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Travel bucket list idea:

Last updated: 26 March, 2024
Expert travel writer: Jane Foster

Covered with pine forests and lush Mediterranean vegetation, and sprinkled with olive groves, vineyards and 16th-century villas, the pristine Elafiti Islands make for a fabulous day-trip from Dubrovnik. The water is crystal-clear waters and there are countless secluded coves to explore.

The three largest islands, Kolocep, Lopud and Sipan, are inhabited all year round, though it’s during the summer months that they come to life, offering a charming selection of laid-back cafés and seafood restaurants.

Beach-lovers should head to Sunj, on the lush green island of Lopud, one of the islands’ few sandy beaches, with warm, shallow waters ideal for children.

One of the best ways to explore the islands is by kayak; numerous tour operators offer guided kayaking day-trips or longer expeditions. If you prefer something a bit more relaxing, you can opt for one a sail- or speedboat, either on an organised tour or a private charter.

Logistics

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 8+
When: All year around
Duration: 3+ hours

Getting there & doing it

If you want to go independently, Jadrolinja run daily ferries from Dubrovnik to Kolocep (35mins), Lopud (55mins) and Sudurad on Sipan (75mins). The high-speed Nona Ana catamaran connects Dubrovnik to Sipanska Luka on Sipan (40mins).

Organised tours will often take in several islands, take you to hidden coves and good swimming spots, and include lunch. They usually last all day. Private charters give you the greatest flexibility in locations and duration, and the chance to find blissful seclusion.

When to do it

The best time to visit the islands is from June to September. In winter, the sleepy villages on these islands can be lonely and windswept and many venues close down.

Who to go with: organised tours

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Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands Cruise with Lunch and Drinks

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik Elafiti Islands Cruise with Lunch and Drinks
Spend a day on the boat trip to Elafiti Islands, Dubrovnik. Enjoy the boat ride, explore the islands, beautiful nature, swim, walk or just rest and relax. Have a tasty meal on-board. Spend an unforgettable day on the islands which are known as the latest spots of untouched nature at the Mediterranean. Visit famous laguna beach Šunj. Lunch, unlimited consumption of drinks and car transfer from your accommodation to boat and back is included in the boat tour price.

Price: €50

Min age: 0

Rating 4.47 / 5 [589 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Dubrovnik Private Speedboat Tour to Elaphite Islands with Drinks

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik Private Speedboat Tour to Elaphite Islands with Drinks
Come and check out the most unique experience in Dubrovnik. If you love being on the sea, then you couldn't be in better hands.Our Boat tours provide travelers with an opportunity to cruise around the stunningly beautiful islands around Dubrovnik and the Croatian coast. In this all inclusive private tour you will see the most beautiful islands, more than eight caves (Blue and Green caves) the biggest beach Šunj, beautiful harbors,amazing swimming and snorkeling hidden places.Also if you wish, we can make a reservation for lunch in one of the best local restaurants. Join us, and we will give our best you have unforgettable day on the sea.

Price: €360

Min age: 0

Rating 4.97 / 5 [304 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Private Boat Tour to Elafiti Islands

Dubrovnik

Private Boat Tour to Elafiti Islands
Spend a mind-blowing time exploring Dubrovnik’s sensational Riviera on our private boat tour. This tour can be adjusted to suit your wishes, bringing you your most unforgettable adventure yet! You are accompanied by a professional skipper who operates a new and comfortable speedboat well equipped with Bimini (sun cover), Sundeck, Shower, Fridge and Bluetooth Stereo System for a fun day of island hopping. There is a 4 hour (half-day) morning/afternoon option or 8 hour (full-day) option. Destination is Elafiti Islands archipelago approximately 20min from Dubrovnik. Explore magnificent hidden sites such as private bays, blue caves, sandy beaches, cliffs, untouched Mediterranean natural beauty. The archipelago has also 3 typical Dalmatian villages with an old monastery, fort, botanic gardens and nice seaside restaurants. This tour is a spectacular choice for those wishing to discover Dubrovnik’s pristine scenery and waters. Embark on a day of relaxation, positive vibes and beautiful views.

Price: €399

Min age: 0

Rating 4.96 / 5 [252 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Half-Day Private Elafiti Island Boat Tour

Dubrovnik

Half-Day Private Elafiti Island Boat Tour
With so many things planned to see and do, you have only so much time left to squeeze in something new? Perfect. This half-day tour of the Elafiti islands will take just enough of your time to leave you wanting for more. After all, who doesn’t like to take a boat cruise around archipelago, explore underwater caves, sunbathe on amazing sandy beaches, or try authentic local food? And you don’t even need to get up early. Skipper and guide in one, fuel, underwater camear, soft drinks, beer, bottled water, snorkeling masks and dry bags included. All our three speedboats are avalible to choose for all kind of boat tours. Pls. visit our website before booking and take a look in our boat section, where you can see a video of every boat and make a choice :)!.

Price: €320

Min age: 0

Rating 5 / 5 [201 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Half-Day Elafiti Islands Private Speed Boat Tour by Quicksilver 675

Dubrovnik

Half-Day Elafiti Islands Private Speed Boat Tour by Quicksilver 675
From the main port of Gruž, it only takes about 20 min to get to the Elaphiti Archipelago, so a Half Day Tour is great for those looking for a bit of adventure and some beautiful nature close to town. Of the three main (inhabited) islands, you can easily visit one or two in a half day. Some of our guests make it to all three islands in the four hour time slot, but if you want to spend time in the sea, this will probably feel rushed. Islands are ideal if you like swimming and snorkeling. Our skippers know all of the best spots. If you want to visit some of the islands’ historical villages instead, you might consider the old Monastery and Rector’s Palace on Lopud. Since this is a private tour, you get to decide on your own itinerary and you are free to change it throughout the day. Your skipper can advise you about the area and help you make the most of your time. It’s 100% flexible, and it’s 100% up to you.

Price: €440

Min age: 0

Rating 5 / 5 [200 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Destination guides

1

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Dubrovnik

Dalmatia, Croatia

Dubrovnik

Dazzling Dubrovnik offers UNESCO-listed heritage set against the pure blue backdrop of the Adriatic.