Incredible Beachfront Property in Croatia

Croatian beachfront real estate, in Hvar and other amazing destinations, is some of the best in Europe.

Learn more about Croatia beachfront in IL Postcards.

Croatia, with more coastline than any other European country, hides some of the most exquisite beachfront property in the world-at the lowest prices. Every twist and turn of the coastline serves up grandstand views of secret coves, little harbors, and calm turquoise waters. Out in the Adriatic Sea, a galaxy of islands-1,185 of them-shimmer like a cache of emeralds. The legendary Frenchman Jacques Cousteau, esteemed biologist and oceanographer, once described Croatia's waters as the cleanest and clearest in the world. When you come here, you simply must take a boat and go out into the Adriatic-you'll be astounded at how far down into the depths you can see. Adriatic beachfront property prices are what you could find on the Mediterranean a generation or so ago.

Beachfront Real Estate on Split and the central Dalmatian Coast

If you're interested in Split, look primarily in the Old Town. Here you'll find the happy combination of affordable properties for sale in old (though not ancient) buildings along pleasant streets, just a short distance from the beach and the palace. Few foreigners buy beachfront property in Split at the moment, but things could change if resort prices keep spiraling upwards. Prices in the city can be as high as $372 per square foot for new apartment residences in elite locations on Marjan mountain, but the average is around $300 per square foot. Summers are warm and dry (there is some need for air conditioning), and winters are mild (again, central heating is necessary occasionally). Locals take advantage of their location and weather, and are well known for their love of the outdoors and sport.

The island of Brac: Under an hour's ferry ride from Split and the mainland, Brac is central Dalmatia's largest island (the third largest in the Adriatic), and the windsurfing capital of Croatia. An island of vineyards, olive groves, and pine forests, its other claim to fame is its white marble. The island's population is almost 14,000. Along with idyllic coves, traditional villages, and bustling fishing harbors, one of Croatia's most famous beaches is here: tongue-shaped Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape). It looks Caribbean on posters, but be prepared for pebbly golden shingle, not soft sand. Some people automatically object to stony beaches, but bathing in the water here is idyllic. The white stones lend a champagne clarity that sand beaches just can't match.

Beachfront Property on Hvar-Croatia's sunshine island

A two-hour ferry ride from Split, Hvar was listed by Condé Nast as being one of the world's top 10 most beautiful islands. Surrounded by sapphire blue seas, this is another idyll of hidden coves, dense woodlands, and a clutch of quaint towns and villages. As it's basically a long, skinny island, you're never too far from the sea. Home to around 11,500 inhabitants, it's definitely an "in" place-Giorgio Armani and Princess Caroline of Monaco have visited in the past. A low-lying island, Hvar claims to be Croatia's sunniest spot with over 2,700 hours of sunshine annually. Go in late June or July and wild lavender blooms everywhere: Hvar is perfumed by the smell during summer. Hvar's main settlement is Hvar town, a renaissance beauty of 16th-century houses with a harbor, stepped stone streets, and a citadel which once defended the islanders against the Ottoman Turks. The only other sizable settlement is Stari Grad, at the end of a four-mile-long bay on the island's northern side

Purchase beachfront property around and about Dubrovnik

For better value, it pays to look beyond Dubrovnik. In the villages that lie nearby, you'll come across plenty of coastal building plots and beach lot properties that are offered at much more reasonable prices. For example, just seven-and-a-half miles away, you'll find Plat. Hidden between the resorts of Cavtat and Mlini, Plat is a tiny oasis of tranquility. Pine and cypress trees line its lovely beaches and enchanting bay. This spot is ideal for those who want to escape the rush of daily life, yet still enjoy easy access to amenities. And property prices are a bargain. It's even possible to find a 5,460-square-foot building plot with roads, utilities, and a great sea view for just $80,000. If you're here on vacation, tourist boats regularly ply between Dubrovnik's Old Port and the little seaside resort of Cavtat. 

Learn more about Croatia beachfront in IL Postcards.

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After researching beachfront and coastal property from around the world…I can report that right now, Paradise can be yours.