Although it’s the closest island to Split, no one seems to talk about the island of Šolta, Croatia very much. It seems to get overlooked by the more popular, touristy islands. However, Šolta is probably one of the best islands to explore on a day trip from the mainland. It is only a 45-minute ferry ride from Split to the main port of Rogač. Why not take a beautiful day trip from Split, Croatia? Enjoy our day-tripper’s guide to Šolta, Croatia.
Day-Tripper’s Guide to Šolta, Croatia
Šolta offers open roads, secluded bays, and lovely rental homes along the coast. When the hordes of summer tourists are flocking to Hvar, Brač, and Vis, Šolta remains quiet and serene. If you’re looking for an island to find peace, this may be your best bet.
We decided to explore Šolta for the day to check off another Croatian island from our list. We decided to rent a scooter as a fun way to explore and navigate around the island. As opposed to the other nearby islands, such as Brač and Hvar, the terrain on Šolta is quite manageable on a 50cc scooter. Of course, renting a car is an option too.
If you want to purchase food on the island, remember that there are grocery stores only in Grohote, Maslinica, and Stomorska.
Grohote
Up a hill from the main port of Rogač is the village of Grohote. This is the largest settlement on the island with a market, pharmacy, tourism office, and medieval church.
We enjoyed taking our scooter through the alleys to see all the charming stone houses and buildings. While exploring the inner island, consider a stop at Slavića Castle. The three-story tower is one of the main attractions.
Martinis Marchi Castle, Šolta
Driving around, you’ll notice vineyards and olive groves. In fact, Šolta has olive trees older than 1,000 years old. There is a gorgeous viewpoint where you can see the grapevines growing high up on the hills.
This is a premium wine-growing terrain in Croatia and very interesting to see. Honey bee farms are also on the island and offer tours to tourists looking to learn more or purchase some local honey.
Šešula Bay
Nearby to Maslinica, Šešula Bay is a popular stop for boaters and sailors. Due to its location, it offers a protected bay from the northern ‘bura’ wind and the southern ‘jugo’ wind. Two of Šolta’s best restaurants are located on the shoreline: Šišmiš and Šešula.
There is not much room for sunbathing or relaxing here and there are many sea urchins along the rocks so it’s not a good bay for swimming from the shore.
Stomorska
Stomorska is one of the larger and more developed villages. It is located on the northeastern part of the island. Here you’ll find the busiest part of the island with the most excitement and energy.
Stomorska offers a charming promenade, cafes and restaurants, a public drinking well, and some nearby turquoise bays for easily accessible swimming. This was our second favorite area for swimming.
Maslinica
Maslinica, on the western side of the island, offers a more laid-back, beachy vibe with seaside cafes bars. Martinis Marchi castle is located here which has been recently converted into a luxury hotel.
The main beach is opposite the marina. It sometimes has more turbulent waters as it isn’t as protected as some of the other bays and beaches on the island. However, Maslinica is the best destination to catch the sunset on Šolta.
Nečujam
Nečujam has the largest open bay beach on Šolta. This section of Šolta has a family-friendly, European summer holiday vibe. There are parks, a sand volleyball court, a public swimming pool, and lots of laid-back cafe bars to enjoy a coffee or beer.
Nearby are ruins of ancient Roman villas and the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s fishing pond. This makes an interesting stop for those interested in Roman history.
Stračinska Bay
Within Stračinska Bay is smaller Poganica Bay which probably is the most beautiful beach on the island. Due to its remote location, you’ll likely have this dreamy destination all to yourself.
Although many of Šolta’s 24 bays are only accessible by boat, Stračinska Bay is accessible by driving and a short easy walk from a small parking lot. This was probably our favorite stop on our tour of Šolta. Bring snacks, drinks, beach towels, or possibly lunch and enjoy the peace and tranquility.
The Best Place to Rent a Scooter in Podstrana
Inspired to get your own set of wheels to explore Šolta? We rented our 50cc scooter easily through Avere Tourism. They offer scooter rentals with helmets and insurance. The office is conveniently located in the village of Podstrana, next to the Visit Podstrana Tourism Board. They offer a support team that is available 24/7 and tours to all the hotspots in the region. Tell them The Budget Savvy Travelers sent you!
