Dugi otok Info
Dugi otok is a 45 km long island, located in the North Dalmation in the Zadar county. It is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Croatia, although it is still hidden from the mass tourism. It has so much to offer - from beautiful coves and beaches to peace and tranquility.
Its name Dugi otok (long island) explains its main characteristic - it is 45 km long while it has a width between 1 and 4 km. The highest point of the island is Vela Straža (338 m). Although it is remote, Dugi otok has 11 settlements including Sali, Zaglav, Brbinj, Veli Rat, Božava, Luka, Savar among others. The administrative center of the island is Sali.
Dugi otok has been inhabited since the Illyrians, and many historical buildings have been preserved until today. It was mentioned for the first time in the 10th century by Byzant emperor Konstantin. Today, the entire island has around 1,500 permanent inhabitants mainly engaged in tourism and agriculture.
The island of Dugi otok is home to beautiful nature park Telašćica. Nature park Telašćica is one of the most attractive nature parks in Croatia consisting of Telašćica bay, water area, and surrounding islands. Another landmark of the island is the beautiful sandy beach Saharun, characterized by white sand and turquoise blue sea. Other beaches are Pantera beach, Veli Žal beach, Veli Rat beach (close to the 42-meters high lighthouse Veli Rat from 1849), and Brbinjšćica beach. National park Kornati is also in the vicinity of the island, ideal for a day trip. Dugi otok is an ideal destination for nature and sports lovers - it offers many activities including hiking, cycling, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and sailing.
Although the island is remote, it is very well connected with the mainland. There is a frequent ferry line (Zadar - Brbinj) and boat line (Zadar - Sali - Zaglav). On Dugi otok there are several hotels and campsites, but we recommend staying in private accommodation - apartments, holiday homes, villas, and rooms.
Climate & Weather
The climate of Dugi otok is almost ideal. It has more than 2,500 sunny hours a year, the average annual air temperature is 16°C (in summer 24 °C) and the average sea temperature in the summer is above 23 °C. Summers are long and dry, and winters are mild. The average number of rainy days is around 90.
