17 Things To Do On Pag Island Croatia: Island Of Lace Travel Guide

Are you heading to Pag Island in Croatia? This trip to Pag Island guide will help you discover what makes this place a must-visit. Known for its moon-like landscapes, Pag isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to happen.

Have you ever heard of Paški sir cheese? Thanks to Anthony Bourdain, this island’s famous delicacy is on the foodie map. But there’s more to Pag than just cheese. From exploring its history and culture to indulging in outdoor activities that let you connect with its unique natural beauty, learning about Pag is an experience in itself.

Whether you’re here to chill on its beaches or dive into the local gastronomy, this travel guide has the scoop on all things to do in Pag.

I am told that Pag Island was once home to an extensive forest before Venetian overlords exploited that natural resource. I don’t know if that is true, but Pag Island is merely a rocky limestone outcropping in the Adriatic Sea. However, dismissing this location based on its treeless landscape would be a mistake.

During the summer months of July and August, parts of Pag Island transform into a giant, riotous beach party, so we’ve found you some family-friendly activities. Despite those rowdy parties, Pag is still one of the most family-friendly islands in the Zadar Region.

At other times of the year, Pag Island is a quiet destination known for its culinary delicacies, such as Paški sir, a type of salted goat cheese made with freshly harvested salt. The inhabitants of Pag Island also make intricate lacework, which is still handmade.

Pag Island is also home to the first Croatian wind farm, which has been in operation for the past ten years. Visitors to this sunny spot will undoubtedly find plenty to see and do. We recommend you rent a car and check out these ideas!

We’ve categorized activities into broad themes, such as cultural experiences, food and drink, natural sights and outdoor adventures, and specific adventures or exploration activities, offering a clearer overview of what you can do.

Cultural And Historical Experiences

1. The Lace Museum

The village of Pag is well known for its incredible lacework, which adorned everything from emperors and noblewomen to the common folk. Lace was initially used to make ecclesiastical garments or ornaments for clothing and tablecloths.

Lace-making in Croatia began during the Renaissance, when it spread throughout Europe and the Mediterranean. The work is so important to Croatian culture that UNESCO inscribed it on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2009.

This tiny museum was created in the Ducal Palace (Kneževa Palača) to illustrate the history of this handicraft and provide examples of the best artistry. Thus, it makes a good stop for those who have been rained out at the beach or those who are considering purchasing lace as a beautiful souvenir on their visit. After all, it’s best to know what the genuine article looks like because otherwise, what seems like a good bargain could prove a very costly mistake. 

Address: Trg Kralja Krešimira IV | Open: 8 am to 11 pm Jun-Sep |Cost: 10 HRK

2. Pag International Lace Festival

Taking place in June, celebrate the history of this artisan craft at a festival dedicated to these beautiful needle stitches. From viewings to workshops to a wedding dress fashion show, three days of events are available for you to take in the intricate beauty that is lace

3. Check Out Roman History At Talijanova Buža

Pag has a huge amount of Roman history, and you can visit this Roman aqueduct in Novalja. The aqueduct is around 1km long, where the town used to get its water, dating back to 1 AD. You can tour the dark and winding passageways via the local tourist office.

Translated, ‘Talijanova buža’ means ‘Italian hole,’ and it’s a somewhat different way to spend an hour, but a strangely interesting one and will give you a glimpse of life back in Roman times.

4. Celebrate At A Pag Carnival

Are you heading to Pag for a unique cultural experience? You’re in for a treat with the Pag Carnival, a vibrant tradition that has the whole town buzzing with cultural and fun events. Kicking off on the first Saturday after Epiphany and wrapping up on Ash Wednesday, marking the start of Lent, this winter carnival is a must-see.

Each Saturday, the town comes alive with ‘tanci’ (socji) – think masked dances that are all about having a good time. As the carnival reaches its climax in the last three days, the action shifts to the central town square. Here, after the ceremonial handing over of the town keys, everyone gathers for a traditional circle dance, moving to tunes composed by Zadar’s own Šime Dešpalj.

But that’s not all. The Družina cultural and art association, known locally as ‘The Troupe,’ steps in to perform the folk drama ‘The Slave Girl of Pag,’ adding a dash of theatrical flair to the festivities.

And if you miss the winter carnival, don’t sweat it. Pag throws a summer carnival too, the oldest of its kind, held on the last weekend of July every year since 1959. Whether you’re here for the culture, the party, or to soak in the local vibes, Pag’s carnival scene has something for everyone. So, please mark your calendars and be part of a tradition that’s as lively and welcoming as the town itself.

