Island Hopping and Mainland Excursions
While Hvar offers plenty to explore, taking a day trip opens up new adventures for families looking to expand their Dalmatian experience. Here are accessible destinations that make rewarding excursions with children, along with practical travel advice for families on the move.
Family Day Trip Planning Tips:
Check ferry schedules carefully—they change seasonally and can be affected by weather
Book tickets in advance during peak season, especially for catamarans with limited capacity
Pack more snacks and water than you think necessary—transfers can face unexpected delays
Consider motion sickness solutions if your children are susceptible, especially for speedboat options
Bring documentation—although within Croatia, having identification for all family members is recommended
Less is more—don't try to see everything; focus on one key experience per destination
Build in buffer time—rushing to catch return connections creates unnecessary family stress
Split
The vibrant heart of Dalmatia, Split combines ancient history with bustling modern energy. The UNESCO-protected Diocletian's Palace provides a real-life history lesson as children explore ancient Roman streets that now house shops, restaurants, and homes. The palace's substructure (often recognized from Game of Thrones) offers a cool underground expedition on hot days.
Families appreciate the expansive Riva promenade for afternoon strolls with ice cream, while Marjan Hill provides green space for active children to burn energy. The ferry ride itself becomes part of the adventure, with spectacular coastal views during the approximately 1-hour journey from Jelsa.
Family tip: Time your visit to avoid cruise ship days when the old town becomes crowded. Early morning ferries allow for a full day of exploration before returning on evening connections.
Beyond Split
Using Split as a base, families can venture to attractions like Klis Fortress (perched dramatically above the city) or the stunning Krka National Park with its series of waterfalls where, unlike at Plitvice, swimming is permitted in designated areas. Omiš and the Cetina River offer more activities for families seeking adventure like canyoning, zip line, or rafting on this Dalmatian gem of a river. These excursions require careful planning as they effectively become "day trips from your day trip," but reward families with distinctive experiences beyond typical coastal attractions.
Family tip: If extending beyond Split, consider pre-arranged transportation rather than juggling public transit connections with children in tow. The additional cost brings significant peace of mind.
Bol & Brač Island
Famous for Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) beach—one of the most photographed beaches in Croatia—Bol offers families a distinctive beach experience with its unusual pebble spit that changes shape with the currents. The journey from Jelsa involves either a direct catamaran to Bol town or a combination of private boat excursion.
Beyond the iconic beach, Brač offers charming villages and a more mountainous landscape than Hvar, holding the title of the highest Croatian island, with Vidova gora the highest peak at 778 meters above sea level. On this side of the channel, we say that the most beautiful thing on Brač is the view from Vidova gora to Hvar Island. Vidova gora is reachable by car, but also consider hiking, because the island's interior forests of Dalmatian black pine tree provide cooler hiking options in the morning before beach time.
Family tip: The beach at Zlatni Rat has minimal natural shade. Bring protective gear and consider renting umbrellas immediately upon arrival during summer months.
Korčula
Often called "Little Dubrovnik," Korčula town features impressive medieval architecture within its compact walled center, perfectly sized for exploration with children. The alleged birthplace of Marco Polo houses a museum dedicated to the explorer that captures young imaginations. If booking a trip, consider atending one of the performances of Moreška traditional dance (with swords).
Korčula is well connected with Hvar town during summer season, with direct daily catamaran boat lines. The catamaran connection makes this a straightforward day trip, though schedules require careful planning. The journey itself offers spectacular archipelago views, becoming part of the day's experience rather than merely transportation.
Family tip: The town's narrow streets can become crowded in peak season. Visit early in the day and consider escaping to nearby beaches in the afternoon heat.
Vis
The furthest inhabited island from the mainland, Vis remained closed to foreign visitors until 1989 due to its military importance, giving it a distinctly untouched quality. This distance means a day trip requires early starts and careful schedule planning, but rewards families with spectacular beaches, historic military tunnels that fascinate older children, and the famous Blue Cave on nearby Biševo island (requires additional boat tour).
The island's recent fame as a filming location for "Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again" adds a pop culture element that teenagers might appreciate.
Family tip: This ambitious day trip works best with older children who can handle the longer transit times (connected only via Split). Consider the faster private speedboat options if your budget allows.