Pakleni Islands
A stunning chain of islands off Hvar's coast — crystal waters, hidden coves and effortless island elegance.
About the Pakleni Islands
The Pakleni Islands are a chain of small islands and islets just off the coast of Hvar, known for crystal-clear waters, fragrant pine forests, and countless quiet coves. The archipelago is a natural escape from the busy streets of Hvar Town.
Despite the name — sometimes mistranslated as the "Hell Islands" — Pakleni in fact comes from the Croatian word paklina, the pine resin once harvested here for traditional shipbuilding. Today the islands are synonymous with relaxed beach days, refined seaside dining and some of the most beautiful swimming spots in the central Adriatic.
A Natural Extension of Hvar
Only minutes from Hvar by boat, the Pakleni Islands feel worlds away — calm, green and refreshingly unspoiled.
A Glimpse into the Pakleni Islands' History
From Shipbuilding to Seaside Retreat
Historically, the Pakleni Islands supplied the pine resin essential to wooden shipbuilding along the Dalmatian coast. Their sheltered bays also served as safe anchorages for sailors navigating the central Adriatic.
Over time, a handful of islands — most notably Sveti Klement — developed small settlements, gardens and seasonal homes. Today the archipelago balances protected nature with carefully measured tourism: restaurants, marinas and beach clubs that have not yet displaced the islands' calm character.
Top Things to See
The highlights of the Pakleni Islands at a glance
Palmižana (Sveti Klement)
The best-known corner of the Pakleni Islands — beaches, restaurants, a marina and the relaxed Mediterranean rhythm that defines the archipelago.
Palmižana Botanical Garden
A lush garden on Sveti Klement with Mediterranean and exotic plants, shaded walking paths and a long tradition of artistic life founded by the Meneghello family.
Hidden Coves and Bays
Dozens of small bays and swimming spots scattered across the islands — many reachable only by boat, and worth seeking out for their solitude.
Book Guided Tours and Experiences in the Pakleni Islands
Explore the lagoons and coves of the archipelago by boat.
Best Beaches
Crystal-clear water and pristine swimming spots
Palmižana Beach
A picturesque beach with clear turquoise water, pine shade and easy access to nearby seaside restaurants.
Popular
Jerolim Island Beaches
Popular for crystal-clear water and laid-back swimming, with several small beach bars dotted along the shore.
Beach Bars
Vlaka and Ždrilca Bays
Quiet, scenic coves ideal for snorkelling and peaceful anchoring away from the busier beaches.
PeacefulCulture and Dining
From beach bars to elegant seaside dining
Events and Festivals
Hvar Summer Festival (July–August)
A long-running cultural festival of classical music, theatre and performances, with some events staged in intimate open-air venues across the Pakleni Islands.
Live Music and Nightlife
Sunset Lounges
Occasional DJ sets and live music in Palmižana during summer evenings.
Evenings by the Sea
Most visitors prefer relaxed dinners, candlelit terraces and peaceful nights surrounded by nature.
Top Restaurants
Restaurant Meneghello (Palmižana)
A long-established restaurant serving refined Mediterranean cuisine in a garden setting.
Konoba Zori (Palmižana)
A stylish seaside restaurant focused on fresh seafood, local wines and considered cooking.
Small Family Taverns
Scattered across the islands, serving simple, high-quality meals with sea views and a noticeably slower pace.
Best Bars
The Pakleni Islands are about laid-back beach bars rather than nightlife.
Beach Bars in Palmižana
Casual seaside spots serving cocktails, wine and light snacks, with views over the bay at sunset.
Small Cove Bars
Seasonal bars tucked into quieter coves — perfect for a slow drink after a long swim.
Why Visit the Pakleni Islands?
Crystal-clear water and pristine swimming spots
Easy access from Hvar by boat
Pine-covered landscapes and rich Mediterranean nature
Stylish but relaxed beach clubs and restaurants
Ideal for day trips, swimming and slow island time
The Pakleni Islands suit travellers who want to pair Hvar's energy with peaceful nature, beautiful beaches and a touch of effortless island elegance.
When to Visit the Pakleni Islands
Plan your trip to this archipelago off the coast of Hvar.
Spring
April–June
Fewer visitors, pleasant temperatures and ideal swimming conditions for exploring the archipelago's hidden bays.
- Uncrowded beaches and coves
- Comfortable water temperatures
- Calm seas for kayaking and sailing
- Wildflowers across the islands
Summer
July–August
A lively atmosphere with full taxi-boat services, busy seaside dining and the best conditions for water activities.
- Full taxi-boat and restaurant services
- Lively seaside dining in Palmižana
- Warm sea for snorkelling and diving
- Beach-bar energy in the late afternoon
Autumn
September–October
A warm sea, quieter bays and a relaxed island pace make early autumn one of the best times to visit the Pakleni Islands.
- Sea still warm enough for swimming
- Quieter bays and anchorages
- Relaxed, peaceful atmosphere
- Golden light for photography
Winter
November–March
The islands are largely inaccessible in winter — no regular boat services run — but the raw natural beauty rewards the very few who arrive by private boat.
- Untouched natural scenery
- Mild Mediterranean winter climate
- Accessible by private boat only
- Complete solitude and wild atmosphere
Getting to the Pakleni Islands
By Boat
Frequent water taxis and small passenger boats run from Hvar Harbour throughout the day in season.
By Private Boat
Popular anchorages and a busy marina, especially around Palmižana on Sveti Klement.
Boat Tours
Half-day and full-day tours operate from Hvar, hopping between the main islands and quieter coves.
Book Tours and Experiences in the Pakleni Islands
Explore the Pakleni archipelago's turquoise lagoons, beach clubs and secluded coves on boat tours from Hvar.
Explore More Destinations in Croatia
Hvar
Croatia's most fashionable island and the gateway to the Pakleni archipelago.
Korčula
A walled medieval town on a green island, less polished than Hvar but just as memorable.
Vis
The most remote inhabited Croatian island — quiet bays, military history and excellent food.
Split
Dalmatia's main hub and the easiest ferry connection on the way to the islands.