Explore the Best Islands Near Dubrovnik: An Honest Guide from Someone Who Loves Them

If you’re heading to Dubrovnik, let me just say good choice. It's absolutely breathtaking. But here's the thing: you have to get off the mainland at least once.

Seriously. Don’t just wander the Old Town walls and call it a day. The islands nearby? They're like stepping into a different world.

I’m gonna tell you about a few of my favourites (and some tips I've picked up the hard way).

Lokrum Island

This one is literally right there off the Old Town harbor. I think the ticket was about €10 last time? Super quick ride—maybe 10 minutes tops.

They call it the Cursed Island in local legends, which sounds dramatic, but it’s honestly just gorgeous.

• Botanical gardens full of peacocks (yes, actual peacocks wandering around)
• Those rocky AND sandy beaches
• The Iron Throne from Game of Thrones (good luck not taking 50 photos)
• The Dead Sea pool there is salty and weirdly fun

Tip: Water taxis are easy to grab right in the harbor. Just be ready to leave when they say—they don’t wait!

Šipan

Ah, Šipan. If you're the type who wants to avoid crowds, this is your spot. It's the biggest of the Elaphiti Islands but somehow still feels like no one's there.

It’s quiet. Like, actually quiet.

Two small villages—Šipanska Luka and Suđurađ—are lovely for a stroll. There’s old churches, summer villas, and you can even do some jet skiing if you feel like shaking off the calm vibes.

 Getting there?

• Ferry or private boat, about €3.
• Plan for around an hour ride. Bring snacks.

Lopud Island

Honestly? This is my top pick for families or chill groups of friends.

• Šunj Beach is one of the few proper sandy beaches in the area. Big win if you hate rocky entries.
• Gorgeous coves for swimming and just floating around.
• Old churches and fort ruins that are super atmospheric.

How to get there:

• Water taxi or ferry from Dubrovnik. Around €3, 45ish minutes.
• Bring water and sunscreen—the sun hits differently out here.

Korčula

You’ve probably heard of this one. Marco Polo allegedly came from here (though, who knows?). But they lean hard into that legend and it's fun.

•  Medieval Old Town is incredibly photogenic.
• Marco Polo House and Museum—cheesy but worth a stop
• Amazing beaches with that crazy clear Adriatic water.
• Amazing beaches with that crazy clear Adriatic water.

 Getting there?

1. High-speed ferry from Dubrovnik, around €11.

- Bit of a longer ride but totally worth it.

Mljet

Let’s be real—if you have time, stay overnight here. It’s huge and wild.

I went once for a single day and immediately regretted not booking a room.

• Mljet National Park is insane—two massive saltwater lakes. Perfect for a swim.
• St Mary’s Island has an old Benedictine monastery (very moody for photos).
• Locals will insist you try their wine, olives, and goat cheese. Do it.

 Getting there?

• Fast ferry or private boat. About 50 minutes. Around €4.
• Note: Ferries sometimes fill up in high season, so don’t wing it too hard.
  

Why Even Bother with the Islands?

I mean, Dubrovnik itself is amazing. But it gets crowded. Noisy.

These islands?
  Space to breathe
  Hidden beaches and caves
  Local legends and weird little museums
  The best swimming you’ll find anywhere

Planning Your Trip

If you want to make it easy on yourself:

Check out boat rentals in Dubrovnik.
  Book a private Blue Cave tour if you're feeling fancy.
  Or hop on one of the Elaphiti Islands group tours for a social vibe.

Garitransfers gives you the facility to connect with us on  WhatsApp in advance. Seriously, they’re all super chill.

Ready to Go?

If you’re anything like me, you’ll come back with a camera full of turquoise water photos and a mild obsession with Croatian wine.

Travel really is the best way to get out of your head—and these islands will do that for you.

Pack your bags. Go explore. And don’t say I didn’t warn you when you want to come back next summer.