Pakleni Islands: The Definitive 2026 Guide to Hvar's Secret Archipelago

The Pakleni Islands (Paklinski otoci) are an emerald necklace of approximately 16 islands and islets stretching along Hvar's southwest coast. They are the ultimate playground for anyone with a boat, offering a world of crystal-clear lagoons, hidden Mediterranean "konobas," and chic beach clubs.

While the islands are just a few minutes from Hvar’s harbor, they feel like another world. Here is your definitive guide to navigating the archipelago like a local.

Here is everything you need to know.

The Name: Resin, Not Hell

Despite what some guides say, Pakleni does not come from the Croatian word for "hell" (pakao). It comes from paklina—a pine resin historically harvested on the islands to waterproof wooden boats. These are the These are the 'Resin Islands' (Paklinski otoci), named after 'paklina'—the pine resin used historically to waterproof wooden boats. Local lore also holds that the name reflects their role as a shield from 'hellish' conditions, as they protect Hvar's port from the worst storms and waves. a name that honors the very seafaring tradition that brings you here today.Best Swim Spots

Jerolim

Jerolim is the closest island to Hvar harbour — just a few minutes by boat. The south side has rocky beaches with easy access to deep, clear water. The north side is more sheltered.

Jerolim is traditionally a nudist island, particularly on the south-facing beaches. There are a few great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal with a view — just rocks, pine trees, and sea.

Best for: Quick swims, snorkelling off the rocks, a natural and authentic experience with local beach bars and restaurants.

Palmižana

Palmižana is the main hub of the Pakleni Islands. A sheltered bay on the north side of Sveti Klement, it has a large ACI marina, several restaurants, and the beautiful Meneghello botanical garden.

The beach at Palmižana is a mix of pebbles and sand, with warm, shallow water. It is the most popular spot in the Pakleni Islands and can get busy in peak season, but the atmosphere is always relaxed.

Best for: Families, lunch stops, combining a swim with a great meal. This is where you will find Bacchus, Toto's, and Mlini.

Stipanska

Don't let the "rocky coastline" labels fool you—Stipanska is home to the world-famous Carpe Diem Beach. By day, it’s a luxury oasis with a pool, massage pavilions, and a high-end restaurant. By night, it’s the center of Hvar's party scene. It’s the perfect place to drop anchor if you want a cocktail delivered to your boat.

Vlaka

Vlaka is a small, charming village on the west side of Sveti Klement. It is one of the few places on the islands where locals live all year round, giving it a deeply authentic feel. It is a quiet escape with a rocky shoreline, pine forests, and home to the famous Dionis restaurant. is a quiet bay on the south side of Sveti Klement, accessible only by boat. It has a wild, untouched feel — rocky shoreline, pine forest, and deep blue water.

The restaurant Dionis sits at the head of the bay, making Vlaka a perfect combination of a swim stop and a meal.

Best for: A peaceful swim away from the crowds, followed by fresh fish at Dionis.

Perna

Located just before Palmižana (Vinogradišće), It is one of the few sandy beaches in the archipelago.Perna is arguably the most beautiful bay in the archipelago. Because there are no facilities or land access, it remains peaceful even in peak season. The water is an unreal shade of turquoise, surrounded by low pine-covered hills.

It is perfectly sheltered from the Bura (NE wind) but exposed to the Jugo (SE wind).

Where to Eat: From Fine Dining to Rustic BBQ

One of the greatest joys of a day on the water is pulling up to a private pier for a long Mediterranean lunch.

Tri Grede — Ždrilca

A favourite for those who want authentic Dalmatian soul.

• The Vibe: Barefoot luxury. Tables sit right on the water’s edge in the Ždrilca channel.
• The Food: Simple, perfect Mediterranean BBQ. Think fresh squid, local lamb, or pork chops cooked over charcoal, served with classic blitva (swiss chard and potatoes).

Carpe Diem Beach — Stipanska

The most famous beach club in the Pakleni Islands.

