Why choose Dalmatia for your next holiday?

Dalmatia, a thousand island’s coast, is one of Croatia’s most popular tourist destinations. The Croatian coast stretches for 1800 km, and the diverse content, beautiful islands, fairy-tale beaches and the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea are just some of the reasons why you should choose Dalmatia for your next vacation.

Croatian beaches are mostly pebble and rocky beaches, characterized mainly by the crystal-clear sea. If you are wondering if there are beaches in Croatia that are not pebbly, the answer is positive. For example, the small town of Nin near Zadar has one of the longest sandy beaches in Croatia, stretching for more than 8 km. The most famous of them is the Queen's Beach. Next to Nin, there is a site with healing mud, which due to its beneficial properties has been used since ancient times. Nearby is the small place called Privlaka, which also abounds on sandy beaches. The most famous beach is Sabunike where you can enjoy adrenaline-fueled windsurfing moments.

In Dalmatia, there are numerous national parks and nature parks, as well as other interesting places of historical and cultural significance. Among the national parks, we should highlight the Paklenica National Park and the Sjeverni Velebit National Park located on the Velebit Mountain, which will delight all lovers of mountain heights. Near Šibenik is the Krka National Park with beautiful waterfalls and water rapids. There is also the Vrana Lake Nature Park, a nature reserve with rich flora and fauna. Near Lake Vrana is the cultural and historical monument called Mašković Han, a monumental building from the 17th century, which is also the westernmost Turkish building in Europe from the Ottoman Empire.

Mašković Han

Kornati National Park, on the other hand, an archipelago of beautiful geography and the most indented archipelago in the entire Mediterranean, is located in the centre of the Adriatic Sea. In the south of Dalmatia, there is the National Park Mljet, a place where you will feel the magic of the sea that will reveal the legend of the famous ancient maritime hero Odysseus and the nymph Calypso. This sea nymph, Odysseus' mistress, chose the island of Mljet as her home.

Kornati National Park

Apart from its diverse content, Dalmatia also has a long and rich history dating back to pre-ancient times. Dalmatia itself was named after the Illyrian tribe called Delmata who inhabited this area in pre-ancient and ancient times. The name was given to them by the Romans after they conquered this area, ie the province they called Illyricum. The Romans left a great cultural wealth on the Adriatic, and many cultural and historical monuments and traces of this time can still be seen on the streets of ancient Dalmatian cities.

In Dalmatia you will experience the authentic experience of the Mediterranean as it once was, so on this unique occasion explore the Croatian coast through its rich gastronomy, culture and tradition.

Zadar, the nearest airport to camping in Drage

You are wondering how to get to the camping destination in Drage, and which is the fastest way to get there? The city of Zadar is 40 km away, where you will find the nearest airport Zemunik. The Zadar airport Zemunik is only 12 km away from the city centre of Zadar and 35 km away from the place Drage. Flights to Zadar are very numerous and today you can get to Zadar very fast from any part of the world.

Zadar

Where is Zadar?

Where is Zadar in Croatia? The city of Zadar is located on the Adriatic coast and is an urban centre, as well as the cultural and tourist centre of Northern Dalmatia. Zadar has a favourable geographical location in the centre of the Adriatic coast, so you can quickly reach neighbouring cities such as Rijeka in the north, and Šibenik, Split or Dubrovnik in the south. Apart from good road connections, Zadar is very well connected by sea with nearby islands such as Ugljan, Pašman, Dugi otok, Iž and other smaller islands in the Zadar archipelago. By ferry, you can reach the islands of Kvarner in the north of the Adriatic coast, as well as the city of Pula in Istria. In the summer months, Zadar is also connected to Ancona in neighbouring Italy.

Why is Zadar worth visiting? What to do in Zadar?

