WHERE TO STAY ON MAKARSKA RIVIERA: 8 BEST SMALL TOWNS

Searching for where to stay on Makarska Riviera? Here’s a list of my absolute favourite little towns on the riviera, perfect for a beach holiday.

If you’re planning a beach-focused trip in Croatia, there’s no better place than the Makarska Riviera. This stretch of coastline is home to some of the most incredible beaches in the country. Swimming here feels truly magical, especially if you visit in May or September when the crowds are much smaller.

I’ve visited each of these towns, either for a full holiday or just a day at the beach. I’ll explain exactly why each one is worth staying in or at least visiting, and then share a few accommodation recommendations for every location.

BRELA

Brela is often considered one of the most beautiful spots on the Makarska Riviera, and I 100% agree with that. It’s known for its crystal-clear water and incredible beaches.

If you want a peaceful stay surrounded by nature, stunning turquoise sea, and scenic walking paths along the coast, I can’t recommend Brela enough. Every time I visit Brela, I simply don’t want to leave, and you’ll probably feel the same way.

It’s a very relaxed destination, but it does attract visitors from all over the world because of its beaches, so in peak summer you should expect some crowds. However, in the shoulder season, Brela is truly one of the most magical places on the coast.

WHERE TO STAY IN BRELA

• Hotel Berulia
• Hotel Marina
• Hotel Soline

BASKA VODA

Baska Voda is one of the most popular places on the Makarska Riviera, and it offers a great balance between relaxation and a lively atmosphere.

Just like in Brela, you’ll find plenty of beautiful beaches, but Baska Voda also has a wide range of restaurants and bars. It’s a great option if you want a bit more energy than Brela, especially if you’re part of a younger crowd, because many young Croatians choose Baska Voda for their summer holidays!

WHERE TO STAY IN BASKA VODA

• Grand Hotel Slavia
• Boutique Hotel Noemia
• Hotel Horizont

PROMAJNA

Promajna is a bit of a hidden gem that I almost didn’t want to mention, but here we are. It’s a small, much quieter, and more residential village not far from Baska Voda. It’s perfect for a calm and more budget-friendly stay on the Makarska Riviera. The beaches are less crowded, the atmosphere is relaxed and very family-friendly, and it’s ideal if you’re looking to slow down.

We often spend our summers there because it’s simple, peaceful, right by some of the most beautiful beaches, and there’s practically no nightlife.

WHERE TO STAY IN PROMAJNA

• White Stone Villa 43
• Marello
• Apartments Amare

TUCEPI

Tucepi is perhaps the most popular destination on the Makarska Riviera. It’s known for having one of the longest and most beautiful beaches on the Riviera, and it’s only about 10 minutes from Makarska, so you’re still in a very central location.

Besides the beaches, Tucepi has a wide promenade lined with cafés and restaurants, which gives it a lively atmosphere and plenty of options for the evening. It does get very crowded during peak summer season, but it’s especially lovely if you visit in May or September.

WHERE TO STAY IN TUCEPI

• Hotel Jadran
• Hotel Laurentum
• Holiday Village Afrodita

PODGORA

Podgora is just a few minutes away from Tucepi and offers equally incredible beaches and a similar town atmosphere. Podgora is really charming and perfect for anyone who wants a holiday focused on beaches, great food, and beautiful views.

I’ve spent some time there, and while it does get quite crowded in July and August, every other month is ideal for a stay. If you’re visiting during peak summer, check out Caklje, a small village just a few minutes away on foot, which is usually a bit quieter.

WHERE TO STAY IN PODGORA

• Medora Auri Family Beach Resort
• Heritage Hotel Liberan

IGRANE 

Igrane is a great choice if you’re looking for a really small and local village that feels peaceful and less touristy. It has beautiful, quiet beaches and a simple waterfront, and you’ll mostly find local Croatians here rather than international tourists. It’s the perfect place to stay if you want a more authentic and relaxing experience on the Makarska Riviera.

WHERE TO STAY IN IGRANE

• TUI BLUE Makarska

ZIVOGOSCE

Zivogosce is another very local and authentic village, just about 5 minutes by car from Igrane, and you can even walk between the two in around 30 to 40 minutes.

Zivogosce is known for its stunning natural surroundings, with dramatic mountains and beautiful beaches that are much less crowded than in other parts of the Makarska Riviera. It’s also only about 5 minutes from Drvenik, where you can take a car ferry to Hvar and easily explore the island as well.

WHERE TO STAY IN ZIVOGOSCE

• TUI BLUE Adriatic Beach

DRVENIK

Drvenik is a small coastal town just south of Zivogosce, best known as a ferry port to Hvar, but it’s also a calm and affordable place to stay. It has quiet(er) beaches and a very local, authentic atmosphere, so it’s a great option if you want to relax while still having easy access to both the coast and nearby islands.

WHERE TO STAY IN DRVENIK

• Hotel Bella Vista

CONCLUSION: WHERE TO STAY ON MAKARSKA RIVIERA

The Makarska Riviera truly has something for everyone, from lively towns to peaceful, quiet villages. You’ll easily find a place that fits your travel style, and it’s hard not to love staying here. Each town offers beautiful beaches, crystal-clear water, and a relaxed atmosphere, so no matter where you stay, you’re in for an amazing beach holiday. Makarska Riviera is my favourite location for a summer holiday (along with Lopud!) and I come back every year!