Brela

Located in the dramatic foothills of the Biokovo Mountains, the town of Brela has long enjoyed an important place in Croatian culture and history. Hidden among the pine trees on the Adriatic coastline, this stunning Dalmatian town is the perfect place for a beach break.
Swim in the crystalline waters, bask in the sunshine and let all your worries melt away.

Like much of this part of Croatia, Brela can trace its history right back to the Greek settlers who arrived here in the second and third centuries BC. As a result, you’ll find a wealth of architectural and historic artefacts dotted around the surrounding landscape. Particular sites of interest include the Lady of Karmen Church and the Monument of Illyrian.

With Blue Flag beaches found all along the coastline, you can take your pick of beautiful places to spend your days. No matter what you choose, adults and children alike will love the golden sandy coves and playing on the perfect, pebbly patches of the shoreline.

Make sure you take a trip to one of the nearby vineyards or olive groves, wander among the vines and sample the delicious Croatian produce.

Families will love the Biokovo Nature Park, and there are even spas and wellness centres for those who want to be pampered in style.

The nightlife in Brela is of the relaxed variety. Head to one of the beach bars to listen to live music and sip chilled wine with friends as the heat of the day fades. For travellers who want to make a big night of it, head to nearby Makarska for DJs, discos and dancing.

If you want more to do than simply relaxing in the sunshine and swimming in the sea, you needn’t fret as holidays in Brela will provide days of thrills. Rent boats and water scooters on the beach or get your adrenaline pumping with an afternoon spent windsurfing or paragliding.

You can hike to the Biokovo Mountain, try your hand at rock climbing or go river rafting down the nearby River Cetina. Diving is also popular in Brela and experienced divers have the chance to explore sunken Roman galleons in the clear waters of the Adriatic.

Perfect for a cultural day trip, the city of Split is an easy distance from Brela and is filled with antiquities, art and all manner of places to shop and eat. Don’t miss the ancient palace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian, an impressive ancient maze and complex hiding all manner of treasures inside; no tickets are required, just pick one of four gateways, stroll in and explore! Alternatively, you could always plan a day trip to fascinating nearby destinations such as Baska Voda or Dubrovnik.

Brela is well known for its fine beaches, and particularly during the summer months, these beautiful stretches of sand are as fine as any you are likely to find in the Mediterranean area. Here you can enjoy the ideal conditions for swimming and sunbathing, in addition to a range of exciting beach games.

Other activities on offer cater well for those with a taste for adventure! Brela’s beaches offer some great facilities for water sports, including high-octane pastimes such as windsurfing and jet skiing. Alternatively, try your hand at snorkelling in the clear waters, or even head out on a boat cruise around the picturesque coastline.

During the day, the beachfront area of Brela is lined with stalls selling light snacks and refreshments. This area really comes to life in the evening though, and you’ll be able to choose from a broad selection of traditional Croatian restaurants, cocktail bars, live music venues and even a few nightclubs.

Holidays in Brela with children

Punta Skala is a popular choice for families wanting a beach holiday in Croatia, as its long stretch of coast allows plenty of room to make the most of the sun, sea and sand. The calm waters and plentiful shaded spaces of the beach are great for those travelling with children, it is also well equipped with beach facilities in the high season.