Zavala – Coast, Excursions and Hotels

Zavala on the Coast

A 2-kilometre seafront promenade is a defining feature of a stay in Zavala. It offers opportunities for walking, swimming, snorkelling and diving, as well as relaxing by the water. This lets you shape your time on the coast around different interests: you can plan for exercise and water sports, as well as quiet hours by the sea.

Activities and Excursions

Activities in the area include cycling on Hvar’s cycling routes and hiking to St. Anthony. Before setting off on foot or by bike, check the route and signage, as route conditions and markings may change.

Boat trips from Zavala go to nearby Šćedro. There you’ll find secluded coves, opportunities for diving and four restaurants. Departure arrangements and schedules vary by season; check the latest information before planning your excursion.

Getting There and Local Cuisine

The road route to Zavala follows the main road 116 to Pitve, continues through the Vratnik Tunnel and then turns off towards the settlement. Road conditions and traffic regulations may change. Check them before travelling so you can plan your journey accordingly.

Several local restaurants in Zavala serve traditional island dishes. As menus and availability at individual establishments may vary, it’s worth checking current details when making specific dining plans.

Church of St. Nicholas

The Church of St. Nicholas houses a carved collection of Stations of the Cross donated by Rato Radonić. Alongside its activities by the water, it gives Zavala its own cultural highlight. If you’re interested in sacred art, this work is another point to consider when planning your stay.

More to Explore in the Wider Destination of Općina Jelsa

In the wider destination of Općina Jelsa, the Following the Cross Gallery is located in the bell tower of the Parish Church of the Assumption of Mary in Jelsa. It opened on 1 July 2026 and displays artefacts contributed by the communities of the six villages involved in the procession: Jelsa, Pitve, Vrisnik, Svirče, Vrbanj and Vrboska. Guided storytelling tours share the procession’s history, symbolism and distinctive features, and are scheduled from 6 to 9 p.m. Check the current tour times before visiting.

The routes in Općina Jelsa also offer different ways to get active. The Na Vrh cycling route starts in Jelsa, passes through Pitve and Humac, and returns to Jelsa. Check the route and surface conditions before setting out. The Nordic walking route between Jelsa and Pitve is 8 kilometres long, moderately difficult and takes about two and a half hours.

Šćedro belongs to the municipality of Jelsa and was designated a significant landscape in 1972. The island has an indented coastline and vegetation typical of Mediterranean woodland and maquis communities. Signposted trails make it possible to explore Šćedro on foot; check trail conditions before setting out. In Mostir Bay are the ruins of a Dominican monastery built at the end of the 15th century and abandoned in the 18th century, as well as the Church of Gospe od Milosrđa.

Discover more destinations: Zastrazisce, Humac, Vrisnik, Vrboska, Gdinj, Pitve, Ivan Dolac, Jelsa.

Back to the wider travel overview: Općina Jelsa.