Brela is the pearl of the Makarska Riviera in central Dalmatia, known for its crystal-clear sea, pine forests and Punta Rata beach, which Forbes listed among the 20 most beautiful beaches in the world.
A haven of Mediterranean calm
Often called one of the most beautiful places in the world, as many international travel guides confirm. Located between Split (50 km) to the north-west and Makarska (15 km) to the south, Brela offers a perfect blend of unspoilt nature and easy accessibility.
The Makarska Riviera is often compared with the French Riviera, with good reason, but with one decisive difference: the coast and beaches of Brela are entirely natural. There are no artificial beaches here – centuries of sea currents and Biokovo torrents have created perfectly rounded white pebbles in the shade of dense Aleppo pines.
Sheltered in a wide bay directly below the impressive Biokovo massif, Brela began as a quiet fishing village. Today the people of Brela and the Bartulović family carefully nurture sustainable tourism, home-made olive oil, indigenous wines and the centuries-old cultivation of the famous Maraska cherry.
Cleanliness standards and awards
Forbes Top 20
Symbol of Croatian tourism
The famous pine-covered rock has become the Adriatic's global visual signature. The beach offers exceptionally clear water and a gentle entry into the sea, surrounded by dense park forests that give deep, fragrant shade.
Water visibility over 15 metres
120 m from Villa Arija
A private setting for guests
A naturally sheltered cove just a hundred metres' easy walk from the Villa Arija apartment. Perfect for families with children looking for an intimate spot away from the crowds, with crystal-clear water and a natural entry.
Great for children
Blue Flag
Underwater world and Blue Flag
Three connected coves awarded the international Blue Flag for outstanding water quality and safety facilities. The rich underwater landscape of caves and shoals of fish is a paradise for snorkelling and recreational diving.
Rich marine ecosystemLocation and routes
Brela enjoys a strategic position on the Adriatic coast, looking straight out to the islands of Brač and Hvar. Thanks to the modern A1 motorway and a nearby airport, getting here is easy and comfortable from anywhere in Europe.
Take the A1 motorway Zagreb–Split–Dubrovnik to the Šestanovac exit. Descend via the Dupci pass towards the Makarska Riviera. Brela is the first town after you reach the coast.
From nearby Makarska (15 km) a regular ferry runs to Sumartin on the island of Brač, while catamarans and ferries from Split serve Hvar, Vis and Korčula.
Nature and recreation
The combination of coastline and mighty mountain hinterland offers endless possibilities for relaxation and active time in nature.
A unique footpath runs along 6 kilometres of Brela's coast. Car-free and in deep pine shade, it is ideal for morning runs, romantic evening strolls and pushchairs.
Paved and litExceptional water clarity and sheltered underwater rocks are home to a variety of fish, corals and Posidonia seagrass. Local dive centres offer courses and guided trips to attractive sites.
Crystal-clear underwater worldMarked hiking trails lead directly from Brela to the ancient villages of Gornja Brela, the French Road and the peak of Sveti Nikola. Wonderful panoramic viewpoints over the whole archipelago.
Nature parkThe calm morning Adriatic lets you explore hidden coves and rocks that cannot be reached by land. Equipment hire is available nearby.
Sea adventureA mix of paved coastal roads for leisurely rides and challenging mountain trails below Biokovo for mountain-bike enthusiasts, with e-bike hire.
Routes for all levelsTaste fresh grilled white fish, authentic Dalmatian prosciutto and home-made olive oil.
Authentic flavoursUseful information
Everything you need to know about the destination, getting here and the loveliest spots nearby.
Brela is in central Dalmatia, on the Makarska Riviera, 45 km from Split and 15 km from Makarska, near the A1 motorway (Šestanovac exit).
Brela is famous for Punta Rata beach, listed by Forbes among the 20 most beautiful beaches in the world, and for its natural pebble beaches and pine forests along a 6 km promenade (lungomare).
The sea in Brela, including Stomarica Bay next to Villa Arija, regularly receives the rating "excellent quality" in microbiological sea-water tests.
The average summer sea temperature in Brela is 24–26°C.
Brela offers a seaside promenade (lungomare), diving and snorkelling, hiking on the Biokovo trails, kayaking and SUP, and cycling routes for all levels.
The nearest airport is Split (Resnik), about 60 km / 55 minutes' drive. Regular ferries and catamarans run from Makarska and Split to the islands of Brač, Hvar, Vis and Korčula.
Start your morning with the scent of pines and the sound of waves just a hundred metres from the beach. The Bartulović family will be delighted to welcome you and make your Dalmatian holiday carefree.