If you are wondering if Zadar is worth visiting, you must know that Zadar is a city with a history old more than 3000 years and the city with the largest number of preserved cultural and historical monuments in Croatia. The old town is located on a small peninsula that has remained the centre of social and cultural activities of this city. In Zadar, you can still walk through the ancient streets of the old town which preserve the old Roman grid of streets designed in ancient times by Roman augur priests. Namely, according to the Etruscan tradition taken over by the Romans, the augur determines the route of the streets by locating himself in the centre, the so-called umbilicus of the future city, to divide the two main streets called cardo and decumanus. The location of the city centre was intended for the main city square called Forum. Zadar, like many other Dalmatian cities, has preserved the spirit of ancient times throughout history, as evidenced by the remains of the Roman Forum.

Zadar

This lively city, in addition to its rich history and numerous monuments that you must see during your Croatian holidays, in summer becomes the scene of various cultural and gastronomic events and tourist activities. If you are wondering what to do in Zadar, you should not miss one of the most famous gastronomic events called Noć punog miseca (Full Moon Festival). At this interesting event that takes place every year in the summer months, you can try the authentic flavours of the Zadar region and listen to the sounds of Dalmatian songs that complement every corner of the city.

In the vicinity of Zadar, many other smaller towns and cities delight with their summer programs, rich cultural history and picturesque streets. For example, nearby is the town of Nin, also known as the oldest Croatian royal city in Dalmatia, which served as the permanent or temporary capital of many Croatian rulers. Here is also the smallest cathedral in the world, the church of St. Cross from the 9th century.

North of Zadar is the island of Pag, known for its top gastronomic speciality, Pag cheese. On this island of impressive geography, which resembles the surface of the moon, there is also the famous Zrće beach, also known as Croatian Ibiza, which in the summer months becomes the scene for the best parties in Croatia. Pag is also known for Pag lace, a traditional embroidery that has been made on this island for centuries.

What to see in Zadar in one day?

If you are wondering what to see in Zadar, do not miss to visit the old town. In the centre of the city of Zadar are the remains of an ancient Forum that was a central place of trade and social life for the ancient Romans. On the remains of the Forum, in the 9th century was built the church of St. Donatus, a symbol of this city and one of the unique churches of pre-Romanesque architecture in Europe.

Today the church of St. Donatus due to its exceptional acoustic properties, serves as a stage for numerous concerts, especially a capella musical expression also known as Klapa. Klapa is an authentic Dalmatian musical form of vocal singing without instrumental accompaniment, included in the UNESCO List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It can often be heard on the streets of Dalmatian cities, especially in the summer months. So do not be surprised if you hear the beautiful sounds of harmonious polyphonic voices while walking through the centre of Zadar.

More things to do in Zadar includes visiting an Archaeological Museum, which on its three floors depicts three periods of the history of this city: Liburnian, Ancient and Medieval. The rich history of this city is also preserved in the treasury called Gold and Silver of the city of Zadar (SICU), which is kept in the Benedictine monastery of the church of St. Mary.

Another sacral building that is an indispensable place for all lovers of Romanesque architecture is the Zadar Cathedral, the Church of St. Anastasia, which is also the largest church in Dalmatia. Next to it, there is a bell tower, offering its visitors a beautiful panorama of the entire city and the Zadar archipelago.

Indispensable places in Zadar today are the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun, modern installations located on the waterfront in the old town. The Sea Organ in Zadar represents an impressive blend of nature and architecture that is reflected in the harmonious sounds of the underground organ under the baton of sea waves. On the other hand, the light installation and one of the most popular attractions in Zadar called Greeting to the Sun right next to the Sea Organ, at night reveals a magical dance spectacle of beautiful light colours.

Sea Organ

Complete the experience of Zadar by visiting one of the many restaurants and traditional taverns in the old town, which will reveal the gastronomic specialities of Dalmatia such as fresh fish and olive oil. Some of the best restaurants in Zadar are Dva ribara, 4 kantuna, Bruschetta, konoba Skoblar, and for those with a more delicate palate, there is also the vegan restaurant Botanist.

If you are looking for beaches in Zadar, do not miss to visit the city's pebble beach Kolovare with a variety of entertainment such as a swimming pool, beach volleyball, trampolines, and other amenities which for sure will be enjoyed by the youngest. If you prefer a sailing holiday in Croatia, the best beach in Zadar is certainly Vitrenjak beach next to the sailing club Uskok, but don't miss to visit the Borik beach and Diklo beach as well.

