Best Family Activities in Hvar

May 7, 2025

Hvar is an island in Croatia where the days last long under the Mediterranean sun, and adventure is just around every corner. While it’s often celebrated for its elegance and history, Hvar also has a softer, more playful side that makes it perfect for families. Think morning swims in crystal coves, afternoon gelato breaks in quiet harbours, and evenings spent watching sunsets from open-air restaurants. This blog is your guide to discovering that side of Hvar – from hands-on experiences the kids will love to laid-back moments parents can savour. Whether you’re planning your first family holiday to the island or just looking for new ways to enjoy it together, here are some of the best family activities in Hvar. 

 Pakleni Islands

The first on our list of family-friendly activities in Hvar is a visit to the Pakleni Islands. One of the most popular attractions in the area, Pakleni is a rocky set of small islands just off Hvar, known for their natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Here, families can enjoy a peaceful day in a solitary rocky cove, with gentle waters lapping against the shore – perfect for younger children or less confident swimmers. The nature here is equally remarkable, with some of the best snorkelling in Croatia. Pop into a shop, grab some goggles, and marvel at the underwater world. Children will love spotting the colourful fish, while grownups can relax on the pebble beaches or explore the deeper waters. 

When hunger strikes, there are plenty of shops and cafes where you can grab a bite to eat making it a stress-free, full-day outing. Just remember to pack plenty of suncream and consider bringing your own shade, as these beaches can be quite exposed during the peak summer months. 

Embrace The Outdoors

In a similar vein, for those keen to explore Hvar’s brilliant natural landscape, there are numerous outdoor activities ideal for families. Gentle walks across the island’s vibrant countryside offer the perfect opportunity to take in all its splendour. Exploring both the beaches and the mountainous regions is especially enjoyable during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasantly warm without being too intense.  

The lavender fields of Hvar are another unmissable experience. These fields are legendary for their breathtaking beauty – a sea of intense purple set against the turquoise waters beyond. Walking through them is a sensory delight. Children can spot wildlife among the blooms, and it’s the perfect place to bring along a picnic and enjoy nature at its most vivid. 

 Make A Splash

For more active families, the island offers a wealth of water sports. Hvar’s many beaches and beautiful nearby islands create the ideal setting to try your hand at a wide range of aquatic activities. One highlight is a boat tour to the Blue Cave, a stunning natural wonder formed by sunlight reflecting off the white seabed, creating an otherworldly blue glow on the cave walls. For families looking to learn something new, training in scuba diving is also available, including sessions with the well-regarded Black Pearl diving company based out of Jelsa. 

For a slightly more laid-back option, activities like paddleboarding, flyboarding, and wakeboarding offer both excitement and relaxation. These are fantastic ways to create lasting memories while keeping the kids entertained and active. Mario Rent, located on the western side of the island, is a fantastic company offering a wide selection of these activities and more – a worthwhile stop if you’re nearby. 

 Hora Hvar

For a more structured and educational encounter with nature, Hora Hvar is an excellent family activity. This immersive countryside experience gives visitors a hands-on look into Hvar’s rich agricultural traditions. Explore the lavender section (of course), a well-tended vegetable garden, and a charming farm-to-table restaurant that completes the experience. You can even sample organic food and wines produced by the family. The farm also houses a range of animals that children are welcome to meet and pet, offering an authentic rustic adventure right beside an ancient stone farmhouse. Located in Stari Grad, this makes for a perfect day trip for families eager to do something different and enriching. 

 Fortica Fortress

For those particularly interested in Hvar’s ancient past, a visit to Fortica Fortress in Hvar Town is a must. Perched atop a hill, this imposing stronghold dates to the 13th century, although the site itself is even older. A walk through the fortress offers insight into medieval architecture and the island’s strategic significance over the centuries. As a bonus, the views from the top are breathtaking – overlooking Hvar Town, the sea, and the surrounding islands. It’s not hard to imagine the generations who have stood at this very point, gazing out across the Adriatic. 

 

Adventure Park Hvar

Finally, Adventure Park Hvar, located near Jelsa, promises a fun-filled day for families looking for excitement. The park offers a huge variety of activities including paintballing, archery, trampolines, and pedal bikes. It’s the kind of place where the whole family can burn off energy and make incredible memories over a full day jam-packed with activities. Conveniently located just a five-minute walk from the beach, it’s easy to end the day with a refreshing dip in the sea. Afterward, head into Jelsa for dinner at one of its many welcoming restaurants, and finish your day by the water, gazing across to the nearby island of Brac. 

 

Whether your family loves exploring nature, diving into history, or simply soaking up the sun, Hvar offers a little something for everyone. With its mix of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable scenery, it’s the perfect destination for a family getaway. 

 

We have a range of family-friendly holiday villas in Hvar to rent, so get in touch and let us help you to alleviate the stress, by guiding you through our portfolio. With our expert knowledge, we can certainly make your villa holiday in Croatia that little bit easier.

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Disclaimer: We are not affiliated with any of these businesses. This information is gathered from client and staff experiences and feedback and we are happy to share as a helpful guide. We do not vouch for or recommend any service or establishment.