
Ugljan Island
Ugljan Island, Croatia's 'Olive Island,' offers serene villages, ancient groves, and beautiful Adriatic beaches. A short ferry from Zadar.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Ugljan Island
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ugljan Island, Croatia's 'Olive Island,' offers serene villages, ancient groves, and beautiful Adriatic beaches. A short ferry from Zadar.
"Not much to see, but it just has a good vibe for a relaxing vacation."

Ferry from Zadar is easy
Catch a short, scenic ferry from Zadar to Ugljan Island. It's a quick and affordable journey. ⛴️
Explore beyond Preko
While Preko is lovely, don't miss other villages like Muline for history and beaches. :village:

Quick Facts
Rating
4.7 · 689 reviews
Type
Island
Address
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Preko's Unique Island Walk
Preko
Walk across the sea to a small island housing a Franciscan monastery. A truly unique experience!

Muline's Ancient Heritage
Muline
Explore ancient Roman ruins, including an olive oil mill replica and a basilica. Beautiful beaches nearby.

Scenic Olive Groves and Trails
Throughout the island
Wander through ancient olive groves, the island's namesake, and enjoy scenic hiking and biking paths.

Breathtaking Mediterranean Sunsets
Western coast
Witness stunning sunsets over the Adriatic Sea, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Charm & Accessibility
Embrace the Olive Island Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ferry from Zadar is easy
Catch a short, scenic ferry from Zadar to Ugljan Island. It's a quick and affordable journey. ⛴️
Explore beyond Preko
While Preko is lovely, don't miss other villages like Muline for history and beaches. :village:
Pack for relaxation
Ugljan is about unwinding. Bring a good book and enjoy the laid-back island vibe. :palm_tree:
Taste local olive oil
The island is famous for its olive oil. Look for local producers for an authentic taste. :olive:
Tips
from all over the internet
Ferry from Zadar is easy
Catch a short, scenic ferry from Zadar to Ugljan Island. It's a quick and affordable journey. ⛴️
Explore beyond Preko
While Preko is lovely, don't miss other villages like Muline for history and beaches. :village:
Pack for relaxation
Ugljan is about unwinding. Bring a good book and enjoy the laid-back island vibe. :palm_tree:
Taste local olive oil
The island is famous for its olive oil. Look for local producers for an authentic taste. :olive:
Beach quality varies
Some beaches can get crowded and the water visibility may decrease. Explore to find your perfect spot. :beachwithumbrella:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ugljan Island is praised for its tranquil atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and easy accessibility from Zadar. Visitors appreciate the relaxed vibe, stunning sunsets, and family-friendly environment, making it ideal for a peaceful getaway. Some note that while it's not packed with major attractions, its charm lies in its simplicity and natural beauty.
"Very nice island, every recommendation to visit. Not much to see, but it just has a good vibe for a relaxing vacation."
Denis Simov
"Ugljan Island is across Zadar. Very accessible ferry lines and the ride is short, but beautiful. Preko is a small town. It has a city beach and a small island across it ( Franciscan Monastery of St. Paul The Hermit is located on island ), and it is great because you can walk to it trough the sea. Unfortunately, when the beach is crowded, the sea gets dirty and visibility in the sea is very poor ( if you like diving or snorkeling). I would recommend another beach on the island, because there are plenty of them."
Ena Bajhard
"Small and calm island easily accessible by ferry from Zadar.. can be visited as half day trip from Zadar along side the other nearby island of Osljac.. Nothing extra ordinary.. but you might be lucky to spot dolphins enroute the ferry ride ."
Rani Oswal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Getting to Ugljan Island from Zadar is very straightforward. Frequent ferry lines operate from Zadar's port to various points on Ugljan, most notably Preko. The journey is short, typically around 20 minutes, and offers beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea. Ferries are operated by Jadrolinija and other local companies. ⛴️
Yes, Ugljan Island is relatively easy to navigate. You can bring your car on the ferry, which is convenient for exploring different villages and beaches. Alternatively, local buses connect the main settlements, and renting a scooter or bike is also a great option for a more intimate exploration of the island's scenic routes. 🛵
Absolutely! Ugljan Island is a popular day trip destination from Zadar due to its close proximity and frequent ferry connections. You can easily spend a few hours exploring Preko or Muline and be back in Zadar by the evening. 🕐
Ferry prices can vary slightly, but a typical fare for a person is around €3.60. Bringing a small car onto the ferry will cost more, approximately €16.40. It's advisable to check the latest schedules and prices with the ferry operator before your trip. 💶
