We are traveling to Croatia this coming May. Landing in Dubrovnik on May 16, and then departing from Split on May 25. We will have a rental car the entire time. We want to see Plitvice National Park, Krka, Biokovo nature park. We want to see the beautiful beaches but not looking to spend time lying on a beach or swimming. Really coming to explore mainly the Dalmatian coast, for scenic drives, photography, and some good food.
I was thinking of splitting up the nights like this:
(2) nights Dubrovnik (3) nights Makarska (1) night Sibenik (1) night near Plitvice (2) nights Split
Other option I was considering was staying (1) night in Peljesac or Korcula.
Thoughts?
Hey, in 9 days you can really see alot of Croatia and since you have a car its even easier. I have traveled whole of Croatia several times and having a car is definitely a benefit but its not for everyone as the island roads can be sometimes very narrow, allowing 1 car to pass at a time.
Either way I would suggest you check these driving guides below and also the guide about driving to be prepared:
From Zagreb to Split drive (Best stops on the way) Guide
Road Trip from Split to Dubrovnik (Best stops along the way)
Driving in Croatia Tips, Rules, General Guide
Regarding your itinerary:
2 nights in Dubrovnik is great not too much not to little, you have time to sightsee Lopud and its sandy beaches:
Lopud: How to spend one perfect day on this island (Great island to visit from Dubrovnik)
When in Makarska you can do day trips with a car to Hvar and Brac easily:
Best things to do in Makarska, Croatia (Guide)
Best Makarska Riviera Beaches To Visit
I dont understand the need for 1 night in Sibenik ? Since you are already staying in Split, which is close enough to Krka Waterfalls, I would not make the need to move hotels/apartmens but rather extend 1 day in Split or add it to Korcula, we did 1 day when we visited and left the car on Orebic side, you can easily ferry it across.
Korcula guide, an island not to miss in Croatia
Best things to do on Peljesac peninsula, Croatia (Beaches, Sightseeing)
Split is not as interesting city when compared to the islands etc. but its a great hub to sightsee cities, islands and Krka national park from:
2 Days in Split what to do and see Itinerary
8 BEST DAY Trips from Split (Guide) By Bus or Car
BEST Islands to visit by ferry from Split Croatia (Guide to Island Hopping)
If you will need any other tips just say!