Few Mediterranean destinations reward a day on the water like the Zadar archipelago. Dozens of islands, sheltered bays and sandy coves sit within easy reach of the city, and many of the most memorable swimming spots reveal their best side when approached by boat. Most island excursions begin from the Foša port, Jazine bay, or the Jazine gas station, making it convenient for visitors to reach their chosen destination. Guests staying in the Borik or Diklo areas can count on a transfer to the city center, avoiding parking hassles and summer traffic. The first official departure is at 9:30 AM, but transfers can be arranged earlier upon request. ZadarWaterTaxi offers direct transfers to the island of Ugljan or to a destination of choice on the island, or to Petrčane—famous for also having excellent beaches. Transfers to Ugljan or Petrčane can only be arranged before 9 AM, with return trips between 4 and 5 PM. With practical departure points and thoughtful scheduling, exploring the islands becomes a breeze.

Thanks to the modern yellow ZadarWaterTaxi catamaran, linked to the Old Town, getting from historic streets to island waters is refreshingly simple. The ride is short, seats up to 12 passengers, and is family-friendly, with card payments on board and fares that keep seaside exploring accessible for all ages. You can also explore the timetable for taxi services to better plan your trip.

Borik beach and Puntamika/Diklo for easy boat days

When time is limited, Borik beach and the Puntamika–Diklo shoreline offer relaxed, boat-friendly swimming close to the city. The water is typically calm with sections of sandy or fine-pebble seabed, great for children and anyone who prefers shallow water entry. Pine shade, cafés and beach clubs are within a few minutes’ walk of most moorings in Dražanica Bay and other locations, so it is easy to combine a morning swim with a leisurely lunch. Sunsets from Puntamika are among Zadar’s classics, and arriving by boat lets you linger offshore as the sea turns copper and the islands darken on the horizon. 

Sakarun beach, Dugi Otok’s turquoise lagoon

Across the channel on Dugi Otok, Sakarun beach is the archipelago’s showpiece: a wide arc of white sand bordered by pines and a long, gentle shelf of crystalline, shallow sea. On calm days the water glows an unreal turquoise, and boats anchor over sand in front of the beach for a postcard view. Plan a full day trip and arrive early to enjoy the quietest hours; the setting is open, so wind can ruffle the surface in the afternoon. Bring sun protection and plenty of water, and be mindful to anchor on sand rather than seagrass to protect the seabed.

Veli Žal and northern Dugi Otok coves

Just south of Sakarun, Veli Žal rewards boaters with luminous water over smooth pebbles and fewer crowds. The coastline here is scalloped with small bays, making it easy to find your own patch of sea. The water is strikingly clear, and the seabed drops a little faster than at Sakarun, which suits confident swimmers. If you prefer a quieter anchor, nose along the shore until you spot a protected cove with sand patches for a responsible drop.

Telašćica Nature Park for sheltered bays and raw cliffs

The southern tip of Dugi Otok is safeguarded as Telašćica Nature Park, famed for its dramatic cliffs and a tranquil saltwater lake behind them. While this is not a single beach in the traditional sense, boaters love the mosaic of narrow inlets where the water is calm and the sea smells of pine. Moor in designated areas, follow park guidance, and take time to walk up to the viewpoints over the open Adriatic. Swimming in the warm, sheltered coves is a soothing contrast to the cliffs only a short hike away.

Ugljan Island: Preko’s Jaz beach and quiet Muline

Opposite Zadar lies green Ugljan, an ideal first hop. ZadarWaterTaxi offers direct transfers to Ugljan, taking you to the destination of your choice on the island. Preko’s Jaz beach is an easy anchor choice with family-friendly entry, while the northern village of Muline offers translucent water, low-key stone quays and a slower rhythm. The passages here are short, typically counted in minutes rather than hours, so you can combine a swim with an unhurried coastal tour past olive groves and small chapels.

Ošljak, a small inhabited island with circling swims

Between Zadar and Ugljan rests tiny Ošljak, a small inhabited island encircled by a footpath and skirted by rocky shelves. Approach by boat for secluded swims in luminous shallows and views back to the city’s bell towers. With no cars and few facilities, it feels delightfully remote despite the short crossing.

Iž Island: Komoševa Bay and village coves

Further south, Iž offers a softer landscape and quiet anchorages. Komoševa Bay near Veli Iž is a favorite for its clear, protected bay and emerald tones; the seabed alternates between sand and pebble, making it easy to find a gentle spot for the anchor. In summer, the afternoon maestral breeze usually cools the air without disturbing the water too much inside the coves.

Pašman’s sandy shallows near Mrljane and Tkon

For warm, waist-deep sea ideal for young swimmers, head to Pašman. Around Mrljane and Tkon you will find sandy patches and long shallows that heat quickly in the sun. The channels between the islands are well marked, and the scenery—low stone walls, fig trees, tiny chapels—captures an intimate picture of coastal Croatia.

Practical boat pointers for a smooth beach day

• Start early to enjoy glassy morning water and light traffic; aim for your farthest island first, then work back toward Zadar.
• Watch the forecast, local winds and any posted notices. The northerly bura can arrive sharp; the afternoon maestral is gentler but can build chop in open stretches.
• Anchor only on sand, never on posidonia meadows. Besides protecting marine life, sand holds better for small craft.
• Pack shade, reef-safe sunscreen, drinking water and a dry bag. Island kiosks are not guaranteed, especially outside peak weeks.
• Allow flexible time for crossings; conditions and vessel type can turn a 30-minute hop into 45 minutes.

From Old Town stone to island coves, the combination of short boat rides, bright bay shallows and pine-framed shores makes the Zadar archipelago an easy place to fall for the rhythm of the boat and the sea, whether you choose Borik’s convenience, Sakarun’s lagoon on Dugi Otok or the sheltered inlets of Telašćica Nature Park.