While taxis are available on Ugljan Island, they are less common than in larger cities. It's recommended to arrange transport in advance if you require a taxi, especially if you are staying in a more remote part of the island. 🚕
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance tickets required to visit Ugljan Island itself. The island is a public destination. You will only need to purchase ferry tickets to get there from Zadar. 🎟️
Most natural attractions like beaches and villages are free to access. For specific historical sites or museums, there might be a small entrance fee, but these are generally minimal. The Franciscan Monastery on the islet near Preko may have a donation box. :moneywithwings:
Ferry operating hours vary depending on the season and the specific route. During peak summer months, ferries run more frequently. It's best to check the official Jadrolinija website or local ferry terminals for the most up-to-date schedules. 📅
While you can often purchase ferry tickets at the port on the day of travel, buying them in advance, especially during peak season, can save you time and guarantee your spot. Online booking options may be available through the ferry company's website. 💻
While there aren't specific 'island hopping' passes that cover all islands, purchasing round-trip ferry tickets can sometimes be more economical. For exploring multiple islands, it's best to research individual ferry routes and schedules. 🗺️
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Ugljan Island boasts numerous beautiful beaches. While Preko has a city beach, many visitors recommend exploring further to find hidden coves and clearer waters. Muline is known for its lovely beaches, and the island offers many secluded spots perfect for swimming and sunbathing. :beach_umbrella:
Ugljan is perfect for a relaxing vacation. Enjoy swimming and sunbathing, hiking and biking through its scenic trails and olive groves, exploring charming medieval villages, and savoring delicious local cuisine. Boat tours are also available. :hiking_boot:
Yes, Ugljan Island is considered a great destination for families. Its calm atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly villages offer a safe and enjoyable environment for children. The island's natural beauty provides plenty of space for kids to explore. :familywomanwoman_boy:
Ugljan is nicknamed 'The Olive Island' because olive trees have been a significant part of its landscape and culture for over 2,000 years. You'll find extensive ancient olive groves across the island, and the local olive oil is renowned. :olive:
Yes, it's possible to spot dolphins during the ferry ride between Zadar and Ugljan Island, or while out on boat tours. Keep an eye on the water, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. 🐬
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
On Ugljan Island, you should definitely try fresh seafood, grilled meats, and dishes featuring local olive oil. Many restaurants offer traditional Dalmatian cuisine. Don't miss tasting the island's own high-quality olive oil. 🍴
Preko, the main settlement on Ugljan, has several restaurants and konobas (traditional taverns) offering a variety of local dishes. You can find places serving fresh fish, pasta, and other Mediterranean specialties. 🍽️
While seafood and meat dishes are prevalent, you can often find vegetarian options like vegetable platters, pasta with vegetable sauces, and salads. Vegan options might require specific requests at restaurants, but fresh produce is readily available. :leafy_green:
Yes, you'll find charming cafes and bars in the main villages like Preko and Kali, perfect for enjoying a coffee, a local drink, or a light snack while taking in the island atmosphere. ☕
Dining on Ugljan Island is generally more affordable than in major tourist hubs. Local konobas often offer good value for money, especially if you stick to traditional dishes and local wines. :money_bag:
📸 📸 Photography
Ugljan Island offers numerous picturesque spots for photography. Capture the charming villages with their stone houses, the ancient olive groves, the scenic coastline, and the breathtaking sunsets. The view from Mount St. Michael (Sv. Mihovil) is particularly stunning. 📷
Expect to capture vibrant Mediterranean landscapes, quaint village scenes, beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and dramatic sunsets. The island's natural beauty and historical remnants provide diverse photographic opportunities. :landscape:
If you have a drone, Ugljan Island offers incredible aerial perspectives of its coastline, olive groves, and villages. Always be mindful of local drone regulations and privacy. :drone:
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset are ideal for capturing the island's beauty with soft, warm light. Midday can be harsh for photography, but it's perfect for capturing the vibrant blues of the sea. :sunriseovermountains:
Yes, the archaeological remains in Muline, such as the Roman villa rustica and early Christian basilica, offer unique historical photography subjects. The Franciscan Monastery on the islet near Preko is also a visually interesting site. :ancient_ruins:







Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit