Brac

The largest island of the Dalmatian archipelago, Brac lies to the southeast of Split, Croatia. It is mostly known for its fascinating scuba diving locales such as Lucice Bay, stunning beaches, hillside vineyards, and charming villages. The village of Pucisca has palaces from the Renaissance and incredible Baroque architecture, whereas the village of Milna has lovely bays and beaches. Bol has the loveliest beaches like the famous Zlatni Rat but also hosts the highest peak in the whole Adriatic, Vidova Gora peak. Also, Supetar hosts historical Roman structures, galleries, and diving centers.

History

Brac has been home to people for more than 4000 years, but the first record of the island begins with the Illyrians which named it Brentos meaning ‘deer’. The Greeks and Romans also inhabited the island, and the Romans left Villa Rusticas, a Roman type of farmhouse. There are still statues and gravestones that belong to the Romans in Skrip. After the 7th century, Early Croatian rulers found Brac and they left many historic Christian churches in the villages on the coasts. One of these is the Dominican Monastery in Bol with its unique paintings and stunning architecture built in 1475. Another is Blaca Monastery in Milna, a Renaissance structure built upon the caves of Vidova Gora in 1551.

What is Brac Famous For?

Beloved for its beaches, Brac Island is the most famous for Zlatni Rat Beach with its golden sands and a unique land formation in Bol. Also, there are prehistoric and medieval structures such as the Blaca Hermitage. Milna has incredible wine and pebbly beaches and bays like Vinkova Bay, Lucica Beach, and Pasika Beach. Likewise, there are secluded locales like Smrka Bay and Blaca Bay on the south of the island. Other than that, the nightlife and activities in the high season are very lively. Most of the bars and nightclubs are located in Supetar and Bol.

Places to Visit In Brac

The island of Brac is a popular summer destination known for having some of the best beaches in the world. These include the triangular-shaped Zlanti Rat Beach, also known as the Golden Horn, which stretches out over 500 meters on the south side of the island. It is surrounded by the shallow and calm Adriatic Sea and provides lots of amenities, such as windsurfing and inflatable water activities that are suitable for the whole family. Brac is also home to some of the best beaches in Croatia, such as Acapulco Beach, which is located in the town of Supetar, and Martinica Beach, which is situated in the town of Bol. These pretty beaches provide perfect environments to experience water sports such as scuba diving and sea kayaking. Boaters can visit the Milna bays located on the northwest side of the island that are home to one of Brac’s safest ports.

Along with spectacular pebble beaches, Brac is home to many other fun things to do. The hiking areas to Vidova Gora, Dragons' Cave, and Blaca Monastery showcase some of the best views in the world. Many historical landmarks can also be seen, such as the Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Mountain biking is also a popular activity; the island has 25 bike trails, with the longest starting in Supetar and extending across the whole island. The Supetar Cemetery is a highlight among visitors showcasing grand sculptural monuments and the Petrinovic family mausoleum. In the town of Bol, the most favored attraction is the Dominican Monastery where paintings and altars can be seen. Due to the island's climate, many grape varieties are transformed into delicious local wines. Additionally, the Olive Oil Museum is where guests discover the history of olive oil production in the area.

Best Time to Visit Brac

Located on the Adriatic Sea, Brac Island has a long cultural heritage and is best to visit in the summer season. It is most well known for its magical hidden bays, triangular-shaped Zlatni Rat Beach, Vidova Gora Peak, and the Mountain of St. Vid. The island has a Mediterranean climate with a tourist season that starts in April and lasts until October, with the summer months being long and hot. Wearing sun protection and keeping hydrated is highly recommended when visiting during the summer months. Visitors travelling during the peak of the season within the month of August, can attend the Brac Film Festival, the Graffiti na Gradele event, and special food events that are held to celebrate the island's patron saints.

Brac is most popular during Croatia's summer season, when tourists can relax on the hot beaches or cool down in the refreshing Adriatic waters while swimming, diving, or sea kayaking. Visitors start arriving from all over the world during April, with the season finishing towards the end of October. The peak season is from June until the beginning of September, providing consistently hot weather and warm seas perfect for water activities. May, June, September, and October are slightly cooler months, providing perfect temperatures for exploring the Island of Brac’s hiking trails and lavender fields. When summer tourism draws to a close, many tourist hotspots and establishments shut down or limit their opening hours for the winter months.