Dalmatia map

Croatia on the map is located in the southern part of Europe, and if you were wondering where is the dalmatian coast in Croatia, here is the answer. Croatian’s most popular region Dalmatia, on the map, is located in the Central and Southern Adriatic. The Dalmatian coast stretches for about 400 km along the Adriatic Sea and is divided into Northern, Central and Southern Dalmatia. Northern Dalmatia borders the island of Pag, and in the centre of this part are the cities of Zadar and Šibenik. Central Dalmatia includes the city of Split as the centre, and the Southern Dalmatia the city of Dubrovnik.

There are two main motorways in Croatia connecting Zagreb and Rijeka in the north (A6) and Zagreb, Split and Ploče in the south of Dalmatia (A1). The Dalmatian islands include almost all the islands of the Adriatic Sea, except those islands that belong to Istria and Kvarner in the north of the Adriatic coast. Here you will find the map of the Dalmatian coast of Croatia.

Dalmatian islands near Drage, Pakoštane and Zadar

Spending holidays in Croatia on one of the islands of the Dalmatian coast is an unforgettable experience that will allow you to return to your peace while surrounded by untouched nature. The Croatian coast is very indented and has a total of 1244 islands, islets and reefs. The Croatian archipelago is after Greece, the second largest in the entire Mediterranean. Croatian islands have been inhabited since ancient times, and today Croatia has a total of 49 inhabited islands.

You should complete your beach holidays in Croatia with one of the many boat trips, for example to the Kornati, an archipelago with a total of 140 islands, islets and reefs. This place of a specific geography, dominated by bare stone, is a place whose impressive landscape will for sure leave you breathless. Stone labyrinths hide many underground beauties and are perfect for all those who enjoy exploring the underwater depths. In the immediate vicinity is the Telašćica Nature Park on the island called Dugi otok, where you will also find the natural salt lake called Mir, a true natural oasis.

Telašćica Nature Park

The Zadar archipelago is a real source of beautiful islands and islets with hidden coves and the most beautiful Croatian beaches that you must visit. For example, just in front of Zadar are Ugljan and Pašman islands. The best beaches in Croatia are located on the Dalmatian islands. One of the most popular is called Saharun beach. This sandy beach located on Dugi otok will provide you with an unforgettable holiday in Croatia. This beautiful Croatian beach is a true oasis of peace and enjoyment of the sun and sea.

In the vicinity of Drage and Pakoštane, many uninhabited islands will enchant you with crystal clear sea and beautiful beaches. One of them is the island of Galešnjak, which is popularly called the island of love. This Croatian island with an unusual shape that looks like a heart, is a place you will fall in love with at first sight. The charming islet located in the Pašman Channel is an ideal destination for couples in love as well as for all incorrigible romantics who will enjoy the romantic atmosphere of this idyllic uninhabited place.

Family camping in Croatia near Zadar

Camping in Croatia today is a particularly popular form of holiday for the whole family. Croatia is recognized as one of the best camping destinations in the whole of Europe. In total, Croatia has more than 300 camping locations for various purposes: from mini-camps ideal for family holidays in Croatia to fully equipped mobile homes or camping pitches. Almost 90% of campsites in Croatia are located on the Croatian coast.

Family camping in Croatia

Numerous camping destinations on the Dalmatian coast are equipped with modern campsites with bungalows, mobile homes, and apartments for rent. Camps, unlike hotels and other types of accommodation, provide direct contact with nature and enjoyment of the natural beauty provided by the Croatian coast.

If you were wondering where to go in Croatia or you want to spend your family camping holiday in Croatia, the Zadar area is the right destination for you. Nearby are many small towns, hidden coves and romantic beaches that will allow you a carefree vacation in nature.

Near Zadar, there are many islands that can be reached by ferry, and some of the best holiday destinations in Croatia are the island of Pašman, Ugljan and Dugi otok. Not far from the town of Biograd na Moru, where you will find the Fun Park Mirnovec, is the place called Drage. Drage is one of the most attractive camping destinations for many lovers of natural beauty and all the charms of the Dalmatian coast.

