Šolta, a gem of the Adriatic Sea, offers so much more than a simple island escape—it’s a playground for those with a spirit of adventure. With its turquoise waters, ancient villages, and hidden coves, every turn on Šolta holds something to discover. Here’s a guide to making the most of an adrenaline-filled day exploring this stunning Croatian island.
If you’re eager to start your day with a challenge, head straight to the main beach in Maslinica, Punta, and grab a kayak. In the early morning light, the water is calm and inviting—perfect conditions for kayaking around the seven small islets called "Maslinički Škoj." Each islet has its own unique landscape, from pine-covered shores to tiny stone beaches that feel worlds away from civilization.
The journey takes you around Polebrnjak, Stipanska, Saskinja, Grmej, Kamik, Balkun, and Rudula, with Maslinica’s scenic skyline and the historic Martinis Marchi castle in the background. Find your own little spot, pull your kayak ashore, and take a break with a view like no other. Bring snorkeling gear, because these uninhabited islets are ideal for exploring the underwater world, where fish dart through crystal-clear waters over vibrant coral reefs. It’s a perfect start to a day of adventure!
Once back on land, it’s time to explore the heart of Šolta: Grohota. This timeless village, set just 1.5 kilometers from the island’s main port in Rogača, is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. Grohota’s stone walls and winding alleys echo centuries of history, with remnants of Roman architecture blending with more recent structures.
The focal point of Grohota is the impressive Neo-Renaissance Church of St. Stephen the First Martyr, built near the remains of an early Christian basilica. As you wander, you’ll come across the Slavić Tower—a medieval fortress that once protected noble families from Split. Don’t miss the "Brother’s House," now home to a local library, tourist office, and a gallery. Walking here, it’s easy to imagine the days of ancient trade routes and medieval defenses, all set against a backdrop of Šolta’s raw beauty.
Ready for another adventure? Make your way to Nečujam, one of Šolta’s most stunning bays, where history rests below the waves. In the calm, shallow waters of Mala Maslinica, you’ll find a sunken shipwreck, the remains of a once-grand vessel that now serves as a sanctuary for sea life.
Equipped with just a snorkel and mask, you can explore this underwater museum without needing a dive license. Swim through schools of fish, glide over delicate corals, and watch as curious crabs scuttle over the sunken relic. It’s a surreal experience—one moment you’re gazing at the ship’s ancient hull, and the next, a shimmering wave of fish drifts past, offering you a glimpse into the Adriatic’s vibrant underwater life.
After your diving excursion, head to Stomorska for a well-deserved coffee break. Nestled on the island’s northeast coast, Stomorska feels like a postcard come to life, with its old stone houses, fishing boats, and sleek yachts moored side by side. Grab a seat at a terrace along the water, where you can watch as fishermen unload the morning’s catch while the glistening Adriatic stretches out before you.
Order a rich espresso, soak up the morning sun, and take in the contrast of tradition and luxury. If you have a good book on hand, this is the perfect moment to lose yourself in its pages, letting the easy rhythm of Stomorska add its own chapters to your day.
For true adventurers, the hidden coves along Šolta’s south side are calling. Set out by foot, bike, or boat to explore these turquoise oases, untouched by cars and blessedly free of crowds. These coves stretch from Maslinica all the way to Livka in the southeast, each offering its own slice of paradise, with pebbled beaches, towering cliffs, and the ever-expansive Adriatic stretching toward Vis and Hvar.
Some of the best spots require a bit of a trek from Grohota or Gornje Selo along winding macadam roads, but the journey itself is part of the adventure. Once you arrive, you’ll have the pristine bay all to yourself. Pack a picnic, go for a swim, or simply lay back and let the serenity wash over you. With only the sound of waves and distant gulls, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled onto a secret known only to the island’s locals.
As the sun begins to set, cap off your day with a taste of Šolta’s renowned “Dobričić” wine. Unique to this region, Dobričić grapes are said to be the ancestors of Croatia’s famed "Plavac Mali," and sipping a glass here on the island where they grow makes the wine all the more special.
Find a spot with a view of the sea, raise your glass, and let the bold, fruity flavors transport you through centuries of winemaking tradition. The experience of savoring a wine grown from grapes native to this land, overlooking the Adriatic, is a perfect conclusion to an adventurous day on Šolta.
Šolta is a haven for those who crave a mix of excitement and tranquility, offering you the chance to explore uncharted waters, trek through ancient villages, and discover hidden coves. So pack your adventurous spirit and come uncover Šolta’s secrets with us at AdriaVacay—because this is an island you’ll never want to leave.