Weather in Brac

Brac’s summer is long and hot, lasting from April to October, with an average temperature of 55.4℉ (13℃) at the start of the season and average temperature of 63℉ (17.4℃) at the end of the summer season. Peak season is from June to September, when the weather is more consistent, however this is when the humidity averages at 68%. July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures reaching highs of 82.4℉ (28℃), and there’s up to 11 hours of daylight. During spring and fall, the temperatures are milder, with May being the warmest with an average high temperature of 69.8℉ (21℃), and is the best time to explore the island's attractions. Brac’s autumn and winter months are generally mild, with average temperatures of 62.6℉ (17℃) and a range of weather conditions. The months from October to January have a higher chance of precipitation, with November being the wettest month.

Before Visiting Brac

Brac’s weather is very hot and sunny during the summer season, with the most popular activities being sailing and relaxing on the island's spectacular beaches. It is highly recommended to purchase a high-UV sunblock and appropriate clothing to protect the body from heat and sun. Visitors who wish to hike and enjoy the magnificent views of the islands' mountains and caves must obtain appropriate footwear and a backpack for storing plenty of fluids, snacks, and other necessities. When visiting Brac is it important to prepare and pack items that are needed for activities on land and in the water, but essential items can be found in the supermarkets and smaller independent shops.

Festivals & Special Days in Brac

The island of Brac hosts events such as musical concerts, film and food festivals, and cultural exhibitions. The majority of them are in the month of August. At the beginning of August, the Brac Film Festival commences, and the annual event showcases films created by upcoming filmmakers from Europe and the Mediterranean. The Graffiti na Gradele event is also held during August; it is an international festival that attracts some of the most famous street graffiti artists. Along with visual art, there is also a hip-hop concert to attend. The month of August is also well known for its food events. These special days are known as Bracke Fjere and are linked with the area's patron saints. Many of Brac's local people celebrate with food events and dancing.

Nightlife in Brac

Many of the entertainment venues on the island of Brac are located near the harbor in Bol town and on Put Vele Luka Street in Supetar, near the town beach. The island offers many different types of evening entertainment, such as lively, high-energy outdoor clubs, sophisticated cocktail bars, crowded bars, relaxing beach bars, and quiet taverns. Along with the wide range of local and imported alcoholic beverages and soft drinks, many of the nightlife venues on the island of Brac serve evening meals and snacks.

- 585 Club

585 Club is located in Bol on the island of Brac, surrounded by greenery and is only a few minutes from the well-known Zlanti Rat Beach. The lively club is popular with tourists and features a large indoor dance floor complete with VIP rooms. The high-energy establishment also has a magnificent open-air outdoor dance area with colorful overhead lights and a custom-made high-tech DJ booth. The club serves an impressive variety of local and imported drinks, along with many vibrant cocktails.

- Varadero Cocktail Bar

Varadero is located on the waterfront in the main square of Bol with fantastic views of the harbor. The open-air cocktail bar is situated on a stone patio, with large comfortable wicker chairs surrounded by pine-scented trees and wide flat-screen televisions. The bar provides visitors with a tropical ambiance; by day it is a relaxing lounging area serving food and a range of coffees, and by night it turns into a lively bar complete with DJ performances and live acoustic artists. The establishment serves many alcoholic beverages, with mojitos and flavor-infused daiquiris being their signature drinks.

- Yolo

Yolo is a bar and nightclub  located on the waterfront in the center of Bol town. The venue is home to many different styles of entertainment, such as serving delicious food, a relaxing cocktail lounge area, and a high-energy club area for dancing until the early morning. This establishment is known for its friendly and party-like atmosphere. It is a great place to socialize with friends and to dance the night away while enjoying the magnificent views over the sparkling Adriatic waters. The outdoor lounge area is spectacular, with comfortable round chairs and tables perfectly color-coordinated with the aquamarine sea view. The venue is a relaxing beach bar by day and a lively outdoor dancing space by night. The indoor bar area is sleek, modern, and visually appealing, with a fabulous stone curved ceiling, bare stone walls, and color-changing mood lighting.

