1. Olib
Olib is one of the rare islands in this region known for sandy seabeds and shallow, lagoon-like water. The sea here is warm, calm, and incredibly clear, making it perfect for long swim stops and relaxed floating days.
Why visit Olib by boat:
- Sandy beaches instead of rocks
- Shallow turquoise water
- Very quiet and uncrowded
- Ideal for full swim days
⏱ Boat time from Novalja: 1.5–2 hours
⭐ Best for: Swimming, sandy beaches, chill boat days
Island: https://maps.google.com/?q=Olib+Island+Croatia
📍 Slatinica Bay
📍 Slatina Bay
📍 Draga Beach
2. Silba
Silba is a car-free island with sandy beaches, calm paths and a charming village right by the sea. Everything is walkable, making it an ideal stop for swimming, lunch and sunset walks.
Why visit Silba by boat:
- No cars or noise
- Sandy and shallow swimming spots
- Authentic island atmosphere
- Perfect lunch stop
⏱ Boat time from Novalja: 1.5–2 hours
⭐ Best for: Relaxation, couples, slow travel
Island: https://maps.google.com/?q=Silba+Island+Croatia
📍 Sotorišće Beach
📍 Dobra voda Bay
📍 Pernastica Bay
3. Ilovik
Ilovik is a tiny island famous for flowers, calm energy and a picturesque harbor. Boats often anchor directly in front of the village, making it one of the most charming Adriatic stops.
Why visit Ilovik by boat:
- Romantic and peaceful
- Shallow clear bays
- Excellent food options
- Beautiful harbor views
⏱ Boat time from Novalja: around 2 hours
⭐ Best for: Couples, slow island life
Island: https://maps.google.com/?q=Ilovik+Island+Croatia
📍 Paržine Bay
📍 Ilovik canal (between Ilovik and Sv. Petar)
📍 Parknu beach
4. Maun
Maun is an uninhabited island famous for shallow turquoise lagoons and sandy seabeds. It’s one of the most popular swim stops on private boat tours from Novalja.
Why visit Maun by boat:
- Warm, shallow lagoons
- Perfect for floating
- Easy anchoring
- Very close to Novalja
⏱ Boat time from Novalja: 30–45 minutes
⭐ Best for: Swimming, floating, easy trips
Island: https://maps.google.com/?q=Maun+Island+Croatia
📍 Janica beach
📍 Rakovica Bay
📍 East Bay
5. Cres (Punta Križa)
The Punta Križa area on Cres is known for some of the clearest water in Croatia. Hidden coves, wild nature, and zero crowds make this a dream destination for snorkeling and peaceful swimming.
Why visit Punta Križa by boat:
- Exceptional water clarity
- Hidden bays and wild coastline
- Minimal tourism
- Ideal snorkeling conditions
⏱ Boat time from Novalja: 1.5–2 hours
⭐ Best for: Nature lovers, snorkeling
Punta Križa: https://maps.google.com/?q=Punta+Križa+Cres
📍 Meli Bay
📍 Bokinić Bay
📍 Vlaska beach
6. Rab
Rab offers a mix of sandy beaches, historic streets, and lush greenery. It’s ideal for combining swimming with sightseeing and lunch in the old town.
Why visit Rab by boat:
- Sandy beaches near Lopar
- Historic old town
- Great food scene
- Easy docking
⏱ Boat time from Novalja: 1.5–2 hours
⭐ Best for: Beach + sightseeing days
Island: https://maps.google.com/?q=Rab+Island+Croatia
📍 Old Town Rab
📍Ćifnata Bay
📍 Suha Punta Bay
7. Škarda
Škarda is famous for its bright turquoise bay and white pebbles. It’s a very popular swim stop due to its unreal water color and easy access.
Why visit Škarda by boat:
- Iconic turquoise water
- Great snorkeling
- Perfect for photos
- Easy stop from Pag
⏱ Boat time from Novalja: ~45 minutes
⭐ Best for: Swimming, photos
Island: https://maps.google.com/?q=Škarda+Island
📍 Main Bay (north)
📍 Luka Škarda (Škarda dock)
8. Lošinj
Lošinj is known for dolphins, pine forests and elegant seaside promenades. It’s perfect for a longer, full-day boat trip.
Why visit Lošinj by boat:
- Dolphin sightings
- Cleanest sea in the region
- Beautiful harbors
- Wellness island vibe
⏱ Boat time from Novalja: up to 2 hours
⭐ Best for: Full-day exploration
Island: https://maps.google.com/?q=Lošinj+Island+Croatia
📍 Plieski beach
📍 Krivica Bay
9. Ist
Ist is a quiet island with crystal-clear water and a strong local feel. Tourism is minimal, making it perfect for those seeking authenticity.
Why visit Ist by boat:
- Peaceful atmosphere
- Clear turquoise sea
- Authentic island life
- No crowds
⏱ Boat time from Novalja: ~2 hours
⭐ Best for: Calm escapes
Island: https://maps.google.com/?q=Ist+Island+Croatia
📍 Široka Bay
📍 Kosirača Bay
10. Premuda
Premuda is famous for wild coastline, turquoise lagoons, and excellent snorkeling. It’s less developed and perfect for adventurous boat trips.
Why visit Premuda by boat:
- Pristine nature
- Excellent snorkeling
- Crystal-clear water
- Untouched Adriatic feel
⏱ Boat time from Novalja: ~2 hours
⭐ Best for: Nature, snorkeling
Island: https://maps.google.com/?q=Premuda+Island+Croatia
📍 Krijal Bay
📍 Kalpić Bay
With these 10 islands within two hours by boat from Novalja, this part of Croatia is one of the best areas in the Adriatic for island hopping. From sandy lagoons to wild turquoise bays, every stop offers something unique and unforgettable.