5. Visit Stari Grad Pag

If you travel a short distance outside of Pag Town, you’ll find what locals refer to as ‘Stari Grad Pag,’ a deserted town that was once a bustling center of the island’s salt trade.

As the weather changed over the years, droughts set in, which badly affected trade. Residents slowly moved away to more profitable areas, such as Pag Town, and you can visit what is left behind.

It’s almost like a ghost town in some ways and pretty cool to see.

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Gastronomy

6. Sirana Gligora

The award-winning products found at this squeaky-clean cheese factory are made as they have been for centuries. This business makes some of the island’s tastiest creations using sheep’s milk from neighboring farms and traditional techniques. It is an ideal destination for rainy or chilly days when visiting the beach isn’t an option.

We enjoyed a tour earlier a few years ago and did not want to leave. The staff was super friendly, and the tour cost just 8 euros.

The guide gives you a detailed overview of the work that goes into creating their specialty cheeses, such as Paški sir and Zigljen. You can see the team hard at work and the cheese maturing. Just don’t touch them! If you enjoy what you sample, you can purchase more in the factory’s cheese shop.

Local Tip: If you love cheese, you can sample this award-winning cheese and varieties across the country’s annual festival on Pag.

Address: Figurica 20, 23251 Kolan | Open: Mon-Sat from 7:00 am till 3:00 pm |Cost: 60 HRK

7. Try Pag Lamb, A Local Delicacy 

Whenever you go somewhere new, it’s essential to try the local cuisine; it’s the ideal way to experience the local way of life! Pag lamb is a must-try and a true delicacy of the island.

If you can try it in the first half of the year, the locals will tell you this is when it’s at its juiciest and most delicious. However, it’s great anytime. Basically, it’s a chunk of lamb that is spit-roasted and carved up, served with potatoes on the side.

Families often spit roast their lamb outside their houses, or you can sometimes see it on the roadside as vendors look to catch hungry motorists on their way home.

8. Try Pag Brandy – Rakija

Pag is home to some fantastic food and beverages, but one of the best hidden gems is brandy. However, do beware that it’s pretty intense!

Brandy is made from the various plants and types of grapes that grow naturally on the island. Throughout history, it has been used to help with gum problems and rheumatism. Today, it’s enjoyed at the end of a meal.

9. Enjoy Pag Wine

Pag is also famous for its wine, thanks to the abundance of grapes that grow around the island. Of course, you can enjoy it with some famous Pag cheese, and there are many different types of wine to choose from; however, red is certainly a favorite.

If you want to learn more about how wine is made and sample several different types, you can take a wine tour around the island.

Nature And Outdoor Activities

10. Veliko Blato (Birdwatching Area)

Bird lovers should undoubtedly head to this beautiful yet deserted spot on Pag. The marshland around here is home to more than 150 different types of birds, some of which are endangered. The land is protected, and plenty of signs tell you what to look for. 

The gadwall and calandra lark are just two of the endangered types of birds that call this part of the island home. However, you can spot many other birds, including herons and spoonbills.

It is located as far south as you can get on the island. It’s a protected area with huts where you can observe the birds. It’s particularly busy during migration season and nesting, so be aware of that before you go.

11. Olive Gardens Of Lun

Thanks to the local government securing funds from the European Union to protect the 80,000 beautifully gnarled olives against development, the grove is a protected site. In the 24 hectares that make up the garden, the most important specimens are the 15,000 wild olive trees interspersed among the other trees, whose average age is 1,200 years old.

These trees are the last of their kind in the region to be still left in their natural state. On arrival, head to the tourist center to find out more info, as all of the information I could find online was in Croatian. There is a highly informative guided tour of the site, which can be done either on foot (2 hours) or by golf cart (45 minutes) for a fee. Or, you can wander the trails on your own for free. 

12. Pag Beaches

Šimuni Beach, Šimuni

Like most beaches in Croatia, this beach has sparkling crystal waters and rocky shores. It also has trees that provide shade, under which guests can either rest or string up their hammocks.

Though it is not hard to reach, Simuni Beach’s somewhat isolated location allows it to be less crowded than other spots, even during the high season. Activities here include the typical beach pastimes of swimming and sunbathing, but jet-ski and paddleboat rentals are also available. Parking at this spot is free, and the adjacent campsite has complimentary WiFi.