Camping with dogs

Pet owners know how important the well-being of their four-legged friends is, and they want to include them in their family holidays in Dalmatia. In doing so, it is important to maintain the daily routine of pets and allow their daily activities to which they are accustomed. When camping, you should pay attention to the two options offered by dog-friendly campsites. In some, pets are allowed, and they offer a tent or doghouse. Other campsites include additional dog amenities, such as dog food, containers and litter bags, water containers or fenced meadows where dogs can run.
If you want to take your dog on holiday but are worried about whether dog camping is forbidden, don’t worry! In Croatia, most camps are dog-friendly, and pets are more than welcome! Auto camp Oaza Mira (Oasis of peace) is a dog-friendly camp, which also offers space for pet care.

Excursions in Dalmatia

In Dalmatia, you can enjoy numerous day trips to nearby islands, national parks and nature parks. Apart from the Kornati National Park and the Telašćica Nature Park near Drage, some of the boat trips include Dugi otok with the beautiful sandy beach Saharun.

Do not miss to visit the Krka National Park with beautiful waterfalls where the smell of fresh forest air will recharge your batteries. Near the Paklenica National Park is the river Zrmanja, where all lovers of adrenaline sports will enjoy a full day trip that includes rafting or kayaking on the river rapids.

Krka National Park

Near Drage, there is the Vrana Lake Nature Park, which is also the largest lake in Croatia. This place is also an ornithological reserve with many protected bird species and rich flora and fauna that will appeal to all lovers of nature.

Croatian wine tasting

Croatia is known for its particularly high-quality wines. In Dalmatia, throughout history, the cultivation and processing of vines is a tradition that is passed down from generation to generation. The favourable Mediterranean climate and fertile soil on the Dalmatian islands are the reasons why today in Dalmatia are found some of the best Croatian wine varieties.

If you are a wine lover and enjoy every drop of quality flavours of red, white, or rosé wine, you will surely be delighted by wine cellars and restaurants with local wines where you can try wines from Croatia. In the north of Dalmatia, there are vineyards and wineries with top varieties of wine such as indigenous Dalmatian wines Plavac mali or Pošip. For example, in the town of Petrčane near Zadar, there is the Kraljevski vinogradi (Royal Vineyards), a place that delights with its spacious slopes with endless fields of vines. In addition, the towns of Nin and Pag also offer wine tours and wine tastings in Croatia that you can enjoy on day trips.

Where to rent a boat nearby?

In Drage, you can also rent a boat if you prefer to explore the beautiful islands of Dalmatia and hidden coves. Open access to the sea and proximity to various nautical locations such as the Kornati National Park are just some of the benefits offered by Marina Drage. Marina Drage with a large selection of boats and yachts for rent is 2 km from the centre of Drage. This marina, which can accommodate up to 40 charter yachts, offers a variety of amenities such as a gas station, showers, toilets and free WIFI internet.

Drage

Restaurants in Drage, Croatia

Timeless flavours of seafood, fresh sea fish or top-quality meat delicacies are traditional delicacies of Dalmatian cuisine that you can try in one of the restaurants in Drage. In the centre of this small seaside town, you will find the pizzeria restaurant Ivan where you will enjoy a beautiful sea view while relaxing in the shade and fresh sea air. In the centre of Drage, the top offer of local specialities is the restaurant Mediteran, bistro Palma or restaurant Marko. If you prefer more specific delicacies, on the main road from Drage to Pakoštane there is an interesting sushi restaurant called Ginger Sushi Drage where you can enjoy oriental flavours.

Oaza Mira - Camping Croatia on the sea

Experience the family summer camping holiday in Croatia by choosing the Oaza Mira auto camp, one of the best seaside Croatian camping destinations near Zadar. Auto camp Oaza Mira is located in Drage on the Dalmatian coast just next to Pakoštane near the city of Zadar. This beautiful location truly represents what the name suggests - a true oasis of peace that you will enjoy on vacation with your family. Auto camp Oaza Mira is located right by the seashore. The camp can accommodate up to 600 guests. At this campsite, you can rent fully equipped and air-conditioned mobile homes by the beach all year round. The mobile homes are fully equipped with all the necessary facilities for a perfect Croatia beach holiday and in addition, have a terrace with a canopy. If you decide to bring your pet, Oaza Mira is a dog-friendly campsite that will provide your pets with an unforgettable time in nature!

