Sveti Ivan Beach

Sveti Ivan, or St John’s Beach (and sometimes Lubenice Beach), lies on the island of Cres. It is one of the string of islands in the Istria Peninsula. Ferries can be caught from the mainland at Brestova, and make the trip more than a dozen times a day in the high season.

Named as one of the top 40 beaches in the world by German magazine Bild, Sveti Ivan is a family-orientated virgin beach, meaning it can be found just as nature intended, if with no amenities of any sort. Located in an attractive cove at the base of steep cliffs below Lubenice village, its 150-metre length and pebbled surface is protected from strong winds, making it a fun place to swim with the kids.

However, limited parking in Lubenice, and the steep descent of almost 400 metres makes reaching Sveti Ivan by land a difficult process. It can take up to 40 minutes down to the beach and an hour back up to your car. All told, it’s therefore better to reach Sveti Ivan by water taxi, which can be boarded from Cres and Valun towns, or private boat charter.

Pets are allowed on Sveti Ivan Beach.