Dalmatia’s National Parks: Must-See Natural Wonders

In this guide, we’ll take you through Dalmatia’s most iconic national parks – Krka, Paklenica, Kornati, and Mljet – along with a few lesser-known nature parks that are well worth a visit. You’ll find tips on how to get there, what to see, activities to try, and some handy local advice to help you plan your trip with ease.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend escape or hoping to dive deep into everything Dalmatia has to offer, this guide has you covered.

Krka National Park

Power and beauty in motion

Krk is one of the most visited national parks in Croatia, located inland between Šibenik and Knin. It’s easily accessible from Split and Zadar, and with a bit of planning, even from the south, including Makarska or Dubrovnik.

The main entrances are in Lozovac and Skradin. Skradin is a highlight in itself, as a boat from the town centre takes you directly to the waterfalls. The most famous is Skradinski Buk, surrounded by wooden walkways and historic water mills.

Roški Slap offers a quieter, more serene experience, and you can also take a boat to the small island of Visovac, home to a Franciscan monastery. Krka is perfect for a relaxed day in nature, with scenic walks, boat rides, and stunning views.

Useful tips

• Swimming is allowed only in summer (June 1 to September 30) and only at designated spots (Roški Slap, Stinice, and Pisak)
• The best time to visit is spring or early autumn for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
• Ticket prices are much higher in July and August (€40 for adults), but significantly cheaper in the off-season (starting at just €7)

Paklenica National Park

Rocky landscapes above Starigrad

Paklenica National Park, nestled in the Velebit mountains, is a dream for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Just a short drive from the coast, it feels like a whole different world – wild, quiet, and full of dramatic scenery.

The park is famous for its two stunning canyons, Velika and Mala Paklenica, which lead you through forested trails up to a cosy mountain hut. The hike isn’t too difficult, but you’ll want a decent level of fitness. If you’re up for more of a challenge, Paklenica is one of Europe’s top rock climbing destinations, with over 500 routes for all levels.

Whether you’re into hiking, climbing, or just soaking up the peaceful atmosphere of ancient pine and beech forests, Paklenica offers that rare feeling of being completely off the grid, even though you’re just minutes from the sea.

Useful tips

• The main entrance is in Starigrad-Paklenica, easily reached from the coastal highway
• Bring comfy shoes and plenty of water; it takes about 2 hours to hike up to the mountain lodge
• Summers can be scorching, so start early or plan your visit for spring or fall
• Entry is €10 in July and August, and just €5–7 in the off-season

Kornati National Park

A green sanctuary among the waves

Kornati is a truly unique national park made up of nearly 90 islands, islets, and reefs scattered across the sea between Zadar and Šibenik. The only way to visit is by boat, either your own or as part of an organized excursion.

The largest island is Kornat, but most visitors explore a handful of islands in a single day. There’s no standout landmark like in other parks – instead, it’s the overall atmosphere that makes Kornati special: the feeling of isolation, simplicity, and untouched beauty.

A boat trip is the perfect way to experience it, often with stops for swimming and a relaxed lunch at a traditional seaside tavern.

Useful tips

• The park is only reachable by sea, with tours departing from Zadar, Biograd, Murter, and Šibenik
• The water is crystal clear, and there are plenty of great spots for swimming
• If you’re joining a tour, the entrance fee is usually included; if you’re sailing on your own, it’s charged based on boat size
• There are no cafés or shops on the islands, so be sure to bring everything you need

Mljet National Park

Overlooking the Great Lake and the islet of St. Mary

Lush greenery, peaceful silence, and turquoise water – Mljet National Park is the perfect escape from the summer crowds. Located on the western side of Mljet Island, it’s easily reached from Dubrovnik or the Pelješac Peninsula.

The stars of the park are the Great and Small Lakes, two saltwater lakes connected to the open sea. Paved walking and cycling trails loop around them, winding through the cool shade of pine trees. The water is warmer than the sea, making it a great spot for swimming.

In the middle of the Great Lake, you’ll find the little island of St. Mary, home to a 12th-century Benedictine monastery. A small boat takes you there, and the ride is included in your ticket.

If you’re up for a bit of a climb, don’t miss the Montokuc viewpoint – the views over the park are incredible.

Useful tips

• Swimming in the lakes is allowed and especially popular from June to September
• Spring and early autumn offer the best experience, with ideal weather and fewer people
• Bikes and kayaks can be rented at Mali Most
• The park is accessible by catamaran from Dubrovnik, ferry from Prapratno (Pelješac), or from other towns in southern Dalmatia
• Tickets include the boat ride to St. Mary’s Island and are valid all day – €25 in peak season, €15 in the off-season

Nature Parks in Dalmatia

Beyond its national parks, Dalmatia is home to several other protected areas that are well worth a visit, whether as a scenic stop along the way or the main reason for your trip. While they might not have the same official status as national parks, these nature parks often offer a more peaceful experience, fewer crowds, and landscapes that are just as breathtaking.

Biokovo Nature Park

A classic Dalmatian blend of mountains and sea

Rising dramatically above the Makarska Riviera, Biokovo offers some of the most stunning views in Dalmatia, especially from the famous Skywalk platform that juts out over a sheer cliff.

An asphalt road winds all the way to the summit of Sveti Jure, but the park also has plenty of hiking trails, the Kotišina Botanical Garden, and a rich variety of plant and animal life. It’s a great choice for a half-day or full-day trip from Makarska.

Telašćica Nature Park

Tucked away on the southern end of Dugi Otok, right next to the Kornati Islands, Telašćica is a hidden gem known for its dramatic cliffs, calm coves, and the saltwater Lake Mir – perfect for a relaxing swim.

You can only reach the park by boat, most often on a day trip from Zadar, Sali, or Murter. It’s a great place to drop anchor, go for a snorkel, and take in the raw beauty of the island landscape.

Vransko Jezero Nature Park

Vransko Jezero is the largest natural lake in Croatia, nestled between Pakoštane and Vrana. It’s a true haven for birdwatchers, with over 250 species spotted here, from graceful herons to soaring eagles.

The park has birdwatching towers, scenic cycling and walking trails, and a few educational centres where you can learn more about the area’s rich wildlife. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, especially early in the morning or late in the day when the birds are most active.

Dinara Nature Park

Where the Cetina River flows toward the sea

Perched on the edge of inland Dalmatia, Dinara is Croatia’s newest nature park, declared in 2021. This rugged mountain range borders Bosnia and Herzegovina and is home to Sinjal, the highest peak in Croatia at 1,831 meters.

Still off the radar for most travellers, Dinara is ideal for hikers and adventurers looking for raw, untouched nature with no crowds and minimal infrastructure – just wide open landscapes and mountain air.

Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park

Made up of 46 islands and reefs in southern Dalmatia, the Lastovo Archipelago is one of the most untouched corners of the Adriatic. Its remote location has helped preserve the island’s raw beauty, dark starry skies, and thriving marine life.

Lastovo is perfect for sailors, divers, and anyone craving a slower, quieter pace. You can get there by boat from Split or Korčula, and once you arrive, you’ll find no crowds, no rush, just nature at its best.

When You Want More Than Just Sun & Sea

Wherever you are in Dalmatia – by the coast, on an island, or further inland – nature is always close. This region’s national and nature parks offer an incredible mix of landscapes, from waterfalls and lakes to rocky cliffs, forests, and island-filled seascapes.

Whether you’re up for an adventure, a peaceful boat trip, or just looking to experience something different from the usual beach day, these parks invite you to slow down, breathe deep, and see Dalmatia from a whole new angle.