Things To Do
in Kaprije

Kaprije is a tiny car-free island in the Dalmatian coast within the Šibenik archipelago. Its stone houses cluster around a sheltered harbor, and narrow lanes invite gentle strolls at a relaxed pace. The island offers pristine coves, clear Adriatic waters, and a slow-paced life that suits travelers seeking respite from crowded destinations.

Getting here typically involves a ferry from the mainland to a neighboring island, followed by a short transfer to Kaprije by boat or foot.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Kaprije
morning
:

Arrive at the quaint island of Kaprije and check into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, absorbing the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Enjoy a fresh coffee from a local café while admiring the serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Settle in with a local lunch, sampling traditional Dalmatian dishes featuring fresh seafood. Explore the small village, visit local artisan shops, and take in the charming architecture. Spend the afternoon lounging by the sea or swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, enjoy a peaceful dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring local cuisine. Join fellow travelers and locals for a sunset beach stroll, where the sky transforms into a palette of oranges and purples. Conclude your day with a glass of local wine while taking in the tranquil sounds of the island.

day 2
Exploration of Nature
morning
:

Start your day with an invigorating breakfast, followed by a hiking adventure on the island’s rugged trails. Discover hidden coves and breathtaking lookout points offering panoramic views of neighboring islands. As you trek, immerse yourself in the diverse flora and fauna that flourishes here.

afternoon
:

After your hike, return to the village for a hearty lunch featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Spend the rest of your afternoon at a hidden beach, enjoying some sunbathing and swimming. Alternatively, rent a kayak to explore the stunning coastline from the water.

evening
:

Wrap up your adventurous day with a seaside barbecue, perhaps cooking your freshly caught fish. As night falls, find a spot to relax, allowing the soothing chorus of waves and the twinkling stars to envelop you. Share stories around a fire with fellow travelers, embracing the camaraderie of island life.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee$2-4
🧀Local cheese and bread$4-7
🚤Boat rental (half-day)$60-120
🏖️Beach chair and umbrella rental$5-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning island scenery and crystal-clear water
  • Relaxed, safe, and welcoming atmosphere
  • Car-free streets and walkable trails
  • Limited nightlife and fewer services outside peak season
  • Public transport on the island is minimal
  • Smaller selection of dining options compared to mainland towns
  • "Dobar dan" - Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Molim" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Govorite engleski?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gdje je kupaonica?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Živjeli!" - Cheers!

Places to Visit in Kaprije

Visit one of these nice places.

Harbor at sunrise

Calm waters, soft light, and boats docked along the quay create serene reflections.

Old church and stone lanes

Medieval walls, textured stone, and narrow alleys provide rich texture for street photography.

Southern coast cliffs

Dramatic sea cliffs and sweeping blue horizons ideal for dramatic landscape shots.

Lighthouse by the marina

Iconic white beacon with a blue Adriatic backdrop—great for silhouettes at dusk.

Hilltop sunset viewpoint

Panoramic views of Kaprije’s red roofs and the surrounding islands at golden hour.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kaprije

Dalmatian cuisine on Kaprije emphasizes seafood, olive oil, and seasonal produce. Meals are traditionally simple, flavorful, and meant to be shared with friends and family.

Kaprije Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gregada

Traditional Dalmatian fish stew with potatoes, onions, garlic, and olive oil.

Must-Try!

Crni rižot (black risotto)

Risotto infused with squid ink and tender seafood, rich in aroma and color.

Grilled Adriatic fish (riba na gradele)

Freshly caught fish grilled with lemon, olive oil, and herbs.

Sardines on the grill

Simple, flavorful grilled sardines finished with parsley and garlic.

Pršut i sir

Smoked Croatian ham with local cheese and olives, served with crusty bread.

Octopus salad

Chilled octopus with olive oil, lemon, onions, and herbs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marina Market (seasonal)

A small weekly market in peak season selling fresh fish, olive oil, honey, and seasonal produce; street stalls offer quick seafood bites.

Beachfront stalls

Snack stalls offering grilled fish, octopus salad, and light pastries with sea views.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kaprije enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Sea breezes keep especially sunny days comfortable, while winter remains relatively mild with cooler nights. Spring and autumn are pleasant for outdoor activities and photography, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite 'Dobar dan' (Good day) or 'Dobro jutro' is appreciated; handshakes are common in introductions.