Camping near Zadar

Near Zadar, there are many interesting camping locations where you can camp and indulge in enjoying the fresh sea air and all the benefits of nature. To the north, there is a tourist place called Zaton with a beautiful beach and various camping facilities. To the south of Zadar are the towns of Pakoštane and Drage, which due to their ideal position, away from the city centres, are perfect campsites in Croatia. Infinitely long beaches, views of the nearby islands, the shade of pine forests and clean air that will wake you up at dawn represent a real paradise for all lovers of outdoor recreation.

Pakoštane beach

Pitch perfect camping on the beach in Drage (near Pakoštane in Dalmatia)

Find your best car camping pitch in Dalmatia on one of the beautiful Croatian beaches in the picturesque town of Drage near Pakoštane. Auto camp Oaza Mira offers 191 pitches, more than half of which are located on a slope facing the sea, and the rest is located on the opposite side protected by a pine forest. Autocamp Oaza Mira guarantees you a complete merging with nature and immersion in the Mediterranean magic by the sea. Oaza Mira provides an ideal summer destination for a family holiday in Croatia, and the proximity of many other facilities such as national parks and nature parks, and neighbouring islands and islets will turn your vacation into a real summer idyll.

Autocamp Oaza Mira

With Camper to Croatia

If you are arriving in Croatia with a camper, you are in the right place. Do you want to visit the entire Dalmatian coast and explore all the hidden coves and beaches? Arriving with a camper is the perfect opportunity to spend your beach holiday in Croatia in nature and at the same time explore all the attractions that Croatia has to offer. The whole of Dalmatia is connected by highway, so you can get from Rijeka to Dubrovnik in a few hours’ drive.

On a very popular route from the north to the south of the Adriatic coast you will find numerous campsites in Dalmatia. Croatia camping prices vary from camp to camp, and the main feature of almost all camping locations in Croatia is that they are located on the seaside. One camping in Croatia advice: make a plan of your driving route before you go on a trip to make the most of every moment of your vacation on the beautiful beaches of Croatia.

Dalmatia mobile home holidays

Whether you are arriving with a camper or you want to rent a mobile home in Croatia, the Oaza Mira camping is the right place for you. The wide offer includes the rental of mobile homes by the sea. The offer includes several types of mobile homes of different capacities: Premium, Premium Mare and Twix.

Dalmatia mobile home holiday

Premium and Premium Mare mobile homes offer accommodation for up to six people. They have two bedrooms, a living room with an extra bed for two people, equipped kitchen, and a bathroom. Mobile homes also have a garden with a terrace and a secured parking space. Twix mobile homes, on the other hand, are intended for accommodation for two, a maximum of three people. They consist of one bedroom, living room, small kitchenette, and bathroom.

Oaza Mira Camping

Camping store near camp Oaza Mira

Within the Oaza Mira camp, there is a variety of useful content such as a grocery store, and a coffee bar on the beach, but also fun content such as beach volleyball. The Oaza Mira campsite also has a tavern, a traditional Dalmatian restaurant with plenty of delicious specialities. The tavern is located on the beach, so in the evening you will enjoy the beautiful sunset while tasting the most delicious specialities of the Adriatic Sea.

Oaza Mira restaurant

FAQ - Questions and answers

Can you wild camp in Croatia?
Wondering if wild camping is allowed in Croatia? In Croatia, the law prohibits camping in places that are not intended for camping. Camping is allowed only in places within registered campsites.

Is it safe to camp in Croatia?
Croatia is known as a safe tourist destination, and if you decide to camp in Dalmatia, whether in mobile homes or caravans, you are in the right place. The Dalmatian coast is one of the safest camping holiday locations in Croatia!