Crveni Otok is comprised of two artificially connected islands in the Adriatic Sea. Popular destinations for daytrips, these car-free islets are covered in pines and Mediterranean scrub and are also home to several stony beaches and rocky coves. Leave civilization behind and spend a few hours relaxing on quiet, remote shores.
Also known as the Red Island, Crveni Otok was first inhabited by Benedictine monks who lived here from the sixth century until the 13th century. The island was later inhabited by Franciscan monks before Austrian admiral Baron Hütterot purchased the land. The Hütterot family kept a villa here until 1945. Look for the old Benedictine church and for the Hütterot house, which is now part of a hotel resort.
Bring the family to the larger island, Sveti Andrija, where you’ll find a playground, as well as pebbled and gravel stretches of beach. With a shallow incline to the sea, no undercurrent and facilities at the nearby hotel, this beach is well suited for children. For more active pursuits, the beach on Sveti Andrija provides opportunities for snorkeling as well as other watersports.
Cross over the short causeway to reach the adjoining islet, Maškin, where you can seek out quieter, crowd-free bays. The beaches here tend to be rockier than those on Sveti Andrija, but they offer more privacy and seclusion. Swim off the rocks or try snorkeling or scuba diving to see what lies beneath the surface.
Stroll around the deserted island. The oceanfront paths and pine-lined trails are well worth exploring. Try to spot lizards darting across or pheasants roaming through the woodlands. Stop at one of the benches looking out onto the sea to rest and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking views over the Adriatic.
Consider staying overnight at the hotel resort on Crevni Otok. For a daytrip, take a boat here and back from Rovinj. The journey should take about 15 minutes and boats depart regularly throughout the day.