Dress and behavior

Dress modestly when visiting churches; keep voices gentle in residential areas and during siesta.

Language

Croatian is spoken; many locals have basic English, especially in tourist areas; learning a few phrases is appreciated.

Local customs

Respect quiet hours, especially at night, and support local businesses by buying locally produced goods.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kaprije is generally safe, with a friendly, small-community vibe. Standard travel precautions apply: stay aware of weather changes, especially sea conditions, and keep valuables secure in busy harbor areas. In emergency, dial 112 for medical or police assistance.

Tipping in Kaprije

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is common but not obligatory. If service is not included, leaving about 5-10% in restaurants is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops; cash (HRK) is handy for small vendors and local markets; contactless payments are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming olive groves and fewer crowds. Perfect for hiking and coastal photography.

Summer

Hot, dry days with island beaches at their peak. Water temperatures rise; expect busier harbors and higher boat activity.

Autumn

Warm days linger; calmer seas and fewer visitors. Great for boat trips and color-rich sunsets.

Winter

Quiet island life with cooler temperatures and limited services. A tranquil time for solo exploration and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Kaprije at Night

The nightlife on Kaprije is low-key and intimate, featuring small beach bars and taverns that offer sunset drinks, fresh seafood, and occasional live music during the peak season. Expect a relaxed atmosphere rather than large club scenes.

Hiking in Kaprije

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Coastal loop around Kaprije Main Beach to Vela Draga

Scenic coastal path with coves, rocky outcrops, and sea views; moderate effort with rewarding outlooks.

Hilltop viewpoint near the church

Steep climb to a vantage point offering panoramic island views and distant shorelines.

Ridge walk toward nearby islets

Gentle ridge route providing expansive sea panoramas and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Airports

How to reach Kaprije by plane.

Zadar Airport (ZAD)

Main regional gateway with domestic and international flights; from here you’ll typically connect to the Šibenik region by road or bus and then ferry routes to Kaprije.

Split Airport (SPU)

Major international hub for central Dalmatia; transfer to Šibenik area by road and then take a ferry or boat transfer to Kaprije.

Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)

Southern gateway; farther from Kaprije but possible via land transfer and seasonal ferry connections to nearby islands.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kaprije is highly walkable with compact streets and limited vehicle traffic. The island’s network of coastal paths and stairways is ideal for casual strolls and photo excursions, though some routes are steep and require sturdy footwear.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

A small, close-knit year-round community focused on fishing, farming, and servicing visitors.

Seasonal visitors

Summer tourists from Croatia and other EU countries who fill up guesthouses and taverns during peak months.

Boating and yachting crowd

Transient visitors arriving by private boats or chartered trips, contributing to the island’s seasonal rhythm.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Swimming and snorkeling

Clear Adriatic waters and rocky coves make for great underwater exploration.

Sailing and kayaking

Calm seas and sheltered coves provide ideal conditions for small-boat adventures.

Fishing and coastal games

Traditional island pastime; respectful participation is encouraged if invited by locals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic on Kaprije is minimal. The island is primarily navigated on foot or by small boats; roads are narrow and often shared with pedestrians and cyclists. Ferry schedules drive the main flow of movement, especially during peak season, so plan transfers ahead.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kaprije.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most konobe offer grilled vegetables, fresh salads, goat cheese plates, and bread with olive oil. Inform the staff of preferences; plenty of meat-free options are available in season.

Gluten-Free

Many seafood dishes and salads are naturally gluten-free. If unsure, ask for ingredients and possible cross-contamination.

Vegan

Options may be limited; rely on vegetables, olives, bread, and fruit. Clarify ingredients (e.g., fish stock) with the kitchen when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare on Kaprije is limited; for hospital services, visitors typically travel to Šibenik or nearby towns by ferry and road. There are pharmacies on the island. Carry basic first-aid supplies and travel insurance for peace of mind; 112 is the emergency number.

Discover Croatia

Read more in our Croatia 2025 Travel Guide.

Croatia Travel Guide