Zrće Beach, Novalja

Anyone looking for a beach party must check out Zrce Beach on the Island of Pag. This spot is nothing short of world-famous for its epic summer music festivals, sunset party cruises, open-air nightclubs, and 24-hour parties. It’s also where I bungee jumped!

Other Pag beaches to go to are:

• Babe Beach, Novalja
• Caska Beach, Caska
• Gajac Beach, Gajac
• Jadra Beach, Stara Novalja
• Lokunje Beach, Novalja
• Metajna Beach, Metajna
• Plat Beach, Zubovići
• Planjka Trinćel Beach, Novalja
• Povljana Beach, Povljana
• Prosika Beach, Pag
• Ručica Beach, Metajna
• Sveti Duh Beach, Kolan
• Vlašići Beach, Vlašići

13. Take A Boat Trip Around Pag Bay

Many trips leave Novalja and sail around the bay, giving you a stunning view and a really relaxing time. There is also some history here, as the bay is where the Romans decided to build Cissa, a city that thrived at the time.

The city is now sunken under the mud, but to know you’re in the same place is pretty mind-blowing. Of course, the bay itself is stunningly beautiful in the summer months, and a few hours of sailing is a relaxing way to spend your time.

14. Rock Climbing At Stogaj

Stogaj is close to Novalja, and it’s a popular area for rock climbing, with many marked routes to follow. There are some for beginners, too, so you don’t need to be an experienced climber. However, there are some more advanced ones that will challenge and show amazing views. However, if you don’t want to climb and you want to enjoy the scenery, the beach is a great place to spend a few hours.

Adventure And Exploration

In addition to checking out Talijanova Buža, as mentioned previously, these are other great ways to find adventure on the island:

15. Pag Bermuda Triangle

Yes, you read that right. Pag has its very own reputed Bermuda Triangle. This spot is just off the 106 roads on a quiet hillside, and in 1999, this area attracted UFO enthusiasts and experts from around the world. A formation of patterns made of stone was discovered; nobody is quite sure how they arrived there and why they are in their distinct way. The stones are also quite different from the others in the area. 

There is a signpost from the road, but you’ll need to trek to the exact spot, so be sure to wear suitable footwear.

16. Wallow In The Mud

Pag Island’s healing mud is the real deal for a natural pick-me-up. This isn’t just any mud—it’s packed with minerals that locals swear by for soothing sore muscles and rejuvenating the skin.

Forget fancy spa treatments; here, it’s all about slathering on the mud, letting the sun bake it dry, and then rinsing off in the sea for a natural glow.

Whether you’re in it for the potential health benefits or just for the unique experience, giving yourself a mud mask on Pag is a must-try. It’s a fun, down-to-earth way to ease those aches and pains potentially, and hey, it’s a great story to bring back home. 

Where To Stay On Pag Island

Boutique Boskinac Hotel

 

Not your ordinary hotel, the Boskinac Hotel is a hotel, restaurant, and winery—yes, a winery! Located in one of the most picturesque settings on the beautiful Island of Pag, Boskinac offers opulence, relaxation, and sophistication.

The hotel offers eight rooms and three suites, so you’ll never find yourself in the middle of a busy reception area. Each room is classically decorated, with handmade furniture and ethically sourced materials.

The hotel is surrounded by a scented forest, an adjacent vineyard, and an olive grove. Regarding gastronomy, the Boskinac restaurant is impressive. It serves cutting-edge Croatian cuisine accompanied by outstanding wines.

 

Family Hotel Pagus

This 4-star property is an all-inclusive option on a pebbly beach not far from the historic town center of Pag.

The inclusive offer includes three buffet-style meals each day and coffee and tea. A spa and wellness center, as well as indoor, outdoor, and children’s pools, will keep the whole family relaxed.

 

Hotel Meridijan

Another great 4-star option just a few minutes from the center of Old Town is this adults-only hotel overlooking the Adriatic Sea. The hotel caters to couples and families and offers a variety of room options.

The beach is just steps away, and an outdoor pool is available for guest use. The hotel also organizes trips around Croatia for those looking to explore further.

 

Camp Porat

If tents and mobile homes are more your style, Camp Porat is the perfect place to stay with the family! Situated in a pine forest in the small village of Povljana in the southern part of the island of Pag, this camp features a children’s playground along with several beaches and restaurants nearby.

 

What would be your top picks for something to do on Pag Island?