• The Vibe: A luxury beach club with a pool, cocktail bar, massage pavilions, and a high-end restaurant. By day it is a stylish oasis; by night it is the centre of Hvar's party scene.
• The Vibe: Carpe Diem Beach is the place to go for poolside cocktails, music, and an unforgettable sunset. It is the most iconic nightlife destination on the islands. Go for the atmosphere, stay for the sunset drinks.

Bacchus — Palmižana

• The Vibe: Rustic-chic set within an olive grove on the hillside.
• Must-Try: Their legendary Their legendary beefsteak with green pepper sauce and an array of fresh, expertly prepared seafood dishes.. It is widely considered one of the best dishes in the islands.

Dionis — Vlaka

• The Vibe: Deeply authentic. It’s a family-run konoba where the wine and olive oil come from the surrounding fields.
• Must-Try: The lamb or octopus under the bell (peka). This traditional slow-cooked meal usually requires a call-ahead reservation (at least 24 hours).How to Explore the Pakleni Islands

Private Skippered Tour

The easiest and most flexible option. A local captain takes you to the best spots based on the weather, your interests, and the time of year. You set the pace — they know the islands inside out.

Browse our private tours →

Rent a Boat

If you have a valid boating licence, you can rent a boat and explore the Pakleni Islands at your own pace. Even a small boat like the Betina 500 is enough for a day in the Pakleni Islands.

Small boats can also be a lot of fun with kids! Many families rent them for shorter distances, making the quick hop over to the Pakleni Islands for a few hours of swimming and exploring.

Check our licence guide to see if your certificate is accepted.

Water Taxi

Regular water taxis run from Hvar harbour to Jerolim, Stipanska, Ždrilca and Palmižana throughout the summer season (roughly June–September). The ride takes about 10 minutes to Jerolim (closest) and 30 minutes to Palmižana (it docks in ACI marina and then you need to walk to the other side to the beach Vinogradišće).

Water taxis will get you to the main beaches but not to the hidden bays — for that, you need your own boat.

Practical Tips

1. Bring everything you need — Pack water (at least 2 litres per person), sunscreen, snacks, and a shade option.
2. Arrive early — The most popular bays (Palmižana, Stipanska) get busy by midday in July and August. Arrive before 10:00 for the best spots.
3. Check the wind — Bura (north-easterly) makes the south-facing bays sheltered and calm. Jugo (south-easterly) makes the north-facing bays more comfortable. The maestral (afternoon westerly breeze) is usually gentle but can create chop.
4. Book restaurants ahead Bacchus, Toto's, and Dionis fill up fast in peak season. Call or message in the morning to secure a table.
5. Respect the environment — Do not leave any rubbish. Do not anchor in forbidden areas. Use designated mooring buoys where available.
6. Bring a snorkel — The underwater visibility in the Pakleni Islands is exceptional. Rocky edges and seagrass meadows are home to sea bream, octopus, and colourful wrasse.
7. Factor in the return — If you are on a water taxi, note the last departure time. If you are on your own boat, leave enough time (and fuel) to return to Hvar before dark.

The Pakleni Islands are the kind of place you return to again and again — and discover something new each time. Start planning your trip →

Pakleni Islands: Local-Style Guide (Summary)

Why They Matter

An emerald chain of ~16 islands and islets just off Hvar’s southwest coast, the Pakleni Islands (Paklinski otoci) are a compact world of lagoons, rustic konobas, and upscale beach clubs—best explored by boat.

Name & History

• Not “Hell Islands”: The name does not come from pakao (hell).
• Real origin – paklina: A dark pine resin once harvested here and used to seal wooden boat hulls.
• Meaning: Essentially the “Resin Islands”, honouring generations of local shipbuilders and fishermen.
• On Sveti Klement, you can still find old paklina collection sites if you know where to look.

Best Swim Spots

Jerolim

• Location: Closest island to Hvar harbour (minutes by boat).