- Bolero Bar

Bolero Bar is located on Brac Island within the town of Bol. It is situated on the seafront promenade leading to Zlatni Rat Beach. The venue is surrounded by Mediterranean green pine trees with a modern and sleek open-air seating area. Although the venue can become crowded, it has a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. The seating area has luxurious cushions perfectly positioned on large wicker chairs with soft music playing in the background. The establishment serves an impressive variety of alcoholic beverages, including local wines, tasty cocktails, and fabulous coffee.

Luxury & Fine Dining Restaurants in Brac

The beautiful island of Brac is home to many modern, sophisticated restaurants that serve Dalmatian, Mediterranean, and European cuisine along with local delicacies. The most popular restaurants are situated around the waterfront in the towns of Bol and Superstar, overlooking the fantastic harbors and crystal-clear Adriatic waters. The most popular establishments serve a variety of seafood and meat dishes with modern twists and creations of Dalmatian cuisine.

- Restaurant Palute

Palute is located on the island of Brac on Supetar harbor. It is situated on the waterfront and is said to be one of the best locally run restaurants in the area. The restaurant's outdoor terrace has a modern design with large wooden tables with crisp white tablecloths and magnificent views of the Adriatic Sea. The kitchen serves traditional Mediterranean and Croatian cuisine, local delicacies, and some European dishes. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of wines, alcoholic beverages, and excellent coffee.

- Senjkovic Winery and Restaurant

Senjkovic Winery is a boutique country house, vineyard, and restaurant located on Brac Island near Mirca Bay and Supetar. It is an extremely popular destination with tourists and offers a Croatian extravaganza with its 7-course tasting menu. The dishes served are artistically presented and paired perfectly with a wide range of wines. The small and beautiful courtyard can seat 15 guests, which provides a quiet, personal, and romantic atmosphere. The wines that are made on site can also be purchased by the bottle to take home and enjoy.

- Grill Garden

Grill Garden is located 3 kilometers outside of Supetar, near Mirce. The restaurant's menu had been created around simple Mediterranean and Balkan dishes, including grilled meats, fish, pastas, and fresh salads. The restaurant is well known for growing their own produce, such as delicious plump olives and fresh colorful vegetables. It is home to a beautiful and spacious outdoor terrace, situated next to a large swimming pool, modern architecture, and beautiful sea views with a very relaxing atmosphere.

- Taverna Riva

Taverna Riva is located on the waterfront in the middle of Bol Town, near the harbor. This traditional stone building is the perfect place to enjoy good food, people watch, and admire the fabulous surroundings of the many luxurious boats that moor in the waters. It is a family-run restaurant owned by the Eterovic family, who have expertly modernized traditional Dalmatian dishes. The cuisine is based on recipes from the island of Brac and Dalmatia. Among their guest favorites are traditionally cooked meat and octopus seafood specialties, mussels, clams, homemade pasta dishes, and Dalmatian desserts.

- Mali Raj Restaurant

Mali Raj Restaurant is located in Bol and is situated next to the Zlatni Rat Beach. The peaceful stone-built restaurant lies within an old olive grove, surrounded by many ancient olive trees and vineyards. It is home to a large terrace area with stone ovens and manicured trees and plants. The menu is based around traditional Dalmatian cuisine, including fish, seafood, and meat dishes. There is also a good selection of Croatian wines and excellent coffee. Cooked octopus, tuna steaks, and grilled tuna are firm favorites.

- Konoba Vinotoka

Konoba Vinotoka is located in Supetar on the island of Brac. It is situated in a spectacularly picturesque environment just off a traditional Dalmatian Street called Kongualne Kale, surrounded by beautiful greenery and cobblestones. The restaurant specializes in traditional homemade Croatian cuisine and Mediterranean dishes using authentic cooking techniques. This restaurant is very passionate about its local food cultures and uses only the best ingredients available, such as locally caught fish and homemade pastas. The restaurant also has a wide variety of wine, beers, coffees, freshly squeezed juices, and fragrant teas, along with a great choice of sweet treats and desserts.