting during the peak summer months. It’s ideal for hikers, nature enthusiasts, photographers and, of course, Game of Thrones fans!
2. Lopud (Sandy Beach Lovers Rejoice)
Ferries to Lopud depart several times a day from Gruž Port, taking around 55 minutes. Private water taxis are also available for day trips.
Lopud is one of the 13 islands that make up the Elafiti Islands, a small archipelago just off the coast of Dubrovnik.
Their close proximity to Dubrovnik makes these islands ideal day trips either together or individually.
You can easily spend a half-day or longer on Lopud, especially if you plan to get in some beach time. Lopud can also be combined with Koločep and Šipan into a full-day island-hopping experience.
Top Things to do on Lopud
Lopud is ideal for travelers looking to slow down and soak up the sun.
Its car-free streets and laid-back atmosphere make it a great fit for couples, families, and anyone craving a relaxing escape from Dubrovnik’s crowds.
3. Koločep (Kalamota) (Laid-Back & Lush)
Koločep is another popular island in the Elafiti archipelago. It’s the closest to Dubrovnik of the three Elafiti Islands on this list. It can be reached within 30 minutes by ferry.
Koločep is a treasure trove of hidden gems. From quiet coves to quaint seaside villages, you’ll feel a world away from the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik on this car-free island.
Top Things to do on Koločep
It’s a perfect destination for hikers, nature lovers, water sport enthusiasts or anyone looking to experience a little piece of heaven!
4. Šipan (Biggest of the Elafiti Islands)
Šipan is the last of the Elafiti Islands on this list. It’s the largest of the three and can be reached by ferry in just over an hour from Dubrovnik.
Unlike Lopud and Koločep, Šipan is not a car-free island.
Generally speaking, a car isn’t necessary on the island since there’s only one main road which connects Sudarud to Sipanska Luka. It’s probably a couple of miles long at the most.
Top Things to do on Šipan
Šipan offers a very laid-back atmosphere and is a great option for foodies or wine lovers. You can spend some time exploring the waterfront and olive groves and follow it up with a wine tasting.
You can also enjoy the waters surrounding the island with a kayak or snorkeling tour.
5. Mljet (National Park Paradise)
If you’re craving a slower-paced escape from Dubrovnik, look no further than Mljet, a forest-covered island just off the Pelješac Peninsula.
You can reach it in approximately 1.5 hours by ferry from Dubrovnik.
There are routes to the ports of Pomena, Sobra, and Polače (Pomena being best for the national park). Alternatively, you can drive to Prapratno and take the short car ferry to Sobra.
The island’s highlight is Mljet National Park, located on its western end. With over 13,000 acres, it’s filled with shady walking and cycling trails that wind through pine forests and along two saltwater lakes, Veliko and Malo Jezero.
On the larger lake, you’ll find St. Mary’s Island, home to a former Benedictine monastery that now houses a restaurant, the perfect spot for a relaxed lunch.
Top Things to do on Mljet
Mljet is a great escape from the crowds of Dubrovnik and offers a glimpse into a different side of Croatia. The focus here is all about nature and outdoor activities which is perfect for families, outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.
6. Korčula (Mini Dubrovnik + Wine Country)
Just a two-hour ferry ride from Dubrovnik, the island of Korčula is one of the best day (or overnight) trips you can take.
With its medieval Old Town, turquoise bays, and relaxed island atmosphere, it’s easy to see why it’s often called a “mini Dubrovnik.”
Top Things to do on Korčula
Korčula is an ideal day trip from Dubrovnik especially if you’re looking to fill an entire day.
There’s so much to see and do that the time will fly by. It’s the perfect destination for couples, food and wine enthusiasts and active travelers who enjoy cycling, hiking and kayaking.
If time allows, consider staying overnight. The island’s charm really shines after the day-trippers leave.
Stunning Coastal Spots Near Dubrovnik
Even though the islands are definitely one of Croatia’s main attractions, don’t discount some of the beautiful seaside towns that aren’t far from Dubrovnik.
They’re easy to get to and not too far away making them ideal options for day trips from Dubrovnik.
Cavtat
Cavtat is only a 45 minute ferry ride from Old Town Port. Just 9 miles south of Dubrovnik, this seaside town is a quieter, more relaxed escape along the Adriatic.
Its palm-lined promenade, cozy cafés, and small Old Town are a nice respite from the busy streets of Dubrovnik. It’s a perfect place to slow down and soak up the coastal atmosphere.
Top Things to do in Cavtat
Cavtat is perfect if you love the idea of a laid-back coastal town with all the charm of Dubrovnik but fewer crowds. Although, you’ll still find some in the peak tourist season.
Ston and Mali Ston
You can reach Ston and Mali Ston in just under an hour from Dubrovnik.
Located on the southern end of the Pelješac Peninsula, these twin towns are easy to combine with other nearby destinations making them an ideal addition to your Dubrovnik day trip list.
Ston is best known for its ancient saltworks, which date back to the 13th century, and its impressive stone walls that stretch over 5 km.
This is even longer than Dubrovnik’s walls. You can walk a section of the wall for sweeping views of the town and coastline.
