Hvar & the Pakleni Islands·Croatia
Photo: Lio Voo · Pexels
Hvar is one of the Adriatic's star islands, and just off its harbour lies the Pakleni chain — a scatter of low, pine-covered islets ringed with hidden coves and water the clear blue-green the Croatian coast is famous for. Seen from a kayak, at water level and under your own power, it neatly sidesteps the crowds that fill the main island in season.
The paddling is gentle and forgiving: sheltered channels, short crossings of a kilometre or two, and frequent stops to swim off small beaches you can really only reach by boat. No experience is needed, which makes it an easy, joyful day on the water rather than an expedition — the archetypal Adriatic seascape with the volume turned down.
Go in the warmer months, late spring to early autumn, and set off earlier in the day before the afternoon breeze picks up across the open stretches. Bring a mask; the swim stops are half the reason to come at all.
In season: May–Oct
Half-day guided tours, sit-on-top or stable sea kayaks, short protected crossings, no experience needed.
Join a half-day guided sea-kayak tour from Hvar town; stable boats and gear are supplied, with swim stops on beaches you can only reach by water.
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