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Aerial view of Paklinski Islands in Hvar, Croatia.
Aerial photo of Pakleni Islands off Hvar coast showing pristine turquoise sea, rugged coastline, lush greenery, hidden coves and crystal-clear Adriatic waters under sunny skies

Pakleni Islands

Location

Central Dalmatia

The Pakleni Islands are a chain of small wooded islands stretching just off the coast of Hvar Town. Despite their name — which loosely translates to “Hell Islands” — the area is known for its calm turquoise bays, pine forests, and some of the most attractive anchorages in central Dalmatia.

Arriving by yacht, the islands appear scattered across the channel like a protective barrier in front of Hvar. The shoreline is deeply indented with coves, making the archipelago one of the best places for swimming stops and relaxed afternoons on the water.

Where You’ll Spend Time

Most yachts spend time around Palmizana Bay, located on St. Clement Island, the largest island in the group.

Palmizana has a small marina surrounded by pine forest and a few well-known restaurants. Nearby bays such as Vinogradišće are popular for swimming and lunch stops.

Because the islands sit directly opposite Hvar Town, they are often used as a quieter overnight alternative while still allowing easy access to Hvar by tender.

Aerial view of Paklinski Islands in Hvar, Croatia
Aerial view of Paklinski Islands in Hvar, Croatia

Things to Do

Swim in the Pakleni Bays

The coves around the Pakleni Islands are among the most beautiful swimming spots in the region.

Here you’ll find:

  • Clear turquoise water surrounded by pine trees

  • Small pebble beaches and rocky swimming platforms

  • Calm bays protected from open sea winds

  • Numerous hidden coves only accessible by boat

It’s an ideal place to spend a long afternoon anchored in the shade of the forest.

Visit Palmizana Botanical Garden

Near the Palmizana marina lies a small botanical garden created by the Meneghello family. The garden contains exotic plants, cacti, and palm trees brought from around the world.

Walking paths wind through the greenery toward the nearby beach and restaurants.

Tender Over to Hvar Town

From Palmizana it takes about 10–15 minutes by tender to reach Hvar Town. Many yachts anchor in the Pakleni Islands while guests visit Hvar for dinner or nightlife before returning to the yacht.

This keeps the evening quieter while still enjoying the town.

Aerial view of the Pakleni Islands archipelago near Hvar, Croatia.
Aerial view of the Pakleni Islands archipelago near Hvar, Croatia.

Restaurants in the Pakleni Islands

Palmizana is known for several excellent waterfront restaurants.

Laganini Lounge Bar & Restaurant
Upscale seaside dining with a relaxed beach club atmosphere.

Restaurant Zori
Mediterranean cuisine set within a garden above the marina.

Meneghello Restaurant
Family-run restaurant known for seafood and local dishes.

Reservations are recommended during peak summer.

Hotels (Pre / Post Charter)

The islands have very limited accommodation.

Palmizana Bungalows
Small guesthouses hidden within the botanical garden area.

Most guests stay in Hvar Town or Split before or after visiting the Pakleni Islands.

Aerial view of Paklinski Islands in Hvar, Croatia.
Aerial view of Paklinski Islands in Hvar, Croatia.

Why Pakleni Islands Work in a Gulet Itinerary

  • One of the best swimming areas in central Dalmatia

  • Beautiful pine-covered islands and turquoise bays

  • Quiet anchorage just opposite Hvar Town

  • Easy tender access to Hvar restaurants and nightlife

  • Ideal lunch and swimming stop along the route

The Pakleni Islands offer the perfect balance between lively Hvar and peaceful island nature — a place where the yacht can anchor in calm water while the Adriatic slows down around you.

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Aljoša Rijavec
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