Just a short distance away, Mali Ston is famous for its oysters, often called some of the best in the world.
Top Things to do in Ston and Mali Ston
Both towns are small enough that you can visit them in one day.
You can also add on a visit to one of the local vineyards on the Peljesac Peninsula to round out your day. It’s a perfect day trip for foodies and wine enthusiasts.
Trsteno Arboretum
Only a 25 minute drive and 12 miles north of Dubrovnik, the small coastal village of Trsteno is a peaceful day-trip spot for those looking to escape the city bustle without venturing too far.
Its main draw is the Trsteno Arboretum, a 60-acre botanical garden filled with exotic plants and sweeping Adriatic views.
You might also recognize it as the setting for the Tyrell gardens in Game of Thrones.
The arboretum is open year-round, though hours vary by season.
Top Things to do in Trsteno
Even though Trsteno gained popularity as a filming location for Game of Thrones, it’s a quaint seaside town with stunning Adriatic views making it a perfect stop on your way to the Peljesac Peninsula.
How to Get to the Islands Near Dubrovnik
Reaching the islands near Dubrovnik is easy with the frequent ferries, water taxis, and private boat tours that are available..
Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or an overnight stay, there are multiple transportation options for every budget.
There are two ports that ferries depart from out of Dubrovnik.
Gruz Port is the larger port which is about 10-15 minutes from Old Town. Ferries to Korcula, Hvar and most other islands depart from here.
Ferries also depart from Old Town port to places such as Lokrum and Cavtat.
While there’s frequent ferry services that run from May to September between Dubrovnik and the islands, during the off-season, services are more limited and some routes don’t operate at all. Be sure to check the schedules in advance if you’re visiting outside the peak tourist months.
Ferries
- Most public ferries and catamarans depart from Dubrovnik’s Gruž Port (the main ferry terminal).
- Ferries to Lokrum and Cavtat depart from Old Town Port.
- Routes connect Dubrovnik to islands like Mljet, Korčula, Šipan, and Lopud.
- Tickets can be booked in advance through Jadrolinija or TP Line.
- Example line: Ferries to Mljet take around 1.5–2 hours, while Lopud and Šipan are roughly 45–60 minutes away.
Water Taxis & Shuttle Boats
- Great for short distances, such as Lokrum Island, which is just 10 minutes by ferry from Dubrovnik’s Old Port.
- Private shuttles and small-group boats often run on-demand during high season (April–October).
Boat Tours & Private Charters
- Perfect for visiting multiple islands in one day.
- Available from Dubrovnik’s Old Town harbor and Gruž Marina.
- Choose between group tours (shared cost, guided experience) or private charters for flexibility and custom itineraries.
Getting to Specific Islands
- Lokrum Island – just 10 minutes by ferry from Dubrovnik’s Old Port.
- Lopud Island – reachable by ferry or water taxi, about 55 minutes away.
- Šipan Island – the farthest of the Elaphiti Islands, around 1 hour by ferry.
- Kolocep Island – closest of three main Elaphiti Islands, 30 minutes by ferry
- Mljet Island – accessible via catamaran from Gruž Port in about 1.5–2 hours.
- Korcula Island – furthest away of the islands near Dubrovnik, around 2 hours by ferry
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in July or August, book ferries or tours in advance. Routes can fill up quickly, especially to popular spots like Mljet and Lopud.
Best Time to Go Island Hopping in Dubrovnik
Island-hopping in Dubrovnik is best from May through September because these months have perfect weather conditions for exploring due to very little rain and lots of sunshine.
July and August are the busiest months, with the largest crowds and highest prices.
If you’re looking for an ideal balance between weather and crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder months of May, June and September.
Prices will be a bit lower and there will be fewer crowds.
If you want to island-hop, keep in mind that ferries operate with reduced schedules in the off-season and some don’t operate at all.
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FAQs
It can never hurt to have too much information. Here are our answers to some common questions about traveling to the islands near Dubrovnik.
What are the three islands near Dubrovnik?
Lopud, Sipan and Kolocep are three islands part of the Elafiti archipelago. Travelers will typically combine a visit to the three islands in a full day tour.
Can you island hop from Dubrovnik?
Yes, there are ferries that run frequently between Dubrovnik and several nearby islands during the peak summer months making it convenient to island-hop.
How long is the ferry ride from Dubrovnik to Korcula?
Direct ferries between Dubrovnik and Korcula take approximately 2 hours.
Final Takeaway: Best Islands Near Dubrovnik
When you mention Croatia, everyone’s first thought goes to the medieval walled city of Dubrovnik. However, there’s so much more to discover beyond the famous walls, especially on the islands located just off the coast.
Each summer, travelers from across the world flock to Croatia’s islands, chasing sun-soaked days and unforgettable island-hopping adventures.
The best part is, you don’t need to choose between exploring the mainland or the islands. Most of the islands near Dubrovnik are easily accessible from the large coastal cities including Dubrovnik.
Whether you’re after beaches, water sports, nightlife, or a bit of adventure, there’s an island that fits your interests.
If you’ve got the time, we definitely recommend checking out a few while you’re in Dubrovnik. Each one has its own unique charm, and together they give you a true taste of what Croatia is all about.
